Ben McGrath

Ben McGrath is a staff writer at The New Yorker magazine, where he has worked since 1999, covering a broad range of topics with a particular focus on sports, urban life, and subcultures. His most notable work is the 2022 book "Riverman: An American Odyssey," which tells the story of Dick Conant, a mysterious long-distance canoeist who disappeared while attempting to paddle from New York to Florida. The book combines investigative journalism with a deep exploration of American wanderlust and off-the-grid living. McGrath's articles for The New Yorker have examined subjects ranging from professional sports and athletics to cultural phenomena and city life. His pieces often delve into the intersection of sports, society, and human behavior, with notable profiles of figures like hockey enforcer Derek Boogaard and coverage of emerging trends in American athletics. Beyond his magazine work, McGrath has contributed to various anthologies and collections. His writing has been recognized for its detailed reporting and ability to illuminate lesser-known aspects of American life and culture.

Readers highlight McGrath's journalist background and ability to deeply research subjects, particularly in his book "Riverman." Multiple Goodreads reviews mention his balanced portrayal of Dick Conant's life story. Readers appreciated: - The detailed reporting and extensive interviews - Clear, straightforward writing style - Respectful treatment of personal stories - Well-paced narrative structure Common criticisms: - Some sections feel repetitive - A few readers wanted more focus on the river journeys - Story occasionally meanders between timelines Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (240+ reviews) Notable reader quote: "McGrath manages to piece together an entire life from fragments, while acknowledging the inherent mysteries that remain." - Goodreads reviewer McGrath's work for The New Yorker receives consistent praise for accessible sports writing, though fewer public reviews exist for his magazine pieces compared to his book work.

Riverman: An American Odyssey (2022) The true story of Dick Conant, a nomadic canoeist who disappeared while attempting an epic river journey through America, told through interviews, journals, and the memories of those who encountered him.

The New Yorker Magazine Articles (2003-Present) A collection of sports journalism, true crime reporting, and feature stories published in The New Yorker, where McGrath serves as a staff writer.