Summary: Frankie and Friends: Breaking News
Frankie and Friends: Breaking News is the first in the new Frankie and Friends series. Frankie’s mom is off on a reporting trip, and the whole family is missing her. With her stuffed animals as partners, Frankie decides to use the journalism tidbits she’s learned from her mom — like finding your beat and being honest — to solve a surprising family mystery.
The Good
This was such a cute book with many interesting and educational elements, especially for kids who like journalism. I know how much I wanted to be a newscaster when I was younger. With thick paper and bright full-color illustrations, this book is obviously made for younger elementary schoolers.
I loved that the author presents journalistic elements in an accessible way for younger audiences. Although it did feel a bit teach-y at times for me as an adult, I think it will delight kids, and curious kids will be thrilled to immerse themselves in the experience.
I think this is a fantastic depiction of a mom who works outside the home instead of the more frequently seen version of the mother as the caretaking parent. Finally, there’s a teensy mystery about why Frankie’s sister is sad, and we see Frankie crack the case with the sweet relationship restored between the two sisters.
Content Warnings
- Death: None
- Alcohol/substance abuse: None
- Violence: None
Diversity
- Ethnic: Frankie and her family are African-American
- Sexual orientation: None
Recommended for ages: 6+ (to read on their own) and younger for read-alouds
Good for kids who like:
- The Yasmin series by Saadia Faruqi
- Starla Jean by Elana K. Arnold
Publisher Details
Publisher details | Walker Books Us |
Author: | Christine Platt |
Illustrator: | Alea Marley |
Publication date: | October 10, 2023 |
Audiobook? | No. |
Page count: | 80 |
Cover artists | Designer: | Alea Marley |
Buy This Book
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