Learning Resources
Journalist
Digital Voice Recorder 16GB Voice Recorder with Playback for Lectures - USB Rechargeable Dictaphone Upgraded Small Tape Recorder Device
This recorder turns everyday curiosity into creative reporting. It encourages kids to listen closely, ask questions, and express themselves with confidence. Whether they’re pretending to host a podcast, conducting a family “news interview,” or capturing ideas for a school project, it gives them the tools to communicate like professionals. Durable, portable, and intuitive, it inspires budding journalists to see their voices as powerful tools for sharing stories with the world.
The Writer's Toolbox: Creative Games and Exercises for Inspiring the 'Write' Side of Your Brain (Writing Prompts, Writer Gifts, Writing Kit Gifts) Paperback – April 26, 2007
This kit turns writing into an adventure. Each game-like activity helps kids think differently, embrace imagination, and gain confidence in their own storytelling voice. Instead of worrying about “getting it right,” they learn to take creative risks and let ideas flow freely. Whether they’re crafting a mystery, a fantasy world, or a silly short story, it transforms writing from a school assignment into something kids can’t wait to do.
The Elements of Journalism: What Newspeople Should Know and the Public Should Expect
Clear, principle-by-principle chapters explain verification, independence, and serving the public—essential ethics for student reporters. Real newsroom case studies show how decisions affect communities. Discussion questions make it classroom-ready for media-literacy units. Equips teens to evaluate news and maybe even launch a school paper responsibly.
Storymatic Classic – Creative Writing Prompts and Story Games – Storyteller Cards – Teacher Tool
The Storymatic helps writers, students, performers, and storytellers break through writer’s block and spark fresh ideas instantly. Simple to use alone or in groups, it jump-starts imagination, inspires character and story creation, and brings creative energy into classrooms, workshops, and game nights.
Ten Days a Madwoman
Packed with adventure and determination, this book tells the story of Nellie Bly’s bold undercover investigation that transformed journalism. It shows young readers how courage, intelligence, and compassion can expose injustice and inspire real change.
Storymatic Kids – Writing Prompts for Young Writers – Storytelling Games – Teacher Tool
Storymatic Kids turns storytelling into a fun, screen-free adventure with hundreds of kid-friendly prompt cards that spark characters, challenges, and endless creative ideas. Easy to use alone or with family and friends, it boosts imagination, writing, speaking, and sequential thinking while keeping kids laughing and engaged. Perfect for classrooms, homeschool, game night, or travel, it’s a versatile tool that inspires storytelling for all ages
Lulu Jr. Illustory Book Making Kit, Multicolor
The kit includes everything a young journalist or author needs: story and illustration pages, cover templates, color markers, and a step-by-step writing guide titled Just Imagine... A Guide to Writing and Illustrating Your Story. Once completed, kids can mail their finished work using the included prepaid envelope to have it transformed into a beautiful hardcover book — complete with an “About the Author” page featuring their name and biography.
A 2017 Mom’s Choice Gold Award recipient, IlluStory is perfect for aspiring writers ages 6 and up. It’s more than just an art project — it’s a confidence-building experience that helps kids express themselves, develop storytelling skills, and proudly see their name in print.
Kids Camera, Birthday Gifts for Boys and Girls Age 3-8,Video Recorder for Kids 8-12,Childrens Digital Camcorder for vlogging Portable Kids Selfie Camera with 32GB SD Card Green
This camera empowers kids to tell their own stories. It helps them notice beauty in the world, experiment with creativity, and share their perspective with confidence. Whether they’re snapping a picture of a bug in the garden, recording a family trip, or taking their first selfie, it turns every moment into an opportunity for self-expression. Built to last and designed for play, it’s a thoughtful gift that captures not just photos—but memories, imagination, and growth.
Don't Kill My Vibe Guided Journal for Teens and Tweens: 101 Writing Prompts Inspired by Affirmations to Build Confidence, Self-esteem and Positive Vibes Paperback – November 13, 2024
This journal transforms self-expression into self-discovery. It helps teens practice gratitude, strengthen positive thinking, and track personal growth in a way that feels creative, not forced. The prompts encourage resilience and self-worth, making it a perfect confidence-building gift for both boys and girls. Thoughtfully designed to inspire reflection and independence, it empowers teens to see their voice—and their story—as something worth sharing.
All the President’s Men
A masterclass in investigative reporting, this book shows how persistence, integrity, and teamwork can uncover the truth and hold power accountable. It inspires readers to value honesty, courage, and the responsibility that comes with telling the world’s most important stories.
Skillmatics Storybook Art Kit - Create Adventure Stories, DIY Craft & Writing Kit with 300+ Stickers, Scrapbooking & Journal Activity, Christmas Gifts for Kids Ages 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
This storybook art kit empowers kids to become real authors and illustrators, giving them everything they need—hardbound books, writing prompts, vocabulary lists, stickers, and markers—to create their own imaginative stories from start to finish. Easy to use and perfect for independent, screen-free play, it builds creativity, confidence, and communication skills while turning storytelling into a fun, hands-on adventure for ages 5–10.
The Daring Nellie Bly: America’s Star Reporter
A thrilling tale of courage and curiosity, this book introduces readers to Nellie Bly, the groundbreaking reporter who defied expectations and changed journalism forever. It encourages kids to ask questions, seek truth, and chase their dreams with determination and daring.
The Plot Chickens
Henrietta the book-loving hen walks readers through the eight rules of storytelling—from a bold hero to a satisfying ending. Each “rule” appears in kid-friendly type, so budding authors can spot it again later. Laugh-out-loud poultry puns keep the lessons light. Ends with tips on handling rejection letters, teaching resilience early.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
King blends page-turning autobiography with straight-talk craft lessons on dialogue, revision, and “the toolbox” of grammar. The YA adaptation trims mature content while keeping his trademark humor and honesty. Candid anecdotes about rejection slips and perseverance resonate with high-school writers. A masterclass in grit and storytelling from a cultural icon.
Ida B. Wells: Let the Truth Be Told
Bold and empowering, this story honors Ida B. Wells, a fearless journalist who used her voice to fight injustice and demand equality. It encourages young readers to speak up for truth, fairness, and what’s right, even when it’s difficult.
My Life in Dog Years
Each chapter profiles a beloved dog that shaped Paulsen’s life, demonstrating memoir structure through vivid, stand-alone vignettes. Rich sensory details show how to “zoom in” on a memory. Animal-loving readers connect instantly, proving that real stories can be as gripping as fiction. Inspires kids to mine their own experiences for narrative gold.
PlanToys® Wooden Pretend Play Detective Set for Kids | Montessori Role Play Toy for Observation, Problem Solving, and Imaginative Learning | Eco-Friendly Educational Gift for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Made from eco-friendly rubberwood and colored with non-toxic, water-based dyes, every piece in this set is safe, durable, and sustainably produced. Perfectly sized for small hands, it encourages problem-solving, storytelling, and confidence-building through imaginative play.
As children analyze clues and share discoveries, they strengthen fine motor skills, logical thinking, and social communication. Ideal for ages 3 and up, this set makes a thoughtful educational gift that nurtures creativity and curiosity while promoting sustainability — inspiring the next generation of investigative minds.
Bird
Lamott’s candid, funny essays tackle everything from first drafts (“shitty first drafts”) to jealousy, reminding writers they’re not alone. Short chapters fit into busy teen schedules yet spark deep reflection. Her meditation on seeing life “one short assignment” at a time offers stress-busting perspective. A beloved bedside pep-talk for creatives.
Diary of a Worm
Written as diary entries dated through the seasons, the book sneaks in the format of journals without feeling instructional. Kids giggle at everyday worm dilemmas—PE class without arms!—while absorbing voice, perspective, and sequence. Cartoony art invites them to start their own nature diaries. Ideal for first “writer’s-notebook” activities.
Rocket Writes a Story
Gentle, easy-to-read text models how curiosity sparks ideas as Rocket collects words in a notebook. The dog’s trial-and-error drafting shows kids that first attempts rarely come out perfect. Sweet watercolor art and the supportive teacher-owl encourage perseverance. A charming first lesson on finding your own voice.
Eighty Days: Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland's History-Making Race Around the World
A fascinating true story of adventure and rivalry, this book follows two fearless women racing around the world in the late 1800s. It inspires readers to see journalism and travel as powerful ways to explore, connect, and push the limits of what’s possible.
Ida B. the Queen: The Extraordinary Life and Legacy of Ida B. Wells
Powerful and deeply inspiring, this biography celebrates Ida B. Wells as a trailblazer who challenged injustice and transformed journalism into a force for change. It encourages readers to stand firm in their convictions and use knowledge and courage to make the world fairer.
War
A gripping exploration of truth, power, and responsibility, this book highlights Bob Woodward’s unmatched ability to document history as it unfolds. It inspires readers to think critically about leadership, accountability, and the courage required to uncover the facts that shape our world.
Garybank Inspiration Writing Prompt Dice - W/13 Writing Skill Cards and 200 Character & Event Cards - Storytelling Game for Kids, Writer & Teachers - Creation Set of 9 Story Cubes - Gifts for Writers
Perfect for writers of all levels, the set includes upgraded grammar basics cards for polished writing and an instructional guide filled with storytelling prompts and games. Teachers love using it to inspire classroom creativity, while kids and adults alike enjoy crafting funny, heartfelt, or epic tales.
Beautifully packaged in a sleek gift box, it makes an ideal present for writers, students, and book lovers. Whether for solo inspiration, family game night, or classroom storytelling, this set helps every imagination find its next great story.