Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
By Saffron Howden & Dhana Quinn, NewSouth, $27.99.
Co-owner of The Washington Post Philip L. Graham was so accurate when he said: “Journalism is the first rough draft of history”.
The art of good journalism is vital as it truthful and lucid information. We are living in an age now where news and media from a myriad of platforms forms a big part of modern life, so clarity is of the essence.
Kid Reporter is useful for anyone with an interest in current affairs, arts or technology, not just budding journalists. Even aspiring photographers, illustrators, designers, video producers and editors will find it helpful.
Having worked in the media Howden and Quinn know the job of a reporter is very important. “They find out what’s going on before nearly everybody else. They investigate and ask tough questions of powerful people.” It’s a big responsibility, but it’s also a lot of fun!
With a range of suitable graphics, Kid Reporter is an excellent how-to guide and your very own media navigator. Anyone who wants to learn more about the media – or who loves writing, researching, uncovering secrets and investigating – will find plenty of handy tricks and tips in this book. It provides those tools and shows you “how to use them in real life. You gain the confidence to ask questions, speak up and take part”.
Journalists should ‘tell, not sell’, and be conscious of accuracy, beipassionate about seeking truth, justice and present factual reporting. Being commanding and inspirational truly embodies all that is wonderful about journalism.
Kid Reporter is divided into four parts: starting with the fundamentals, how to get a story together, deep dive into critical thinking and news direction and a step-by-step guide to setting up a newspaper, podcast and TV-style news program in a school environment.
You also learn to navigate the daily deluge of media, information and ‘fake news’ and grasp the tools to become a responsible creator yourself. Packed with inspiring stories this fun, easy-to-use guide gives kids the scoop on how to become a junior journalist.
Can you answer this question: what is a famous quote about journalism? If your answer is correct, you could win one of two books of Kid Reporter. Entries should be sent to [email protected] by Monday, 29 March 2021. Names of the winners will be announced in Frank Cassidy’s PS-sssst…! column on 30 March 2021.
