Bias in the Media

Gr 5—8—Young researchers are ill-equipped to judge the integrity of media, much less distinguish between conservative or liberal points of view. Marcovitz's thorough text not only gives them an in-depth look at bias in the news, but also leaves them with knowledge that will help them discern such slants in the future. The book discusses the various cable channel leanings toward liberal or conservative views, the impact bloggers are making in media, bias toward groups (women, minorities, gays, Middle Easterners), the potential for unbiased media, and how to remain evenhanded in the reporting of news. This text needs to be introduced to kids, perhaps in the context of a current-events class. Discussion questions are included. A comprehensive, useful book.—Debbie Whitbeck, West Ottawa Public Schools, Holland, MI