The Atlantic is seeking an ambitious and experienced reporter for the Books desk to cover the biggest ideas and developments in the publishing and literary realm. This writer will produce stories that explain how books shape—and are shaped by—the culture and politics of the world around us. The ideal candidate will be well-versed in magazine journalism, obsessed with clarity and accuracy, and deeply curious about books of every genre and style. You’ll be eager to report on debates, controversies, and hidden corners in the world of books. You will be just as interested in investigating the popularity of romance and fanfiction, or a particular kind of self-help, as you are in the story behind a suddenly timely classic, or a dishy memoir everyone’s talking about (or will be in six months). And you’ll develop approaches—whether for timely dispatches, trend stories, or profiles—that don’t merely serve the marketing or publicity cycle. You’ll always be eager to break news that matters far beyond the industry bubble, but in ways that bring a magazine sensibility to a competitive digital environment. The role will require you to move very quickly when the moment calls for it, without sacrificing rigor, and to understand that the best work comes through collaboration. You should strive to locate the most exciting and complex ideas and deliver them in stylish, accessible prose for a wide audience. Qualifications of the ideal candidate: Substantial experience as a reporter in cultural fields. A history on the books beat is very welcome but not a must; a dogged instinct for reporting and an appreciation of a wide spectrum of books is mandatory Facility with the standards, ethics, and rigors of journalism Deep familiarity with The Atlantic Impeccable news judgment and the ability to craft an argument even within a piece of breaking news Sophisticated writing skills, with a facility for communicating compelling ideas to a general-interest audience Interest in and openness to a wide variety of views and perspectives A proven ability to meet deadlines and switch gears as needed Close attention to detail and high standards for accuracy An ability to communicate effectively with editors as well as the deep bench of sources you’ll be cultivating Salary minimum: 120,000 ; Salary maximum: 180,000 This job is based in New York City or Washington, D.C. This is a Guild position. About The Atlantic: The Atlantic has, for more than 160 years, advanced ideas that matter and sparked global conversation on the most important issues of our time. We aim to bring clarity and original thinking to questions of consequence, on topics ranging from politics, the economy, and global affairs to technology, science, and culture. As the third-longest-running magazine in America, we find ourselves at a remarkable moment: one of both continuation and transformation, of upholding our legacy while continuously reinventing ourselves for the future. _____________ The Atlantic Monthly Group LLC ("The Atlantic") is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Atlantic is committed to diversity and encourages members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including women, LGBTQ people, people of color, and people with disabilities. We do not discriminate against our applicants because of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law. Job offers to work at The Atlantic are contingent upon the candidate’s successful completion of reference checks and compliance with The Atlantic's COVID-19 vaccination policy. The Atlantic requires all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19, including subsequent boosters, and submit proof of vaccination status. Employees who cannot receive the vaccine because of a disability/medical contraindication or sincerely-held religious belief may request an accommodation (e.g., an exemption) to this requirement. At The Atlantic, our Work Experience is the combination of everything that's unique about us: our culture, our core values, our commitment to advancing ideas that matter and sparking global conversation, but most importantly, it's our people. Our employees are generous, hardworking, curious, trustworthy, humble, and truthful. They live for opportunities to collaborate and make a difference. The Atlantic looks for three “pillar gifts” in you, and everyone else. In all of us, these are more aspirational than actual, but they are central in our intentions. SPIRIT OF GENEROSITY The Atlantic seeks in its ranks a spirit of generosity—a natural disposition in each colleague toward service and selfless conduct. FORCE OF IDEAS At the center of The Atlantic is a belief in the power of ideas. Our highest work is bringing rigor, insight, and honesty to their examination. We endeavor to cultivate new ideas, challenge existing ones, and seek out those that otherwise might go unheard. We do this because ideas have consequences—the power to shape our lives, our work, and the world around us. SENSE OF BELONGING The Atlantic was founded in 1857 as a home for intellectual debate, but also in opposition to the great moral injustice of its time. More than a century and a half later, we continue to believe our purpose is larger than ourselves. At its best, our culture reflects this calling. It is characterized by goodwill and a deep sense of mutual concern. Our goal is not consensus—on the contrary, our best work may be born of spirited exchange and a diversity of views. What brings us together is a commitment to the mission of the Atlantic, to our readers, and to one another. Privacy Privacy Notice for California Candidates (The Atlantic Monthly Group LLC)

more at Atlanticmedia.

31 Aug, 2026

Atlanticmedia

Staff Writer

Washington DC - The Wharf, United States of America

Salary not listed

more at Atlanticmedia.

Staff Writer

Senior Editor

Creative Director, Editorial

similar roles.

Lighting artist

3D Animator

Custodian Opportunities (multiple shifts) - Facilities Services

School Liaison- Division of K-12 Education Innovation and Scholar Success

CNA | Skilled Nursing | Brendan House | PRN Status

Certified Surgical Technologist

more at Atlanticmedia.

Staff Writer

Senior Editor

Creative Director, Editorial

similar roles.

Lighting artist

3D Animator

Custodian Opportunities (multiple shifts) - Facilities Services

School Liaison- Division of K-12 Education Innovation and Scholar Success

CNA | Skilled Nursing | Brendan House | PRN Status

Certified Surgical Technologist