Samantha Sanderson Off the Record

March 1, 2015

Gr 5-7-Middle school investigative journalist Samantha Sanderson is on the case when her school's online grade software is compromised. With the help of her pal Makayla, the two hack into the system in order to find the culprit. When the clues point to Samantha's friend Felicia, she must decide whether to report the facts or stay quiet. Samantha's Christian faith and the loving support of her family are key themes in the titles. A fine addition where the previous books are popular.

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 1, 2015
Grades 6-8 Who tampered with Robinson Middle School's report card grades? Crack reporter Sam is on the case for a school newspaper scoop in this third Samantha Sanderson FaithGirlz! title. Turns out the problem is a computer virus. But how did it get installedand affect only their school's report cards? Sam enlists best friend Makayla, a computer ninja, to help figure out what's going on. Mac's explanations make her sound like a talking textbook, but techie readers will enjoy the hunt for answers in this timely tale of cyber security. Add Sam's ethical quandaries (Do you protect a friend from press exposure if she might be guilty? How far can you probe to get a scoop?) and run-ins with the mean-spirited student editor, and you have a full plate of intense middle-school angst. Sam's snappy assertiveness will play well with series fans who will also appreciate her thoughtful, Christian-perspective ruminations on maintaining honor and honesty in the dog-eat-dog world of competitive journalism.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)