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When the Going Was Good

An Editor's Adventures During the Last Golden Age of Magazines

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When the Going Was Good

By: Graydon Carter, James Fox - contributor
Narrated by: Graydon Carter
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When the Going Was Good is Graydon Carter's lively recounting of how he made his mark as one of society's most talented editors and shapers of culture. Carter arrived in New York from Canada with little more than a suitcase, a failed literary magazine in his past and a keen sense of ambition. He landed a job at Time, went on to work at Life, cofounded Spy magazine and edited The New York Observer before catching the eye of Condé Nast chairman Si Newhouse, who tapped him to run Vanity Fair.

With his inimitable voice and raconteur's quip, Carter brings listeners inside the drawing rooms of the great and not-always-good of America, Britain and Europe. He assembled one of the best-ever stables of writers and photographers under one roof, and here he recreates in real time the steps he took to ensure that Vanity Fair during his 25-year run cemented its place as the epicentre of art, culture, business and politics. Charming, candid and brimming with humour, When the Going Was Good perfectly captures the last golden age of print magazines from the inside out.

©2025 Graydon Carter (P)2025 W.F. Howes Ltd. Art & Literature Journalists, Editors & Publishers Social Sciences
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Read beautifully by the author who has a deep Canadian drawl, this is a thoroughly entertaining and revealing book. Some fantastic insights into the New York publishing world and the fascinating, clever people who inhabit it. Thoroughly recommend.

Candid and illuminating

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The tales were wonderful truly of a golden age. Has anyone considered making a film of the ongoing feud with Trump? Ryan Murphy or Will Ferrel would be my tips.

What’s not to love

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Listening to Graydon Carter narrate the book was a real bonus to a fabulous fast paced listen

Wonderful stories with context and colour

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this was a joyous, interesting & inspiring ride. lots of name dropping (though unavoidable i suppose). a lucky, talented man at the helm in the golden age. thoroughly enjoyed!

an epic telling of a career that no longer exists in its former glory

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Loved every bit of this. Yes, he could have dished more dirt and stories on famous people, but there are enough anecdotes to keep it interesting, and a lot of humour. Was sorry when I finished it.

Great story and narration

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