The genres of young adult and middle-grade literature are becoming more diverse, with new releases taking more and more inspiration from Asian myths and folklore. One of these is A Magic Steeped in Poison, which takes place in a fictional setting resembling ancient China. The novel features a curious type of magic based around brewing tea. It’s a premise that seems quite rare, and we should expect more fantastical settings once more authors embrace the untapped potential that lies in Asian mythology. Read full article here
Research
Improving media literacy could boost trust towards the news, IMPRESS report suggests
The UK media is regulated by the likes of IPSO and Ofcom. The report by press regulator IMPRESS highlights the link between low levels of media literacy and trust in the news. The study found that three quarters of those who did not know if journalists were regulated did not trust the news. It suggests that improving media literacy is one way to stem the erosion of trust, and shows that audiences have an appetite for information on news processes. Stakeholders need to collaborate in order to rebuild trust in the news, and independent media is well placed to do this. Read full article here