43 Old Cemetery Road: Hollywood Dead Ahead

Moving forward

Klise, Kate and Klise, Sarah. 43 Old Cemetery Road: Hollywood Dead Ahead. Boston : Harcourt Children's Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013.

Plot: The fifth of the 43 Old Cemetery Road series begins with an important-looking letter from a famous Hollywood director. Pleased by the collaborative writings of the 43 Old Cemetery Road residents, the director plans to make a movie based on the series. Elderly Iggy remains skeptical, while Seymour, like any kid, wants to have a role in the film. Much to the surprise of both, Olive, the mansion's resident ghost, eagerly looks forward to her part in the movie. Hollywood does not prove to be nearly as inviting as expected. Initial thrills eventually fade to frustration, stress, and betrayal. Still, the family manages to escape the worst clause in the ordeal. Ivana Oscar, a famous actress, unwittingly promises to die during the film. The family and the actress must unite to stop the savage Hollywood executives.

Genre: Adventure, Humor

Reading Level: Grades 2-6

Similar Titles: My Haunted House, The Haunting of Granite Falls

Personal Thoughts: Creative narration saves the title from becoming a typical Hollywood story. While the pretext remains common, the characters manage to show enough individuality to benefit the tale, as well. A new title in the series is expected next year.

Varjak Paw

Two predators...

Said, S. F. Varjak Paw. New York : David Flicking Books, 2003.

Plot: While his family enjoys a pampered life as a Contessa's pets, Varjak is painfully ill-fitting for the life of a Mesopotanian blue. His eyes, the color of danger, denote his tendency to get into trouble and disturb his family's life of unruffled calm. He becomes suspicious of a Gentleman caller to the Contessa, especially after she disappears. Assisted by his grandfather, Varjak escapes to the outside world, where he immediately finds himself overwhelmed. Yet, in a dream, he is visited by his ancestor and instructed in the Way, a series of seven skills capable of helping him rescue his family. Varjak finds friends, including a pair of ally cats named Tam and Holly, as well as enemies during his training in the Way. Yet, his family, and all cats, remain in peril from the strange Gentleman and his deadly black cats. The Way alone may not be enough to stop the Gentleman's plans.

Genre: Animals, Fantasy, Coming of Age

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: The Familiars, Savvy, The Outlaw Varjak Paw

Personal Thoughts: The title provides a typical martial arts-animal fantasy-zombie-street drama-coming of age story. Joking aside, the tale manages to utilize various tropes in a surprisingly pleasing manner. Varjak's identity struggles with his family and himself echo with readers, while the surreal meetings with his legendary ancestor appeal to tweens seeking something unusual. The story also includes a thoroughly unnerving undercurrent, much like Coraline. Readers immediately know something dangerously uncanny drives the story, although its true nature remains a mystery until the very end.

The title provided a basis for an opera and play. The Jim Henson Company reported plans to use the story for an animated movie in 2006.

Angry Birds Playground: Dinosaurs - A Prehistoric Adventure

Not a dinosaur, but close

(he's a mosasaur)

Esbaum, Jill and Tempesta, Franco. Angry Birds Playground: Dinosaurs - A Prehistoric Adventure. Washington, D.C. : National Geographic, 2013.

Plot: Based on the popular video game, the title combines familiar characters with not-so-familiar concepts. While the text mentions many popular dinosaurs, it also successfully mentions some lesser-known creatures. Also, it discusses scientific topics, such as archeology and adaptations.

Genre: Animals

Reading Level: Grades 1-4

Similar Titles: Angry Birds Playground: Animals, National Geographic Angry Birds in Space: A Furious Flight to the Final Frontier

Personal Thoughts: Presented by National Geographic, the title makes fairly complex topics accessible to younger readers through bright illustrations and references to a popular game. Apparently, the title is one of a series, which includes other topics such as animals and space.

The Shark King

Teehee...forced perspective

Johnson, R. Kikuo. The Shark King. New York, NY : TOON Books, 2012.

Plot: After rescuing her from a dangerous bay, a handsome young man successfully courts a woman in a remote Hawaiian village. While they love each other dearly, the man eventually reveals himself to be the Shark King. Unable to stay with his love, he leaves her to care for their child. The boy, named Nanaue, proves to have an insatiable appetite. He eventually resorts to stealing from the local fisherman and inadvertently drives their quarry away. Once caught, he flees to the location prepared for him by his father.

Genre: Folktales, Animals, Graphic Novels

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: The Shark God, Punia and the King of the Sharks: A Hawaiian Folktale

Personal Thoughts: A surprisingly light-hearted retelling a Hawaiian folktale, The Shark King combines bright drawings and classic storytelling to create a pleasant title.

Giants Beware!

No monsters were harmed in the telling of this book

Aguirre, Jorge and Rosado, Rafael. Giants Beware!. New York : First Second, 2012.

Plot: Claudette, proud daughter of the village blacksmith, longs to gain a hero's glory. Determined to earn it through an act of giant-slaying, she convinces Gaston, her cowardly brother, and Marie, a princess wanna-be, to join her quest. Through unexpected talents, weapons, and plans, they manage to escape the wrath of a forest witch and hostility of a river king. However, the giant proves less than malicious. She still must prove herself when the amicable giant is threatened by the town's irate soldiers.

Genre: Fantasy, Graphic Novels

Reading Level: Grades 3-6

Similar Titles: Courtney Crumrin and the Night Things, Hildafolk

Personal Thoughts: The book is a fairly typical "modern" fairy tale. Each of the characters serves as an expected foil for their archtype (the aggressive girl, the active damsel, and the cowardly boy, for example). Still, it manages to provide enough variation to appeal to the reader. Additionally, it touches on topics not often addressed in such stories, like the emptiness of seeking glory for glory's sake.

However, it falls into a flaw frequently facing fantasy girl protagonists. Like several other stories, including Jane and the Dragon and The Paper Bag Princess, the story attempts to make a hero out of a girl, which certainly is not a bad thing. Girls, like boys, need to know they can be heroic. The problem arises, as in the other tales, at the end of the story. The main antagonist simply is not antagonistic. It seems like the tales seek to prove women can be great, but refuse to allow them to face genuine peril. In the stories, the heroines ultimately talk their way out of danger, instead of actively addressing it. Certainly, a willingness to compromise and an intellect to manipulate a negative situation are to be honored, but it frustrates me when a story promises to prove girls are as good as boys when the girls are not allowed to conquer real danger. The girls can play at adventure, but not actually face a villain. Perhaps this is why I like Brave so much. True, Meredeth shows expert speaking skills to the other clans. However, she and her mother do not hesitate to attack a foe that cannot be reasoned with. When Mordu threatens them, they do not shirk away from a necessary fight. As such, they are heroic, both on an intellectual and active level. By making the ultimate foe something that will not be fought, it destroys a very appealing part of a fantasy: that dragons, while unreasonable, can ultimately be beaten.

Meow: Cat Stories from Around the World

Meow, nya, miao, or miav?

Yolen, Jane. Meow: Cat Stories from Around the World. New York : HarperCollinsPublishers, 2005.

Plot: As the title implies, the book offers several stories about felines from a number of locations. Additionally, the text includes popular sayings, rhymes, and proverbs about cats. Colorful, elaborate illustrations adorn the text and complement the stories.

Genre: Animals, Folklore, Folktales

Reading Level: Grades Kindergarten - 4

Similar Titles: Puss in Boots, Three Samurai Cats

Personal Thoughts: The book nicely balances cat stereotypes. For example, the title includes hunting cats, compassionate cats, rude cats, polite cats, smart cats, and silly cats. The variety prevents the stories from becoming monotonous. 

Babymouse: Rock Star

Real Dragons Read Pink Books

Holme, Jennifer and Holme, Matthew. Babymouse: Rock Star. New York : Random House, 2006.

Plot: Babymouse loves playing the flute and practices dutifully. However, she still sounds terrible. She dreams of becoming a popular musician, but seems doomed to remain in the school's last chair. A brief lesson from a hidden prodigy may change her fate, though.

Genre: Graphic Novel

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Giants Beware, Ariol 2: The Knightly Horse

Personal Thoughts: Like most of the Babymouse series, the title blends a common plot, funny drawings, and quirky fantasy to relate to readers. However, the story also manages to avoid falling completely into a cliche. Sometimes, despite the assurance to the contrary, working harder and learning more does not launch students to the level they want to reach and that is okay. Tweens, like all readers, need to know improvement, not excellence, is ultimately something to strive for. By constantly making characters into experts in tween texts, readers get unrealistic expectations for practice and dismissive toward legitimate improvement. Babymouse does not instantly become the rock star she wishes to be. She does not even become the best flutist in the school. Instead, she becomes a better musician, which is enough. Such is a valuable lesson not often discussed in tween, or even teen, titles.

The Little Prince

 Almost Alone in the Universe

de Saint-Exupery, Antone. The Little Prince. San Diego : Harcourt, 2000.

Plot: While desperately trying to fix his broken airplane in the middle of the desert, a pilot is found by a determined child who requests a picture of a sheep. The boy remains elusive, but he eventually reveals his story to the frustrated pilot. His story is one of a flower, a snake, a fox, and friendship. The prince learns the bittersweet joy of making friends through rites and taming. He shares his secrets with the worried pilot. Yet, while the pilot eventually opens up to the prince, he receives several warnings about becoming close. Being friends always brings the risk of tears.

Genre: Fantasy, Everyday

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: What Is My Song?, Sky Sweeper

Personal Thoughts: The title is a charming, haunting, and surprisingly serious. Concepts like friendship, loss, purpose, and relationships find their place through lighthearted concepts like roses, wells, and foxes. As a result, the story provided the basis for films, operas, and plays. Additionally, some of the title's concepts influence science, art, songs, and video games.

One Cool Friend

Bring your penguin to work day

Buzzeo, Toni. One Cool Friend. New York : Dial Books for Young Readers, 2012.

Plot: Elliot, a prim, proper young man joins his father for Family Day at the aquarium. While the boy does not care for the crowds, he becomes enchanted with the Magellanic penguin exhibit. He asks his father for one. Believing his son wants a plush penguin, the father agrees, never noticing Elliot quietly stuffing one of the birds into his backpack. Elliot works hard to provide and train his penguin, but his father's ignorance may not be quite as obvious as expected.

Genre: Animals

Reading Level: Grades Pre-K - 4

Similar Titles: Billy Twitters and the Big Blue Whale Problem, 365 Penguins, An Octopus Followed Me Home

Personal Thoughts: The title captures readers with a classic plot with an unexpected twist. Reading through the book a second time allows readers to find foreshadowing of the reveal. As a result of the entertaining story and classy illustrations, the title earned a Caldecott Honor Book Award.

 

Black Beauty

There will be tears

Sewell, Ana. Black Beauty. New York : Children's Classics, 1998.

Plot: An autobiography of a horse in nineteenth century England. Black Beauty enjoys his early life on a manor with kind masters. Eventually, he makes friends of other equines on the manor, who give dire warnings of poor conditions elsewhere. His later years prove the legitimacy of their fears. He suffers repeated mistreatment in the name of fashion, economics, and ignorance. Bearing reins, poor care, reckless work, and bad luck ruin his health. Yet, he may still find some peace waiting for him.

Genre: Animals

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: King of the Wind, The Winter Pony

Personal Thoughts: Reading the title as an adult differs greatly from reading it as a tween. As a tween, it was a sad story about an innocent horse. As an adult, I realize it is an animal rights novel.  To Sewell's credit, though, she also explores the plight of the horses' abusers. Most do not want to harm their animals. However, due to their employers' demands, poor working conditions, and unreasonable customers, many of the owners are forced to place their animals in unsafe conditions. Such conditions also damage the horsemen, especially the cab drivers. At the time of the novel, blaming the working class for poor animal care was the default expectation. However, Sewell pointed out much, if not the majority, of the damage began with the upper class.

As a result of the novel, the bearing rein that plagued the horses were eventually outlawed.

The title inspired a number of films and theater productions, both good and bad.

Bomb: The Race to Build and Steal the World's Most Dangerous Weapon

Never close, but always there

Sheinkin, Steve. Bomb: The Race to Build and Steal the World's Most Dangerous Weapon. New York: Roaring Brook Press, 2012.

Plot: A detailed catalog of the discoveries, politics, and actions leading to the creation of the world's first atomic bombs. The story of the weapon covers the pages with intrigue and tension, even through the results are well-known. Still, the title manages to reveal some less-frequently mentioned aspects of the history surrounding one of history's most dramatic changes in warfare.

Genre: History

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Two Miserable Presidents: The Amazing, Terrible, and Totally True Story of the Civil War

Personal Thoughts: The title offers an intriguing view of an often-ignored aspect of modern history. It also manages to avoid much of the "good guys versus bad guys" mentality often plaguing such attempts. However, it does display President Truman unexpectedly negative and Oppenheimer strangely naive in the last few pages. Nevertheless, the book offers an explanation for the tense state of modern warfare, particularly in regards to the fears surrounding wars in the Middle East and Asia.

The book recently received a Newbery Honor.


 

The One Hundred and One Dalmatians

The cover actually tells the story

Smith, Dodie. The One Hundred and One Dalmatians. New York, N.Y., U.S.A. : Puffin Books, 1956.

Plot: The Pongos are delighted by their first litter of puppies. The pure white babies grow quickly into spotted pups due to the care of their mother and their brown-spotted wet nurse, Perdita. However, an old grudge and acquaintance of their humans sets off a chain of events destined to change the family forever. Pongo and his wife must save their puppies, as well as nearly one hundred other pups, from the evil intentions of Cruella de Vil. However, rescuing the puppies may not be enough to save the dogs of England. The Pongos must utilize the skill every available ally in their quest to secure the future of dalmatians everywhere.

Genre: Animals, Fantasy

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Sounder, Big Red

Personal Thoughts: The Disney version of the story was one of my favorites when I was a tween. However, I think I like the book a bit more. It includes more information about dalmatians as a breed, as well as more humor, than the animated title.

The book inspired a sequel known as The Starlight Barking. Since the title features dogs granted psychic abilities and humanity placed in stasis in an elaborate plot to prevent atomic war, it is seldom mentioned.

  

A Practical Guide to Faeries

A fairy and a dragon

Morris, Susan J. A Practical Guide to Faeries. Renton, WA : Wizards of the Coast, 2009.

Plot: A guide to identifying, understanding, and surviving the fair folk. While the traditional pixies find the most mention, the book also brings attention to some of the stranger and more hostile fairies as well. Brightly colored, heavily detailed images complement the text.

Genre: Folklore, Picture Books

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: A Practical Guide to Dragons, A Practical Guide to Monsters

Personal Thoughts: The story focuses the more traditional views of fairies. While old folktales describe fairies as benign or even benevolent, they often lack the capacity to understand a human point of view and the text reflects this. However, they are not necessarily malicious, but very prone to mischief, as the book also reveals. A pretty, creative title. 

Junie B. Jones is (Almost) a Flower Girl

Silly Junie. 

Sprite is the prettiest flower dragon.

Park, Barbara and Brunkus, Denise. Junie B. Jones is (Almost) a Flower Girl. New York : Random House, 1999.

Plot: Junie is thrilled to learn she is invited to her aunt's wedding. She decides to become the flower girl at the festivities. However, her aunt already picked someone else for the role. Junie attempts to prove her superior capacities as an understudy flower girl by maintaining a proper, grown-up lady personality. A squabble at the wedding seems to shatter her efforts, though. She must prove her six-year-old maturity to her family...or just dance with her shoes off.

Genre: Growing Up, Everyday

Reading Level: Grades 3-6

Similar Titles: Junie B. Jones and the Stupid, Smelly Bus, Ramona series, D.W. Thinks Big

Personal Thoughts: The book expertly follows the six-year-old mentality of Junie. She is enthusiastic, curious, creative, and a little self-absorbed. She also tends to make up words and phrases to describe her feelings. While some argue such qualities make for a bad protagonist, they allow Junie to respond to situations like a realistic character. At the risk of dating myself, the appeal of Junie B. Jones seems to parallel to that of Rugrats. The titles make sense to readers currently experiencing kindergarten while allowing older readers to feel the nostalgia of an earlier age. As such, the title is a relevant view of early school years.

Thank You, Mr. Falker

Sprite is in a hurry

Polacco, Patricia. Thank You, Mr. Falker. New York : Philomel Books, 1998.

Plot: Trisha loves the opportunity school represents. She longs to taste the sweetness of knowledge, just as her grandparents taught her. However, going to school steadily becomes more and more difficult. She can barely read and the other students tease her mercilessly. Eventually, at a new school, Mr. Falker arrives. He defends Trisha from the bullies and shows interest in her art. He also discovers the cause of her reading difficulties. The teacher admires her spirit and courage, so, with the help of a reading tutor, teaches her to finally encounter knowledge's sweetness.

Genre: Autobiography, School, Picture Books

Reading Level: Grades 3-6

Similar Titles: The Talented Clementine, The Hundred Dresses

Personal Thoughts: The story presents dyslexia in a comprehensible and sympathetic manner. As such, it received several awards, including Parent's Choice Honors. However, I am not sure if I would recommend it in a home or library setting. Please do not misunderstand, the title is certainly worthy of the attention it earned. It accurately describes the fear, shame, and loneliness present in dyslexia. However, the actual title reads like an assignment to me. Perhaps the word choice, somewhat dated illustrations, and lack of sympathetic characters beyond the protagonist causes the feelings, but it seems ideal for a classroom, not for leisurely reading.  

Hades: Lord of the Dead

O'Connor, George. Hades: Lord of the Dead. New York : First Second, 2012.

Plot: A retelling of the classic story of Hades and Persephone. However, the text uses an unusually modern format for the ancient tale. It comes in the form of a graphic novel.

Genre: Folklore, Graphic Novels

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Zeus: King of the Gods, Perseus and Medusa

Personal Thoughts: The title combines the visual appeal of manga with the readability of American comics, making the story visually appealing and easily read. However, none of the characters appear remotely sympathetic, with the possible exception of Hades. Even then, he seems highly apathetic to his duties, subjects, and family. Still, the title may make normally intimidating Greek culture a bit more accessible to the modern reader.

Fooled You: Fakes and Hoaxes Through the Years

 Why yes, that is a mosasaur in a coffee cup

Pascoe, Elaine and Keller, Laurie. Fooled You: Fakes and Hoaxes Through the Years. New York : Henry Holt, 2005.

Plot: Frauds existed for hundreds of years. Some stem from attempts to make money, such as P.T. Barnum's Feejee Mermaid. Others, like crop circles, simply start as a joke on the local community, but quickly capture global attention. A few hoaxes bloomed from attempts to avoid trouble, while some seem made to create it. Modern technology contributes to the rise of frauds, as the urban legend of Snowball the cat displays. The text's humorous illustrations add to the lunacy of responses to the hoaxes, while outlining the stories within the chapters. By learning about frauds of the past, perhaps we can be more cautious in the future.

Genre: History, Science, Technology

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Hoaxes that Made Headlines, Fakes

Personal Thoughts: The title offers an excellent example of combining history and current events. While the individual stories may not make the textbooks, they do provide the opportunity to review personal opinions and experiences, allowing readers to begin thinking critically about sources of information.

Ace, the Very Important Pig

 Sorting through all this took longer than expected.

Sorry folks.

King-Smith, Dick. Ace, the Very Important Pig. New York : Crown Publishers, 1990.

Plot: Ace, a few-day-old piglet, finds himself listening to Farmer Tubbs and understanding him completely. While many pigs have come and gone on the farm, Ace is the only one to ever comprehend the farmer. Determined to put his skill to use, the pig teaches the farmer to understand him. Such skills allow Ace to enter the house, make friends with the farmer's pets, go to the pub, and watch television. However, his talents eventually reach the media, earning permanent fame for the farmer.

Genre: Animals, Fiction

Reading Level: Grades 3-6; some references to drinking may make guardians uneasy, so be aware.

Similar Titles: Babe the Gallant Pig, Mercy Watson series

Personal Thoughts: The story offers an interesting follow-up to Babe the Gallant Pig. While Babe finds mention, he does not come into the story, although his grandson shows signs of his ancestor's intellect and determination. Also, other characters from the previous book find reference, but no direct appearances. As a result, the book seems almost more like a second title in a series rather than a direct sequel.

Some readers may find the drinking references odd. However, King-Smith uses them to teach a lesson about moderation without becoming heavy-handed.

The text won awards from the School Library Journal, Horn Book, and IRA/CBC.

To much work...

...no time to read. Hopefully, regular posts on this and my other blog will start again next week.

Way too much stuff going on

U.S. History: Pre Columbia to the New Millennium

Discovering history is fun (right?)

U.S. History: Pre Columbia to the New Millennium, produced by ushistory.org, at http://www.ushistory.org/us/index.asp

Plot: A website dedicated to all major events in U.S. history from approximately 1300 A.D. to 2000 A.D. The site provides pages leading to a brief synopsis of important historical events and concepts. It also offers links offering further information addressing common questions, important locations, notable documents, and influential individuals.

Reading Level: Complex enough for an adult, intended for middle-schoolers.

Genre: Websites, History, Geography

Personal Thoughts: The Independence Hall Association of Philadelphia produces and maintains the site, ensuring accurate and relevant information. Like many topics on the Internet, American history is prone to misunderstanding and misinformation. By utilizing scholars to write and review the information, the website allows students to access a reliable resource. Additionally, many of the links connect to government documents which, while occasionally difficult to read, can allow viewers to think critically about the events forming their society.

Wildlife Library

Aminals!

Wildlife Library, produced by the National Wildlife Association, located at
http://www.nwf.org/Wildlife/Wildlife-Library.aspx

Plot: A collection of information about the United State's wildlife. The library provides links describing the different classes of animals, as well as plant life, native to North America. Additionally, the site has pages dedicated to some of the most popular creatures, including gray wolves, bald eagles, and rainbow trout. Each page includes information about the creature's habitat, lifestyle, and appearance, as well as links to similar articles and adoption opportunities.

Genre: Websites, Animals, Biology, Science

Reading Level: Accessible and relevant to elementary-age students and tweens.

Personal Thoughts: The site is easy to navigate and attractive to view. Additionally, it provides information in an easy to read manner without appearing concending. However, it does tend to focus on famous animals, and it typically meshes less popular creatures, such as cacti and toads, under a single heading, despite the diversity of the creatures. Still, the site provides useful information, which may be especially appreciated as final projects for the school year approach.

Dexter's Laboratory

Much like the cartoon, the older sibling annoys the younger

Dexter's Laboratory produced by Cartoon Network.

Plot: Dexter is an average, elementary-aged boy with a high grade point average and interest in science. He also has a large, complex laboratory, complete with supercomputers, nuclear chemicals, weapons, and killer robots. His parents remain clueless about the lab. However, his older sister, DeeDee, knows everything about the laboratory, much to her brother's chagrin. Dexter must maintain the lab's secrecy despite his sister's klutz-induced disasters.

Genre: Animation, Television, Comedy

Reading Level: I believe the show was rated TV-Y.

Similar Titles: Powerpuff Girls, Phineas and Ferb

Personal Thoughts: While I was always more of a Powerpuff Girl fan, Dexter's Laboratory set the stage for a new trend in Western animation. Cartoons began to focus on pleasing both children and adults, as some of the jokes in Dexter focus on one demographic or the other without necessarily excluding either. Like Powerpuff Girls, though, some newer viewers may find the older, rougher animation style unattractive. Still, many of the jokes remain relevant and pleasing to modern viewers.

JL8: A Webcomic

They will be giants

JL8: A Webcomic at http://jl8comic.tumblr.com/.

Plot: Everyone knows about the exploits of the Justice League. However, the team's adventures began well before its members reached adulthood. JL8: A Webcomic examines the life, trials, and times of DC's most famous characters in the third grade.

Genre: Websites, Comics

Reading Level: Due to the age of the heroes, most of the stories are pretty accessible. However, they also address common concerns of tweens, such as acceptance, popularity, and appearance, making them relevant to older readers.

Similar Titles: The Justice League

Personal Thoughts: Yale Stewart's comics are some of my favorites. They combine references to popular comics with common schoolyard concerns. The current arc, for example, focuses on familial expectations, young crushes, and concerns for others' feelings. To bring such complex concepts together, JL8 uses a highly social setting for all third graders...one of the popular girls' birthday party. The comic also utilizes classic comic styles and colors with a modern focus on expression and action. Overall, the comic, while cute, can offer a satisfactory experience for readers.

Announcement: New Project

I am beginning a new project that has absolutely nothing to do with this blog.

From now on, I will be alternating weeks between the new project and this one. The newbie is another blog, but it focuses on some of the less charismatic exhibits at zoos, aquariums, and museums. Please feel welcome to comment and explore Odd Corners. Per the plan, reviews will come next week.

Visit the site to discover the relevance of this penguin wanna-be (or wanna-was)

Powerpuff Girls

Blossom is my favorite

Powerpuff Girls produced by Cartoon Network.

Plot: Due to the acceedental inclusion of Chemical X, a blend of sugar, spice, and everything nice results in the creation of a super-cute, super-powered trio known as the Powerpufff Girls. The three girls, known as Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup, dedicate their powers and their lives to protect Townsville, the disaster-prone city of their creation. Overzealous fans, jealous schoolmates, supernatural forces, unreasonable chores, irate supervillains, schoolyard bullies, and bad habits threaten the town, but the Powerpuff Girls are determined to save the world before bedtime.

Genre: Animation, Action, Comedy, Television

Reading Level: Aimed at elementary ages, but much of the humor and references will appeal to older audiences.

Similar Titles: Dexter's Laboratory, Samurai Jack

Personal Thoughts: Apparently, the show's creator intended to use the cartoon to counter the melodramatic, sickly-sweet magical girl craze of the early 1990's. However, the show quickly became a force of its own due to its creative storylines and appealing characters. The series eventually won four awards, including two Primetime Emmys. I am not certain newer viewers will appreciate it, though. True, it avoids some of the reference problems of many other older cartoons. However, the animation style seems extremely rough, especially compared to the Flash-based animation of modern cartoons. Still, if viewers look past the old-school animation style, the series remains relevant and enjoyable.

Batman Beyond

Resume! Resume!

Batman Beyond distributed by Warner Brothers.

Plot: After decades of fighting crime, Bruce Wayne can no longer act as the famous vigilante. Shortly after he retires, though, a troubled high school student sparks a series of events leading to a change. Terry Mcginnis, a former delinquent, becomes the new batman. Under the tutalage of his predecessor, Terry learns to find and fight crime, although he maintains his own personality. The mix of old methods and unjaded vision allow him to counter new threats and returning villains.

Genre: Animation, Television, Action

Reading Level: While the series avoids gore, many of the episodes address death, social issues, and loss in a manner unsuitable for sensitive viewers.

Similar Titles: Batman the Animated Series, Superman the Animated Series

Personal Thoughts: The title, much like Batman the Animated Series, mixes character development, action, and realistic concerns to produce a highly acclaimed television show. Some of the impact came from addressing current concerns, such as genetic modification, environmental issues, rising levels of divorce, steroid usage in sports, and teen peer pressure in a futuristic setting. However, the realism also produced some very dark episodes with graphic, but not gory, results. It also had fewer "lighter" episodes than Batman the Animated Series did. As a result, the series may be inappropriate for younger viewers. Please understand viewers' sensitivities before recommending.

Math Curse

Falling ever deeper into the curse...

Scieszka, Jon and Smith, Lane. Math Curse. New York, N.Y. : Viking, 1995.

Plot: Math class was innocent enough until the teacher announced that nearly everything could be viewed as a math problem. One student, after carefully considering her statement, finds himself encased in a mathematical curse. Everything becomes a math problem. Each task, even getting dressed, becomes a series of increasingly difficult math problems. Eventually, the hex bleeds into conversations and cupcakes. Only a mind smarter than a word problem can break the terrible curse.

Genre: Picture Books, Math

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Science Verse, The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales

Personal Thoughts: The book cleverly mixes real math anxiety with fantasy results. While some complain about the title's repetition, most sources acknowledge the book's amazing capacity to make math interesting to non-mathematical readers.

Math Curse won a number of awards, including the ALA Best Book for Young Adults, Texas Bluebonnet Award, Booklist: Editor's Choice Award, and The Horn Book Fanfare.

Sorry for the delay...

...life took me by surprise a bit this week. Not in a bad way, but in a very, very busy one. As such, there will be no reviews this week. They will, however, resume next week. Please feel welcome to contemplate this pretty flower until then.

Battle of the Dinosaur Bones: Othniel Charles Marsh vs. Edward Drinker Cope

 Smacked by the hate

Johnson, Rebecca L. Battle of the Dinosaur Bones: Othniel Charles Marsh vs. Edward Drinker Cope. Minneapolis : Twenty-First Century Books, 2013.

Plot: At the beginning of the 1900's, people discovered enormous bones buried in the earth. Instead of labeling them as mere curiosities, scientists realized the fossils belonged to ancient animals. Eventually, two scientists, Othniel Charles Marsh and Edward Drinker Cope, began seeking the bones in earnest. However, instead of attempting to enhance palentology as a whole, the two became bitter rivals, stealing specimens and naming rights. Eventually, they began public arguments, fossil vandalism, and national scandals in the quest to overwhelm each other. While the two managed to raise palentology to new levels, their fighting also tainted the science for years to come.

Genre: History, Science

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Fossil Feud: Marsh and Cope's Bone Wars, Fossil Feud: The Rivalry of the First American Dinosaur Hunters

Personal Thoughts: The text offers an impressive view of the complex Marsh and Cope rivalry. While the story does give an accessible retelling of the two's infamous fights, it also hints at a greater truth. Much of the knowledge taken for granted needed to be discovered and the discovery process did not always occur politely, or even neatly. The text offers the acknowledgement of the human aspect in science. While many books describe scientists as altruistic and incapable of flaws, the text reminds readers of the mistakes and failures present in science. However, it does so without negating the positive aspects of science, as well.


Before recommending the title, keep in mind the text focuses on the process of discovering dinosaurs, not dinosaurs themselves. Readers seeking the biological aspect of palentology will be disappointed, so be aware of readers' actual interests.

Little Lions, Bull Baiters & Hunting Hounds

 Sprite the Dragon wishes he had a cool book fort...

Crosby, Jeff and Jackson, Shelly Ann. Little Lions, Bull Baiters & Hunting Hounds. Toronto : Tundra Books, 2008.

Plot: For thousands of years, dogs worked with people to accomplish specific jobs. Eventually, people began breeding dogs with ideal traits for certain tasks. As a result, dogs became separated into breeds focusing on chosen behaviors, appearances, and skills. The traits continue to modern times, separating a single species into hundreds of breeds.

Genre: Animals, History

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: The Complete Dog Book for Kids, Dog Breeds: An Illustrated Guide

Personal Thoughts: The book describes famous, as well as not-so-famous, breeds of dog such as the Newfoundland, Canaan dog, and poodle through a historical lens. Beautiful paintings illustrate the dogs' original homes and classic jobs. The book also explains why some breeds display complex traits such as stubborn behavior, energetic personalities, and playful tendencies. As a result, the text acts as a primer for selecting a personal pet or working dog.

BATTLE OF THE BOOKS: The Boy Who Drew Cats

 BATTLE OF THE BOOKS

Johnson, David. The Boy Who Drew Cats. Westport, CT : Rabbit Ears Books, 1991.

VS.

Levine, Arthur A. The Boy Who Drew Cats: A Japanese Folktale. New York : Dial Books for Young Readers, 1994.

Plot: Both stories closely follow the original folktale about a weak, but artistic, boy's obsession with drawing cats. Johnson's rendition, however, focuses more on the personification of the characters. By contrast, Levine tends to make his protagonists blank slates, offering the readers the opportunity for self-insertion. Levine's book also focuses on fewer characters, while Johnson adds a smith for the boy to interact with.

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Analysis: Johnson's retelling offering originally came with an audio tape, and its origins show in the text. The story is wordier, and focuses more on the text than the illustrations, which show little color with sharp outlines. Additionally, the naughtiness of the boy finds ample mention, making the tale more of a fable, perhaps earning parental approval. As a result, the story provides a more modern view of the tale than Levine's mystery-laden story.

Levine's text focuses more on the vagueness and unknown aspects of a typical fairy tale. Conversations and interactions are alluded to, instead of described, making the story more like a classic folk story. Characterization also takes a secondary role in the tale. Most of the text relies on the colorful, eerie pictures to set the tone, which is more sombre and strange than Johnson's tale.

Overall, I prefer Levine's story, since it captures the mystery and approachability of classic folktales. By contrast, while Johnson's text is more modern, it leave less to the imagination. Still, people seeking a direct story may prefer Johnson's rendition.

Lego Ninjago, Masters of Spinjitsu # 4: Tomb of the Fangpyre

Beware the t-shirt ninja dragon!

Farshtey, Greg. Lego Ninjago, Masters of Spinjitsu #4: Tomb of the Fangpyre. New York : Papercutz, 2012.

Plot: At the request of their sensei, the four ninja masters of Spinjitsu seek the legendary Serpent Stones. As expected, they face multiple trials in recovering the relics. The worst danger, however, may come from the truth of the stones themselves.

Genre: Comics, Adventure, Toys

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Lego Ninjago Encyclopedia, Indiana Jones Omnibus

Personal Thoughts: While this is not the first toy-based media I reviewed, it is the first to commit a simple, avoidable fault. It tells instead of shows. Comics have the unique opportunity to show action and story aspects beyond most texts. Unfortunately, this particular item frequently describes events instead of utilizing graphics. In all fairness, though, the story itself utilizes over-the-top creativity and contains an impressive plot twist. Still, a focus on action instead of "he says" moments could result in more effective storytelling.

The Trumpet of the Swan

Crushed by the march of time

White, E. B. The Trumpet of the Swan. New York : Harper & Row, 1970.

Plot: Growing up on a quiet swamp in Canada, Louis the trumpeter swan finds a friend in Sam, a quiet, nature-wise boy. However, Louis fails to find his voice. His father, determined to help his son, steals a trumpet for the cygnet. Louis, while grateful for the horn, realizes he must redeem his father by paying for the instrument. With Sam's help, Louis learns to play the trumpet and earn money as a musician. While the swan remains mute, he uses his wits, patience, and music to earn money, fame, and love.

Genre: Animals

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Charlotte's Web, The Capture

Personal Thoughts: The novel is remarkable. It combines a realistic problem (a bird with a flaw) with a series of fantastic but almost natural responses. Unfortunately, the solid plot cannot overcome the dated references and culture. Much like early Peanuts comics, several aspects of the story, such as chalk slates, swan boats, musician wages, and zoo collection policies are wildly outdated and require lengthy explanation for modern readers. As a result, the text, with its lovely plot, may prove unsuitable to current tweens.

The book won the William Allen White's Children's Book Award in 1973. It also provided a basis for an animated film universally panned for its poor animation and character design.

Kensuke's Kingdom

Sprite refuses to let anyone see him cry

Morpurgo, Michael. Kensuke's Kingdom. New York : Scholastic Press, 2003.

Plot: Following his parents' layoffs from the brick factory, Michael's life dissolves into despair. His father, however, decides to make the family's loss into an opportunity. They will travel for a year by boat to discover the world beyond their English city. The first part of the trip goes well, but, one night, in a moment of carelessness, he finds himself and his dog washed overboard. Much to his surprise, he does not drown. Instead, he finds himself on an island...and at the mercy of its sole inhabitant. The island's hermit, Mr. Kensuke, a survivor of World War II, expresses a reluctance to rejoin humanity, due to the destruction of war. Still, he learns to enjoy Michael's presence, even if he cannot stay with the boy.

Genre: Adventure, Coming of Age, Survival

Reading Level: Grades 4-6

Similar Titles: The Cay,  The Swiss Family Robinson

Personal Thoughts: Most survivor stories have a bittersweet aspect. Kensuke's Kingdom injects the sorrowful tone into every plot point. The family fights depression and arguments, even as they find themselves needing to rely on each other. Michael's desire for rescue conflicts with his loyalty to Kensuke, while Kensuke's longing to find his son and wife clashes with his conviction of their death. As a result, a sad strain seeps through the entire novel. I mentioned previously, discussing somber topics in tween novels can be tricky, since tweens often view grief differently than adults. As such, some tweens may enjoy the adventure but be turned off by the sad aspects, particularly in the ending, when Kensuke can be viewed as more selfish than sympathetic. Recommend with caution.

Harness Horses, Bucking Broncos & Pit Ponies: A History of Horse Breeds

Sprite wants a pony

Crosby, Jeff and Jackson, Shelley Ann. Harness Horses, Bucking Broncos & Pit Ponies: A History of Horse Breeds. Toronto : Tundra Books, 2011.

Plot: The title lists several horse breeds, ranging from the fiery Arabian to the calm Shire. Each chapter classes the horses according to their basic working origins, such as riding or carting. Additionally, each horse enjoys beautiful hand-drawn illustrations. The title provides an attractive overview of the world's most popular and influential horse breeds.

Genre: Animals, History

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Horses in Harness; Little Lions, Bull Baiters & Hunting Hounds

Personal Thoughts: While some of the illustrations and descriptions are idealized, the book uses them to teach readers about the history of horses. Much to Crosby and Jackson's credit, they address some of the concerns about feral horses and horse racing without bias, allowing readers to determine their own opinions regarding the creatures. A highly recommended title for horse fans.

Duck Dynasty

Sprite is watching a DVD

(Let me think I'm clever)

Duck Dynasty presented by A&E.

Plot: The series follows the daily events of the Robertson family. The family runs Duck Commander, an extremely popular and profitable duck-call company. However, they still encounter issues every family does, such as community events, school days, and yard sales. Additionally, they regularly participate in hunting, fishing, off-roading, and other "redneck" activities. Managing all aspects of their lives provides constant challenges and stress, but they still genuinely care for each other and their blessings.

Genre: Documentary, Television

Reading Level: I believe the shows are generally rated TV-Y7. The family avoids swearing, but some hunting and cleaning sequences may trouble sensitive viewers.

Similar Titles: Dirty Jobs, Billy the Exterminator

Personal Thoughts: While the show seems to follow the traditional, odd-family-making-a-reality-television-series formula, it also brings in some unique features. Family drama does appear in most episodes, but the drama resides mostly in good-natured taunts or contests rather than the more popular winners against losers method, making it a bit more family friendly than some other reality programs.

Additionally, the hunters, while inclined to goofiness, are not the bad guys. For some reason, hunting seems to be an aspect of most villains in fiction, and showing some of the reality of hunting offers viewers a new and, perhaps, needed view of a different lifestyle.

Magnus and the Fire

A pretty book with a confusing message

Armstrong, Jennifer. Magnus and the Fire. New York : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2005.

Plot: Magnus works as one of a four-horse team at a fire station. They provide constant service, but cannot compete with changing technology. A motor engine replaces the team. Most of the horses accept going to pasture with good humor. Magnus, however, refuses to accept his retirement. He continuously escapes his field to join the firefighters. Eventually, he proves his worth, although he must make way for technology. A retired fire chief adopts him, allowing the faithful horse to eventually discover a sense of peace.

Genre: Picture Books, Animals, History

Reading Level: Grades 1-4

Similar Titles: Winter's Gift, Mrs. Mack

Personal Thoughts: While the text included beautiful and elaborate illustrations, the ending seemed a bit confusing. The story seems to focus on the ineptitude and limits of technology, but the motor vehicle stays while the horse must leave, despite his heroism and effectiveness. As a result, the story falls flat and leaves the reader disappointed.  

The Unbreakable Code

In the lower right corner, we can observe the leg of the feral blogger

Miner, Julia. The Unbreakable Code. Flagstaff, AZ : Northland Pub., 1996.

Plot: John fears leaving the Navajo reservation for school, since it means leaving everything he knows. His grandfather, though, wants to tell him a story before he leaves. In World War II, he, like many Navajos, left their homes to help fight the battle. Their power did not come from their arms, strength, or schooling. It came from their own culture. Using the Navajo language as a base, they managed to produce an unbreakable code for the army. Eventually, he and most of his people returned home, without the parades or fanfare given to most veterans. Still, leaving taught him much about home, culture, and identity. John's grandfather assures him that leaving will strengthen him and his culture, instead of weakening it.

Genre: Picture Books, History

Reading Level: Grades 4-6

Similar Titles: The Silent Storm, The Girl Who Chased Away Sorrow

Personal Thoughts: The story offers an introduction to a vital, but still often overlooked, group of people in one of the worst wars in history. It also includes views into the horrors of a realistic battle and the importance of remembering history. Overall, the text is a dour, but effective, reflection on code talkers.

Blanca's Feather

It's a dragon and a duck reading a book about a chicken

There's a joke here, somewhere

Madrigal, Antonio Hernandez. Blanca's Feather. Flagstaff, Ariz. : Rising Moon, 2000.

Plot: The Feast of Saint Francis is coming. Everyone wants their animals to receive a yearly blessing during the celebration. However, Rosalie's pet chicken, Blanca, is missing. Rosalie fears Blanca may get sick or hurt by coyotes if the bird misses the festival. Desperate to protect her pet, Rosalie brings one of Blanca's feathers to be blessed. The priest complies with her request, which may save more than just Blanca.

Genre: Picture Books, Animals

Reading Level: Grades 1-4

Similar Titles: Minnie Moo and the Mask of Zorro, Henrietta and the Golden Eggs

Personal Thoughts: A brief, cute story about a Mexican tradition. For curious readers, Blanca is Spanish for White. 

The Good Little Bad Little Pig

 The classic story of a boy and his pig

Brown, Margaret Wise. The Good Little Bad Little Pig. New York : Hyperion Books for Children, 2002.

Plot: Peter wants a pet pig. However, he does not want a good pig or a bad pig. He wants one that is both, because that pig will be the best pig ever. A local farmer appears to have the ideal animal. The pig squeals, makes a mess, and stops traffic. However, he also finishes his dinner, takes a bath, and walks nicely on a leash. Most importantly, he is the best pig Peter could every hope for.

Genre: Animals, Picture Books

Reading Level: Grades 1-4

Similar Titles:  Poppleton, Dragon's Fat Cat

Personal Thoughts: The text provides a cute story from the writer of Goodnight Moon and the illustrator of An Octopus Followed Me Home. Highly recommended for fans of pigs. 

Cinderella's Dress

Sprite is entirely too interested in the princess

Willard, Nancy. Cinderella's Dress. New York : Blue Sky Press, 2003.

Plot: The familiar tale of Cinderella gains a new twist through this retelling. While Cinderella continues to labor under the demands of her stepfamily, two magpies observe her. They adopt her as their daughter and create a beautiful paper dress so she can go to the ball. Her sisters cruelly destroy the birds' labor, though, leaving the heroine dejected. However, a final gift from the magpies could ensure a happy ending for their beloved daughter.

Genre: Fairy Tales, Picture Books

Reading Level: Grades 1-4

Similar Titles: The Rough-Faced Girl, The Talking Eggs: A Folktale from the American South

Personal Thoughts: The book provides a sweet, sad, pretty retelling of the famous fairy tale.   

The Jewel Fish of Karnak

 We read the book before bedtime. So Sprite dreamed about it.

Base, Graeme. The Jewel Fish of Karnak. New York : Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2011.

Plot: The great Pharaoh Cat offers two petty thieves a chance to redeem themselves. They must retrieve the magnificent Jewel Fish of Karnak from the evil Crocodile Prince. Before the two leave, she warns them to keep the fish dry and to avoid taking anything other than the fish. Unsurprisingly, the two fail to observe either warning. However, a careful reader may rescue them from their eternal attempts to retrieve the fish.

Genre: Picture Books, Animals, Puzzles

Reading Level: Grades 1-4

Similar Titles: The Eleventh Hour, Tough Boris

Personal Thoughts: The title seems typical of Graeme, which is certainly a good thing. The story is exotic, but relatable. Gorgeous illustrations coat the book and complement the story. Additionally, the story includes a puzzle that I could not figure out to save my life that will undoubtedly amuse readers. However, I do not think the book is quite on par with Animalia or The Eleventh Hour. The tale lacks the same degree of whimsy as the older titles. Still, the text offers an amusing experience to readers.

Island: A Story of the Galapagos

A dragon and a turtle

Chin, Jason. Island: A Story of the Galapagos. New York : Roaring Brook Press, 2012.

Plot: A brief history of the creation and settlement of the Galapagos Islands. The text, separated into several parts, begins with the geographic aspects of the islands. After a time, they become settled by plant, bird, and reptilian life. Due to changes on the islands, the foreign creatures gradually shift in behavior and physical features. Eventually, the animals become unique to the island chain, and inspired scientists throughout the world.

Genre: Science, Picture Books

Reading Level: 1-4

Similar Titles: Meadowlands: A Wetlands Survival Story, Far from Shore: Chronicles of an Open Ocean Voyage, Redwoods

Personal Thoughts: A pretty, well-written introduction to the islands of the Galapagos. The title is expected to win several awards this year.

The Loathsome Dragon

Sprite says racist stereotypes are harmful and are everyone's problem

He is a very sensitive dragon

Wiesner, David and Kahng, Kim. The Loathsome Dragon. New York : Clarion Books, 2005.

Plot: The title retells a classic English folktale. After the passing of his beloved wife, the good king eventually remarries, granting Princess Margaret and Prince Richard a stepmother. However, the new queen, jealous of the king's pride in Margaret, curses the princess and transforms her into a terrible dragon. To save her, the prince must return despite the fury and manipulations of his stepmother. He must also kiss his bewitched sister three times.Yet, how can any prince trust a loathsome dragon?

Genre: Folklore, Picture Books

Reading Level: Grades 3-5

Similar Titles: The Well at the End of the World, The Great Smelly, Slobbery, Small-Toothed Dog: A Folktale from Great Britain, The Green Mist

Personal Thoughts: The title is lovingly filled with the story staples never really seen anymore. Perhaps I am being cynical, but what last, popular, non-parody title featured a genuinely malicious dragon, wicked stepmother, or heroic prince? Anyway, the elaborate illustrations complement the story without distracting from it, making it an enjoyable picture book.

The Phantom Tollbooth

Fantastic title (double-points for word play)

Juster, Norton. The Phantom Tollbooth. New York : Random House, 1961.

Plot: Milo, bored with school, toys, learning, and life in general finds an unexpected package waiting for him. After assembling the gift into a cardboard tollbooth  with a guidebook and some coins for toll, he drives his toy car through it. He finds himself in a nonsensical world of words, math, senses, philosophies, and peril. The land is plagued due to the banishment of the good princesses Rhyme and Reason. Determined to save the land, Milo seeks to save the princesses with the help of the noble watchdog, Tock, and the reluctant know-it-all, Humbug. However, the rescue will require the assistance of every source of benevolent power in the kingdom.

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Growing Up, Humor

Reading Level: Grades 4-9

Similar Titles: Journey to the Blue Moon, The Wayfinder, Alcatraz versus the Evil Librarian

Personal Thoughts: After viewing this book in nearly every library in existence, I finally got the nerve to read the title. I discovered why it is found everywhere. The story itself contains a pleasant mix of creative characters, clever plot devices, and smart word plays. Also, the moral of the tale remains highly relevant over fifty years after its creation. While the current generation enjoys enormous amounts of information and entertainment, like Milo, it needs to learn the value of such opportunities. However, the plot manages to display the lesson without becoming a dull morality play. I may need to purchase this title.

The text inspired several plays, musicals, operas, and films.

Side Note: I wonder if current readers will compare the Terrible Trivium to Slenderman.

Walking with Beasts: Whale Killer

 Mammals, mammals, everywhere!

Walking with Beasts: Whale Killer presented by BBC.

Plot: Following the success of Walking with Dinosaurs, Walking with Beasts: Whale Killer refers to the Age of Mammals. Most of the episode dedicates itself to ancient marine mammals, especially Basilosaurus, a massive, extinct whale. The show also addresses how changes in ocean climates affect land creatures, especially larger animals.

Genre: Documentary, Television

Reading Level: Not Rated; but does contain sequences with high violence and gore.

Similar Titles: Chased by Dinosaurs, Life of Mammals

Personal Thoughts: Like the previous Walking with series, the show attempts to recreate some of the world's most unique ancient animals. Unfortunately, it still falls into the speculation and spectacle trap. For example, the powerful Andrewsarchus is, in fact, known only through a single skull, making the description of muscles and hooves entirely speculative. Similarly, Basilosaurus' willingness to enter a shallow lagoon seems extremely unlikely, given the estimated size of the whale. Still, the show has its fans and, considering the still-impressive special effects, it is not difficult to understand why.

Tanked

Y U PUT TREVALLY IN THREE-FOOT TANK?

Tanked presented by Animal Planet.

Plot: The series follows the work, trials, and successes of a successful Las Vegas aquarium company. Some aquariums demand creative thinking under strict time schedules. Others allow the company to make a difference in their customer's lives.

Genre: Television, Documentary

Reading Level: Not Rated; occasional cursing may offend some viewers.

Similar Titles: Cake Boss, Billy the Exterminator

Personal Thoughts: I think I would enjoy this show more if I did not work at an aquarium. While I appreciate the series' ability to bring attention to the complexities of creating custom aquariums, it tends to avoid major issues facing the aquarium trade. For example, the show neglects to address the needs of the animals. Six-inch blacktip reef sharks, destined to reach four to six feet in length, cannot be housed in 4-foot long aquariums indefinitely. Triggerfish, pufferfish, lionfish, and naso tangs, while pretty, will eventually harass or devour anything they are kept with. Few public aquariums need any more of these animals, so donating such creatures is out of the question, leading to the abandonment or death of most of the fish. Also, the show neglects to mention the importance of "boring" but important aspects of maintaining a tank, such as cycling, water quality, and filtration. As a result, the tanks seemingly take an instant-creation quality, leading to misunderstanding of the difficulty in keeping a marine environment. To be fair, though, the show still manages to address some issues facing the aquarium trade, such as sustainability and tank size issues. The insider look, though, keeps me from really enjoying the program.

Walking with Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs

Dimetrodon explains how it really happened

Walking with Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs presented by BBC.

Plot: While dinosaurs remain the most beloved of ancient creatures, paleontologists find fossils that predate them. The show attempts to recreate life before the dinosaurs. Starting in the oceans, small, hard-bodied creatures eventually reach land and create a number of reptile-like animals. Strangely, the creatures eventually begin to show mammalian-like characteristics, leading to one of the oddest families, the mammal-like reptiles, no longer existing on the planet.

Genre: Documentary, Animals, Television

Reading Level: Not Rated, but examples of predation make it unsuitable for sensitive viewers.

Similar Titles: Walking with Dinosaurs, Dinosaurs Unearthed

Personal Thoughts: The series does promote interest in groups of animals often ignored by dinophiles. Unlike the more famous reptilians, most of the life addressed in Monsters is smaller, but still interesting. Unfortunately, the series lends itself to ample speculation, such as dimetrodon parental care or euchambersia toxicity. It also tends to focus on unlikely circumstances, such as a giant arthropod impaling itself on a tree stump. As a result, the series tends to be impressive, but not necessarily realistic.

Transformers: Prime

 Optimus is the best

Transformers: Prime presented by Hasbro Studios.

Plot: Following eons of war, the heroic Autobots find themselves on a strange planet inhabited by complex organic life. The planet, Earth, is one of the strangest they have encountered, but they quickly find allies among the humans. Three children form a team with the Autobots to help them adjust to the new land. However, the Autobots did not arrive alone. The evil Decepticons, lead by the former gladiator Megatron, also discover the planet. Unlike the Autobots, they do not crave peace, but domination at all costs.

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Television Shows, Science Fiction

Reading Level: I believe the show is rated TV-Y7; watchers may need to be cautioned about violence. Due to the robotic nature of most fights, however, there is not a lot of gore.

Similar Titles: Green Lantern: The Animated Series; Batman: The Animated Series

Personal Thoughts: The show represents a growing trend among animated programs. While they continue to be made for children, they also appeal to adults through character development and complex stories. It also displays realistic results. Heroism requires sacrifices with effects that do not disappear in the next episode. For example, when a character dies or gets injured, they stay dead or traumatized. While this makes good storytelling, it can also be too intense for sensitive viewers. For fans of character and action-focused programs, though, the series can be rewarding.

Side Note: I like how the kids act like actual characters. Previous series tend to fall into the trap of keeping children as props or loads.