The Leak

by Kate Reed Petty, Andrea Bell (Illustrator)

In this middle-grade graphic novel, Ruth, a young journalist, is determined to uncover a secret that threatens her town.

Ruth Keller is brash and precocious; she argues with her dentist, her parents, and her teachers. So, when she discovers a strange black slime in the man-made lake of her suburban neighborhood, she decides to investigate. Fortified by the encouragement of those around her, Ruth seeks the truth at all costs, even if it means taking on the rich local country club owner, who she believes is responsible for the pollution.

Between the teasing of former friends, and a sudden viral spotlight, Ruth discovers how difficult it is for a journalist to take a stand for what's right in the face of critique and controversy.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Middle Grade, Mystery, Realistic Fiction, Childrens, Comics, Fiction

240 pages, Hardcover

First published March 16, 2021

Reviews

[Panda Incognito · Rating 3 out of 5]

This graphic novel is well-illustrated and engaging, featuring a strong female protagonist who discovers contaminated water and is determined to trace the contamination back to its source. Throughout the book, she learns about how to pursue investigative journalism in a way that seeks the truth above all else, while still being respectful to others.

The story is partly inspired by the Flint water crisis. It will appeal to middle grade readers who are interested in journalism or environmental issues, and the investigative plot was more complex and multi-layered than I had expected, raising awareness for environmental impacts without being overly preachy or one-dimensional.

Content notes: References to "penis graffiti" at school, mild language, breaking and entering, lying, references to making out, and a kiss.

[Cherlynn | cherreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

I work in journalism so naturally this was a must-read and I enjoyed every moment. The character development is stellar with Ruth as a flawed but spirited and brave protagonist. I deeply admire her doggedness in pursuit of the truth, her refusal to step down and be intimidated, as well as how she is able to admit her mistakes and right her wrongs.

I also love how the book highlights the principles of journalism, how emotions can get in the way of our reporting, and the tactics used by powerful players to kill a story. It was fascinating, compelling and informative all at once. The beautiful colour palette and artwork made this an even richer read.

Overall, The Leak is a propulsive page-turner about standing up and honouring the truth even when it's painful or difficult, and the power of using our voice. I highly recommend this engrossing graphic novel to all ages!

[Meredith Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC courtesy of NetGalley.

A quick-paced MG graphic novel about a young reporter and her quest for the truth. The growth of Ruth's journalism from a hobby to something more serious was a highlight for me; she grows as a person along with her story. The author ties in the true story of Flint, MI, and the realities of being a journalist in today's world in a straightforward afterward that will inspire readers. I liked the art and the book's color palette as well, it really fit the story.

[Hoover Public Library Kids and Teens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aspiring journalist Ruth Keller, 12, finds the next big scoop for her newsletter when she and her crush discover black sludge in the lake. She unearths a possible cover-up and suspects the involvement of the Twin Oaks Country Club. With help from her science teacher Ms. Freeman and her brother's girlfriend, Sara, a New York Times intern, Ruth relies on her wits to unmask the culprits behind the water pollution. [from School Library Journal]

[Dakota Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Leak is a terrific introduction to journalism for a middle-grade audience, showing how objectivity and the pursuit of facts are far more critical than finding evidence to support your opinion. It's "Anti-Fake News: The Book." It's also a solid story with interesting characters, all of whom have their own things going on. The Leak feels extremely grounded in that way: none of the characters are solely defined by the mystery. They want to figure out what's going on - but they're also teenagers with crushes or parents dealing with their children growing up suddenly.

It's satisfying to see that kind of groundedness, particularly in middle-grade literature, which is often pretty focused on goofy antics and one-note characters. It's also exciting to see Ruth, the main character, investigating a local environmental crisis, something which really does happen every day around the country (the references to Flint, Michigan are heavy-handed but warranted). Sure, the ultimate culprit is easy to identify (You can basically figure out what's going on from the first few pages at the dentist), but the "villains" and "not-villains" labeling is accurately ambiguous. Again, an example of The Leak hewing to real-world constructs.

The chunky art is decidedly middle-grade friendly, but it works. Ruth and her friends are cute, young, and vibrant. Ruth's dedication to nailing the story is admirable. The Leak is a solid read, highly recommended for its target audience.

[Riana (RianaInTheStacks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This middle grade graphic novel tells a hopeful story of how even when we are made to feel powerless about important issues, we can stand strong and use our voice (even if it’s on a local level) to bring attention to these issues. This book is dedicated to “the people of Flint, Michigan” and deals with a similar issue where the area water is polluted with harmful chemicals that are causing many health problems in the community. No one has made any connection however, until our protagonist Ruthie who is a budding journalist.

Ruthie struggles with the adults in her life not believing her because she is “just 12,” and thankfully has an awesome science teacher and journalist friend that help teach her the ropes and ethical code of journalism. With their advice, she is able to get the proper evidence and interviews to really bring attention to the issue to high levels and help her community. I also really enjoyed the Author’s Note at the end that talks about the importance of vetting news sources and telling the difference between real and fake news.

The illustrations in this book were very eye catching and unique as well and really added to the story. I think this one would be good for kids interested in journalism, news, mysteries, activism, science, health issues, and honestly just middle graders that really like graphic novels in general, it’s a good one.

[SaraKat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the young protagonist in this book. She wants to be a journalist and goes about making her own newsletter with a passion and joy that is just great. :) Of course, being 12, she makes a few mistakes and it is really great that she looks for a mentor to help her improve. The story is a bit rushed at times and I'm not sure most middle grade student will know who Edward R. Murrow is. I liked that it paralleled what happened with Flint, Michigan and showed how important it is for people to question things and speak up when something isn't right. I read this because it was on a list of books that had been challenged and I wanted to know why. I still find it fine for middle school.

Content notes: the first newsletter she writes reports on penis graffiti and she talks about the penis graffiti with a friend who calls it a meaty subject. The graffiti is shown being painted over and only parts are visible so it wouldn't be recognizable as a penis without the previous discussion. Discussion of a girl kissing a boy and one on-screen peck.

[Carmel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone should read this book. It’s so powerful! Screw lexiles and grade levels…this is a story about the power of words, the importance of speaking truth to power, and believing in yourself, even if you are young and no one else does.

There’s also something understated here with our main character having lots of support—from people in her life (parents) and others who see something in her worth supporting (her brothers girlfriend, a teacher, community members). It’s invigorating to see support coming from all sides when she is simultaneously hearing lots of “no’s” in her life.

Highly recommended. For the kid in your life or the curious kid in you.

[Brandi Rae Fong]

A strong start to a graphic novel series. I liked the journalism aspects and the included bits of what makes good, fair journalism as well as how the main topic centered around such a timely issue of water and water quality. Mixed in were typical school friendship challenges and first crushes (and one spread of jokes about a penis drawing that puts this more firmly in the upper middle grade--although unlike my adult mind, kids may read over just how funny the references were).

Hopefully, Ruth Keller will be doing more investigative journalism!

[Dana · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘The Leak’ is a middle grade graphic novel about a 12 year old girl named Ruth Keller who’s an aspiring journalist. She discovers her town’s water supply is contaminated and conducts research for her newsletter.

I liked this one a lot! I think it was an interesting issue and I liked how Ruth handled it with the truth and nothing but the truth. I do think the end was very rushed and not so well done, but overall it’s pretty good.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an amazing graphic novel! I loved Ruth. She was a great main character. I enjoyed watching her grow and learn about the dos and don'ts of journalism over the course of the book. I would highly recommend checking this graphic novel out - it has been one of my favorites so far this year.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

The Leak is an impressive middle grade graphic novel about a 12 year old journalist who uncovers local environmental damage. It covers everything from the importance of good journalism to the importance of protecting water, all while keeping the story fun, relatable, and engaging. Definitely recommended!

[Olivia Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a glorious TCAF gem this year. A teen who is into investigative journalism that links to the real life Flint water crisis learns about what it means to seek the truth, share that information responsibly, and stand up for what is right.
A great read for explaining fake news to youth and adults alike! (My dad should read this!)

[Beth Butler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable graphic novel. I appreciated the realistic behavior of all of the characters. The main character was supported by her parents but also expected to follow rules. Challenges with friends were also realistic.

[Justine Cucchi-Dietlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Leak directly mentions the Flint, MI water crisis a few times. I found this appealing since I'm a librarian in Southeast Michigan. I think the book is a great conversation starter for discussing the importance of local activism and how our own community has been affected by issues mentioned in the book. I definitely recommend!

[Maddy (maddysreads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved how this was about journalism.

[Eliza · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meh
Really good art but boring plot

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. The one thing a still want from this book is what happened to Ruth and Jonathan after they kissed. But other than that this book is adorable and so powering.

[Binxie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ruthie writes an online newsletter about local events. She becomes an investigative reporter when she discovers weird stuff in the shoreline water in her town. Bringing environmental issues to the younger reader, this graphic novel is just the right combination of adventure, tween angst, and activism

[Jesse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admire Ruth’s bullheaded push for the truth! The story puts the Flint water crisis into new, horrifying, perspective as well.

[Peoria Public Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

Katy rated it 4 stars

[linhardt · Rating 3 out of 5]

this was a really neat story with themes about pollution, journalism, and truth vs lies in the media. Although the characters were annoying at times (especially the two “best friends”), the art was cute and it was interesting overall.

[Raina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kid goes to the dentist and keeps getting told she needs to brush and floss better. But she IS! #relateablecontent

Turns into an investigative piece surrounding community pollution and water quality, with some teen drama mixed in. Feels a bit older than the illustration aesthetic led me to expect.

I wish the cover was a little less chaotic. Full-color, though with a slightly hazy tint. Good variety of layouts.

Didactic, but more entertaining than that.

[Kerrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

That was a really good read. It gave me some insight into not only the water crises but also into journalism. Very fascinating!

[Annamarie Carlson (she, her)]

Ruth Keller might be twelve, but she is already a passionate journalist, running her own email newsletter sharing fun rumors and stories about her community. When she runs into something very real--and very strange--at the local lake, she knows she has a story to find. This shiny black slime surely doesn't belong here (and really it probably isn't from aliens, as she first assumed). After she tells some adults about it, she finds a mysterious clean-up crew at the lake removing all traces of the strange sludge.

Ruth's mind jumps to the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, but surely nothing like that could happen here. Her endless cavities might be a mystery (since Ruth brushes AND flosses every single day), but this water issue can't be related...right? Soon Ruth is forced to take matters into her own hands when the adults around her try to bury any controversy and avoid her questions. Ruth is on the brink of something big--she just needs to find the evidence to make everyone believe her.

This was good--really good. The mystery leaves clues in the words and the illustrations, with the reader spotting clues along with the main character. The comparison to the Flint water crisis (and the cover up) was on point. And I love a strong, smart heroine who isn't about to let anyone bully her into silence. Really well done!

[ricardo (is) reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

FROM THE BLOG:

When Ruth Keller (precocious, intrepid journalist, 12 years old) stumbles upon a strange substance floating in the waters of the local lake while fishing with a friend, her reporter instincts take over. Suspecting it to be some sort of toxic waste, she sets out to investigate its possible origins, steadily sharing her findings with the subscribers of her newsletter (the 𝙲𝚘𝚘𝙾𝙾𝚘𝙾𝙾𝙾𝙻𝚜𝙻𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚛). Thanks to the instruction and insight of Sara, her brother's new girlfriend who also happens to be an intern at the 𝘕𝘦𝘸 𝘠𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴), Ruth's coverage soon starts to get wider attention, bringing with it a slew of obstacles that only make the young journalist's increasingly dogged pursuit even more complicated. The budding reporter of Twin Oaks is nothing if not determined, however, and is willing to do whatever it takes to leak out the truth and expose those who obscure it.⠀

If you're still looking for a relevant read for this year's Earth Day, you really can't do better than picking up 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒌. Writer Kate Reed Petty and artist Andrea Bell have produced a truly excellent middle grade graphic novel that deals with a small town's water crisis analogous to the very real calamity that has been plaguing the Michigan city of Flint for nearly a decade now, and the book is, naturally, dedicated to the people living there.

The bureaucratic nonsense that enables the human rights violation in Flint is too needlessly complex for a single comic to untangle, but the spirit of the city's local leaders, community organizers — and, of course the persistent journalists — whose work helped put this emergency on a national stage is honored in this work through characters who are similarly willing to stand up and rage against the machine that allows injustices like this to happen in the first place. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒌 reminds us that voices and stories have power. And it shows us how enough people using their voices to yell out their stories can, if they are loud enough, if they are true enough, change a town. Or a city. Or the world.

One of my favorite reads of 2021 so far. Not only due to Petty's wonderful writing, but also because of Bell's artwork, which I 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥. I saw it as a mix between Kayla Miller's style in her 𝘊𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘬 books and Bryan Lee O'Malley's simplified, practically chibi illustrations in 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘴. So good

[Alix · Rating 4 out of 5]

A masterpiece, different, entertaining, and informative. I love when published works can be read by both children and adults; it gives off a timeless yet wonderful learning experience for all ages.

Ruth Keller is an ambitious young girl who shows great dedication to journalism; her work ethics in some ways are good examples for the future generation (aside from the lying and bias judgment).

I love the character Ms. Freeman. It reminds me of how these are the types of teachers that are truly needed in society. Society needs teachers like Ms. Freeman to not only encourage exploration, but also to fight for updated science materials for students to use.

I also enjoyed the Afterword/Author Note at the end of the novel and was especially intrigued by the quoted:
- “Trustworthy journalists talk to people with firsthand knowledge and experience with news and events. They cite experts. They describe events objectively, sticking to facts that can be proven, and they are clear about what is unknown. They offer multiple perspectives, not just the most powerful ones. And if they get something wrong, they issue a retraction or a correction.”

The author teaches the readers on how to ACTUALLY be a journalist, or have somewhat of a characteristics of being/becoming a journalists.

It is sad these days that the news media does not really follow as such; too many times the articles show bias judgment and manipulations that it makes it harder to understand what is the truth and what is human opinions.

What I think the book lack is the author should have shown the correction part in the graphic novel; Ruth Keller never apologizes publicly to Dennis Koethcke from the Twin Oaks Country Club, Mr. Edwards from Autospa, and the other businesses she reported of violating the Clean Water Act. Although her intention was to report the truth, I don’t think it was necessary for her to publish the article; due to the current water pollution situation, it would bring defamation/almost like accusation towards the businesses. Whether if it was Ruth’s intention or not, the public would see it as those were the businesses that caused the whole water contamination. I think if the author included Ruth publicly apologizing for her wrong judgment, this would fully illustrate what it means to be a journalist.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both the content and artwork in this book were excellent! Ruth, an aspiring journalist, is convinced there is something wrong with the water supply in her town. Even if she can't get adults to take her seriously, she is determined to find out the truth and report on it.

The Leak did a great job of telling Ruth's fictional story while also pulling in and discussing the reality of places like Flint, Michigan where the water supply is contaminated and making people, especially kids, sick. This is brought up occasionally throughout the book as well as discussed further in the back matter, creating a space for kids to learn and think about how the story in this book ties into real life.

This book also shows kids that they can make a difference. Without Ruth, the truth about the water supply would not have come out. She refused to be scared into dropping her story or lying about what was really going on, even if it would benefit her. It also shows that while many adults may not listen, there are some who believe kids and are on their side. Ruth gains allies in her older brother's girlfriend and her teacher, both of whom know that Ruth has the right and the drive to find the truth and share it with others.

Overall, this book was important and educational, and also a lot of fun to read.

Thanks to NetGalley and First Second Books for the eARC.

[Brenda Kahn]

Terrific graphic novel about a budding investigative reporter uncovering a toxic leak in her small town. Palette leans toward pastel. Diverse cast of characters. Should have high appeal.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young readers will find a Harriet the Spy-like character in Ruth, who at age 12 knows she'll be a journalist and isn't going to wait for adult permission to start work.

Ruth is publishing her own online newspaper since her school doesn't have a student paper, and it's a mix of sensationalism and information - making it the perfect place to ask if the black sludge she found at the local fishing pond might be the residue of an alien species.

Older characters in the story present useful information about both journalism and scientific investigations. For example, the teachers at her school, who cover basic scientific investigations and encourage her journalism, and her parents who set boundaries but encourage her to persist in her work.

Mostly, Ruth is mentored over the phone by her brother's new girlfriend Sara - who has an internship at the New York Times. She helps Ruth make her article more relevant and useful - by replacing the wild speculation with facts and valid questions resulting from an investigation.

Sara does this by recommending "rules of journalism" under the acronym O.A.T.H.; Objectivity, Accuracy; Transparency; Honesty. Ruth tries to apply these principles, but her sense of ethics is underdeveloped, and she draws her best friend Jonathan into some trouble by using questionable investigative methods. Apropos of children's books, the consequences keep the characters accountable so readers will know the behavior is out of bounds.

The Flint Water Contamination Crisis is unfolding on the television Ruth's parents watch, but it takes a pile of evidence before any of them realize their community is experiencing a similar pollution crisis.

A captivating read, the story is similar to The Qwikpick Papers: Poop Fountain!, Regarding the Fountain: A Tale, in Letters, of Liars and Leaks, and Flush - but this is in an appealing graphic novel format.

The illustrations & layout are legible, with bright colors and recognizable characters - it's clear who is speaking, and the drawing style & characters are clearly differentiated. There is a weird thing where the characters occasionally have no pupil in their eyes (just a white circle), in contrast to a dramatic black dot within a white circle the rest of the time. I think this is meant to show wide-eyed surprise, but it is jarring and not effective.

Overall; captivating!