Nellie Bly and Investigative Journalism for Kids tells the story of the amazing reporter, Nellie Bly, and the early muckrakers who used the power of the pen to bring about social reform in America. Muckrakers were newspaper, magazine, and book writers who “raked up the muck” of society to tell readers what was really happening with important issues such as child labor, government corruption, monopolies, poverty, racism, suffrage, unhealthy food practices, and violence at the turn of the century. Although Nellie Bly did not have formal training as a journalist, she went on to become a top reporter in the male-dominated newspaper world of New York City. At one point she was a worldwide celebrity. The book, written for middle grade readers, also highlights key muckrakers of the late 1800s and early 1900s including Jacob Riis, Ida Tarbell, Ida B. Wells, and Upton Sinclair. Readers will also learn about acclaimed modern-day muckrakers including Amy Goodman, Michael Moss, Annie Leonard, and Bill Moyers. In addition, a time line, informative resource section and 21 fun and relevant activities are included.

Links
- Chicago Review Press
- More about Nellie Bly on PBS
- Nellie Bly online resources
- Nellie Bly: National Women’s History Museum
Buy the Book
Nellie Bly and Investigative Journalism for Kids
Mighty Muckrakers from the Golden Age to Today
Praise
Selected for Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People 2016, a cooperative project of the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) and the Children’s Book Council.
Also selected for A Mighty Girl 2015 list of books
“What an engaging concept! Not only is this book very informative about Nellie Bly and other investigative journalists, but the activities are extremely engaging and complement the well-researched narrative. It’s not hard to imagine a new generation of muckrakers being inspired by these pages.” —Arthur “Tri” Fritz, editor, The Nellie Bly Collection, and creator, nellieblyonline.com
“An engaging book with very rich stories about the early muckrakers who helped to define journalism as a public service. Ellen Mahoney’s storytelling approach is perfect for young readers, and each chapter unfolds as an adventure.” —Suzanne Lysak, assistant professor, broadcast and digital journalism, Syracuse University Newhouse School of Public Communications
“This outstanding work of nonfiction is sure to inspire a new generation of investigative journalists.” —Teacher Librarian
“With excellent content, an appealing layout, and an exciting topic, this book is a joy to read and explore.” —Booklist