Title: The Navigator
Author: Eoin McNamee
ISBN: 978-0-375-93910-5
342 pages
Wendy Lamb Books, 2006 edition
Description:
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Osmosis Jones (Film)
Title: Osmosis Jones
DVD, 2001
Starring Bill Murray and Chris Rock
One of the various movies that the librarian gave me when I asked about 'tween' titles, 'Osmosis Jones' is a film that I had never heard of and thus had no preconceived notions.
Description:
The movie is a mix between live-action and animation as Frank (played by Bill Murray) ingests a virus after eating food that he has dropped when on the job at the zoo. He explains to his daughter that the 10-minute rule was still in effect and eats the questionable piece of food. Following the germ into Frank's body, the film becomes animated and the white blood cell Osmosis Jones is on the case. Frank takes a cold medicine called zenadrix (Drix for short) and the odd-couple duo try to get to the bottom of what's making Frank sick. What is really going on is that the evil villain Thrax has infiltrated Frank's immune system and plans on taking over Frank's body. It is up to Drix and Osmosis to save Frank from his own body.
Review:
The mix of live-action and animated sequences is a really neat idea as there is an entire world inside Frank. The animation is pretty slick and the voice acting is done well, with lots of familiar voices. The movie relies heavily (far too much so) on the type of potty humor that is easily found when exploring the body. Some of it is actually pretty filthy given the movies PG rating. For most 'tweens' however, the movie poses nothing really inappropriate. The dynamic between Frank (a single father) and his daughter who is trying to get him serious about his health is the only emotionally significant portion of the movie, and it is talked about so little that it is almost forgotten. Playing up this dynamic would have helped make the experience more rewarding for its' 'tween' viewers and might have made for a better overall film.
DVD, 2001
Starring Bill Murray and Chris Rock
One of the various movies that the librarian gave me when I asked about 'tween' titles, 'Osmosis Jones' is a film that I had never heard of and thus had no preconceived notions.
Description:
The movie is a mix between live-action and animation as Frank (played by Bill Murray) ingests a virus after eating food that he has dropped when on the job at the zoo. He explains to his daughter that the 10-minute rule was still in effect and eats the questionable piece of food. Following the germ into Frank's body, the film becomes animated and the white blood cell Osmosis Jones is on the case. Frank takes a cold medicine called zenadrix (Drix for short) and the odd-couple duo try to get to the bottom of what's making Frank sick. What is really going on is that the evil villain Thrax has infiltrated Frank's immune system and plans on taking over Frank's body. It is up to Drix and Osmosis to save Frank from his own body.Review:
The mix of live-action and animated sequences is a really neat idea as there is an entire world inside Frank. The animation is pretty slick and the voice acting is done well, with lots of familiar voices. The movie relies heavily (far too much so) on the type of potty humor that is easily found when exploring the body. Some of it is actually pretty filthy given the movies PG rating. For most 'tweens' however, the movie poses nothing really inappropriate. The dynamic between Frank (a single father) and his daughter who is trying to get him serious about his health is the only emotionally significant portion of the movie, and it is talked about so little that it is almost forgotten. Playing up this dynamic would have helped make the experience more rewarding for its' 'tween' viewers and might have made for a better overall film.
The Twits by Roald Dahl
Title: The Twits
Author: Roald Dahl
ISBN: 0-14-034640-6
76 pages
Puffin Books, 1991 edition
A favorite of mine and my sister's growing up (not the sister who is currently a 'tween', we have a big family), 'The Twits' is a fun and short book that anyone can pick up and instantly enjoy. While the reading level might be slightly too low for many kids age 9-14, I know plenty of children at my work that are in this age group and would find this level of reading to be right up their alley.
Description:
The Twits are the nastiest kind of people; they don't bathe, Mr. Twit has nearly an entire compost bin of gross, old food stuck in his unkempt beard and they are just generally rotten people. The have a troupe of trained monkeys that they torture relentlessly and force to do their disgusting bidding. The book contains several little stories about the Twits and their mistreatment of their monkeys (called the Muggle-Wumps) whom they make stand on their head all day long. The stories progress in their filth and general horribleness until the Muggle-Wumps have enough and return the favor, so to speak, to their nasty owners.
Review:
Just as short as it is fun, 'The Twits' is a great short read for kids. The Twits are disgusting and hilarious and are nearly as mean to each other as they are to everyone else. There are not really chapters, just small interwoven stories with accompanying illustrations from Quentin Blake. Even for 'tweens' who's reading level has eclipsed books of this sort, 'The Twits' remains a fun option for a rainy day.
Author: Roald Dahl
ISBN: 0-14-034640-6
76 pages
Puffin Books, 1991 edition
A favorite of mine and my sister's growing up (not the sister who is currently a 'tween', we have a big family), 'The Twits' is a fun and short book that anyone can pick up and instantly enjoy. While the reading level might be slightly too low for many kids age 9-14, I know plenty of children at my work that are in this age group and would find this level of reading to be right up their alley.
Description:
The Twits are the nastiest kind of people; they don't bathe, Mr. Twit has nearly an entire compost bin of gross, old food stuck in his unkempt beard and they are just generally rotten people. The have a troupe of trained monkeys that they torture relentlessly and force to do their disgusting bidding. The book contains several little stories about the Twits and their mistreatment of their monkeys (called the Muggle-Wumps) whom they make stand on their head all day long. The stories progress in their filth and general horribleness until the Muggle-Wumps have enough and return the favor, so to speak, to their nasty owners.Review:
Just as short as it is fun, 'The Twits' is a great short read for kids. The Twits are disgusting and hilarious and are nearly as mean to each other as they are to everyone else. There are not really chapters, just small interwoven stories with accompanying illustrations from Quentin Blake. Even for 'tweens' who's reading level has eclipsed books of this sort, 'The Twits' remains a fun option for a rainy day.
Shadow of a Bull by Maia Wojciechowska
Title: Shadow of a Bull
Author: Maia Wojciechowska
ISBN: 0-689-30042-5
155 pages
Atheneum Books, 1964 edition
This book was recommended to me by my mother and was the first thing she thought of when I told her what a tween was. Winner of the Newbery Medal, this book has been in print for nearly 50 years.
Description:
'Shadow of a Bull' tells the story of young Manolo whose father is the greatest and most revered bullfighter in all of Spain. Manolo's deep dark secret is that he has no desire to fight the bulls, even amidst the pressure from everyone in his community. Not only is Manolo the heir apparent to the the crown of bullfighting, but he also looks like his father thus doubling the efforts of those that would pressure him into the ring. Manolo's friend Juan is an up and coming bullfighter, who shows great promise. In own memorable scene where Manolo witnesses the killing of a Bull which takes minutes but "seems to last a lifetime" we see the gentle side of Manolo and are faced with the reality that we may feel the same as him and would react the same in his shoes. Manolo uses his relationship with his father and his position in his community to gain Juan access to a fight of his own, to which he responds with great success.
Review:
Sort of a strange topic given that the writer is Polish, writing in English, about happenings in Spain. But the story is a wonderfully written one and the reader immediately, from the first page, empathizes with Manolo. Also, one might think that a book about bullfighting would be overly gory for a group as malleable and easily persuaded as 'tweens', but Wojciechowska does a wonderful job to not skirt around the issue so much that the meaning is lost, but does not go into great detail. For instance, she explains one of the killings by saying something along the lines of "then, the life left the beast" instead of explaining in graphic detail. An engrossing tale of the pressures young people face from the family and communities that, despite it's age, has lost none of its' luster.
Author: Maia Wojciechowska
ISBN: 0-689-30042-5
155 pages
Atheneum Books, 1964 edition
This book was recommended to me by my mother and was the first thing she thought of when I told her what a tween was. Winner of the Newbery Medal, this book has been in print for nearly 50 years.
Description:
'Shadow of a Bull' tells the story of young Manolo whose father is the greatest and most revered bullfighter in all of Spain. Manolo's deep dark secret is that he has no desire to fight the bulls, even amidst the pressure from everyone in his community. Not only is Manolo the heir apparent to the the crown of bullfighting, but he also looks like his father thus doubling the efforts of those that would pressure him into the ring. Manolo's friend Juan is an up and coming bullfighter, who shows great promise. In own memorable scene where Manolo witnesses the killing of a Bull which takes minutes but "seems to last a lifetime" we see the gentle side of Manolo and are faced with the reality that we may feel the same as him and would react the same in his shoes. Manolo uses his relationship with his father and his position in his community to gain Juan access to a fight of his own, to which he responds with great success.
Review:
Sort of a strange topic given that the writer is Polish, writing in English, about happenings in Spain. But the story is a wonderfully written one and the reader immediately, from the first page, empathizes with Manolo. Also, one might think that a book about bullfighting would be overly gory for a group as malleable and easily persuaded as 'tweens', but Wojciechowska does a wonderful job to not skirt around the issue so much that the meaning is lost, but does not go into great detail. For instance, she explains one of the killings by saying something along the lines of "then, the life left the beast" instead of explaining in graphic detail. An engrossing tale of the pressures young people face from the family and communities that, despite it's age, has lost none of its' luster.
Toy Story (Film)
Title: Toy Story
DVD, 2010
Starring Tim Allen and Tom Hanks
My younger brother and sister, both in the 'tween' age range, were insisting that I review 'Toy Story 3' for this digital record. But, having not seen the second installment and barely remembering the first, I decided I would do a little reminiscing of my own and revisit the first film in the series.
Description:
'Toy Story' tells a tale set in a world where, when no one is looking, all of the world's toys come to life. Andy is a young boy with plenty of toys, but the old cowboy Woody is his favorite. He doesn't go anywhere without his pal Andy and has even scrawled his name on Woody's shoe (a distinction of honor and contention between Andy and the other toys). This is all fine and well until on Andy's birthday he gets a Buzz Lightyear toy. The coolest space hero and coolest toy in the world, with his "To infinity and beyond!" catch phrase. Buzz Lightyear is not only Andy's new favorite plaything, but he also believes he is a real space hero and that he can really fly and convinces all of the other toys of these beliefs much to the chagrin of Woody. After a mishap at a pizza restaurant the two toys fall into the hands of the vicious and twisted neighbor of Andy; the dreaded Sid. Woody and Buzz must work together to escape their captor and return to their rightful owner Andy.
Review:
Much of the above description may be unnecessary, as this movie is ever so popular. But seeing it again, after 10 or more years, I forgot just how good the music, the voice acting and the story are. An absolutely great movie for kids of all ages. While not a particularly 'tween' title, even though the boy in the picture may be within that 'tween' age range, this movie is fun for your entire family (and I do mean entire). Everyone from the youngest to the oldest, for those who have yet to see it, will enjoy every minute to the very last drop.
DVD, 2010
Starring Tim Allen and Tom Hanks
My younger brother and sister, both in the 'tween' age range, were insisting that I review 'Toy Story 3' for this digital record. But, having not seen the second installment and barely remembering the first, I decided I would do a little reminiscing of my own and revisit the first film in the series.
Description:
'Toy Story' tells a tale set in a world where, when no one is looking, all of the world's toys come to life. Andy is a young boy with plenty of toys, but the old cowboy Woody is his favorite. He doesn't go anywhere without his pal Andy and has even scrawled his name on Woody's shoe (a distinction of honor and contention between Andy and the other toys). This is all fine and well until on Andy's birthday he gets a Buzz Lightyear toy. The coolest space hero and coolest toy in the world, with his "To infinity and beyond!" catch phrase. Buzz Lightyear is not only Andy's new favorite plaything, but he also believes he is a real space hero and that he can really fly and convinces all of the other toys of these beliefs much to the chagrin of Woody. After a mishap at a pizza restaurant the two toys fall into the hands of the vicious and twisted neighbor of Andy; the dreaded Sid. Woody and Buzz must work together to escape their captor and return to their rightful owner Andy.Review:
Much of the above description may be unnecessary, as this movie is ever so popular. But seeing it again, after 10 or more years, I forgot just how good the music, the voice acting and the story are. An absolutely great movie for kids of all ages. While not a particularly 'tween' title, even though the boy in the picture may be within that 'tween' age range, this movie is fun for your entire family (and I do mean entire). Everyone from the youngest to the oldest, for those who have yet to see it, will enjoy every minute to the very last drop.
Lost Time by Susan Maupin Schmid
Title: Lost Time
Author: Susan Maupin Schmid
ISBN: 978-0-399-24460-5
169 pages
Philomel Books, 2008 edition
This book was on a sort of 'featured' table at the public library near my family's house (which is about 45 minutes away from my home in Seattle) and the cover design and jacket looked interesting enough for me to try. I know the mantra "don't judge a book by its cover" should be ringing in my ears, but old habits die hard.
Description:
This is a tale of the planet of Lindos, a world of ancient cultures and deserts of red sand dunes. The story revolves around a young girl named Violynn, whose parents have disappeared after a trip to a famed archaeological site. Violynn is highly suspect of the Arbiter, the powerful ruler of her planet in the disappearance of her parents and a recent break-in at her home. The Arbiter invites her to a masquerade ball and the Coil, a mysterious and powerful figure, also begins to show interest in Violynn. What is so special about her that two of the most powerful beings on her planet have all the sudden become very interested in Violynn? It turns out that some of her father's belongings possess some very powerful information; information that in the wrong hands could prove deadly. It is up to this one 12-year-old girl to save the fate of her planet and to find her parents.
Review:
This book is a strange blend of sci-fi, fantasy and a sort of pseudo-mystery book and, to me, is reminiscent of the works of Ursula K. LeGuin (albeit for children). The length of the book isn't too daunting or unnecessary (like many works of sci-fi/fantasy) yet there is no sacrifice in characters depth or plot development. The mix of genre's and the futuristic technology of the Croon (the ancient civilization) was enough to keep me interested, but the kids will probably relate more to the protagonist Violynn. Although nothing spectacular in terms of breaking new ground, this was a pretty fun book that is recommended for fans of sci-fi/fantasy.
Author: Susan Maupin Schmid
ISBN: 978-0-399-24460-5
169 pages
Philomel Books, 2008 edition
This book was on a sort of 'featured' table at the public library near my family's house (which is about 45 minutes away from my home in Seattle) and the cover design and jacket looked interesting enough for me to try. I know the mantra "don't judge a book by its cover" should be ringing in my ears, but old habits die hard.Description:
This is a tale of the planet of Lindos, a world of ancient cultures and deserts of red sand dunes. The story revolves around a young girl named Violynn, whose parents have disappeared after a trip to a famed archaeological site. Violynn is highly suspect of the Arbiter, the powerful ruler of her planet in the disappearance of her parents and a recent break-in at her home. The Arbiter invites her to a masquerade ball and the Coil, a mysterious and powerful figure, also begins to show interest in Violynn. What is so special about her that two of the most powerful beings on her planet have all the sudden become very interested in Violynn? It turns out that some of her father's belongings possess some very powerful information; information that in the wrong hands could prove deadly. It is up to this one 12-year-old girl to save the fate of her planet and to find her parents.
Review:
This book is a strange blend of sci-fi, fantasy and a sort of pseudo-mystery book and, to me, is reminiscent of the works of Ursula K. LeGuin (albeit for children). The length of the book isn't too daunting or unnecessary (like many works of sci-fi/fantasy) yet there is no sacrifice in characters depth or plot development. The mix of genre's and the futuristic technology of the Croon (the ancient civilization) was enough to keep me interested, but the kids will probably relate more to the protagonist Violynn. Although nothing spectacular in terms of breaking new ground, this was a pretty fun book that is recommended for fans of sci-fi/fantasy.
Space Race by Sylvia Waugh
Title: Space Race
Author: Sylvia Waugh
ISBN: 0-385-32766-8
241 pages
Delacorte Press, 2000 edition
Being a fan of science fiction, I often am partial to select a book merely on the title and just hope that the contents fit my expectations (maybe not the best idea). Anyhow, that is how I chanced upon Sylvia Waugh's book. No recommendation, not even was the book set up differently on the shelf, I just noticed the spine, grabbed and was on my way.
Description:
'Space Race' tells the story of a young English boy names Thomas. Thomas lives a normal life, except that his parents are from what they call the Other Place and sometimes talk about it or say things in the old language. This is not too strange, as many kids' parents are from other countries but, as Thomas will soon find out, his case is quite different.
Thomas' parents are from the planet Ormingat and have been here on Earth since Thomas was quite young. Thomas and his family are going to have to go back to their home planet and his father tries rekindle Thomas' memory of his own people and world. In learning about his alien self, Thomas also gains a great deal of knowledge (and appreciation) for his 'normal' life on Earth.
Review:
To be honest, this was kind of a strange book for me. It is not that the writing was particularly poor or the plot ill-concieved, but for some reason nothing resonated with me. I had little connection to the characters and was hoping to see what their home planet was like. Instead the imminent trip 'home' never gets off the ground and once I realized this was the case, I lost interest. Maybe some kids out there will pick this book up and enjoy it greatly. But, for my money, there are so many other books out there that it is hard to recommend this one.
Author: Sylvia Waugh
ISBN: 0-385-32766-8
241 pages
Delacorte Press, 2000 edition
Being a fan of science fiction, I often am partial to select a book merely on the title and just hope that the contents fit my expectations (maybe not the best idea). Anyhow, that is how I chanced upon Sylvia Waugh's book. No recommendation, not even was the book set up differently on the shelf, I just noticed the spine, grabbed and was on my way.Description:
'Space Race' tells the story of a young English boy names Thomas. Thomas lives a normal life, except that his parents are from what they call the Other Place and sometimes talk about it or say things in the old language. This is not too strange, as many kids' parents are from other countries but, as Thomas will soon find out, his case is quite different.
Thomas' parents are from the planet Ormingat and have been here on Earth since Thomas was quite young. Thomas and his family are going to have to go back to their home planet and his father tries rekindle Thomas' memory of his own people and world. In learning about his alien self, Thomas also gains a great deal of knowledge (and appreciation) for his 'normal' life on Earth.
Review:
To be honest, this was kind of a strange book for me. It is not that the writing was particularly poor or the plot ill-concieved, but for some reason nothing resonated with me. I had little connection to the characters and was hoping to see what their home planet was like. Instead the imminent trip 'home' never gets off the ground and once I realized this was the case, I lost interest. Maybe some kids out there will pick this book up and enjoy it greatly. But, for my money, there are so many other books out there that it is hard to recommend this one.
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
Title: The Phantom Tollbooth
Author: Norton Juster
ISBN: 0-394-82037-1
257 pages
Bullseye Books, 1988 edition
Another one of those books that many kids in the 'tween' age group undoubtedly read, this was also another title on the shelf of non-checkout books available at my library with no library card needed. Illustrated by world-renowned Jules Fieffer, this book was one that me and many of my friends read when we ourselves were 'tweens' and one that I am sure many other kids are, and will be exposed to.
Description:
A young boy named Milo is presented with a strange gift; a turnpike tollbooth. The gift has no name on it and says simply, "For Milo, who has plenty of time". This cryptic message is a hint of what is to come. After constructing the tollbooth, Milo finds that this is no ordinary tollbooth. Upon paying the toll one is ushered into a whole new world of fantasy, where time acts a little differently than in his normal, boring life. Milo gets lost in the Doldrums, a place of where no fun or excitement is allowed and happens upon a watchdog (a literal term, as attached to the dog there is a massive clock) named Tock who accompanies him on his journey. Milo finds himself on an adventure letters are sold in bazaars and numbers are mined in favor of precious gems. Milo meets a cast of interesting and eccentric characters, like the 22 sided Dodecahedron, and learns that Rhyme and Reason have gone missing (like most of the characters in the book, Rhyme and Reason are literal translations of their names). Milo and Tock must save the day and find Rhyme and Reason. Milo is finally ushered back into his room where the tollbooth is nowhere to be found, but his adventures have instilled in him a new interest in his previously dull life.
Review:
Truly an original piece of fiction for children. Re-reading the story brings back so many memories, like the subtraction stew and the Dodecahedron. Milo's adventures in the lands beyond the tollbooth are filled with strange creatures and items that are unaffected by normal time and space. Soup that makes you hungrier and other such anomalies are possible in this magical land. Milo and his friend Tock learn much about the nature of things as well as themselves, and are better off for it (as is the reader). What a fun and silly story that is still, somehow jammed full of that sense of wonderment that eludes much of adult literature. The author, Norman Juster, is sort of an anomaly himself. Most children's authors who have written books as popular as this one have a least some sort of sequel or other book that comes close to matching the renown of their 'big hit'. But in Juster I can find no such book. His bibliography in my copy states he has other books, one of which was transformed into an Academy Award winning short film, but I have never physically seen another book of his on the stacks. At any rate, this is truly a great book that will get the kids' imaginations firing on all cylinders.
Author: Norton Juster
ISBN: 0-394-82037-1
257 pages
Bullseye Books, 1988 edition
Another one of those books that many kids in the 'tween' age group undoubtedly read, this was also another title on the shelf of non-checkout books available at my library with no library card needed. Illustrated by world-renowned Jules Fieffer, this book was one that me and many of my friends read when we ourselves were 'tweens' and one that I am sure many other kids are, and will be exposed to.Description:
A young boy named Milo is presented with a strange gift; a turnpike tollbooth. The gift has no name on it and says simply, "For Milo, who has plenty of time". This cryptic message is a hint of what is to come. After constructing the tollbooth, Milo finds that this is no ordinary tollbooth. Upon paying the toll one is ushered into a whole new world of fantasy, where time acts a little differently than in his normal, boring life. Milo gets lost in the Doldrums, a place of where no fun or excitement is allowed and happens upon a watchdog (a literal term, as attached to the dog there is a massive clock) named Tock who accompanies him on his journey. Milo finds himself on an adventure letters are sold in bazaars and numbers are mined in favor of precious gems. Milo meets a cast of interesting and eccentric characters, like the 22 sided Dodecahedron, and learns that Rhyme and Reason have gone missing (like most of the characters in the book, Rhyme and Reason are literal translations of their names). Milo and Tock must save the day and find Rhyme and Reason. Milo is finally ushered back into his room where the tollbooth is nowhere to be found, but his adventures have instilled in him a new interest in his previously dull life.
Review:
Truly an original piece of fiction for children. Re-reading the story brings back so many memories, like the subtraction stew and the Dodecahedron. Milo's adventures in the lands beyond the tollbooth are filled with strange creatures and items that are unaffected by normal time and space. Soup that makes you hungrier and other such anomalies are possible in this magical land. Milo and his friend Tock learn much about the nature of things as well as themselves, and are better off for it (as is the reader). What a fun and silly story that is still, somehow jammed full of that sense of wonderment that eludes much of adult literature. The author, Norman Juster, is sort of an anomaly himself. Most children's authors who have written books as popular as this one have a least some sort of sequel or other book that comes close to matching the renown of their 'big hit'. But in Juster I can find no such book. His bibliography in my copy states he has other books, one of which was transformed into an Academy Award winning short film, but I have never physically seen another book of his on the stacks. At any rate, this is truly a great book that will get the kids' imaginations firing on all cylinders.
Madagascar (Film)
Title: Madagascar
DVD, 2005
Starring Ben Stiller and Chris Rock
Another movie recommended by some of the children I work with (where are they getting all of these movies from?). This one I borrowed from one of my co-worker's whose children appear to be the Siskel and Ebert of kids movies.
Description:
'Madagascar' tells the story of a group of zoo animals from the wilds of Africa. The only problem is, that these New York City animals are much more Big Apple showbiz types than real African wildlife. Alex the Lion (voiced by Stiller) is the star of the show, drawing in the biggest crowds with his mighty Lion's roar. Alex and his best friend Marty the Zebra grow disillusioned with the captive life and plan an escape from the zoo with a group of their friends. The animals are captured upon their escape and are deemed too wild for captivity and shipped off to an African wildlife reserve. A group of surly and strangely militaristic penguins take over the boat en route to Africa and accidentally crash-land the ship in Madagascar. There the meet the mighty (or not so much) King Julien of the lemurs (voiced hilariously by Sasha Baron Cohen) and discover more about themselves than the ever could in the zoo back home.
Review:
With such a great cast of voice actors, it is no wonder this movie is such a success. The story is really cute and funny and the viewer really falls for the characters. The lion Alex starts to regain his hunter's instincts after his escape from the zoo and the audience starts to empathize with him. The penguins, acting like a rogue military battalion, provide much of the comedy relief (along with the lemur king) and both kids and adults will be chuckling along constantly. With just the right mix of moral consequences, character development and downright knee-slapping comedy, this is a movie that is sure to satisfy the whole family.
DVD, 2005
Starring Ben Stiller and Chris Rock
Another movie recommended by some of the children I work with (where are they getting all of these movies from?). This one I borrowed from one of my co-worker's whose children appear to be the Siskel and Ebert of kids movies.
Description:
'Madagascar' tells the story of a group of zoo animals from the wilds of Africa. The only problem is, that these New York City animals are much more Big Apple showbiz types than real African wildlife. Alex the Lion (voiced by Stiller) is the star of the show, drawing in the biggest crowds with his mighty Lion's roar. Alex and his best friend Marty the Zebra grow disillusioned with the captive life and plan an escape from the zoo with a group of their friends. The animals are captured upon their escape and are deemed too wild for captivity and shipped off to an African wildlife reserve. A group of surly and strangely militaristic penguins take over the boat en route to Africa and accidentally crash-land the ship in Madagascar. There the meet the mighty (or not so much) King Julien of the lemurs (voiced hilariously by Sasha Baron Cohen) and discover more about themselves than the ever could in the zoo back home.Review:
With such a great cast of voice actors, it is no wonder this movie is such a success. The story is really cute and funny and the viewer really falls for the characters. The lion Alex starts to regain his hunter's instincts after his escape from the zoo and the audience starts to empathize with him. The penguins, acting like a rogue military battalion, provide much of the comedy relief (along with the lemur king) and both kids and adults will be chuckling along constantly. With just the right mix of moral consequences, character development and downright knee-slapping comedy, this is a movie that is sure to satisfy the whole family.
The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis
Title: The Magicians Nephew
Author: C.S. Lewis
ISBN: 0-06-447110-1
221 pages
HarperTrophy, 1994 edition
This is the much less famous first book in 'The Chronicles of Narnia' which is set roughly 40 years before the oft-mentioned 'Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe'. While this is the first book in the series, it was one of the last of the series to be published (the initial copyright in my book dates to 1955) and thus is different than most series of books in that it is more of a prequel. It may be due to these facts that the story from this book does not hold as strongly in my mind as its more famous companion novel.
Description:
'The Magician's Nephew' tells the story of two English children living around the turn of the century in London. Polly Plummer lives in one of the homes in a row of tightly bunched houses began to dominate London after the industrial revolution. When a young boy is seen living in the house of the old, strange man Mr. Ketterley next door, Polly decides to investigate. Digory, the name of the boy which Polly tells him is quite odd, is the nephew of Mr. Ketterley who has been forced to live with his uncle while his father is away in India. The two become quick friends and begin to spend their time in a secret compartment that Polly knows of in her house. One day, through their secret compartment of tunnels and caves, they stumble upon the secret workshop of Digory's uncle. It turns out that Mr. Ketterley is in fact a magician and is working on a strange, bewildering experiment. When he gives Polly a magic ring, she disappears into the world of Narnia. Digory must take a magic ring himself, and bring two other magic rings for the return voyage, and go to Narnia to save Polly. And thus begins the first adventure in the land of Narnia.
Review:
While not as famous as 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' this book is nevertheless very entertaining. The book has a few illustrations per chapter and one really gets the old-timey feel of turn-of-the-century London through Lewis' writing. The story does not stick in one's head as strongly as the more famous novel in the Narnia series, but that may be a product of having the other story repeated to me and people my age through reading and the watching of movies. The book gives the reader a real sense of wonderment, especially in a scene where Digory and Polly find a series of pools each leading to an alternate universe (and hopefully one that leads back to London!). While not as awe-inspiring as its more famous counterpart, this novel is still quite a treasure and worthwhile for any reader seeking a little adventure.
Author: C.S. Lewis
ISBN: 0-06-447110-1
221 pages
HarperTrophy, 1994 edition
This is the much less famous first book in 'The Chronicles of Narnia' which is set roughly 40 years before the oft-mentioned 'Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe'. While this is the first book in the series, it was one of the last of the series to be published (the initial copyright in my book dates to 1955) and thus is different than most series of books in that it is more of a prequel. It may be due to these facts that the story from this book does not hold as strongly in my mind as its more famous companion novel.Description:
'The Magician's Nephew' tells the story of two English children living around the turn of the century in London. Polly Plummer lives in one of the homes in a row of tightly bunched houses began to dominate London after the industrial revolution. When a young boy is seen living in the house of the old, strange man Mr. Ketterley next door, Polly decides to investigate. Digory, the name of the boy which Polly tells him is quite odd, is the nephew of Mr. Ketterley who has been forced to live with his uncle while his father is away in India. The two become quick friends and begin to spend their time in a secret compartment that Polly knows of in her house. One day, through their secret compartment of tunnels and caves, they stumble upon the secret workshop of Digory's uncle. It turns out that Mr. Ketterley is in fact a magician and is working on a strange, bewildering experiment. When he gives Polly a magic ring, she disappears into the world of Narnia. Digory must take a magic ring himself, and bring two other magic rings for the return voyage, and go to Narnia to save Polly. And thus begins the first adventure in the land of Narnia.
Review:
While not as famous as 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' this book is nevertheless very entertaining. The book has a few illustrations per chapter and one really gets the old-timey feel of turn-of-the-century London through Lewis' writing. The story does not stick in one's head as strongly as the more famous novel in the Narnia series, but that may be a product of having the other story repeated to me and people my age through reading and the watching of movies. The book gives the reader a real sense of wonderment, especially in a scene where Digory and Polly find a series of pools each leading to an alternate universe (and hopefully one that leads back to London!). While not as awe-inspiring as its more famous counterpart, this novel is still quite a treasure and worthwhile for any reader seeking a little adventure.
The Case of the Missing Marquess by Nancy Springer
Title: The Case of the Missing Marquess
Author: Nancy Springer
ISBN: 978-0-14-240933-6
214 pages
Puffin Books, 2006 edition
At the local branch of the Seattle Public Library near my house, they have a bookshelf of popular titles that children or parents (or people like myself) may take home and read without checking out and with no particular due date. This title was one that the librarian had suggested so I thought that I would check it out. The idea of having these titles available for kids to take home without a library card is a really neat idea and one that should be adopted wherever possible.
Description:
Enola Holmes is the younger sister of the famed Sherlock Holmes and, on her fourteenth birthday no less, learns that her mother has been kidnapped. Enola, alone spelled backwards, goes to her two older brothers in hopes of finding the location of her missing mother. After being told by her brothers that she will be sent away to boarding school, Enola decides to take the search upon herself and runs away from home in hopes of solving the mystery; to mysterious, dark and murky London. Upon her arrival in London, Enola reads about another missing person; the young Marquess of Basilwether. What do this young, 12-year-old girl and Enola's mother have in common? That is what Enola plans to figure out.
Review:
I was initially excited about the premise of this book, which is the first in a series of books about Enola, with Sherlock's younger sister getting into the action. The subject matter may be a little bit too heavy for some of the younger 'tween' readers as Springer's London is a pretty scary place. Right from the get go, there are mentioned prostitutes and other decidedly adult characters that populate Springer's novel. While none of them is given too much detail, some might be tentative to have their children reading books with this type of material. While I don't usually go for, or enjoy for that matter, mystery books for kids or adults, this one was admittedly good. The plot is engaging, the back story and connection to Sherlock Holmes is a fun and amusing take on the classic, and overall the novel is quite good.
Author: Nancy Springer
ISBN: 978-0-14-240933-6
214 pages
Puffin Books, 2006 edition
At the local branch of the Seattle Public Library near my house, they have a bookshelf of popular titles that children or parents (or people like myself) may take home and read without checking out and with no particular due date. This title was one that the librarian had suggested so I thought that I would check it out. The idea of having these titles available for kids to take home without a library card is a really neat idea and one that should be adopted wherever possible.
Description:
Enola Holmes is the younger sister of the famed Sherlock Holmes and, on her fourteenth birthday no less, learns that her mother has been kidnapped. Enola, alone spelled backwards, goes to her two older brothers in hopes of finding the location of her missing mother. After being told by her brothers that she will be sent away to boarding school, Enola decides to take the search upon herself and runs away from home in hopes of solving the mystery; to mysterious, dark and murky London. Upon her arrival in London, Enola reads about another missing person; the young Marquess of Basilwether. What do this young, 12-year-old girl and Enola's mother have in common? That is what Enola plans to figure out.
Review:
I was initially excited about the premise of this book, which is the first in a series of books about Enola, with Sherlock's younger sister getting into the action. The subject matter may be a little bit too heavy for some of the younger 'tween' readers as Springer's London is a pretty scary place. Right from the get go, there are mentioned prostitutes and other decidedly adult characters that populate Springer's novel. While none of them is given too much detail, some might be tentative to have their children reading books with this type of material. While I don't usually go for, or enjoy for that matter, mystery books for kids or adults, this one was admittedly good. The plot is engaging, the back story and connection to Sherlock Holmes is a fun and amusing take on the classic, and overall the novel is quite good.
Superfudge By Judy Blume
Title: Superfudge
Author: Judy Blume
ISBN: 978-0-14-240880-3
178 pages
Puffin Books, 2007 edition
Judy Blume is the quintessential 'tween' author; so adept at describing the wonders and worries of young pre-teen and early teen kids. Her books have become world famous, and rightfully so. 'Superfudge' is not the first book with the character Fudge (that honor goes to 'Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing') but one of my co-worker's children lent me 'Superfudge' explaining that I did not have to have read the others to enjoy it.
Description:
'Superfudge' is really the story of a young boy named Peter who is dealing with life and his crazy family; namely his younger brother Farley (nicknamed Fudge). Heaped on to this is the fact that his mom is set to give birth and his whole family is moving to New Jersey. Once the baby, Tootsie, is born Peter is forced to navigate the world of his new family dynamic and his new home (even though its only for one year) with four-year-old Fudge a constant nuisance. Fudge is extremely intelligent for his age and knows things that a four-year-old ought not know about making his actions all the more aggravating to Peter. Initially reticent to enjoy his time in New Jersey, Peter slowly begins to make new friends, even if their lives are different from his old home in the 'Big City' (New York City).
Review:
The dynamic between Peter and Fudge is hilarious and reminiscent of real-life scenarios that I can remember vividly. There is constant talk of Superman and Fudge likes to see himself as some sort of caped crusader (thus the title) which is very real in terms of boys this age (this is the age group that I work most with and the boys are non-stop with their superhero/harry potter-type talk). The book is definitely a fun one and is filled with the kind of pseudo-angst that makes adolescence so real and so funny.
Author: Judy Blume
ISBN: 978-0-14-240880-3
178 pages
Puffin Books, 2007 edition
Judy Blume is the quintessential 'tween' author; so adept at describing the wonders and worries of young pre-teen and early teen kids. Her books have become world famous, and rightfully so. 'Superfudge' is not the first book with the character Fudge (that honor goes to 'Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing') but one of my co-worker's children lent me 'Superfudge' explaining that I did not have to have read the others to enjoy it.
Description:
'Superfudge' is really the story of a young boy named Peter who is dealing with life and his crazy family; namely his younger brother Farley (nicknamed Fudge). Heaped on to this is the fact that his mom is set to give birth and his whole family is moving to New Jersey. Once the baby, Tootsie, is born Peter is forced to navigate the world of his new family dynamic and his new home (even though its only for one year) with four-year-old Fudge a constant nuisance. Fudge is extremely intelligent for his age and knows things that a four-year-old ought not know about making his actions all the more aggravating to Peter. Initially reticent to enjoy his time in New Jersey, Peter slowly begins to make new friends, even if their lives are different from his old home in the 'Big City' (New York City).Review:
The dynamic between Peter and Fudge is hilarious and reminiscent of real-life scenarios that I can remember vividly. There is constant talk of Superman and Fudge likes to see himself as some sort of caped crusader (thus the title) which is very real in terms of boys this age (this is the age group that I work most with and the boys are non-stop with their superhero/harry potter-type talk). The book is definitely a fun one and is filled with the kind of pseudo-angst that makes adolescence so real and so funny.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
The Pebble and the Penguin
Title: The Pebble and the Penguin
VHS, 1995
Starring Martin Short and Tim Curry
My roommate found a collection of VHS tapes at his mom's house and suggested this film by the same Director as 'All Dog's go to Heaven'. The voice actors (listed above) were reason enough to check it out.
Description:
This movie tells the story of Hubie, a penguin whose species is known for giving a pebble to a female of their kind and mating with that one female for life. The only problem is that Hubie is too shy to give his pebble to the girl that he really likes named Marina. Also, the evil and muscular penguin Drake (voiced by Tim Curry in his typical villain role) has his eyes on Marina and will do just about anything to get her. Hubie is then caught by a fishing boat and finally escapes with the help of another penguin named Rocko. Rocko and Hubie initially butt heads, but over the course of their trip back to Hubie's home, the become friends and vow to get the pebble to Marina before Drake can.
Review:
Probably more geared towards elementary school kids (and thus the younger end of our 'tween' spectrum) the movie is a fairly formulaic animated kids movie. Their are some song and dance numbers, but the music isn't all that catchy and the same song is repeated more than once. The voice acting by Martin Short and Tim Curry is really well done, as one might expect from those two, and the story is, for the most part, endearing. I would not go out of my way to recommend this movie, being a rather rudimentary movie, but its not all that bad.
VHS, 1995
Starring Martin Short and Tim Curry
My roommate found a collection of VHS tapes at his mom's house and suggested this film by the same Director as 'All Dog's go to Heaven'. The voice actors (listed above) were reason enough to check it out.
Description:
This movie tells the story of Hubie, a penguin whose species is known for giving a pebble to a female of their kind and mating with that one female for life. The only problem is that Hubie is too shy to give his pebble to the girl that he really likes named Marina. Also, the evil and muscular penguin Drake (voiced by Tim Curry in his typical villain role) has his eyes on Marina and will do just about anything to get her. Hubie is then caught by a fishing boat and finally escapes with the help of another penguin named Rocko. Rocko and Hubie initially butt heads, but over the course of their trip back to Hubie's home, the become friends and vow to get the pebble to Marina before Drake can.Review:
Probably more geared towards elementary school kids (and thus the younger end of our 'tween' spectrum) the movie is a fairly formulaic animated kids movie. Their are some song and dance numbers, but the music isn't all that catchy and the same song is repeated more than once. The voice acting by Martin Short and Tim Curry is really well done, as one might expect from those two, and the story is, for the most part, endearing. I would not go out of my way to recommend this movie, being a rather rudimentary movie, but its not all that bad.
The City of Gold and Lead by John Christopher
Title: The City of Gold and Lead
Author: John Christopher
ISBN: 0-02-042701-8
218 pages
Aladdin Paperbacks, 1988 edition
The sequel to one of the first books reviewed here, I had some trouble finding this book (although I did not look too hard). I read all of the trilogy as a kid, but I remember not being too enthralled with the third one, so I'll leave my reviewing to the first and second installment.
Description:
Following the events of the first book in the Tripod Trilogy, 'The City of Gold and Lead' follows the story of Will, Henry and Beanpole after they made their valiant escape from the Tripods to the distant White Mountains. The boys decide to make a trek to the worldwide Games held in Germany. The Tripods choose the most fitting of these young men to be their servants inside their domed cities (the cities of gold and lead from the title). The boys must don fake caps, the mark of humans controlled by the Tripods, in order to make it to the Games and be selected. Two of the boys make it past the trial of the competition and are selected to work for the Tripod masters. Once inside the city, Will gets a chance to live with and see up-close one of the alien conquerors that fly the Tripods. He sees a massive sickly, massive and grotesque creature with long, slimy tentacles. From inside the domed city the boys find the secret to defeating their alien overlords, but must escape in order to spread the word.
Review:
The sequel follows much in the same vein as the first book and the world of the Tripods is well visualized and executed. The way in which the author portrays real-life places in this futuristic world as strange and new is a pretty exciting conception. The aliens, when I was a kid, read like a horror story. But as an adult, they seem much more cliched and predictable than I had remembered. The suspense of the book is kept up throughout, as Will (the protagonist throughout all three books) is nearly discovered to not be capped (how the aliens control the humans) on numerous occasions. A cool, sci-fi book for kids and the third book, while too much of a good thing for me, might be of interest to 'tweens' already invested in the first two books.
Author: John Christopher
ISBN: 0-02-042701-8
218 pages
Aladdin Paperbacks, 1988 edition
The sequel to one of the first books reviewed here, I had some trouble finding this book (although I did not look too hard). I read all of the trilogy as a kid, but I remember not being too enthralled with the third one, so I'll leave my reviewing to the first and second installment.
Description:
Following the events of the first book in the Tripod Trilogy, 'The City of Gold and Lead' follows the story of Will, Henry and Beanpole after they made their valiant escape from the Tripods to the distant White Mountains. The boys decide to make a trek to the worldwide Games held in Germany. The Tripods choose the most fitting of these young men to be their servants inside their domed cities (the cities of gold and lead from the title). The boys must don fake caps, the mark of humans controlled by the Tripods, in order to make it to the Games and be selected. Two of the boys make it past the trial of the competition and are selected to work for the Tripod masters. Once inside the city, Will gets a chance to live with and see up-close one of the alien conquerors that fly the Tripods. He sees a massive sickly, massive and grotesque creature with long, slimy tentacles. From inside the domed city the boys find the secret to defeating their alien overlords, but must escape in order to spread the word.Review:
The sequel follows much in the same vein as the first book and the world of the Tripods is well visualized and executed. The way in which the author portrays real-life places in this futuristic world as strange and new is a pretty exciting conception. The aliens, when I was a kid, read like a horror story. But as an adult, they seem much more cliched and predictable than I had remembered. The suspense of the book is kept up throughout, as Will (the protagonist throughout all three books) is nearly discovered to not be capped (how the aliens control the humans) on numerous occasions. A cool, sci-fi book for kids and the third book, while too much of a good thing for me, might be of interest to 'tweens' already invested in the first two books.
Whales on Stilts by M.T. Anderson
Title: Whales on Stilts
Author: M.T. Anderson
ISBN: 0-15-205340-9
188 pages
Harcourt Inc., 2005 edition
I essentially picked up this title solely for the fact that its' title and cover illustration caught my eye. I almost had to review this one!
Description:
Lily is 12 and her dad has a weird job for a weird man. Her dad's boss is bent on taking over the world and will stop at nothing to do it (even though Lily's dad says that adults use something called "irony" and that she shouldn't take him seriously). Larry, her dad's boss, plans to take over the world with an army of mutant whale fighters with lasers shooting out of their eyes. Lily's two friends Katie and Jasper are nearly as eccentric as her father and his boss Larry, and with their help maybe she can make sense of the ever-stranger situation.
Review:
This book is extremely quirky and self contradicting (on purpose). The illustrations are accordingly strange and the instances that Lily and her friends find themselves in are preposterous. The chapter titles are hilarious ("whale control to major tom" being a really good one) and the text is interspersed with strange, over-sized text. For my taste, Anderson's book seems like it has no attention span and jumps all over the place with the plot seemingly unimportant at times. With that being said, some of the chapters are truly hilarious and the illustrations match them perfectly. The book comes with a fake study guide and fake interview with the author that are totally silly and outrageous (I just hope they don't confuse any of the readers). While not my cup of tea, I could easily envision 'tweens' and younger teens getting a real kick out of this book
Author: M.T. Anderson
ISBN: 0-15-205340-9
188 pages
Harcourt Inc., 2005 edition
I essentially picked up this title solely for the fact that its' title and cover illustration caught my eye. I almost had to review this one!
Description:
Lily is 12 and her dad has a weird job for a weird man. Her dad's boss is bent on taking over the world and will stop at nothing to do it (even though Lily's dad says that adults use something called "irony" and that she shouldn't take him seriously). Larry, her dad's boss, plans to take over the world with an army of mutant whale fighters with lasers shooting out of their eyes. Lily's two friends Katie and Jasper are nearly as eccentric as her father and his boss Larry, and with their help maybe she can make sense of the ever-stranger situation.
Review:
This book is extremely quirky and self contradicting (on purpose). The illustrations are accordingly strange and the instances that Lily and her friends find themselves in are preposterous. The chapter titles are hilarious ("whale control to major tom" being a really good one) and the text is interspersed with strange, over-sized text. For my taste, Anderson's book seems like it has no attention span and jumps all over the place with the plot seemingly unimportant at times. With that being said, some of the chapters are truly hilarious and the illustrations match them perfectly. The book comes with a fake study guide and fake interview with the author that are totally silly and outrageous (I just hope they don't confuse any of the readers). While not my cup of tea, I could easily envision 'tweens' and younger teens getting a real kick out of this book
Spy Kids (Film)
Title: Spy Kids
DVD, 2001
Starring Antonio Banderas
One of the kids at my work was very quick to tell me that I just had to watch this movie, once I told him about my assignment for my class. It is the type of movie where the grown-ups are in trouble and the kids have to come in and save the day; I can see why he likes it so much. So, at his request, I checked it out.
Description:
Carmen and Juni are pretty typical kids and have two loving and supportive parents. The only difference between Carmen and Juni and other kids is that their parents are spies. The brother and sister duo go about their daily lives oblivious to this fact until one day their parents are kidnapped by an evil villain Fegan Floop (played very well by Alan Cumming). The kids flee to a secret house their parents have set up and begin to learn the skills and techniques to become spies and save their parents. They try to get help from their uncle Machete, but he is still angry with his brother (their dad) and refuses to help the children. Carmen and Juni are forced to infiltrate Floop's hideout and save their parents themselves!
Review:
The two kid actors that play Carmen and Juni are quite good in the movie and the plot is fun and silly with just enough seriousness. The underlying tension between the characters is interesting and provides a surprising amount of moral evolution for the kids. For instance, Carmen has a bed-wetting problem (despite being the older sister) and Juni is very insecure and scared of the bullies at his school. The kids overcome their differences and help to show their Dad and Uncle of their ways. The family is of Latino heritage and it is nice to see that reflected in the movie. 'Spy Kids' is a really fun movie for kids, if only short of classic, and the characters take the film a little past a purely entertaining experience and make the kids think (if only a tiny bit).
DVD, 2001
Starring Antonio Banderas
One of the kids at my work was very quick to tell me that I just had to watch this movie, once I told him about my assignment for my class. It is the type of movie where the grown-ups are in trouble and the kids have to come in and save the day; I can see why he likes it so much. So, at his request, I checked it out.
Description:
Carmen and Juni are pretty typical kids and have two loving and supportive parents. The only difference between Carmen and Juni and other kids is that their parents are spies. The brother and sister duo go about their daily lives oblivious to this fact until one day their parents are kidnapped by an evil villain Fegan Floop (played very well by Alan Cumming). The kids flee to a secret house their parents have set up and begin to learn the skills and techniques to become spies and save their parents. They try to get help from their uncle Machete, but he is still angry with his brother (their dad) and refuses to help the children. Carmen and Juni are forced to infiltrate Floop's hideout and save their parents themselves!
Review:The two kid actors that play Carmen and Juni are quite good in the movie and the plot is fun and silly with just enough seriousness. The underlying tension between the characters is interesting and provides a surprising amount of moral evolution for the kids. For instance, Carmen has a bed-wetting problem (despite being the older sister) and Juni is very insecure and scared of the bullies at his school. The kids overcome their differences and help to show their Dad and Uncle of their ways. The family is of Latino heritage and it is nice to see that reflected in the movie. 'Spy Kids' is a really fun movie for kids, if only short of classic, and the characters take the film a little past a purely entertaining experience and make the kids think (if only a tiny bit).
Out of the Silent Planet by C.S. Lewis
Title: Out of the Silent Planet
Author: C.S. Lewis
ISBN: 0-7432-3490-1
158 pages
Scribner, 2003 edition
While not specifically a children's book, and certainly with no indication that it has teens or 'tweens' in mind, I vividly remember reading this book when I was about 14 years old (being recommended the book after having heard of Lewis' 'Narnia' books). While this puts it at the higher end of what a 'tween' is, this is a book that I am sure a lot of young kids are reading (and enjoying). For some reason, tales of fantasy or science fiction are more often than not associated with children. While this book does not have a child protagonist and is not expressly written for children, there is a certain connotation that more teens and children will be reading books like this than adults (quite sad if you ask me).
Description:
'Out of the Silent Planet' follows the story of Dr. Ransom, who is ambushed on a dark and tempestuous night by an old colleague of his after he accidentally enters their secret laboratory. Ransom is knocked unconscious and upon his waking, finds himself finds himself in a strange room that appears to be moving in a strange way. What, in fact, has happened is that Ransom is currently on a spherical spaceship headed for Mars (or Malacandra as the natives call it). Ransom's two abductors, Mr. Weston and Mr. Devine, have already made a secret flight to the Red Planet and are planning their return trip (stocked with ammunition) with the plans of taking the planet over. Ransom escapes his captors and finds his way among the three species of sentient life living on the planet; a frog like species, the seal-like Hrossa and the giant Sorns. Ransom befriends the local inhabitants and aids them in defeating Weston and Devin and, in the process, learns more than any human ever has about our place in the universe.
Review:
A phenomenal book, it was even better reading a second time. As a kid I was only concerned with the cool-sounding names of the aliens and the battles with Ransom's two captors. Lewis has a gift for describing the surreal and alien and the book is keeps the reader enamored throughout. True, the book might be a little daunting and scary for a 'tween'. But for younger teenage readers and more advanced 'tweens', the book is a wonderful experience.
Author: C.S. Lewis
ISBN: 0-7432-3490-1
158 pages
Scribner, 2003 edition
While not specifically a children's book, and certainly with no indication that it has teens or 'tweens' in mind, I vividly remember reading this book when I was about 14 years old (being recommended the book after having heard of Lewis' 'Narnia' books). While this puts it at the higher end of what a 'tween' is, this is a book that I am sure a lot of young kids are reading (and enjoying). For some reason, tales of fantasy or science fiction are more often than not associated with children. While this book does not have a child protagonist and is not expressly written for children, there is a certain connotation that more teens and children will be reading books like this than adults (quite sad if you ask me).
Description:
'Out of the Silent Planet' follows the story of Dr. Ransom, who is ambushed on a dark and tempestuous night by an old colleague of his after he accidentally enters their secret laboratory. Ransom is knocked unconscious and upon his waking, finds himself finds himself in a strange room that appears to be moving in a strange way. What, in fact, has happened is that Ransom is currently on a spherical spaceship headed for Mars (or Malacandra as the natives call it). Ransom's two abductors, Mr. Weston and Mr. Devine, have already made a secret flight to the Red Planet and are planning their return trip (stocked with ammunition) with the plans of taking the planet over. Ransom escapes his captors and finds his way among the three species of sentient life living on the planet; a frog like species, the seal-like Hrossa and the giant Sorns. Ransom befriends the local inhabitants and aids them in defeating Weston and Devin and, in the process, learns more than any human ever has about our place in the universe.
Review:
A phenomenal book, it was even better reading a second time. As a kid I was only concerned with the cool-sounding names of the aliens and the battles with Ransom's two captors. Lewis has a gift for describing the surreal and alien and the book is keeps the reader enamored throughout. True, the book might be a little daunting and scary for a 'tween'. But for younger teenage readers and more advanced 'tweens', the book is a wonderful experience.
The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Author: C.S. Lewis
ISBN: 0-06-447104-7
206 pages
HarperTrophy, 1994 edition
My memories of 'The Chronicles of Narnia' will always be influenced by the BBC versions that we watched when I was a kid. I have read this book before as well as a couple of the other books in the series, but the BBC television movies (I think that is what they were) will always affect my memories of series and this book in particular.
Description:
'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' follows the story of four brothers and sisters as they find a magical world hidden within a massive, old wardrobe. After being sent away from London to the home of an old professor due to the air raids of WWII, Peter, Edmund, Susan and Lucy find an entire world deep inside a wardrobe (a big closet-like cabinet for clothes). Lucy, the youngest of the group is the one that first finds that this is no ordinary Wardrobe. On the other side of the mysterious door at the back of the wardrobe the children find a snowy world with a light-post where the meet a faun, who begins to explain to them the world of Narnia in which they have now begun their travels.
In Narnia, the White Witch has cast a spell on all the land, causing a perpetual winter. Once all of the four children cross over into the world of Narnia, they are caught up in the war between Aslan, a mighty lion who is lord of the whole woood, and the wicked White Witch. The children, on the side of Alsan, are victorious and are named the Kings and Queens of Narnia.
Review:
Undoubtedly a classic of childen's literature, 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' has been made into a successful group of recent motion pictures (of which I have seen none). The book is a classic tale, which sort of took away from the rereading as I knew what to expect. The scene where Edmund enters the Witch's castle and finds the various creatures encased in stone is still powerful and the initial scene with Mr. Tumnus the faun remains vivid to this day. C.S. Lewis' style has a lot of religious overtones (being a very religious man himself) which may make certain readers (if they are aware of them) uneasy. A classic tale, told in brilliant fashion and a book that many a kid will cherish for years to come.
Donuthead by Sue Stauffacher
Title: Donuthead
Author: Sue Stauffacher
ISBN: 0-375-82468-5
144 pages
Knopf, 2003 edition
Just an interestingly titled novel with a quirky illustration that I saw at my local public library, I thought I would see what it was all about.
Description:
When his family came to America from Russia, Franklin's ancestors came through famed Ellis Island to reach their dreams in the New World. Unfortunately, the Donotscked family name was changed to Donuthead while passing through Ellis Island and thus Franklin's last name is Donuthead; not the best name for a fifth-grader. Franklin Delano Donuthead thus finds himself the butt of lots of jokes. Franklin is an eccentric kid, frightened of germs, girls and anything else that threatens the organization through which he leads his life. Franklin's life is turned upside down by the arrival of Sarah on the scene; a girl whom Franklin is sure must be a host for all manner of bacteria and disease. And yet, even with Donuthead's compulsion to avoid Sarah at all costs, the two make an unbelievably tight friendship.
Review:
Stauffacher's writing makes Franklin jump off the page. He is a very bright kid and one of the only kids on the planet who must fight against his parents to keep his diet completely organic and wholesome. 'Donuthead' is full of quirky wit and knee-slapping lines; it is the only 'tween' book so far that I have laughed openly during reading. The scene describing on of Franklin's initial encounter's with Sarah is hilarious (with much of it fodder for the book jacket and excerpts, understandably). While the plot is not particularly interesting, the characters are engaging and the book is funny. Truly funny. A great pleasure for adults and 'tweens' alike.
Author: Sue Stauffacher
ISBN: 0-375-82468-5
144 pages
Knopf, 2003 edition
Just an interestingly titled novel with a quirky illustration that I saw at my local public library, I thought I would see what it was all about.
Description:
When his family came to America from Russia, Franklin's ancestors came through famed Ellis Island to reach their dreams in the New World. Unfortunately, the Donotscked family name was changed to Donuthead while passing through Ellis Island and thus Franklin's last name is Donuthead; not the best name for a fifth-grader. Franklin Delano Donuthead thus finds himself the butt of lots of jokes. Franklin is an eccentric kid, frightened of germs, girls and anything else that threatens the organization through which he leads his life. Franklin's life is turned upside down by the arrival of Sarah on the scene; a girl whom Franklin is sure must be a host for all manner of bacteria and disease. And yet, even with Donuthead's compulsion to avoid Sarah at all costs, the two make an unbelievably tight friendship.
Review:
Stauffacher's writing makes Franklin jump off the page. He is a very bright kid and one of the only kids on the planet who must fight against his parents to keep his diet completely organic and wholesome. 'Donuthead' is full of quirky wit and knee-slapping lines; it is the only 'tween' book so far that I have laughed openly during reading. The scene describing on of Franklin's initial encounter's with Sarah is hilarious (with much of it fodder for the book jacket and excerpts, understandably). While the plot is not particularly interesting, the characters are engaging and the book is funny. Truly funny. A great pleasure for adults and 'tweens' alike.
Astro Boy (Film)
Title: Astro Boy
DVD, 2011
With Nathan Lane and Nicholas Cage
Based on the classic and greatly popular Japanese manga and T.V. show of the same name, this movie is a 2009 CGI rendition of 'Astro Boy' which has been, in a sense, Americanized to fit the palates of American movie goers.
Description:
'Astro Boy' tells the story of a young boy and his scientist father. They live in the city of Metro City, a city way up in the sky populated by a plethora of robots; all with the inherent intention to make humans lives better. Toby (who is to become Astro Boy) is the young boy and protagonist in the story who is tagging along with his father who is going to show his newest invention to the city's mayor. The demonstration goes horribly wrong when the robot Toby's father is unveiling loses its' cool and begins to fight back against the demonstrations. Toby is killed in the resulting melee. However a new robot is created with a touch of Toby's DNA resulting in a robot that has all of the memories of Toby (the titular character Astro Boy). Toby's father is reluctant to accept this new robot version of his son and shuns him in an act of denial. After Astro Boy falls from the lovely Metro City down toward the junk heap and shoddy, over polluted land below, he befriends a new group of humans and robots alike and must make his mark in the Robot Games to thwart the evil mayor and win back his father.
Review:
While it is not the best of the CGI movie lot, there is some fun to be had with 'Astro Boy'. The animations seem to be a little cheaper than some of the more famous movies (but I am no expert and could be completely off). The story is fairly good and there are some fun and eventful happenings that make it an eventful experience. While it provides no lasting moral impact for 'tweens' it is a fun (if a little mindless) movie that most kids will appreciate.
DVD, 2011
With Nathan Lane and Nicholas Cage
Based on the classic and greatly popular Japanese manga and T.V. show of the same name, this movie is a 2009 CGI rendition of 'Astro Boy' which has been, in a sense, Americanized to fit the palates of American movie goers.Description:
'Astro Boy' tells the story of a young boy and his scientist father. They live in the city of Metro City, a city way up in the sky populated by a plethora of robots; all with the inherent intention to make humans lives better. Toby (who is to become Astro Boy) is the young boy and protagonist in the story who is tagging along with his father who is going to show his newest invention to the city's mayor. The demonstration goes horribly wrong when the robot Toby's father is unveiling loses its' cool and begins to fight back against the demonstrations. Toby is killed in the resulting melee. However a new robot is created with a touch of Toby's DNA resulting in a robot that has all of the memories of Toby (the titular character Astro Boy). Toby's father is reluctant to accept this new robot version of his son and shuns him in an act of denial. After Astro Boy falls from the lovely Metro City down toward the junk heap and shoddy, over polluted land below, he befriends a new group of humans and robots alike and must make his mark in the Robot Games to thwart the evil mayor and win back his father.
Review:
While it is not the best of the CGI movie lot, there is some fun to be had with 'Astro Boy'. The animations seem to be a little cheaper than some of the more famous movies (but I am no expert and could be completely off). The story is fairly good and there are some fun and eventful happenings that make it an eventful experience. While it provides no lasting moral impact for 'tweens' it is a fun (if a little mindless) movie that most kids will appreciate.
Shake It Up (Disney Channel Series)
Title: Shake It Up
Channel: Disney Channel
2 seasons
Starring Zendaya and Bella Thorne
The last of the Disney Channel sitcoms that my sister has recommended (and I don't think I shall review anymore). I thanked her for her input, but I don't think I'll be taking her advice for items to review (at least not with T.V. shows).
Description:
'Shake It Up' follows best friends Rocky and CeCe (both girls) as they go through the typical Disney preteen/teen girl life of school and boys. The only difference; these two girls are back up dancers on the hit T.V. show "Shake It Up, Chicago!". The episodes usually focus on the girls lives as dancers on the show, their romantic lives or their ongoing battles with the vaguely German sounding twins Gunter and Tinka.
Review:
Just awful. I tried hard to find some sort of redeeming quality within this show, but found only negatives. The show is poorly written and extremely predictable (not a new thing for 'tween', cookie-cutter 'Hannah Montana' imitations). But I found this show so bad that it bordered on offensive. The girls only care about boys and dancing (not the best role models) and are constantly getting in trouble, seemingly always on the verge of getting kicked off of their dance show. The girls wear unbelievably age inappropriate clothing and their are virtually no discernible adult role models. A bad show, with questionable marketing ploys and children acting and dressing way older than they ought to, with a conspicuous lack of adult presence; a terrible mix.
Channel: Disney Channel
2 seasons
Starring Zendaya and Bella Thorne
The last of the Disney Channel sitcoms that my sister has recommended (and I don't think I shall review anymore). I thanked her for her input, but I don't think I'll be taking her advice for items to review (at least not with T.V. shows).
Description:
'Shake It Up' follows best friends Rocky and CeCe (both girls) as they go through the typical Disney preteen/teen girl life of school and boys. The only difference; these two girls are back up dancers on the hit T.V. show "Shake It Up, Chicago!". The episodes usually focus on the girls lives as dancers on the show, their romantic lives or their ongoing battles with the vaguely German sounding twins Gunter and Tinka.
Review:
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
Title: A Wrinkle in Time
Author: Madeleine L'Engle
ISBN: 0-312-36754-6
245 pages
Square Fish, 2007 edition
A very popular book for children and, again, one that I remember reading 'A Wrinkle in Time' was one of the first science fiction books I read (and even though I liked it, my love of sci-fi would not be sparked until later in my life). I vividly remember going to see a Seattle Children's Theater production based on the play, which had really cool, rolling sets that reversed themselves 180 degrees to be Meg's house or the different planets or dimensions.
Description:
The Murry family lives together with her family of three brothers and mother when when night she is visited by the mysterious Mrs Whatsit. The visitor informs Meg, the oldest daughter and protaganist, that an experimental idea her missing scientist father had been working on was in fact a reality. The Terrasact, a sort of wormhole or wrinkle in time (hence the title) that allows for travel between two dimensions. Meg, her youngest brother Charles and a friend Calvin travel to the house of Mrs Whatsit plus her friends Mrs Which and Mrs Who and learn that their father is imprisoned on the planet Camazotz which lies in another dimension. The only way travel there is through the Terrasact; essentially the fifth dimension. The three children learn that a massive evil entity called the Black Thing is currently planning to take over the universe. Meg, Charles and Calvin must travel to Camazotz and save Meg and Charles' father from his imprisonment under the all-knowing brain IT that controls the planet. It is up to the children to save Meg's father and fight against the evil that threatens to overtake the universe (in all dimensions).
Review:
One of the most unique books that I have had the pleasure of reviewing, the way in which L'Engle writes is unlike any other children's author. The book gives off a certain sense of mystery and awe that cannot be duplicated (in anything I have read). The book is a little difficult to understand (Einstein is mentioned briefly) and the idea of fourth and fifth dimensions is difficult for myself, let alone a 'tween'. The book is laced with religious overtones which may or may not throw off certain parents or teachers. The only other author that is reminiscent of L'Engle, that I can think of, is C.S. Lewis and that may explain some of the thematic similarities in their books. A really strange and fun book, especially for the older end of the 'tween' spectrum
Author: Madeleine L'Engle
ISBN: 0-312-36754-6
245 pages
Square Fish, 2007 edition
A very popular book for children and, again, one that I remember reading 'A Wrinkle in Time' was one of the first science fiction books I read (and even though I liked it, my love of sci-fi would not be sparked until later in my life). I vividly remember going to see a Seattle Children's Theater production based on the play, which had really cool, rolling sets that reversed themselves 180 degrees to be Meg's house or the different planets or dimensions.
Description:
The Murry family lives together with her family of three brothers and mother when when night she is visited by the mysterious Mrs Whatsit. The visitor informs Meg, the oldest daughter and protaganist, that an experimental idea her missing scientist father had been working on was in fact a reality. The Terrasact, a sort of wormhole or wrinkle in time (hence the title) that allows for travel between two dimensions. Meg, her youngest brother Charles and a friend Calvin travel to the house of Mrs Whatsit plus her friends Mrs Which and Mrs Who and learn that their father is imprisoned on the planet Camazotz which lies in another dimension. The only way travel there is through the Terrasact; essentially the fifth dimension. The three children learn that a massive evil entity called the Black Thing is currently planning to take over the universe. Meg, Charles and Calvin must travel to Camazotz and save Meg and Charles' father from his imprisonment under the all-knowing brain IT that controls the planet. It is up to the children to save Meg's father and fight against the evil that threatens to overtake the universe (in all dimensions).Review:
One of the most unique books that I have had the pleasure of reviewing, the way in which L'Engle writes is unlike any other children's author. The book gives off a certain sense of mystery and awe that cannot be duplicated (in anything I have read). The book is a little difficult to understand (Einstein is mentioned briefly) and the idea of fourth and fifth dimensions is difficult for myself, let alone a 'tween'. The book is laced with religious overtones which may or may not throw off certain parents or teachers. The only other author that is reminiscent of L'Engle, that I can think of, is C.S. Lewis and that may explain some of the thematic similarities in their books. A really strange and fun book, especially for the older end of the 'tween' spectrum
Bridge to Terabithia by Katharine Paterson
Title: Bridge to Terabithia
Author: Katharine Paterson
ISBN: 0-06-440184-7
128 pages
HarperTrophy, 1987 edition
A Newbery Medal winner and long considered classic of children's literature, 'Bridge to Terabithia' was required reading when I was a 'tween'. Although that seems long, long ago for me (and may have been longer ago for some others), I still remember reading this book back in elementary school. I remember hearing about a move version being released not too long ago, but I can't imagine it is as moving as the original novel.
Description:
'Bridge to Terabitha' tells the beautiful story of two fifth graders whose relationship begins with a footrace, but blossoms into so much more. Jesse Oliver Aarons Jr. (or more simply, Jess) pines to be the fastest kid in his class, when a U-haul truck brings in some new neighbors; and new competition. Leslie Burke is the new kid in class and instantly creates tension by beating all of the other kids in school in running (even the boys).
The two kids, even with this contentious encounter soon become friends. Both having their own troubles fitting in with their peers, Jess and Leslie decide to imagine their own kingdom, Terabithia, that is only for them and in which they rule like King and Queen; "it would be so secret that we wouldn't have to tell anyone about it" (says Leslie in the book). Jess and Leslie soon become inseparable and through their adventures in Terabithia their relationship grows stronger. While Jess is away on a sort of field trip, a horrific tragedy befalls Leslie as she slips in a river and drowns. Jess is understandably devastated, but in his relationship with Leslie and the place they created, he finds strength (with that strength and a fortunate set of circumstances leading to him saving his sister from a similar fate).
Review:
My mother had told me, upon hearing about my reviewing of 'tween' books, that this book had been quite a bit controversial, even when I read it for my own class. With that being said, I see no reason for any controversy. The book is very sad and the death quite tragic, and Jess does have an eye for a teacher, but none of these is off-putting or inappropriate. The book is beautifully written and, albeit very emotional and sad, Jess derives strength from the loss of Leslie. Short enough at 128 pages for kids not to feel overburdened but long enough for them to become attached to the characters, 'Bridge to Terabithia' is a fantastic book and I can see why it has become required reading in many schools.
Author: Katharine Paterson
ISBN: 0-06-440184-7
128 pages
HarperTrophy, 1987 edition
A Newbery Medal winner and long considered classic of children's literature, 'Bridge to Terabithia' was required reading when I was a 'tween'. Although that seems long, long ago for me (and may have been longer ago for some others), I still remember reading this book back in elementary school. I remember hearing about a move version being released not too long ago, but I can't imagine it is as moving as the original novel.
Description:
'Bridge to Terabitha' tells the beautiful story of two fifth graders whose relationship begins with a footrace, but blossoms into so much more. Jesse Oliver Aarons Jr. (or more simply, Jess) pines to be the fastest kid in his class, when a U-haul truck brings in some new neighbors; and new competition. Leslie Burke is the new kid in class and instantly creates tension by beating all of the other kids in school in running (even the boys).
The two kids, even with this contentious encounter soon become friends. Both having their own troubles fitting in with their peers, Jess and Leslie decide to imagine their own kingdom, Terabithia, that is only for them and in which they rule like King and Queen; "it would be so secret that we wouldn't have to tell anyone about it" (says Leslie in the book). Jess and Leslie soon become inseparable and through their adventures in Terabithia their relationship grows stronger. While Jess is away on a sort of field trip, a horrific tragedy befalls Leslie as she slips in a river and drowns. Jess is understandably devastated, but in his relationship with Leslie and the place they created, he finds strength (with that strength and a fortunate set of circumstances leading to him saving his sister from a similar fate).Review:
My mother had told me, upon hearing about my reviewing of 'tween' books, that this book had been quite a bit controversial, even when I read it for my own class. With that being said, I see no reason for any controversy. The book is very sad and the death quite tragic, and Jess does have an eye for a teacher, but none of these is off-putting or inappropriate. The book is beautifully written and, albeit very emotional and sad, Jess derives strength from the loss of Leslie. Short enough at 128 pages for kids not to feel overburdened but long enough for them to become attached to the characters, 'Bridge to Terabithia' is a fantastic book and I can see why it has become required reading in many schools.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
Title: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Author: J.K. Rowling
ISBN: 0-590-35340-3
309 pages
Arthur A. Levine Books, 1998 edition
An obvious classic in the world of kids books and one that has sparked a worldwide craze, this is the first story in J.K. Rowling's set of seven Harry Potter books. This is the only of the series that I have read, but my not reading the others is no indication of my dislike for the movie, I just never got around to reading any of the others.
Description:
'The Sorcerer's Stone' begins the tale of Harry Potter, the young wizard whose time at the Hogwarts school has no made its' way into the world of popular culture. However, Harry's life does not begin so fantastically. Harry is left on the front step of his nasty aunt and uncle after his parents are killed by Voldemort, the evil wizard known as "he who must not be named". Harry is miserable in his life with his aunt, uncle and their son Dudley when around his eleventh birthday he begins to receive a vast number of letters in blank envelops that he never gets to read on the account of his mean uncle. Harry soon is saved from his horrid life by Hagrid, who informs him of his wizard ancestry and the school at Hogwarts. While on his way to catch the train to Hogwarts from the strange platform numbered 9 and 3/4, Harry meets Draco Malfoy and Ron Weasley; his enemy and best friend (respectively) throughout the rest of the books and subsequent movies. At Hogwarts, Harry gets caught up immediately in an adventure that puts not only his own life at rick, but places the whole of Hogwarts in his hands.
Review:
Beloved by fans all over the world and I can see why. The story is fun, exciting and keeps up an incredible pace that will surprise readers. Having seen the movies (not all of them) before reading the book, I was surprised to find how much of the book takes place before Harry makes his way to Hogwarts. In the movie, the transition is made much earlier. I guess normal humans (called muggles derisively throughout the book and films) are not as exciting. The chosen one, Luke Skywalker type aesthetic is laid on pretty thick and the good versus evil dynamic is a little bit too much. But the story is really enthralling, making you not want to put the book down even for a second. I am sure that I don't really have to recommend this, as it seems almost as if everyone has read it already. With that said, it really is a great book that is truly a fun ride.
Author: J.K. Rowling
ISBN: 0-590-35340-3
309 pages
Arthur A. Levine Books, 1998 edition
An obvious classic in the world of kids books and one that has sparked a worldwide craze, this is the first story in J.K. Rowling's set of seven Harry Potter books. This is the only of the series that I have read, but my not reading the others is no indication of my dislike for the movie, I just never got around to reading any of the others.
Description:
'The Sorcerer's Stone' begins the tale of Harry Potter, the young wizard whose time at the Hogwarts school has no made its' way into the world of popular culture. However, Harry's life does not begin so fantastically. Harry is left on the front step of his nasty aunt and uncle after his parents are killed by Voldemort, the evil wizard known as "he who must not be named". Harry is miserable in his life with his aunt, uncle and their son Dudley when around his eleventh birthday he begins to receive a vast number of letters in blank envelops that he never gets to read on the account of his mean uncle. Harry soon is saved from his horrid life by Hagrid, who informs him of his wizard ancestry and the school at Hogwarts. While on his way to catch the train to Hogwarts from the strange platform numbered 9 and 3/4, Harry meets Draco Malfoy and Ron Weasley; his enemy and best friend (respectively) throughout the rest of the books and subsequent movies. At Hogwarts, Harry gets caught up immediately in an adventure that puts not only his own life at rick, but places the whole of Hogwarts in his hands.Review:
Beloved by fans all over the world and I can see why. The story is fun, exciting and keeps up an incredible pace that will surprise readers. Having seen the movies (not all of them) before reading the book, I was surprised to find how much of the book takes place before Harry makes his way to Hogwarts. In the movie, the transition is made much earlier. I guess normal humans (called muggles derisively throughout the book and films) are not as exciting. The chosen one, Luke Skywalker type aesthetic is laid on pretty thick and the good versus evil dynamic is a little bit too much. But the story is really enthralling, making you not want to put the book down even for a second. I am sure that I don't really have to recommend this, as it seems almost as if everyone has read it already. With that said, it really is a great book that is truly a fun ride.
Bolt (Film)
Title: Bolt
DVD, 2009
Starring John Travolta
Description:
This film tells the story of an action-hero dog named Bolt. The only problem is, Bolt hasn't a clue that his whole life is really a television program! He jumps over helicopters and saves his human counterpart Penny from danger; but then the cameras stop rolling. One day, Bolt sneaks out of the studio where he lives and encounters the 'real-world'. A cat named Mittens (voiced by Susie Essman) shows Bolt that he really is just a regular dog that has no super powers whatsoever. Bolt is initially reluctant to accept the truth, but in one scene out in front of a billboard for his show, the reality of Bolt's situation is immediately evident to him. The hamster Rhino is one of Bolt's biggest fans and it is his trust in Bolt that saves Bolt from his depressed state and convinces him to go and find Penny.
Review:
In a kind of 'Truman Show' type of plot, 'Bolt' is a pretty entertaining movie. The first few minutes of the movie (if one has not read anything about the movie previously) make the viewer think bolt really is a super-dog. The voice acting is really well done with the cat Mittens and the hamster Rhino really taking the cake. The fact that the hamster rolls around in a ball the entire movie and the fact that Bolt's presence drives him to delirium is sure to get the kids laughing. It is by no means the best movie out there, but it was certainly entertaining and is one that I am sure most kids would get a kick out of.
DVD, 2009
Starring John Travolta
Description:
This film tells the story of an action-hero dog named Bolt. The only problem is, Bolt hasn't a clue that his whole life is really a television program! He jumps over helicopters and saves his human counterpart Penny from danger; but then the cameras stop rolling. One day, Bolt sneaks out of the studio where he lives and encounters the 'real-world'. A cat named Mittens (voiced by Susie Essman) shows Bolt that he really is just a regular dog that has no super powers whatsoever. Bolt is initially reluctant to accept the truth, but in one scene out in front of a billboard for his show, the reality of Bolt's situation is immediately evident to him. The hamster Rhino is one of Bolt's biggest fans and it is his trust in Bolt that saves Bolt from his depressed state and convinces him to go and find Penny.
Review:
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