We Say #NeverAgain: Reporting by the Parkland Student Journalists

Falkowski and Garner, teachers of journalism and broadcasting, respectively, at Marjory Stoneman Douglas, offer gripping introductions to this compelling anthology of student writing. Falkowski writes an immediate account of the Feb. 2018 events; Garner underscores the duality of the contributors’ post-tragedy lives, describing the journalism and broadcasting students whose sense of security was shattered yet who were galvanized to become “on the outside, activists, and on the inside, journalists.” Reconciling those roles and advocating for gun legislation reform and school safety are recurring themes. The students also speak about their indignation at being accused of being publicity-seeking “crisis actors” for appearing in media interviews and participating in the March for Our Lives movement. Throughout, the students express appreciation for peers and faculty who exhibited courage during the shootings, and they stress the importance of journalistic integrity. An impressive roundup of eloquent, well-reasoned, and inspiring writing. Ages 14–up. Agent: Rachel Horowitz, Bent Agency. (Oct.)