Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 1-4-Nikki and Deja have a great idea: to start a newsletter about what's happening on Fulton Street and at Carver Elementary. Trouble comes, however, during a slow week, and the girls must figure out the difference between news and gossip if they want to be trusted as reliable reporters. English writes with wit, feeling, and a spot-on voice that acknowledges the realistic friendship and problems of the protagonists. Freeman's cartoon illustrations enhance the story. These strong African-American characters are refreshing.-Sarah O'Holla, Village Community School, New York City (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Horn Book Review
In their third story, pals Nikki and Deja write a newsletter to share the happenings on their street and at their school. When their made-up stories upset their neighbors and classmates, though, they have to apologize. English's text is entertaining and accessible. Freeman's digital black-and-white illustrations express the girls' inquisitive and creative natures. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. All rights reserved.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Third graders Nikki and Deja have a lot to learn about journalism. Looking for a way to make a little extra money, learn about their neighbors and get an early start as news reporters, these best friends start a neighborhood newsletter. They publish their first edition with solid news: A man is locked out of his house while wearing a bathrobe, a boy breaks his arm while skateboarding and a neighbor wins a blue ribbon for her roses. Unfortunately, there is not enough news to keep the publication on schedule. Things end badly when the girls put together the second edition, crossing journalistic lines and reporting overheard gossip and supposition. English draws characters with complexity and honesty: Nikki is careful and thoughtful but unable to stand up to Deja; Deja's decisiveness does, at times, lack good judgment. The adults in the girls' lives are refreshingly open, creating an anchor for them as they move toward independence. A solid addition to a welcome series for new readers, especially for children who want to read realistic stories about kids of color. (Fiction. 7-10) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
