The Scandal of the Century and Other Writings is a treasure trove which gathers 50 news reports, columns, op-eds, profiles and features that Marquez wrote for a variety of world-renowned publications. The book’s introduction states clear that there was a wealth of materials to choose from. Marquez described journalism as “the best job in the world” and wrote consistently and prolifically for newspapers and magazines throughout his career, even at the height of his fame after winning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982. The pieces compiled in this anthology were published between 1950 and 1984. Reading them in order allows us to trace Marquez’s development as a writer and applaud his talent for telling a story, conveying emotion, and getting to the heart of the matter. What makes this book all the more riveting is the broad range of subjects on display. There are stories about telepathy, translation and the Nobel Prize. We are treated to vivid urban snapshots from his return to his hometown, Aracataca; a fond discussion of Mexico; and his memories of Paris, “the loveliest city on Earth”.