Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and author for an E-ARC of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.
The cover is well-crafted and captures the essence of the story. I enjoyed the podcast headers and chapter titles at the beginning of each chapter since they added a unique flair while also making readers feel like they were conducting the podcast with Izzy. The novel is packed with humor that both young and adult readers will enjoy while reading. The allusions made by Izzy and the other characters in the narrative are realistic, easy to understand, and useful in picturing scenarios, locations, and characters. The writing is vivid, amusing, and realistic, making it and the novel overall simple to read, comprehend, visualize, and enjoy. From Izzy to Doyle, all of the characters saw excellent character growth. The plot was established at a wonderful, medium pace, allowing for tension and mystery while remaining easy to read. The storyline development was excellent, and the story will undoubtedly be engaging and educational for readers. The author does an excellent job of tackling and dealing with a variety of problems, including but not limited to bullying, gossip, reporting, school issues, friendship struggles, and understanding the difference between telling a story and making one up. The book is full of wonderful learning opportunities for both young and older readers, such as learning the difference between what is considered the truth and what is gossip, the importance of open and honest communication between people, the right and wrong ways to deal with bullying in school, and finally, finding something that brings you joy, as podcasting and reporting the news do for Izzy and her mother.
One minor drawback for me was that Izzy and some of the other students appeared to be older than their age and in 8th grade rather than 6th grade because of how they acted, the gossip that circulated throughout the school, and the way they spoke at times. However, I think this provides insight into how grown-up or older kids can feel, act, and speak beyond their age, as well as how one should never judge a book or person by their age or appearance. It was a bit tricky at times to tell when Izzy was recording for an interview and when she stopped recording. I think placing a start play button icon when she starts recording and subsequently a stop or pause recording icon when she quits recording would enhance the book and stop any potential confusion on this topic.
Izzy Wong's Nose for News by Marty Chan is a fantastic story that would be ideal for children aged 9 and up, as well as adults interested in reading a book about podcasting, reporting a story, school issues, realistic and humorous characters, as well as a touch of mystery and suspense mixed with fiction.