Movie animation

Gr 4-6 While these titles are classic examples of report-mill publishing, the covers, featuring characters such as Spider-man, Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean, and Shrek, will definitely appeal to the target audience. Each book offers a brief overview of a particular aspect of moviemaking, with sidebar "Celebrity Snapshots" and "Behind the Scenes" information separate from the main text. Some of the material included, such as a sidebar on Bollywood (Soundtracks ), is surprising given the narrow scope of the books. Animation is particularly effective within the limited space as it gives snapshots of important people in the field, from Walt Disney to John Lasseter of Pixar to Japanese director Hayao Miyazaki. While the series definitely gets points for being up-to-date and pleasantly designed, it doesn't transcend the restrictions of the 32-page format, and most of the information provided feels cursory at best. Each book includes a short list of books, videos, and Web sites. Tim Wadham, Maricopa County Library District, Phoenix, AZ [Page 150]. Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.

Describes how stop-motion, cartoon, and computer animation work and are used to create hit movies.

This high-interest series takes readers behind the scenes to learn about the various jobs- and famous people- involved in making movies. Written at a level accessible to struggling readers, each book explains a different part of the movie-making process, from scripts and acting to stunts, soundtracks, and special effects. Brief biographies introduce fascinating actors, directors, special effects wizards, and the stunt men and women who entertain us at the movies. Many of the films discussed will be familiar to readers, enhancing their appreciation of movies as well as their desire to read!