About This Book:
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.
*Review Contributed By Sara Perrera, Staff Reviewer*
Engaging Early Chapter Book
Frankie’s mother is a journalist who travels for her job to cover breaking news. While her mom is away, Frankie decides to create her own news show. She enlists the help of her toys and cat, which is silly and cute. Then, just like her mom, Frankie investigates a breaking news story. Where is the crying in the house coming from? Frankie learns that even teenagers can miss their mom.
What I Liked: Frankie’s mom is such a strong role model in the book. It showed her having a successful career and a family who supported her dreams. Even though it’s fiction, the book does an excellent job of teaching young readers about journalism. The book has a larger font, which is commonly found in early chapter books, and bright-colored illustrations that keep readers engaged.
Frankie and Friends Breaking News is the perfect introduction to a chapter book.
