Michiko Katkutani, one of the most formidable book critics in the history of The New York Times, is leaving her post as chief book critic at The Times. A replacement has not been announced but the odds are on Parul Sehgal (currently a senior editor and columnist at the New York Times Book Review) who is joining the paper's team of daily critics.
Katkutani joined The Times in 1979 as a reporter, and switched to criticism in 1983. In addition to her well respected book reviews, she has written extensively on other topics including the Iraq War and 9/11.
Kakutani is taking advantage of a voluntary buyout option recently implemented by The Times with the intention of freeing up budget for up to 100 additional reporters. Kakutani is the most high-profile employee so far to do so.
Katkutani joined The Times in 1979 as a reporter, and switched to criticism in 1983. In addition to her well respected book reviews, she has written extensively on other topics including the Iraq War and 9/11.
Kakutani is taking advantage of a voluntary buyout option recently implemented by The Times with the intention of freeing up budget for up to 100 additional reporters. Kakutani is the most high-profile employee so far to do so.