Breaking News

October 1, 2023
Breaking a news story requires more than skill--you need grit, determination, imagination, and friends. Frankie feels sad as she watches her journalist mother, who has a breaking news assignment, pack to go to the airport. The whole family--including Papa and Frankie's big sister, Raven--gathers to give Mama a big hug and say goodbye. Though Frankie recalls memories of joining her mother at work and even sitting behind the news desk, she still can't help feeling left behind. After Mama encourages her to "be on the lookout for developing stories," Frankie gets an idea. She will indeed look for stories at home, and she'll do it with the help of her pals--her doll Farrah, her King Tut and Queen Cleopatra action figures, her teddy bear Dan, Robert the Robert, and her cat, Nina Simone. When they hear a mysterious crying sound, everyone works together to break the story. Vibrant and witty, this new series installment balances an age-appropriate exploration of the ins and outs of journalism--the importance of asking questions, how to develop a story--with a fun and gentle story. This is the perfect introduction to journalism for cub reporters. The art contains plenty of white space, which contrasts crisply against the bold primary colors throughout. The book closes with information on understanding the news. Frankie and her family are Black. A charming read for budding newshounds. (Chapter book. 6-9)

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October 6, 2023

Gr 1-5-In this colorful chapter book, Platt introduces a Black family consisting of young protagonist Frankie, her mama Franklynn, her papa, and big sister Raven. Frankie loves to emulate her journalist mother. Platt vividly describes Franklynn's job and how it can sometimes keep her away from their family. Frankie's older sister is a new teenager and does not play with Frankie as much as in the past. When her mother has to go to report on breaking news, Frankie decides to create her own TV show to report on news stories around the house. Frankie is surprised when the "scoop" she ends up reporting on is that her big sister misses her mother a lot, too. Raven and Frankie discuss their emotions and how talking with others can help you feel better. Family dynamics are portrayed positively in this book. Marley's charming full-color illustrations complement Platt's text well and will engage young readers with characters' expressive faces. Back matter includes an "Understanding the News" glossary of journalism terms. VERDICT A solid series debut for libraries centering love, journalism, and communication; readers will look forward to more adventures with ambitious Frankie and her family. A fun, fast read with colorful artwork for young children.-Helen Prince

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