Frankie and Friends: Breaking News

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.