Book Description

Discover the fate of Merry and Pippin, last seen being dragged off by the Uruk-hai to Saruman"s lair.

Find out what happens when Gollum finally catches up with Frodo and Sam as they make their way to Mordor.

Meet King Théoden, his niece Éowyn and her brother Éomer, and his evil adviser, Gríma Wormtongue.

Learn what really happened to Gandalf, and prepare yourself for the epic Battle of Helm"s Deep!

Over 100 amazing color photos

Includes free photo stickers from the new film ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Good for pre-movie viewing, but pretty worthless after
It's a good book, don't get me wrong. There's some magnificent pictures from the second installment in New Line's The Lord of the Rings trilogy. It's the whole movie plot simplified.

But this book is only worth something before the movie. Afterward, it just loses its luster. Since you've already seen the movie, why look at the pictures again?

Nonetheless, there are some interesting items that take place in the book that give some hints as to what some extended material for The Two Towers' extended release will be. (For instance, the plot line about Aragorn releasing Theodred's horse Brego, which rescues him in the movie after the Warg battle. In the movie, the horse just showed up, without prior mention of it)

There's also (at least in ours) a page of stickers in the back of the book, but since there's only one to a character, no one wants to remove them from the page.

A terrific book to have, a must-have!
"There is now a union between the two towers - Barad-dur, fortress of the Dark Lord Sauron, and Orthanc, stronghold of the wizard Saruman."

In the second installment of the Lord of the Rings, "The Two Towers" has the fellowship of the ring broken up. Frodo and Sam are on their own as they continue on their way towards Mordor to destroy the One Ring. Merry and Pippin are captured by the Uruk-Hai and it's up to Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli to rescue them. Both new allies and new foes will be made as the battle for Middle Earth continues. What will happen to the fellowship, will Middle Earth ever be rid of the evil of Sauron?

"The Lord of the Ring: The Two Towers Photo Guide" is the illustrated story from the epic New Line Cinema film. In other words, this is more like a picture book. Includes over 100 color photos which are of very high quality! LOTR movie buffs might have seen many of the pictures either on the Internet or somewhere else, but there are some photos which are new. Lots of the pictures have captions from the movie. It's easy to look through the book since at the top of each page there is like a title for each major scene in the movie (ex. "Plains of Rohan" or "Helm's Deep".

Some of the best pictures from the book include: Gandalf riding Shadowfax, Legolas riding a horse during the battle against Orcs and Wargs, Frodo keeping the Ring away from Faramir, Merry and Pippin in the capable 'hands' of Treebeard, and King Theoden riding into Helm's Deep. Plus plenty more!

Definitely not a replacement to seeing the actual movie or reading the original books by J.R.R. Tolkien, but I can still recommend this book for LOTR Movie fans and kids. My suggestion though is to watch the movie before reading this since in my opinion it's better to not know what will happen. Another reason to by this book is that there are some missing scenes from the movie. For example, in this photo guide it explains how the horse Brego was able to rescue Aragorn. And Faramir's plan will be pleased to see at the end he helps Frodo and Sam more than in the movie. And some more info on Gollum's past! Hopefully an extended edition of "The Two Towers" will come out including these missing scenes!

Also included at the back of the Photo Guide are stickers of the characters of "The Two Towers". Stickers include Gandalf, Frodo, Sam, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Saruman, Faramir, Merry and Pippin, King Theoden, Eowyn, and Arwen, which is altogether twelve stickers. Some people might be disappointed to find that there is no sticker for Eomer, who will come to be a pretty major character in the Lord of the Rings.

Good book for younger viewers
Whether or not smaller kids will get to go to "The Two Towers" depends on their parents, given that this movie is frightening and violent and quite creepy in places. And even if they do go, some kis may be a little confused by the complex storyline. And, of course, adults who need to see the pictures.

It's basically a picture book, the events of the Two Towers and what happens to Sam and Frodo, who were last seen heading into Mordor; Merry and Pippin, who are kidnapped by orcs and receive some unexpected help; and Legolas, Aragorn and Gimli, who are pursuing Merry and Pippin, but are waylaid by an old friend whom they thought was lost. Be forewarned, this book is crawling over with spoilers about what happens in the movie.

The pictures in this guide are outstanding; most of them aren't featured in the other "Two Towers" guides coming out at this time. And many are captioned with various lines from the movie (such as a photo with Frodo and Sam, which is captioned with "What is it, Mr. Frodo?" "Nothing. Just a dream.") There are good photographs of old favorites such as Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Merry, and Pippin. There are also good shots of Gandalf in his new incarnation, the majestic ent Treebeard (a fantastic shot of a priceless character), the noble Theoden, the grotesque Gollum, and many others. The only problem I can think of is that a few of the shots never appeared in the movie, such as one pic of Frodo holding his cupped hand in front of his shirt, and Faramir watching him. And as with the "Fellowship" photo guide, some of the pictures are rather small.

Despite these minor problems, this is a good book for the "Lord of the Rings" movie fans, especially the younger ones who might need a few pointers, or the older ones who love photographs. This one has very little in common with the other "Two Towers" movie-related books, and it's worth a look.

Don't check out the Photo Guide until after you see the Film
I certainly would not recommend "The Two Towers: Photo Guide" as a substitute for reading the book, but certainly this volume will help answer children's questions about what is happening in the film. Unlike Tolkien's middle-volume of the trilogy, which was divided into two "books" and kept the Frodo and Sam plotline totally separate from what was happening to the remainder of the shattered Fellowship of the Ring, the film version jumps back and forth between multiple plot lines. This can be a bit confusing to younger children, especially if they have not committed the entire Trilogy to memory. This book includes over 100 color photographs and actually refrains from giving away the twin climaxes of the film regarding Helm's Deep and Isengard, so bonus points for not ruining the film for any young readers who feel compelled to go through this Photo Guide before watching the film. Also included are Free Stickers, for those who care about such things, and the volume is certainly reasonably priced given the number of color photographs included inside. There are a couple of especially nice photographs of Treebeard and my only complaint would be in addition to omitting some of the really great shots of the defenders of Helm's Deep waiting in the rain for the attack to begin that the three photographs of Éowyn are rather small and all side-views, but I am picky because the shield maiden of Rohan is one of my favorite characters in the LOTR Trilogy.

Very slim
This book shouldn't be overrated. It's nice to see the storyline of the second film presented in it, and it has a couple of nice pics. But that's it. The commentary is absulutely worthless and adds nothing unless you're a complete Tolkien novice. Very much a children's book, I bought it for the film storyline (which once again deviates significantly from the books at certain parts) and some stunning pics, of which there are but a few. And the storyline of the film will be known to all soon anyway so it's only merit post-TTT release will be a few nice pics.

Gary Russell's Art of the Fellowship of the Ring would be a much more worthwhile purchase. I wonder if he'll do another one for TTT and RoTK... ... Read more

Book Description

5 Short Plays for the Classroom With Background Information, Writing Prompts, and Creative Activities
Plays are the perfect way to show the "story of history." The five original plays in this unique collection cover important points during the Civil War such as South's decision to secede, the Battle of Gettysburg, the surrender at Appamattox, and Lincoln's plan for reconstruction. It also makes history real for students by giving them insights into the peoplewho lived through these events such as Ulysses S. Grant, Robert E. Lee, Abraham Lincoln, and Frederick Douglass. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Bring history alive!
I am an 8th grade social studies teacher and have found this a useful classroom tool. The kids have really gotten into performing these plays.

There is a nice range here- from Fort Sumter (which is great because it offers a female perspective) to Reconstuction. The plays offer bits of insight into the human side of the Civil War as well as fun bits of trivia. I needed a way to teach the Emancipation Proclamation and the Frederick Douglass play offered views from both the north and south as well as white and African American. I am also happy to say that generally quiet students participate with the plays. Some parts as quite large others just two lines. This really works well with a mixed class and offers good "sparks" for wrap up discussions.

It was nice to see my students think about these people and events and even relate a little bit!

Read-Aloud Plays: Civil War
I use this book in both my classroom and at home with my own children (ages 8 and 10). It has been invaluable for sparking their interest in the Civil War, and history in general.

This is a classroom MUST. There is no better way to inspire an interest in history than allowing the children, themselves to participate as the actual historical figures themselves.

I am a sixth grade teacher, and have been recommending this book to my colleagues. ... Read more

Book Description

The first children's book to feature the exciting Cirque du Soleil(r)!

Now, for the first time, the enchanting characters from Cirque du Soleil, the world-famous circus troupe known for its innovative blending of circus acts and street performance, are featured in a book for children! Through dazzling photographs from all eight shows and imaginative verse, young readers are introduced to every color of the rainbow-and some that even the rainbow would envy.

Meet the Baron, the Nostalgic Old Birds, the Angels, the Water Nymphs, the Bronx, the Urban Worms, and more. This spirited introduction to color will inspire the imagination and transport fans of all ages to the magical world of Cirque du Soleil. This is one circus parade everyone will want to join! ... Read more

Book Description

Other mice scurry, but not Tessa. She boogies, bops, shimmies, and hops.On her family¹s raids through Mrs. Timboni¹s kitchen, Tessa tap dances across the teapot and sashays with the saltshakers.Soon, Mrs. Timboni brings home a cat named Oscar, who is no ordinary cat. He doesn¹t like to nap or chase mice at all! Instead, he croons on the counter, sings in the sinks, and trills on the table! Is it any wonder there is magic when these two finally meet? ... Read more

Reviews (4)

LUUUV IIIITTTT
I love this book Beautiful illustrations My name just happens to be tessa

Wow, and I thought "Don't Need Friends" was great!
You haven't lived until you've read this book! The characters are absolutely charming and the story line teaches children of all ages the importance of enjoying life to the fullest. Nice illustrations, too, but the best part is the writing...so clever!!

Loved it!
My daughter's brought this home from the library--my oldest picked it out because her sisters name is Tessa. Much to my suprise this little mouse is alot like my Tessa. It's a wonderful children's story with wonderfully colored pictures. We've only had it one night and have already read it 3 times!This is definately one to add to your bookshelf!!

This is the best book I have read in my whole life!
I loved this book. The pictures are hilarious! My children ask me every night to read this book to them over and over. You would think I would be tired of reading it, but I am not. There are so many funny things to look at in the pictures, that it keeps the interest of not only my children, but myself as well. If you want to buy a funny book, this is the one! ... Read more

Book Description

Famed scientist Dr. Otto Octavius is conducting the most important experiment of his life, but it goes horribly wrong. Now there's a new supervillain in town -- Doc Ock! Who can stop Doc Ock's twisted schemes when fear haunts the city and lives are at stake? Only one person: He may be Peter Parker, an ordinary student, but when he throws his web and swoops down to save the innocent, he's really your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man!

Relive Spider-Man's exciting adventures in this photo-packed storybook!

Book Description

A fun and funny guide to making great videos.

Anyone can make a video (we've all seen other people's home movies, ugh!). But can anyone make great videos? Of course! Say hello to Attack of the Killer Video Book.

Hilarious yet instructive text provides kids with a thorough overview of all the tricks of the movie-making trade. From coming up with great ideas, to organizing a video shoot, to finally piecing it all together, Attack of the Killer Video Book walks readers through every stage of video production.

Camera-less activities like scriptwriting and storyboarding will help bring ideas to life. Simple suggestions on camerawork will turn technophobes into sharp-shooters. There are even hot tips for safe special effects and handy hints for the big premiere. Meanwhile, hip and helpful illustrations will keep everything cool and clear.

All this makes Attack of the Killer Video Book as sensible as it is sidesplitting, and kids who use it are all but guaranteed fame! Okay, they may not have fame, but they'll sure have fun (and learn something too).

Chapters include: - The Story - The Technology - The Special Effects - The Big Show - The Final Touches ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Movie Magic
In Attack of the Killer Video Book, Mark Shulman and Hazlitt Krog, two veteran American filmmaker/writers who specialize in young people's film and video production,provide everything young people need to know to create their own masterpieces on video. Illustrated by artist Martha Newbigging's cartoons, the book stands out for a number of reasons, particularly the authors' ability to walk that fine line between making filmmaking seem "cool" to young readers while at the same time dispensing the kind of practical technical advice they need.

Shulman and Krog cover every imaginable aspect of moviemaking, including scriptwriting, choosing locations and costumes, shooting, and editing footage. What's more, they go beyond the technical details of production, providing excellent instructional material that teaches young readers how to brainstorm potential story ideas and how to promote their work and organize a premiere screening. Readers will benefit by the outstanding organization of the text into step-bystep thematic chunks - including assembling a production team, instructions for directors, handling and operating a camera - while at the same time enjoying the high-energy prose and lively illustrations.

Adults will value the book's underlying can-do theme, which shows how young people can create something of lasting value on their own while learning important lessons about creativity, team-building and seeing a big project through to completion. As a writer and organizer of film discussion groups for kids, this book is highly recommended. ... Read more

Book Description

Sassy worries that her too-large feet, too-long legs, and even her big mouth will keep her from her dream of becoming a star ballerina.So for now she's just dancing in the wings, watching from behind the curtain, and hoping that one day it will be her turn to shimmer in the spotlight.When the director of an important dance festival comes to audition her class, Sassy's first attempts to get his attention are, well, a little wobbly.But Sassy just knows, somehow, that this is her time to step out from those wings, and make her mark on the world.

Actress/choreographer Debbie Allen and Kadir Nelson collaborated on Brothers of the Knight, about which School Library Journal raved, "the strutting high-stepping brothers are full of individuality, attitude, and movement." ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Dancing In The Wings
This book is about a ballerina who is taller than the rest of the students who take ballet and so is made fun of by them. Nobody is tall enough to be her partner so she never can display her talent until one day a man comes in to hold auditions for a dance festival. No one thinks that she can make it. Will she have a chance to show off her true talent?

I enjoyed reading this book because it shows that even though other people may think that you can't succeed, it really depends on how YOU feel and how determined you are.

Bravo for Coming of Age
Dacing in the Wings stole my heart! The main character Sassy is someone little girls (and big girls) can identify with. I was seaching for a gift for my niece who is facing the challenges of growing up different. The support Sassy receives to pursue her dreams is encouraging and heart warming. The family unit is realistic and beleivable, with just a touch of magic. Allen really captures the essence of triumph. The illustrations by Kadir Nelson leap from the pages to colorize this this very orginal story. The artwork makes this story a keepsake worth having. The multi-cultural nature of the book makes it a treasure for all families bookshelves!

Beautiful Story
My 4-year old loves this because she is taking ballet. The illustrations from Kadir Nelson are masterful. My daughters now know his art work and relate it to the books they have.

My class never laughed so hard!
I'm a fifth grade elementary school teacher and work in a black neighborhood. Recently our theme for the week was the biography of the famous ballet star, Evelyn Cisneros.Unfortunately, our school library did not have any information on Cisneros at the time. Instead, our media specialist read this wonderful book by Debbie Allen of "FAME" fame. Well, let me tell you, my students never laughed so hard during a book. They just simply loved it.

Put-downs are a fact of life, especially (and unfortunately) in elementary school. I think the students really got the message loud and clear and in a fun and interesting, not preachy, way. As a class, we discussed how people are different and we need to accept others without making fun of them. It was also clear that we sound horrible when we tease and taunt each other, too. There were really great points of discussion above and beyond ballet and dancing.

Debbie Allen is truly talented and not just as a dancer! My students learned about the world of ballet, which was new to them. They were engaged while being read to and afterwards enjoyed talking and laughing about this book. I found it to be a tremendous teaching tool in that it opened up many topics of discussion that week and students connected to this book in an exciting way. It spoke to them in their own language and that's a difficult thing to do! My students can be hard to reach through books and yet Debbie Allen accomplished it with ease.

The pictures were a delight, very expressive. I will buy this book now and use it in my classroom every year. I strongly recommend this book as a teaching tool, in all neighborhoods. I hope Allen writes more for children soon.

Something to be proud of!
As a woman who is used to being the tallest female in the room, this book was a delight for me. It's clear to her father and I that our 3 year old daughter will be following in the footsteps(size 10 1/2) of her mother. We read this book now and then because it's never too soon to promote a positive self-image. I want my daughter to embrace her size and be proud of who she is. ... Read more

Reviews (35)

A story full of laughs!
No More Dead Dogs, by Gordon Korman, is a humorous tale of Wallace Wallace. The plot shows Wallace as a student football star who doesn't really care about his schoolwork. His teacher gives the class an assignment to read and write a report on Old Shep, My Pal, which is the teacher's favorite book. When Wallace turns in a poorly written report, the teacher gives him detetion until he writes a satisfactory report. Wallace now is forced to miss football practice numerous times because he refuses to write another report. In detention, Wallace must sit and watch rehearsals of the school play, which just so happens to be from the book, Old Shep, My Pal, and directed by his teacher. At first, Wallace makes fun of the cast, and their work, but in the end, he helps the cast with the play's props and production. Gordon Korman has a humorous informal style of writing. The novel captures the very mind of typical pre-adolescent children.

No More Dead Dogs Is A Hit!
Right when I took it off the shelf I knew Gordon Korman had done it. He wrote a completely thought out storie with a wonderful plot with reasoning for corner.No More Dead Dogs is a mind tickling storie. Wallace Wallace would never tell a lie. So what he doesn't like the book Old Shep My Pal. The only person who actually cares is Mr.Fogelman Wallaces teacher who wants a nice Review.Wallace can't lie and Mr.Fogelman won't get a review out of him, so detention. Wallace Wallace is put to work on the school production of old shep my pal, And kicked of the football team. Because the detention must fit the crime.Wallace starts to come up with great ideas for improvement, so when the play is attacked no one cares if he did it or not. More attacks on the play and this time evidence.
Wallace is banned from the production even though now it is practicly his own, But wallace knows there will be an attck on the production at the performance and has to save the play!
Will Wallace save the play? Will he Tell a lie? Find out in this great book No More Dead Dogs.

Confused!
Each chapter is from a differnt persons point of view... It makes no since during parts...

No More Dead Dogs
The ending of No More Dead Dogs is surprising because I never thought Wallace and Trudie would become a couple. Wallace is so different that no one likes him because he is a jock and he thinks he knows it all. Trudie is the quiet type. She only talks when someone talks to her. They are so different that sometimes they argue over stupid stuff. First they started to argue about parts of the play. They both wanted the same part, but Wallace got it. Another time they argued was when they fought over the end of the play and how they wanted it to end. Wallace wanted the dog not to die because he loves animals; Trudie wanted the dog to die at the end of the play because she doesn't like animals. In this argument, Trudie wins. They talked more after the play. Finally, they become friends and they start doing stuff together. My opinion is that I really liked the book because it has a very good ending. I would recommend it to people who like animals. It was such a great book..

Not a classic, but worth a read
This is a snappy, personable read; the characters are interesting (although some are a bit one-dimensional) and the author moves the plot along briskly by maintaining the humor and casual speech that keeps the book grounded even as he sifts the focus from one character to another. The plot has been summarized elsewhere quite nicely, so I'd like to discuss some of the larger ideas the book explores. Having been a "drama nerd," I liked the way the author portrays their earnestness-- they may be a little out of it, but they are well-intentioned and ultimately likeable. I also liked the unrelenting honesty of Wallace Wallace, and the way he deals with the hero worship that he feels is unearned-- worship that serves only to trip him up at every turn. Finally, I enjoyed the portrayal of friendships, both "fair-weather" and true-- any adolescent can instantly connect with both the injustice of the former and the value of the latter, and the concluding affirmation of honesty leaves the reader feeling good about the story as a whole. Not to detract from the lessons to be learned from dead dogs, but it's nice to see characters learn from positive experiences too! ... Read more

Book Description

Both a beautifully illustrated four-color children’s story and a grown-up fantasy, Polly and the Piano is based upon the true-life loving relationship between the pianist-author and her dog, Polly. The book is filled with Montparker’s affectionate and spontaneous watercolor sketches of her dog, from the moment of her adoption as a puppy at an animal shelter, to a very astonishing setting at the end of the book. Polly lived underneath the piano, greeted piano students, learned to love the classical repertoire, and kept herpianist-partner from being lonely during long hours of preparation for a recital at Carnegie Hall.

From the charm of everyday interactions between owner and pet, the book takes an enchanting turn into a musical fairy tale that will delight readers of any age. Written in the dog’s voice, the story draws the reader into the pianist’s life—the dedicated work and stress, along with the relief of more playful moments when Polly persuades her mistress to take some time off. The mutual appreciation, tender love, good humor, and wonderful surprise ending will captivate the reader’s heart. This book will be treasured by pianists, piano teachers, students, children, pet lovers, and by everyone else as well. ... Read more

Book Description

Jenna, a contemporary Muscogee (Creek) girl in Oklahoma, wants to honor a family tradition by jingle dancing at the next powwow. But where will she find enough jingles for her dress? An unusual, warm family story, beautifully evoked in Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu's watercolor art.

Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of Social Studies 2001, National Council for SS & Child. Book Council

Reviews (10)

Native children's literature by a Native author--at last!
Until very recently, there were no large press picture books about contemporary Native children written by Indian authors. For this reason, Jingle Dancer is particularly notable. The story of Jenna, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation living with her family in Oklahoma, is written by a Native author. Rather than focusing exclusively on Jenna's Indian identity, however, the book presents Jenna as an average American kid, living in suburbia, who calls on her Native sensibilities and her broad community of supportive females to overcome a problem as she tries to put together her regalia for the Jingle Dance. Readers who are not familiar with the customs presented here will learn much, but above all, they will learn that Indian children are alive, well, and living rich lives amongst them, a lesson infrequently taught, and rarely so pleasantly. Rich, bright, cheerful watercolor illustrations by husband-and-wife team Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu enhance the presentation and bring Jenna to life. A significantly informative Author's Note and Glossary make the book even more effective.

Excellent story for all -
What? No teepees or war paint? Bravo! Cynthia Leitich Smith's JINGLE DANCER is a refreshing story about a Muscogee-Ojibway girl wanting to participate in a powwow by performing a traditional dance. This contemporary picture book story is free of the stereotypes sometimes associated with Native American tales, and instead shows Jenna watching her grandma dance on a video tape, visiting a friend in a new duplex in the community, and talking with her lawyer aunt. The reader is also introduced to information about a traditional story, game, foods, and dance. Smith's lyrical narrative and captivating story makes this a perfect read-a-loud -- as my five-year-old daughter will attest to. As an Asian-American, I'm always thrilled to see contemporary stories with multicultural characters shown in real and positive ways.

Beautiful illustrations by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu!

Jingle Dancer
Cynthia Leitich Smith's, JINGLE DANCER, is a delightful book. Ms. Smith weaves a lovely story of the strong female ties in Native Ameicans matriarchal societies. Smith celebrates the loving, sharing spirit of friends and families. The passages of Jenna dancing through her day from dawn to moonlight are pure poetry. Cornelius Van Wright's and Ying-Hwa Hu's bright lively illustration are a perfect match. Cynthia Leitich Smith's writing is to be applauded as a great addition to the world of children's books.

A beautiful story for any child
Cynthia Leitich Smith has penned a graceful, lyrical story in JINGLE DANCER. My son enjoys hearing about Jenna's quest to find jingles for her dress, and loves looking at the beautiful illustrations. It's one of the books we read frequently.

We've also purchased several copies of the book as baby shower gifts, and everyone has loved it. The high-quality writing and exceptional artwork make it a rare find. We can't wait for Ms. Smith's next book.

Jingle Dancer - An Enjoyable Story of a Native American Girl
Watching her own grandmother dance the traditional jingledance,Jenna hopes to carry on the proud tradition.

In order to makeher own dress "sing," however, Jenna will need four rows of jingles. There isn't enough time before the next powwow to mail- order the tin beads, but Jenna doesn't loose faith. A Muskogee Creek story about a bat that she is told by her Great Aunt Sis shows that no one is too little to make a difference.

Rising sunlight reached through a window pane and flashed against... what was it, hanging in Aunt Sis's bedroom? Jingles on a dress too long quiet. "May I borrow enough jingles to make a row? Jenna asked, not wanting to take so many that Aunt Sis's dress would lose its voice. "You may," Aunt Sis answered, rubbing her calves. "My legs don't work so good anymore. Will you dance for me?" "I will," said Jenna with a kiss on Aunt Sis's cheek. Now Jenna's dress needed three more rows.

With the assistance of those in her community who cannot dance at the powwow, Jenna finds enough spare jingles to make her dress sing. With patience and practice, her hope is fulfilled.

In JINGLE DANCER, Cynthia Leitich Smith honors the tradition of jingle dancing, a ritual of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, which has been celebrated for generations. Jenna is a delightful, ambitious child with great pride---a wonderful heroine for this picture book story. Not only does the author capture the feel of Native American heritage through the exposition and resolution of the story, but she adds to the mood by using the position of the sun in the sky to describe the passing of time within it. The author's note at the end of this picture book provides the fascinating background to this custom.

Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu's brilliant watercolor illustrations are the perfect medium in which to bring this endearing Native American story to life.

A reading of JINGLE DANCER is sure to inspire a jingle in the reader's heart.

Writers Moon reViews (WritersMoon@aol.com) P.O. Box 182, Nesconset, NY 11767-0182 Copyright (c) 2000 Lynne Remick LynnRemick@aol.com) Reprinted with permission from Lynne Remick and Fantasy, Folklore & Fairytales ... Read more

Book Description

All Over It!(Junior Novel #19): After Lizzie and Miranda's school food drive is a success, Lizzie throws herself head-first into ecological issues. But it's not just a healthy pro-active stance she's taken. It's an obsession. She sets out to conserve water and feed the homeless, becomes a vegetarian, and leaves little time for anything else. While Lizzie is driving her family nuts with her newfound ways, Gordo is obsessed with the school Science Olympics. He wants to beat Larry Tudgeman, the reigning Olympic champ, so he stays up every night studying and practicing. Matt is also getting carried away at school, as the newest hall monitor. He tickets several classmates, and even his teachers and parents. Can Lizzie and her crew rein in their obsessions before it's too late? Plus, Lizzie and her brother Matt are responsible for destroying their dad's prized possession! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Play magic fingers, play!
I have a horrible nasty habit that I've been fighting against for years and years. When I see that a book, whether for adult or child, has won an award of any sort, I immediately become the Queen of the Critique. Suddenly, no matter how wonderful or well written the book is, I'm continually underwhelmed. I read through the tale and think to myself, "Well, it was good. It just wasn't THAT good". Now that is my usual reaction. Thankfully, it is not my only reaction. And after reading "My Family Plays Music", I am proud to say that it wasn't my reaction in the least. My response to this fine creation was something far more along the lines of, "It WAS that good! Well, I'll be darned".

Following a spunky girl sporting cornrows and a purple bow smack dab in the middle of her head, we observe her pointed observations about each member of her family. The child of a uniquely musical fam, each person related to her excels in a different genre. Her mother plays in a country western band, as her father lends his talents to a string quartet. Some people in this family play rock and roll. Others pipe out cool jazz in clubs like "The Blue Note". There's swing music, and bongos in poetry cafes. The girl even has relatives involved in everything from church organs to (and my credulousness was stretched a bit on this one) polka bands. Mmm. Nonetheless, everyone has their part to play. As each person is described, the young girl plays some type of a percussion instrument to accompany them. I liked this fact, if only because it gives percussionists the respect they are due. This girl is every bit as much a musician as her family members, whether she's beating out a tune on a soup kettle, cowbell, and woodblock or shaking her tambourine and maracas. This swell story focuses on diversity without making its point and shaking it in your face.

A helpful glossary is included in the back of the book that explains each term that might be considered difficult for kids to understand. These are accompanied by small pictures that define the terms clearly and concisely. Anyone wishing to explain the difference between woodwind and brass instruments will be able to do so with this resource. In terms of the book's construction itself, Judy Cox has written a great story. Elbrite Brown's illustrations act as a perfect match, making it difficult to believe that this is the illustrator's first picture book. I've rarely seen cut paper pictures that get the small details down so well. Whether he's creating a tiny finger lifted from a fiddle or the delicate black lines that make up a man's goatee, Brown is adept at his work and we are the ones who benefit. All in all, a great book that is entirely deserving of the 2004 Coretta Scott King Award that it has received. ... Read more

Book Description

You've seen each episode and you've got them all on tape. You can practically recite each line by heart. But if you're any kind of fan, you'll want to get your hands on the actual scripts.

Here, collected in one volume, are the original scripts of the first six episodes of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Season Two. Read along as Buffy returns to Sunnydale after a relaxing summer to find that her penultimate foe, The Master, may be on the rise; as she first encounters The Big Bad, Spike, on the inauspicious parent-teacher night; and as her relationship with the ever soulful Angel continues to unfold. Complete with production notes, cut dialogue, and inside jokes!

These scripts will knock you dead:

Reviews (4)

A mixed group of scripts kicks off a phenomenal season
As fine as Season One of BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER had been, it was nonetheless at the start of Season Two merely a very good show. During the second season, however, Joss Whedon and his stable of crack writers would transform the show into something truly great. Nonetheless, it took some time for Season Two to achieve the greatness that it ended up being. So, in a sense, the scripts in this volume represent the last shows where Buffy was struggling to realize its enormous potential. Not that they aren't very good, or even in a couple of instances quite exceptional; they simply aren't as stellar as what immediately followed.

"Lie to Me" is, like many season openers, the product of Joss Whedon. As fine as other writers on the show are, I don't think anyone would question that Whedon always remained the King of the Hill. This script provides a marvelous transition from "Prophecy Girl," the Season One finale. Buffy returns to Sunnydale after spending the summer in L.A., and she is obviously reexperiences the trauma of her encounter with and death by the Master. She completely supplants Cordelia as the Queen [word that rhymes with "witch"] of Sunnydale high. Not only is she indifferent to almost everything, she is positively nasty to Cordelia, and engages in an over-the-top sexy dance with Xander that both unmercifully steams him up only to dash him with cold water, and cruelly makes Angel jealous. As Xander and Willow agree, Buffy has always been different, but she had never been mean before. But when vampires kidnap Willow, Giles, Jenny, and Cordelia to perform a ritual to resurrect the Master, Buffy not only saves her friends, but as Xander puts it "works out her issues" by killing all the vampires.

"Some Assembly Required" is one of the weakest episodes in the entire run of the show. When fans are polled on the worst episodes ever, it usually garners one of the highest vote totals. As a rule, Buffy is a highly nonderivative show, but this episode is a fairly lame updating of BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN. It does contain one of my all time favorite exchanges. Upon seeing Giles, who is trying to work up the nerve to ask out Jenny Calendar, Xander says: XANDER: And speaking of love . . . WILLOW: We were talking about the reanimation of dead tissue. XANDER: Do I deconstruct your segues?

"School Hard," written by David Greenwalt, is a very good episode, with several memorable moments. I don't think it is quite up to the level of the better scripts later in the year, but it is still extremely fine. Two things make it especially memorable. First, we meet Spike and Druscilla for the first time. Spike's part is especially well written, but reading the script demonstrates just how much James Marster's brings to the role. All the performers bring a great deal, but I believe he adds more to his part than any other performer. The second great thing in the episode is Spike's killing "the Annoying One" near the end of the episode. The episode is also crucial for reemphasizing the nontraditional nature of our heroine. Most heroes are loners, bereft of friends and family, but Buffy is great because of her friends and family. As Spike remarks, "A Slayer with family and friends. That sure as hell wasn't in the brochure."

"Inca Mummy Girl," written by Matt Kiene and Joe Reinkemeyer, continues the pattern of the first season and a half of Buffy, of one very strong script followed by a fairly weak one. This episode isn't as bad as "Some Assembly Required," but it is one of the weakest of the season.

David Greenwalt's "Reptile Boy" is an odd bird: unpleasant story with a bevy of absolutely great lines. If you focus on the story, this isn't a very good episode, but if you focus on the lines, it is great. The opening bit with Buff, Will, and Xander watching TV is a stitch. The episode contains one of the greatest of all Angel/Buffy exchanges: ANGEL: This isn't some Fairy Tale: when I kiss you you don't wake up from a deep sleep and live happily ever after. BUFFY: No. When you kiss me, I want to die.

"Halloween" was the only script that Carl Ellsworth wrote for Buffy, and while it isn't an especially great one, it is definitely a lot of fun. The idea of people becoming who or what they dress up as on Halloween seems a tad familiar, but it is all done in fun fashion. One of the great things about the show is the continuity from one episode to another. On several occasions in the future, Xander's having been a soldier briefly plays a crucial role in plotlines.

So, overall, not nearly as strong a group of scripts as we would see later in the season. Season Two is unquestionably great, but it is on the basis of what came after what we find here. In fact, the greatness would start with the very next script that follows these: "Lie to Me."

Joss Whedon kicks Buffy into high gear to start Season 2
As I sit down to watch Season Two of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" on DVD (again), I have my copy of "The Script Book: Season Two, Volume 1" in hand so can compare the original shooting scripts of the first six episodes with what ended up being aired. Half the fun is finding lines and scenes that have been cut (or added); the other half of the fun are the wicked stage directions that Joss Whedon and the other writers like to toss our way from time to time as we go our merry way. Of course, that experience ends with episode 12 because after Season Two, Volume 2, we hit a dead end. Maybe there is a one volume, 10 script collection down the road doing the entire Angelus story arc from the last half of Season Two; maybe not.

Deep Thoughts regarding these episodes:

"When She Was Bad" (written by Joss Whedon) is one of those pivotal episodes in the history of a show when it basically learns from past mistakes and starts over. The key scene here is when Buffy dances with Xander at the Bronze as Sarah Michelle Gellar injects a mondo dose of sexuality into the series. Reading how Whedon sketched out the scene makes you respect him as a director as well, given what ended up on the screen.

"Some Assembly Required" (written by Ty King) is basically the Frankenstein approach, in terms of both the doctor and the monster, to high school dating in yet another in a long series of Cordy in peril episodes.

"School Hard" (written by Joss Whedon and David Greenwalt) reminds us how often little things on BtVS have a tendency to grow once they catch our fancy. This is the episode that introduces Spike and Drusilla while suddenly (and surprisingly) jettisons the "Annoying" One. Read over this one carefully and notice how much had to be abandoned or revised in terms of character histories as Spike moved in for the long haul.

"Inca Mummy Girl" (written by Matt Kiene and Joe Reinkemyer) is another of those episodes where the bad news is that Xander has a girlfriend. But how could they ever cut out the line where Ampata praises Xander for making the milk come out of her nose?

"Reptile Boy" (written by David Greeenwalt) is yet another Coredlia in jeopardy episode, only this time Buffy is along for the ride. However, the rampant symbolism of the Machida just does not really come across on the printed page...

"Halloween" (written by Carl Ellsowrth) is the second best episode in this sextet. I am surprised that it was not written by one of the show's "name" writers, because not only does it give the cast a chance to play against type (Buffy is a frail maiden, Xander is soldier boy), but it introduces the "Ripper" aspect of the history of Rupert Giles, which will save him from more than a few bouts of unconsciousness down the road because he never goes back to being the meek little librarian (very often). Watch out for the great line from Angel about why he eats that was cut.

Ironically, of course, the fans of the show likely to buy these script collections are also those who pretty much have all 122 episodes of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" committed to memory. Consequently, they will not need to follow along on DVD or videotape to spot the changes, additions, and deletions. I just cannot believe anybody would read these scripts without having seen the episodes in question.

As fun to read as to watch, thanks to the clever writing
In what is apparently the first of four books with the scripts from Season Two of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the one-liners come fast and furious with a liberal dose of drama.

The book begins with "When She Was Bad." At the end of Season One, Buffy was killed by the evil vampire known as the Master (albeit just for a minute) and this episode deals with the aftermath of that trauma. Buffy's friends try to find out why she's being such a...er, witch...to them while a group of vampires tries to revive the Master.

The second episode is "Some Assembly Required." Although well-written, it's probably one of the less impressive episodes in the book. It features Buffy and gang trying to find the secret behind grave robbers who now have their sights set on a living person...acerbic queen Cordelia.

"School Hard" introduces Spike and Drusilla, two of the series' mainstay villains (and sometimes hero, in Spike's case). Parent-Teacher Night at Sunnydale High happens to correspond with the Night of St. Vigeous, the day when vampires' power is at its peak. Needless to say, things get a little hairy in what is probably the best episode of the bunch.

Regular guy Xander gets a showcase in "Inca Mummy Girl". He's finally found a girl he likes (who isn't a giant praying mantis). Unfortunately, she's an ancient mummy who must survive by draining people's life force. Is it any surprise that it doesn't end well?

"Reptile Boy" is probably the worst episode in the book. It's still good, but not up to par with the other five. In it, evil frat boys are planning to sacrifice Buffy and Cordelia to a gigantic snake.

And finally, in "Halloween" one of Giles' old friends comes to town, and as a result everyone turns into their costumes - Willow becomes a ghost, Xander becomes a military private, and Buffy becomes a helpless aristocrat from the eighteenth century. It drops hints of Giles' past, which will come back to haunt him later in the season.

Without a doubt, a good buy for anyone who enjoys Buffy or wants to see what the fuss is all about (although newcomers might want to start with the Season One scripts).

Fun to read
The writing of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the Television series is much celebrated by fans and critics alike. This book is a collection of the original shooting scripts for the first 6 episodes of season two. Included are When She Was Bad, Some Assembly Required, School Hard, Inca Mummy Girl, Reptile Boy and Halloween. Some of these scripts contain dialogue or scenes which were cut due to time or other concerns. This volume is a must for the Buffy collector and wonderful for anyone that appreciates quality television. ... Read more

Book Description

"Alex 'Skinnybones' Frankovitch is back, this time starring in a TV commercial after sending a prizewinning letter to a cat food company. Alex is signing autographs in preparation for his newfound celebrity, but things don't work out the way he hoped. Onscreen, he plays a six-year-old running away from home--quite an insult for a 12-year-old. Alex has one more chance at fame when he wins a role in A Christmas Carol, but it's as Tiny Tim, not Scrooge as Alex would have liked. As always, Park is laugh-out-loud funny and kids will have a wonderful time with this story."--Booklist. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Don't let this one get by you! You'll love it!
Alex "skinnybones" is back for more in this hilarious sequel to Skinnybones. Alex has won a contest and is going to star in a TV commercial. The anticipation of this event has Alex filled with ideas for his upcoming fame and celebrity. He fantasizes about signing autographs and his future in show business. However, as Alex finds out, it's not always a done deal! Alex is hilarious in this return of Barbara Park's story about "dreams" and reality. She really knows how to pack the laugh- out-loud moments in all her comedic offerings. I have never known a child not to almost "roll on the floor" with laughter. If your child reads this book, and you are listening, you will be granted a wonderful memory of your child's delight in books!

For all kids
I first read Skinnybones, the first book, a number of years ago in fifth grade. It was the first book to really excite me about reading. I jumped at the opportunity to read this sequel. It delivered. Park has a way of writing that is right on the same wavelength as the kid reading. Her characters are real, fun, something that anyone can identify with. She is also zany and just tons of fun. It's a laugh out loud. This is the perfect book for a child who usually prefers TV to reading. ... Read more

Book Description

With this one-stop guide, you do not need to be in the dark about the movies ever again! The Young Oxford Book of the Movies explores the history of film around the world, from the earliest silent movies to the blockbusters of today, through a century of constant challenge and change. How did the stars of the silent era adapt to the coming of the "talkies," and how did movies face up to the threat from television? Separate chapters look at different genres of films, presenting the greatest comedians, cowboys, heroes, and horrors of the big screen, as well as the actors, directors, and movie moguls who created them. The whole story is lavishly illustrated throughout.

An entire section is devoted to the life cycle of a movie, from the initial idea to the gala opening night. See how casting, costumes, makeup, and brilliant special effects are combined to entertain us, and look up your favorite movies in the fact file. ... Read more

Book Description

Morris the Moose has never been to the circus, so his friend Boris takes him there. When the ringmaster invites Morris to be part of the show, the fun begins for everyone-except poor Boris!

Reviews (1)

Great light-hearted humor for early readers (and younger)
My son could not stop laughing when I first read him this book, and he requested it many times after that. Morris (the moose) can never quite get things right, and Boris (the bear) becomes quite exasperated trying to correct him. By the end of the book, Boris is pursuing Morris all over the circus tent, much to the delight of the crowd - and the reader.

This is probably the best of the "Morris and Boris" series - it gives kids an introduction to the humor of word play and just plain silliness. ... Read more

Book Description

She's got the beat!

Even though Amelia Bedelia can't play a musical instrument, she plays a big part in the school concert. She is just as happy with flattening a bee as with a B flat, and her favorite wind instrument is an electric fan. But no one can beat Amelia Bedelia when it comes to making a drum roll -- especially hen she's inside the drum!