Breaking News: How to Tell What's Real from What's Rubbish

In this lively, enthusiastic and informative paperback with illustrations to match the energy and humour of the text, Nick Sheridan sets out to inspire his readers to consider whether a career in journalism might be for them. He avoids a bureaucratic and staid approach. He wants to capture the curiosity of a young person, to give them something to consider. Above all he is keen to remind the reader that behind the news item there will have been a journalist. What does that mean? Nick asks questions of his audience, he presents them with examples that involve them – some would make excellent party games, he invites them to work out real from rubbish and he emphasises the responsibilities involved. The approach is fast moving and humorous, the text and illustrations capturing the drama of the newsflash. Embedded are the facts – we find out about the different types of reporters, how a news story is built up, how to write a newsworthy story, the tools that reporters may want to use, he emphasises potential dangers. He introduces some real journalists to follow – and he provides a concise list of websites and blogs to explore. Books about potential careers are all too often worthy in their approach. Not here – a fun engaging introduction to journalism that would be both enjoyable and instructive for many whether would-be journalists or not. Definitely one for the school library where it could open the way to interesting discussion about aspects of contemporary life that are increasingly important.