Learning Resources
BookJournalist
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Max’s Words
Max snips words from magazines and discovers that rearranging them can build whole worlds. The narrative doubles as a playful vocabulary lesson, inviting children to hunt for “favorite words” at home. Lively collage illustrations capture the cut-and-paste creativity young writers love. Perfect for classroom word jars or family story nights.
The Brethren: Inside the Supreme Court
Immersive and eye-opening, this book takes readers inside one of the most secretive institutions in American government. It reveals how collaboration, conflict, and conviction shape justice at the highest level, inspiring curiosity about law, ethics, and the people who interpret the Constitution.
Spilling Ink: A Young Writer’s Handbook
Two award-winning novelists talk to tweens like friendly mentors, mixing craft advice with goofy dares (“Write a scene using only smells!”). Short “I Dare You” challenges after each chapter turn theory into practice. Sections on writer’s block, revision, and sharing work build confidence. A desk-side companion for NaNoWriMo Jr. or classroom workshops.
Crusade for Justice: The Autobiography of Ida B. Wells
Rich with truth and conviction, this autobiography offers a firsthand look at Ida B. Wells’s unshakable courage and fight for justice. It inspires readers to use their voices for change, showing how integrity and persistence can challenge even the most powerful systems of inequality.