The Editor's Choice

On a busy Monday morning, the newsroom of the small city paper was full of noise.

Lucy, a young editor, had to choose which story would lead the front page.

One reporter brought a story about a local school winning a science prize.

Another reporter had a story about a factory that was polluting the river.

The school story was cheerful and easy to read, and it would make many readers happy.

The factory story was serious and might upset some powerful people in town, but it was important for public safety.

Lucy looked at the clock and knew she had only twenty minutes to decide.

She thought about her readers and what they needed to know.

In the end, she chose the factory story for the front page.

She put the school story on page three with a bright photo.

Later, the mayor called to complain, but Lucy explained that a good newspaper must tell the truth, even when it is difficult.

That evening, many readers thanked the paper for its brave report.