Gr 9 Up--Serial collaborator Shamir fortuitously adapts journalists Kantor and Twohey's essential 2019 She Said: Breaking the Sexual Harassment Story That Helped Ignite a Movement, providing young journalists not only an illuminating window into the industry, but also empowering young women, especially, to speak out and challenge injustices and abuses. After voicing She Said, Rebecca Lowman returns as narrator here, sounding very much like the big sister every young person needs in demanding situations. She's encouraging and understanding, with just enough alarm when she needs to signal a warning, but never resorting to over-emoting. Lowman's assured delivery highlights Kantor and Twohey's goal "to document the facts," "without bias or agenda," while elevating the courage of the many women who bravely broke their silence. VERDICT Lowman adroitly enhances an already vital chronicle of a pivotal moment in journalism history.

In this adaptation of their bestselling She Said (2019), two journalists for the New York Times describe the reporting process that led to their breaking the story of Harvey Weinstein's serial sexual harassment. In 2017, journalist Kantor, who had spent some years unearthing and reporting on corporate gender bias, convinced actress Rose McGowan to talk to her about mistreatment of women in the entertainment industry and, specifically, about an incident with the noted producer. This was the beginning of a monthslong investigation by Kantor and fellow reporter Twohey that culminated in a series of stories that fanned the flames of the #MeToo movement and led to the loss of Weinstein's job, reputation, and freedom following a court conviction. Adapter Shamir has tightened the narrative in the adult original and focused it more sharply on the reporting of that particular story. This version introduces more background information about the reporters and the reasons behind their methods; removes stories about Donald Trump, Christine Blasey Ford, and Brett Kavanaugh; and includes a final section containing solid advice for aspiring teen journalists. Throughout this fast-paced and gripping account, they show how the process of carrying out this type of groundbreaking investigative work is accomplished. Their eye-opening revelations will inspire and leave an indelible mark on readers. A timely, critical read about the ways power and privilege work in our society. (note to readers, endnotes) (Nonfiction. 12-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

In this young adult edition of She Said (2019), the best-selling book about the Harvey Weinstein case, coauthors and New York Times reporters Kantor and Twohey offer teen readers insights into how investigative journalism works. The book begins with brief accounts of the authors' backgrounds and motivations, along with exhortations about the social good that can come from careful investigation (wrongdoings exposed, voices returned to the silenced, justice restored). Next comes a detailed, event-by-event description of their investigation into Weinstein, set within appropriate and ample context. The accessible text, which includes explanations, character profiles, and conversations, moves along briskly. The authors emphasize Weinstein's power and influence, including the layers of secrecy that frustrated their efforts, and highlight the bravery of the women who came forward. They also reveal how extremely difficult it is to pursue and prove sexual harassment complaints, leaving the verdict in doubt until the very end. Soon to become a movie, this real-life account is gripping, and, thanks to its extremely satisfying conclusion, should inspire feminists and future investigative reporters alike.