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Breaking News

ebook
2 of 2 copies available
2 of 2 copies available

In a charming new chapter-book series by a social-change advocate, young Frankie emulates her journalist mama by reporting on household news with the help of her sister and an unlikely news crew.
Frankie's mama is leaving to cover a breaking news story. Frankie, Papa, and Frankie's teenage sister, Raven, are all proud of Mama, even though they miss her when she's away. But Frankie has a great idea: she can make her own news show! After all, Mama has told her that news is happening around her all the time. With a little assistance from her friends—including her doll Farrah, Robert the toy robot, and her tabby cat, Nina Simone—Frankie prepares for her first "broadcast." And when she hears someone crying in the house, she knows that's the developing story she must cover. With humor, empathy, and imagination, Frankie gets the scoop—and learns that even mature older sisters can miss Mama sometimes. With sweet illustrations throughout, this engaging new series embraces communication and compassion and is a refreshing portrayal of Black women in journalism. Young reporters will learn the terms of the trade, which are clearly presented in the text and reinforced in a glossary at the end of the book.

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    • Kirkus

      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)

      COPYRIGHT(2023) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

    • School Library Journal

      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

      Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

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  • English

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The Beehive Library Consortium is a consortium of member libraries and the Utah State Library Division.Funds for this program were made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Parents should be aware that children have access to all materials in the online library. The Beehive Library Consortium does not monitor or restrict your child's selections. It is your responsibility as a parent to be aware of what your child is checking out and viewing.