KNOXVILLE — The internet age is giving residents of the free world direct access to information and more responsibility in consuming it. But this access also demands that media consumers be smart, savvy, and informed. Join Dr. Edward Caudill, UT professor in the School of Journalism and Electronic Media, for an insightful and amusing investigation of the history of journalism as he reviews the graphic book The Influencing Machine: Brooke Gladstone on the media by Brooke Gladstone in Knox County Public Library’s Book Sandwiched In, Wednesday, July 16, 12:00 p.m. in the East Tennessee History Center auditorium, at 601 South Gay Street.

Nearly one million weekly listeners trust National Public Radio's Brooke Gladstone to guide them through the distortions and complexities of the modern media. “Brooke Gladstone offers the most engaging and insightful critique of modern media since Walter Lippmann,” Caudill says. “She spares no one, including herself and the standards of her profession.” Gladstone conducts the reader through two millennia of history, debunking the notion that "The Media" is an external force, outside of our control. With fascinating digressions, sobering anecdotes, and brave analytical wit, Gladstone shows that we have met the media and it is us.

In The Influencing Machine, Gladstone is an illustrated character in vivid comics drawn by acclaimed artist Josh Neufeld. “The illustrations by Josh Neufeld are more than whimsical accompaniments to Gladstone’s text,” Caudill says. “They, too, merit a second ‘reading,’ complementing her deft touch and depth in this essential subject at the center of 21st century society and government. In The Influencing Machine, you’ll learn something about media and, perhaps with some chagrin, about how and why you use media.”

The public is invited to join the conversation. Bring your favorite sandwich or pick up something from a downtown restaurant. Soft drinks and bottle water will be available for 50 cents. Copies of the books are available at the Library if you'd like to read one before the program.

On August 20, Alvin Nance, Executive Director/CEO at Knoxville's Community Development Corporation, will discuss The American Way of Poverty: How the other half still lives by Sasha Abramsky.

On September 17, Erin Gill, Director, Knoxville Policy/Redevelopment/Sustainability Department, will discuss Climate Casino by William D. Nordaus.