A highly entertaining and informative book offers a comprehensive explanation of disinformation: what it is, why it’s made, how to spot it, and what makes it so dangerous. Written in comics, the information is delivered via colorful, amorphous beings with large, round eyes who ask questions and present scenarios illustrating the concepts they are discussing. For example, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Fmith are mayoral candidates who demonstrate the use of fake news by politicians and the potential impact of such disinformation. Exceptionally clear and accessible, this account is logically organized so that concepts and explanations build on what came before, and the examples clearly illuminate the potential impact of disinformation. For example: A commercial falsely claims that drinking shampoo will “cure every disease,” and anyone who says otherwise (i.e., doctors) is a liar. As a result, some people drink shampoo and get sick, and belief and trust in doctors and science is diminished. This leads to mistrust of science in other fields (climate science, for example) and related harmful decisions. The final chapter provides ten helpful, concrete tips for differentiating between “fake news” and actual news. Astute readers may connect several of the book’s examples with COVID and other real-life events and individuals. (Ages 8-12)

A hilarious and timely tool to help kids learn how to tell what news is true and what isn't.

Can peanuts give you super strength? Were unicorns discovered on the moon? Did Martians really invade New Jersey? For anyone who has ever encountered outrageous stories like these and wondered whether they were true, this funny, yet informative book breaks down what fake news is, why people spread it, and how to tell what is true and what isn’t. With quirky illustrations and a humorous tone, Elise Gravel brings her kid-accessible wit to the increasingly important subject of media literacy and equips younger readers with the skills needed to interact with global news.

SERIOUSLY FUNNY: While the topic is serious, the funny text and wacky pictures will tickle any reader's funny bone.

IMPORTANT: Misinformation and disinformation are everywhere. It is increasingly important that parents and educators help kids learn how to navigate the confusing, modern media landscape.

JUST THE FACTS!: Rather than tackle specific news stories, this book teaches kids how to research and judge information in order to make their own decisions about what to believe.

BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR: Whether deciding what products to buy, which organizations to support and what scientific information to believe, being a smart media consumer helps keep ourselves and our communities safer.

Perfect for:

• Grandparents
• Parents
• Educators
• Librarians