Video/DVD

-- School Library Journal, 12/1/2005

Art–Techniques

Art'SCool, Vol. 1: Drawing with Patricia Polacco. videocassette or DVD. color. 16 min. Art'SCool. 2005. $65.

K-Gr 4–The premise of this new series is great–introduce young students to wonderful children's book illustrators who share their inspirations and demonstrate the techniques they use to create their illustrations. In the first volume of a projected series of 12 titles, author/illustrator Patricia Polacco tells a motivating story about her own school experience (she suffered with learning challenges and did not read until she was 14) and the importance of storytelling and art in her life. Unfortunately, the program is plagued by bad camera work, distracting backgrounds, and poor quality sound and special effects. During the art lesson, Polacco draws with pencil on textured paper. A narrator lists materials and describes the process as the drawing progresses, and fast-forwarded time frames interspersed with regular speed footage permit viewers to see the drawing sequence from start to finish. The narrator reviews the type of paper, pencils, and eraser to use and briefly describes shading and cross-hatching. This voice-over narration adds little to the production. Students would have benefited from hearing the artist herself talk about the art. Polacco is an appealing speaker and would have been perfectly able to describe her techniques. The art process itself is fascinating to watch as the first tentative pencil marks evolve into the desired forms and become bolder and more masterful. All of this is marred, however, by lighting inconsistencies, jerky camera pans, and zooms that remain blurred. These problems appear again at the end when the students create their own drawings. All in all, poor execution has marred a wonderful idea.–Emily Herman, Mary Lin Elementary School, Atlanta, GA

Computer Skills

Computer Craig (Series). 6 videocassettes or 6 DVDs. color. approx. 25-40 min. ea. with workbook, puppet. Computer Craig. 2005. $199.80 ser.; 30 day trial: $14.95 (+s/h). Includes: Computer Basics; Graphic Design; Word Processing; Internet Basics; E-mail Basics; Electronic Presentations.

Gr 1-6–Craig Kahn, a former elementary school teacher, teaches children basic computer skills in an organized, fun fashion in his "Computer Craig" persona. Accompanied by four puppets, he energetically provides computer education that is accessible to elementary-age students. Computer Basics introduces computer vocabulary, many different types of computers, and the basic parts of a computer. Desktop computers are the focus of the series. In Graphic Design, viewers learn how to use Microsoft Paint to create pictures. Word Processing introduces Microsoft Word. In Internet Basics, Computer Craig clearly discusses online safety before teaching children how to surf the Web using Internet Explorer. E-mail Basics explains what e-mail is before teaching how to send, reply, and attach files to an e-mail message. Electronic Presentations teaches the basics of Microsoft PowerPoint, and then uses a PowerPoint presentation to briefly review all of the previous programs. In each presentation, vocabulary is clearly presented and defined. Toolbars and other screen elements are explained and their functions are explored. Skills build on each other from simple tasks like opening a program to more complex ones like inserting clipart. Certain features are found in all of the programs, such as "Drill Sergeant Jill" who provides a mental workout, "Mr. Knowit B. Cause" who answers specific questions, and "Big Idea Betty" who introduces application lessons at the end of each program. Students also learn about various computer careers. While the programs are mostly software-specific, the skills can usually be applied to similar software and would still be valuable for users with an earlier version of the software program. The workbook provides specific tasks that are coordinated with Big Idea Betty's application lessons. It seems to be up to teachers to decide how to use the well-made puppet of CC Jr., one of the characters. Video and audio quality are good. Pacing is brisk, but viewers are encouraged to rewind and watch again if they get stuck. While best used one-on-one, it would be possible to use the series in a carefully-monitored classroom setting. A valuable adjunct to elementary level computer science classes.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

ESL

Disney's World of English (Series). 12 videocassettes or 12 DVDs. color. approx. 1 hr. ea. with 30 CDs (approx. 65 min. ea.), 12 Spanish language guides, 12 hardcover books, 1 treasure chest filled with stick-ons, activity cards, and educational games. Lexicon. 2005. video: ISBN 1-59172-098-2, DVD: ISBN 1-50172-090-7. $899 ser. (+ $42 s/h).

PreS-Gr 5–Based on principles developed by Shinichi Suzuki, noted educator/musician, this series offers Spanish-speaking parents a method to help their child in acquiring fluency in English. Each DVD/video contains 45 minutes to an hour of instruction starting with basic greetings and introductions and continuing to storytelling and comprehension. Disney's brushed off some of the old archives and Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Chip, Dale, and others are part of the learning experience. The visuals include slightly animated iconographic presentations, clips from old Disney cartoons with added narration to enhance comprehension, and live-action segments using a multiethnic cast of children. Each module includes a DVD or video, a hardcover book, two CDs, and a parent's guide that contains information in Spanish about the goals of the unit and how parents can help their children succeed. A complete Spanish/English transcript of all materials is included, as well as extension activities to reinforce key concepts. Parents are encouraged to actively monitor and participate in their child's learning. The treasure chest contains activity cards and materials, as well as a "Jiminy Cricket Right Light." The CDs include much of the material found in the videos, with increased detail and activities involving the book and treasure chest items. The Right Light is used to select answers in the book, and lights up when the correct answer is chosen. Students are expected to interact with the video, sing along, do motion activities, and use the treasure chest items for hands-on manipulation. Instruction starts out on a very basic level and increases in difficulty. Language skills are also applied to basic counting and math skills, fire safety, hygiene, and good manners. Many of the skills covered would meet state standards in some subject areas (telling time, problem solving, etc.). The programs feature different themes–a birthday party, a picnic, a mystery at the zoo, and a circus. Chip and Dale provide comic relief throughout. This is Disney's old-fashioned world, with milkmen, gas station attendants, and a circus sideshow that might be considered politically incorrect today (e.g., fat lady, tall man, etc.). Audio and visual quality are excellent. The program is designed for home use, and libraries that purchase it will undoubtedly check it out for that purpose. The consumable materials in the treasure chest, designed to supplement the CDs, may be purchased separately. The video portion of the program is not dependent on the consumables. This extensive series would be a useful home supplement to classroom ESL programs.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Early Childhood

Babytalk. DVD. color. 22 min. Prod. by Zeya & Milo Prods. Dist. by Instructional Video. 2004, 2005 release. $17.99.

PreS—Subtitled "a sign language program handmade by moms for babies and the people who love them," this program, though appealing, suffers from unfortunate flaws.The organization of the signs into morning, afternoon, and nighttime activities lends a useful structure. Each segment focuses on one sign, such as "eat," "bath," or "more," and begins and ends with a close-up of a woman's torso as she demonstrates the sign with red-gloved hands, a fact which completely disregards the importance of facial expression in sign language. (Even in signs produced near the face, such as "eat," the woman's face is replaced with a bizarre smiley face.) In between, there is actual footage of babies and parents using signs in the home. Though the program never claims to be using American Sign Language, many of the signs are ASL signs; others, such as "diaper," are not. Still other signs are variations of ASL signs or incorrectly produced ASL signs. In any case, the lack of explanation or context may confuse sign language novices and perpetuates misconceptions about sign language in general. The Signing Time series (Two Little Hands Productions) remains the gold standard of baby and toddler sign language videos and DVDs.–Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

Fun Baby. DVD. color. 30 min. with CD. Prod. by Calm Baby.Dist. by Big Kids Prods. 2005. ISBN 0-9715683-3-2. $19.95.

PreS–Designed for babies from birth to age three, this production uses a combination of classical music and traditional children's music to entertain infants and toddlers while encouraging their development and revealing their playful and happy nature. It consists of live-action shots of brightly colored toys and other objects. The footage includes lots of scenes featuring water. Among the vignettes is a series of shots featuring a duck puppet at the beach. The pictures are bright, engaging, and developmentally appropriate for the intended audience. Instrumentals and vocal pieces play in the background. Among them are "If You're Happy And You Know It," "Pop Goes the Weasel," and Strauss's "Pizzicato Polka." All of the classic pieces are by Strauss. The CD includes the 16 musical pieces featured on the DVD. This would be a popular addition to large public library collections.–-Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Mister Rogers' Neighborhood: Going to School. videocassette or DVD. color. approx. 64 min. with tchr's. guide. Prod. by Family Communications. Dist. by Anchor Bay Entertainment. 2005. $14.98.

PreS-Gr 1–Children are introduced to all of the delights of Mister Rogers in two episodes from the award-winning television show, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. In "Mister Rogers Goes to School," in the Neighborhood of Make Believe, Anna Daniel and Prince Tuesday are attending their first day of school. They learn to spell their names and the word guitar. In the meantime, Mister Rogers visits a real school bus driver who teaches him about the bus and takes him for a ride. Even though the episode is from 1979, it doesn't feel dated and will appeal to children getting ready to attend school.The second segment, "Learning" (1992), finds Mister Rogers teaching about the various sizes of batteries and how they make different items work, such as a flashlight, a toy, and Mr. McFeely's car. In the Neighborhood of Make Believe, everyone is preparing for the children to take a field trip. Both episodes contain all of the elements that made the show so successful–education, music, friends, and fun. The DVD contains a host of fun extras including the all time favorite tour of the crayon factory, a sing-along, a read-along, recipes for egg salad sandwiches and alphabet soup, a gallery of all of the neighborhood friends, and a fascinating biographical photo gallery of Fred Rogers.–Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

My Little Pony: A Very Minty Christmas. DVD. color. 66 min. Prod. by Paramount Pictures. Dist. by Genius Products. 2005. ISBN 1-4157-1132-1. $16.99.

PreS-K–Everyone in Ponyville prepares for the arrival of Santa Claus and Christmas by participating in activities such as making candy canes, hanging strings of lights and bows, building snowmen, and decorating trees in this animated feature. Well-meaning Minty adjusts the "Here Comes Christmas Candy Cane" on the large tree in the town square, but accidentally drops and breaks it. To her, this spells disaster, as this is the candy cane that guides Santa to Ponyville each Christmas. Minty asks her friends what she should do. At first, she plays "Santa" by giving away socks from her sock collection. Then she decides to fly by hot air balloon to the North Pole to visit Santa and update him on what has transpired. Her friends follow her to the North Pole and locate her at the moment of peril and rescue her. All is forgiven, and Santa borrows Minty's idea of leaving presents in the stockings hanging by each chimney. The perfectly coiffed ponies prance around singing and talking with youthful Betty Boop-like voices and looking at the world through large Japanese animé-style eyes. Two musical production numbers are worked into the story. Extras include a bonus episode, "Dancing in the Clouds," and two sing-along songs. Sure to be a hit with My Little Pony fans.–Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

Wordwindow. videocassette or DVD. color. 28 min. Wordwindow. 2005. video, ISBN 0-9774484-1-X: $16.95; DVD, ISBN 0-9774484-0-1: $18.95.

PreS-K–This title is intended to encourage language development and intellectual growth in babies and toddlers, ages 9 months to 5 years, using a combination of sparkling computer graphics, animation, and live-action footage to introduce the letters of the alphabet. For example, with the letter A, the segment begins with brightly colored, sparkling strokes writing the letter on the screen. Next, the text letter A appears onscreen followed by a child making silly sounds to the accompaniment of the letter again being "written" on the screen. The silly sounds are included to encourage children to have fun with their voices. The child then narrates the sounds of the letter followed by colorful dots and three-dimensional shapes appearing and moving about the screen along with more glitter and sparkles and more silly sounds. Throughout the program, human vocals are synchronized with the movements of shapes and colors. Lastly, the letter A and the words "An" and "Ants" appear on the screen followed by live-action footage of ants scurrying about.The format may be too busy to hold the attention of some younger viewers and the silly sounds may be confusing when interspersed with the sounds of a particular letter. An additional purchase for public libraries.–Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Guidance–General

Facing Fear without Freaking Out. videocassette or DVD. color. 80 min. Prod. by Comical Sense Co. Dist by Instructional Video. 2005. video: ISBN 0-9762843-9-1, DVD: ISBN 0-9762843-8-3. $14.99.

Gr 1-6–Trevor Romain, a motivational speaker and author, offers counsel on anxieties youngsters face in a humorous and kid-friendly fashion. In the main program (30 min.), he addresses the issue of fear and how to deal with it. Slick, bold, colorful animation makes up the majority of the program, with occasional live-action segments where Romain interacts with the cartoon characters to provide adult guidance. In the animated portion, 12-year-old Jack and Skye learn to acknowledge their fears, recognize that fear is normal, and then apply strategies for dealing with it. The story takes place in an amusement park and is filled with adventure, advice, and a wacky, laugh-out-loud sense of humor. Fight or flight is explained, and adrenaline is also discussed. The anxieties presented include standard ones like fear of the dark and fear of heights, as well as social concerns such as a fear of being chosen last or not fitting in. There's even a fear of raisins. (Don't ask.) A great Spanish/English song, "No Tengo Miedo," pops up several times to help reinforce key concepts. Coping strategies are discussed and reiterated. Video and audio quality are crisp and clean. Background music and sound effects enhance the production, and pacing is excellent. The DVD includes special features such as interviews with Trevor Romain and the animators, audio commentary, music, scene selection, and settings that permit English or Spanish subtitles to be turned on and off. This excellent production is right on target. Children and adults will be entertained and hardly even realize that they're being educated at the same time. It would be a fabulous choice for classroom use, and would lead naturally into important discussions about fear and coping. You might even want to show it before the next standardized test.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

A Dog's Life: A Dogamentary. DVD. color. 88 min. Kirschenbaum Prods.2004. $24.95.

Gr 9 Up–Gayle Kirschenbaum, a single New Yorker, set out to chronicle the search for a husband for herself and her Shih Tzu, Chelsea. Internet dating (and how the man reacts to her devotion to Chelsea), introducing Chelsea to a possible mate (and getting to know his owners), and Chelsea's adventures with a doggie cam (to picture the world from her point of view) would have resulted in a light, entertaining film. But after 9/11, Kirschenbaum felt that this was too ephemeral to devote her energies to, and enrolled Chelsea in therapy dog training (therapet). Their volunteer work at a New York hospice, as well as Kirschenbaum's changed focus after the terrorist attack, became a part of the film, the project, and their lives. The result is a funny and touching film about how dogs and people interact and about the impact a therapy dog can have on the dying and their families. Gayle clearly demonstrates that Chelsea (even before 9/11) was a major part of her life, and discusses her feelings about their relationship. Filmmaker Albert Maysles interviewed Gayle in the early days of the first incarnation of the film, and after 9/11 filmed some of the hospice segments. The DVD includes a 36 minute and a 52 minute version. Extras on the longer version include a director's cut, deleted scenes, and Kirschenbaum answering questions about the film, Chelsea, and her life. This well-made, entertaining, and meaningful film has a lot to say about life, death, pets, and relationships. Pet and owner are natural and comfortable on film, and Gayle is at ease even with strangers approached on the street. Useful in classes dealing with death and dying as well as the relationships between people and their pets.–Melody Moxley, Rowan Public Library, Salisbury, NC 

Getting Ready for Kindergarten. videocassette or DVD. color. approx. 45 min. Prod. by Rock 'n Learn.Dist. by Big Kids Prods. 2005. video, ISBN 1-878489-98-4: $14.95; DVD, ISBN 1-878489-52-6: $19.95.

PreS–This upbeat production features a helpful and polite brother and sister, Joey and Jill, who are busily preparing to do well in kindergarten. The computer animated siblings work on items that are expected of kindergarteners such as eating a good breakfast, dressing themselves, tying their shoes, making their beds, and keeping their rooms clean. They discuss a few aspects of school, such as asking permission to use the restroom (and not waiting until it's too late!), walking in a line, and art time.Colors, numbers, and shapes are cleverly interwoven into the numerous songs which reinforce counting, drawing a self portrait (including the oft forgotten eyebrows and eyelashes), writing letters and numbers, sorting, gluing, left/right orientation, holding scissors, and cutting skills. Proper care of books as well as listening and comprehension skills are also addressed. While there is too much information here to absorb in one sitting, the likeable characters and catchy music will definitely help encourage a child's enthusiasm for school.–Leigh Ann Rumsey, Penn Yan Academy, NY

Taking the "Duh" Out of Divorce. videocassette or DVD. color. 1:20 hrs. Prod. by Comical Sense Co. Dist. by Instructional Video. 2005. video: ISBN 0-9762843-7-5, DVD: ISBN 0-9762843-6-7. $14.99.

Gr 1-6–Jack and Skye, animated middle school friends, return in this latest offering from children's book author Trevor Romain. Romain helps Skye work through anger, fear, and sadness when her parents announce their divorce. Through a courtroom dream sequence in which Skye opposes and Jack defends the parents' right to end their marriage, Skye learns that the divorce is neither her fault nor her problem to fix. She discovers that her parents will still love her, she doesn't have to take sides, shouldn't hide her emotions, and it's important to talk to friends. She also acquires some coping skills to deal with shared holidays and life in two homes.While Jack's jokes are a bit campy at times, the overall message is valuable, and the lack of a simplistic conclusion ("It will be tough for a while" and "There are no easy answers") will be appreciated by both parents and children. Special features on the DVD include "Trevor Live on Divorce," an interview with Romain,five music videos and karaoke, audio commentary, and a resource guide for parents and educators. This fast-paced and engaging production will effectively open the lines of communication and encourage healing.–Leigh Ann Rumsey, Penn Yan Academy, NY

XS Stress: Teens Take Control. videocassette or DVD. color. 29 min. Cambridge Educational. 2005. ISBN 1-4213-2552-7. $59.95. 

Gr 7-12–Three young people are highlighted, but many more have their say on what stresses them out and what they do to deal with stress. Twenty-year-old Sarah is into punk music and tattoos, she has piercings and is a former cutter. Seventeen-year-old Kira found out she was dyslexic only after she developed an anger problem that led to acting out, cutting school, and being labeled a "bad kid."Seventeen-year-old Jarrel is very busy–he's a dancer, a cheerleader, a member of the band, and proud of the fact that he knows who he is despite all of the taunts he receives about his sexuality. Viewers learn about these three young people as they talk of struggles with teachers, classmates, and themselves. The teens represent different races, cultural backgrounds, styles, tastes, and interests. The comments by other students interspersed throughout represent a wide range of ideas. A sixteen-year-old girl named Kyra who raps about her own difficult situation is a real standout. The teens mention all kinds of stressers including school, jobs, bullying, family, sexuality, responsibilities, and time management. They also talk about their own ways of dealing with stress: focusing on their goals; talking to friends, parents, or a help line; sports; music; and other after-school activities. This program is current and will maintain teen viewers' interest, but doesn't try to be too cool with flashy editing or music. A good addition to both school and public libraries.–Kimberly Paone, Elizabeth Public Library, NJ

Guidance–Careers

The Futures Channel Digital Video Resource Library: Math and Science on Location. DVD. color. with CD-ROM, tchr's. guide. The Futures Channel. 2005. ISBN 0-9764853-0-3. $299.

Gr 4-12–Math and science teachers looking to show their students why they need to learn about algebraic integers, ratios, or electromagnetism will find these snazzy mini-movies just the ticket. The 67 brief videos (less than 5 minutes each) show people working in jobs in which they use math and science. The CD-ROM guide expands on each segment with curriculum connections, word problems, and hands-on activities. Divided into general categories of math, science, technology, and arts, career examples include a Barbie doll designer, Yankee Stadium hot dog vendor, campground creator, tornado chaser, percussionist, rice farmer, sports photographer, and more. Roller coaster engineers, shown at Six Flags theme park, talk about kinetic energy, linear acceleration, and other physics principles used in planning  exciting rides that contain an element of danger. The printable follow-up in the guide pertaining to the roller coaster segment offers word problems on probability, statistics, and velocity. Although these segments are not very detailed, they will pique student interest for further exploration. Some topics, such as ocean exploration and telescopes, are continued in successive segments. The DVD format allows users to search by topic, title, or segment number. References to standards refer to curriculum connections rather than local or national educational standards. This is a great way to show students the connection between math and science skills and interesting and fulfilling career choices.–Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY 

Health

Intricate Minds: Understanding Classmates with Asperger Syndrome. videocassette. color. 12 min. Coulter Video. 2005. $30.

Gr 6-12–Students with Asperger Syndrome (AS), the high end of the autism spectrum, talk about how they think and feel, and about their behavior which classmates may find quirky, in this excellent film. The narrator, a college student with AS, explains that their brains are wired differently and they often have difficulty with social interactions because they don't recognize body language or other social cues, even though they may be highly intelligent.Based on studies of their behavior, some authorities believe that Mozart and Einstein, among other high achievers, may have had AS. Ten articulate AS students talk poignantly about difficulties with ordinary interaction, as well as their strengths and interests which may become obsessions. They mention problems they've had being accepted by some classmates, and how much they enjoy their friends. These students also stress that they want to be accepted for who they are–unique individuals with talents and weaknesses like everyone else.The students featured are all Caucasian, and the film doesn't mention that AS affects people of all races. The producer's Web site, coultervideo.com, offers many interesting and informative articles that would be useful to teachers showing the film.–Anitra Gordon, formerly Lincoln High School, Ypsilanti, MI

Literature

The Great Gatsby: A DVD Study Guide (Rockebook Series). DVD. color. Rocketbook. 2005. ISBN 0-976-9088-0-8: $6.99.

Gr 9-12–Using a combination of live-action footage, animation, and colorful graphics, this interactive study aid guides students chapter-by-chapter through the text of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic (Scribner's, 1925). Each chapter is broken down into easily manageable chunks, covering all of the characteristic items that come up on tests and are useful in writing essays: character development, thematic elements, pivotal plot points, and motivation. The analysis is followed by an interactive quiz for each chapter. This study guide differs from other text-based study aids by offering a fast-paced visual presentation. Although the interface is fairly intuitive, no information on how to navigate the DVD is included. There are about a dozen of these guides available for titles ranging from Macbeth to The Crucible to 1984. The guides are subtitled in Spanish. This useful and engaging study aid would be a good purchase for both school and public libraries.–Charli Osborne, Oxford Public Library, MI

Music

All Around the Kitchen. DVD. color. approx. 50 min. Prod. by Festival Five Records. Dist. by Big Kids Prods. #M441-DVD. $15.95.

K-Gr 4–This fabulous production consists of a concert that the terrific group Dan Zanes and Friends performed at the Knitting Factory in New York City in December 2004, as well as six music videos. In the concert, Zanes was joined by musicians Colin Brooks, Barbara Brousal, Yoshi Waki, Cynthia Hopkins, and Father Goose (Rankin' Don). They performed before an enthusiastic family audience that sang along and participated in song actions. Zanes, with his mussed hair, smiled widely, pranced and danced around the stage, changed instruments often, and sang beautifully. Most of the songs are in folk or rock style, plus one waltz. Zanes wrote "Wonder Wheel," a tune about ferris wheels, and Brousal wrote the Spanish song "Malti." The other traditional songs, arranged by Zanes, include: "Pay Me My Money Down," "Strike the Bell," "Polly Wolly Doodle," "Father Goose" (a medley of nursery rhymes), "Down in the Valley" (aka "Ride, Sally, Ride"), "Hokey Pokey," and "Sidewalks of New York" (during which, the band left the concert hall and walked outside, followed by the audience). Four of the music videos feature live action, and two are animated. The songs include: "Jump Up," "Hello," "House Party Time," "Go Down Emmanuel Road," "All Around the Kitchen," and "Wanderin'." A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the DVD will go to Heifer International, a group which works to eliminate hunger in impoverished areas; a short documentary featuring the work of this group is also included. Fans of Dan Zanes and children's music in general will love this production and be inspired to see one of the live concerts.–Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

Parenting Skills

Preparing for Kindergarten: A Parent's Guide. videocassette or DVD. color. 45 min. MG Video Prod. 2004. $45 (+ $4.95 s/h).

Gr adults–Parents will find this well-produced title useful andreassuring. In six segments, a group of well-spoken experts, including child psychologists, pediatricians, and speechpathologists, cover indicatorsof kindergarten readiness. They also outline the important role that parents play in modeling andreinforcing behavior, making their child feel secure and confident,and reinforcing concepts and learning techniques. The sections include "Health & Development," "Social & Emotional Issues," "Speech & Language," "Emerging Literacy," "Concept Development," and "Transitioning." Concepts are clearly and logically presented, speakers are easy to understand, and transitions between speakers are well executed. Libraries with parenting collections willfind this an excellent and much-appreciated addition.–Rachel Q. Davis, Thomas Memorial Library, Cape Elizabeth, ME

Reading with Babies (Leyendo con bebes). videocassette or DVD. color. 18 min. Read to Me Program. 2005. $49.95 (+$6 s/h).

Gr 11 Up–This title offers live-action footage of 50 families reading to their children. The diverse parents speak English, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese, and all of the children featured are under the age of two. Narration complements the video footage and reiterates all of the positive outcomes achieved by reading aloud to young children, such as helping them to learn new words, love language, make connections, get serious, solve problems, express feelings, and eventually succeed in school. The DVD offers either English or Spanish narration. The narration provides insights into what one can expect when they pair infants and toddlers with books. For example, it is explained that children just learning to walk may listen while they are exploring and come back to check in with you, while newborns love the sound of their parent's voice and can focus on a single picture. The narrator offers the reassuring message that while it may not look like reading, it is! Another segment of the DVD is dedicated to encouraging viewers to keep books with them because they can "go anywhere and make difficult times easier." This is accompanied by footage of a parent reading to a child at a laundromat, a child looking at a plastic book in the bathtub, and a baby handling a book while having its diaper changed. The advice offered to parents and caregivers is useful and realistic. This title fills a niche in the public library as it supports early literacy, especially for parents and caregivers of children ages birth to 2, and would be a useful purchase for public libraries, especially those offering early literacy training.–Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Religion

Five-Minute Bible Stories (unabr.). 2 cassettes. 1:52 hrs. Prod. by Chivers Children's Audio Books. Dist. by BBC Audiobooks America. 2005. ISBN 1-4056-5039-7. $18.95. 

K-Gr 3–This collection of 20 Bible stories is narrated by British voice talent Clifford Norgate. The well-written stories are from the book by Lois Rock (Augsburg Books, 2005). The reading begins with simple introductory material regarding the culture of the period. The paraphrased stories, presented chronologically from the creation through the crucifixion of Christ, are concise and easily understood. Among the stories are: "The Beginning of the World," "Noah and the Flood," "Abraham and Isaac," "Joseph and His Dreams," "Daniel and the Lions," "The Birth of Jesus," "The Story of the Cross," and more. This title will make a nice addition to collections that circulate religious materials, and will well serve those interested in supplemental or introductory Bible stories for group or individual listening.–Kirsten Martindale, formerly Menomonie Public Library, WI

The Gift of Chanukah. DVD. color. 43 min. Prod. by Jewish Educational Media.Dist. by Tapeworm. 2004, 2005 release. $14.95.

Gr all levels–This DVD contains videos with historical examples of miracles throughout history, governmental officials from across the world acknowledging and celebrating Chanukah, and examples of family observances of the holiday. Viewers learn about the history, cultural aspects, traditional recipes, and games of Chanukah. The computer-only game component consists ofpuzzles, word searches, and other games. There are also four oil-laden recipes provided for traditional Chanukah foods. Setup options allow the program to be run in English, French, Spanish, Russian, and Hebrew. The graphics and videography are clear and professionally presented. Even the kindergarten performance of the reenactment of the Chanukah battle and the children's choir are presented professionally. Four former United States Presidents, Governor Arnold Schwartzenager, an astronaut, Heads of State from several European nations and Russia, as well as many Israeli government leaders are pictured in various portions of the program. However, there is one major flaw. The menorah lighting how-to video segment and the accompanying Blessings card have the word "shel" missing from the first blessing. Shel in Hebrew means "of" (referring to the candles "of" Chanukah). This word is not omitted from the other video segments. Without this problem, this would be a perfect addition to a library's Chanukah collection.–Sherrie Davidson, Congregation Rodef Shalom Library, Denver, CO

Science

African Elephants: Crash of the Titans (Animal Conservation Series). videocassette or DVD. color. 30 min. with tchr's. guide. Prod. by ABC International. Dist. by Chip Taylor Communications. 2004. ISBN 1-57192-721-2. single site–video: $79.99, DVD: $89.99 (Rental: $50); multi site–video: $125, DVD: $150 (Rental: $75).

Gr 7 Up–Elephants have lived in Africa for 750,000 years but are in danger of becoming extinct due to loss of habitat. Male narration and scenes of African landscapes, albeit in muted colors, combine for an informative documentary. Scenes of trophy hunts and the poaching of ivory together with commentary from (a young) Dr. Richard Leakey add historical perspective to this study. But it is Africa's burgeoning human population that most threatens the elephants. Land is needed for agriculture and this has pushed elephants into game preserves and national parks where they are easy targets for poachers. Within parks like Tsavo, elephants have reached carrying capacity. There is need for management. One solution is culling; another is allowing elephants to migrate to historic feeding grounds–but this solution puts the elephants in conflict with cultivated fields. Each solution is controversial. The outstanding feature of this film is that it asks questions and offers possible solutions but doesn't provide the answers. Viewers must decide since it is the world in which we live and we are all responsible. Science, geography, current events, and history classes can make use of this documentary. Teachers can utilize it to spark classroom discussions and further research. The aged interviews and one corny scene with wooly mammoths and cave dwellers do not detract from its overall usefulness.–Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

A Daring Flight (Nova Series). videocassette or DVD. color. approx. 1 hr. WGBH Boston. 2005. video: ISBN 1-59375-253-9, DVD: ISBN 1-59375-254-7. $19.95.

Gr 7 Up–While the content focuses primarily on the efforts and successes of lesser-known French early aviators, the production as a whole captures the history of the human quest for flight regardless of geography. In some awesome black-and-white stills and moving footage, enhanced by an enthusiastic musical score when narration is absent, the early struggles of Louis Bleriot, airplane designer and risk-taking test pilot, are compared and contrasted to the design plans of others in the race to be the first to fly long distances. The film not only documents the history of the quest, but also explains in viewer-friendly terms the physics principles behind the alterations in the designs which eventually led to the aircraft with which we are familiar today. Some footage, enhanced by sound effects, is particularly humorous when illustrating the more offbeat constructions. Animated graphics, which are sparsely used, are sharp and relevant to the topic. Narration by David Ogden Stiers is both crisp and emotive. The production retains viewer interest by going back and forth between the story of the elder Bleriot and his grandson, who recently tried to recreate the 1909 flight across the English Channel.–Janet Musil, Sandburg High School, Orland Park, IL

Farming the Seas. videocassette or DVD. color. 56 min. Prod. by Habitat Media. Dist. by Bullfrog Films. 2004. video: ISBN 1-59458-057-X, DVD: ISBN 1-59458-058-8. $250 (Rental: $85).

Gr 9 Up–With the global human population continuing to grow and most wild fish stocks at the point of depletion, there is an urgent need for alternative methods of obtaining food from the oceans. Farming the Seas describes how the aquaculture industry is rapidly expanding to fill this void, but not without serious environmental, societal, and health consequences. Although many serious problems with aquaculture are raised, the program presents a reasonably balanced view. Industry advocates voice their opinions and offer potential solutions to many of the problems. Four areas of aquaculture are examined in detail: salmon farming in British Columbia, raising non-predatory fish and shellfish in China, large-scale shrimp farming in Southeast Asia, and the Mediterranean tuna industry. Salmon, shrimp, and tuna require a seafood-based diet. The program covers a number of problems that emerge from this practice, including depletion of food fish stocks and the concentration of hazardous compounds in fish flesh. An outstanding job is done in contrasting the farming of these species with the more sustainable Chinese practice of raising non-predatory fish and shellfish. Other threats that are discussed include transmission of disease to wild populations, pollution, losses to local economies and societies, and the destruction of important habitats. The narration by Peter Coyote is excellent. Numerous short interviews effectively feature both advocates and opponents of aquaculture enterprises, including indigenous people, scientists, and industry representatives. With adequate background information provided prior to viewing, the program would be suitable for students in ninth grade and above.–Tim Maret, Shippensburg University, PA

When Is Enough, Enough?: The Appetite for Oil (The Nature of Things Series). videocassette or DVD. color. 47 min. (closed captioned). Prod. by Canadian Broadcasting Co. Dist. by Bullfrog Films. 2004, 2005 release. video: ISBN 1-59458-232-7, DVD: ISBN 1-59458-233-5. $250 (Rental: $85).

Gr 10 Up–One of the largest oil deposits in North America lies within the Peace-Athabasca Delta in Alberta, Canada. Shell Canada wants the right to develop these oil sand fields and the First Nations people, the Mikisew Cree, seek to protect their native home from environmental degradation that would result from the oil exploration. Tracing the governmental hearing process that allows each side to present its arguments, this documentary focuses on the Native Americans. The film features exquisite photography, native music, and the voices of the Cree people. Tribal elders describe the changes that have taken place over the years, mostly due to a lack of water–water used by the oil drilling industry. A way of life stands at the brink of extinction. A panel of scientists assist the Cree at the government hearings.Although government officials interviewed onscreen present weak arguments, viewers realize that the case of the Natives is hopeless against the big oil companies. Industry wins out in this case study, and Shell Canada gets its permits to drill. A wide range of issues are discussed, including global climate change, rights of indigenous peoples, governmental bureaucracy, the power of money, and a changing economy that requires young Cree to leave the land of their birth and seek education and jobs in urban areas.This timely program can be utilized in classes across the curriculum.–Patricia Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Wonders of Butterflies. videocassette or DVD. color. approx. 15 min. Lamproductions. 2005. #1103. video: $28.95, DVD: $32.95.

Gr4 Up–The miracle of butterflies is documented in this live-action production. The off-screen male narrator directs attention to close-up and time-lapse photography which allows viewers to experience the complete life cycle of the butterfly. Body parts are well labeled and their description is easy to understand.Viewers see caterpillars spinning their chrysalis and learn that each species has different colored and shaped chrysalises. Each butterfly species has a particular defensive adaptation to protect themselves from predators. Suggestions are given for planting butterfly gardens to provide food sources called host plants with specific plant names corresponding with the butterfly species that feeds on that particular host plant. Viewers learn that habitat destruction is the greatest threat to the butterfly population, and examples are given. Butterfly facts appear on a blue screen with white text which is easy to read. Useful for both classroom and individual instruction, this is a worthwhile purchase for nature collections in school and public libraries.–Kathy Dummer, formerly Newcastle Middle School, WY

Social Studies

Dave and Augie's Home Movies: The American Adventures, Episode 3: Theodore Roosevelt.videocassette or DVD. color. 30 min. Prod. by Freggie Entertainment. Dist. by Library Video Co. 2005. video: $19.95, DVD: $21.95.

K-Gr 4–Hillary and two puppets, Dave and Augie, travel to Sagamore Hill, Theodore Roosevelt's 119-year-old home in New York. Still photography of the grounds and interior of the house combine with the live-action footage of the two puppets and their human companion, with a background of lively music. While walking through his home and looking at snapshots of his family, the trio provide information about Teddy Roosevelt. They talk about his childhood, wives, children, and they way he entertained political leaders in his home. At the end of each half of the program, other puppets review the material presented in a quiz show format. Viewers learn that Roosevelt won the Nobel Peace Prize and was a conservationist who created most of our national park system. His home was given to the American people in 1963 and is maintained by the National Park Service. While the program offers an interesting perspective on a slice of American history, the puppets' hyperactivity and slap-stick humor is distracting and detracts from an otherwise enjoyable offering.–Marilyn Hersh, Hillside Elementary School, Farmington Hills, MI

Echoes and Reflections. videocassette or DVD. color. approx. 2:37 hrs. with tchr's. guide, lessons, worksheets. Prod. by Anti-Defamation League, Survivors of the Shoah Visual History Foundation and Yad Vashem. Dist. by Anti-Defamation League. 2005. $94.98.

Gr 9-12–This comprehensive multimedia curriculum on the Holocaust belongs in every high school in which the Holocaust is taught. The DVD/video is only a small part of the series of 10 multipart lessons, each designed for two to four class periods. Each lesson is interspersed with brief segments from the visual component, which consist primarily of testimony by Holocaust survivors, all of whom speak English well enough that students will have no trouble understanding their important words. Non-Jews who risked their lives to rescue Jews are featured in the lesson on "Rescuers and Non-Jewish Resistance," and U.S. soldiers who liberated concentration camps are highlighted in the lesson on "Survivors and Liberators." As compelling as their stories are, though, the survivors' stories are the most memorable. Their testimony clearly explains how anti-Semitism gradually became institutionalized in Nazi Germany, eventually resulting in the "Final Solution." One woman talks about desperately seeking a safe place on Kristallnacht. A male survivor explains how precious each piece of bread was in the ghetto, while another talks about never having a chance to bid his mother a proper goodbye upon their arrival at a death camp. In the lesson on "Jewish Resistance," a woman talks about how infuriated the Germans were by her attempt to fast on Yom Kippur in Auschwitz, while another female survivor recalls how she enabled the students in her clandestine one-room school in the ghetto to temporarily escape their misery by regaling them with the story of Gone with the Wind. "We were dreaming together," she said. Equally powerful are the primary source documents included with the lessons. These range from anti-Semitic propaganda to haunting photographs of children being led to the gas chambers, as well as fascinating documents such as a German officer's account of his journey to a death camp with a train load of Jews, and a post-war interview with the commander of a concentration camp. This excellent resource, correlated to National Standards, deserves a place in all high school libraries.–David Bilmes, Schaghticokelo Middle School, New Milford, CT

Hiroshima No Pika and Hellfire: A Journey from Hiroshima. DVD. color. approx. 90 min. First Run Features. 2005. #FRF911641D. $29.95.

Gr 9 Up–This outstanding DVD contains the animated film Hiroshima No Pika based on the ALA Notable Children's Book by Japanese artist Toshi Maruki (HarperCollins, 1982). On August 6, 1945, at the end of World War II, the United States dropped a nuclear bomb on Hiroshima. Narrated by actress Susan Sarandon, the film presents the story of a young girl and her family during that horrific time. The family is together at breakfast as a blinding and burning flash of light devastates their home. The girl's mother takes her injured family toward one of the seven rivers in the city. Climbing over mounds of the dead and dying, the family survives only to suffer grave effects later. The story ends with the girl joining hundreds of people who commemorate the day by sending lighted paper lanterns down the river. A pan and scan technique creates a perfect adaptation of Maruki's powerful watercolor illustrations from page to screen. The other film, Hellfire, is a 1986 Academy Award nominee documentary written and directed by John Junkerman. It captures the extraordinary lives of Toshi Maruki and her husband and fellow artist, Iri Maruki, as they work together on a large mural depicting the bombing of Hiroshima entitled "Hell." While this moving DVD is highly recommended for all public and high school libraries, the stylized art that depicts victims naked because the bomb had blown or burned off their clothes, is for more sophisticated students. Useful in history, sociology, and ethics classes.–Jane Halsall, McHenry Public Library, IL

A History of Black Achievement in America (Series). 8 videocassettes or 4 DVDs. color. 27 min. ea. with tchr's guide. Prod. by Centre Communications. Dist. by Ambrose Video. 2005. video: ISBN 1-58281-307-8, DVD: ISBN 1-58281-306-X. $199.99 ser. Includes: A History of Black Achievement in America: Settling the New World and Founding the USA; A History of Black Achievement in America: Emergence of the Black Hero; A History of Black Achievement in America: The Fight for Freedom; A History of Black Achievement in America: Blacks Enter the Gilded Age; A History of Black Achievement in America: The Foundation for Equality; A History of Black Achievement in America: Depression and War; A History of Black Achievement in America: Civil Rights; A New Age.

Gr 6-12–This series places black achievement into the larger context of American history, emphasizing that African Americans have made innumerable contributions to all aspects of our culture and heritage. The chronological programs range from the early colonial period to the present, and are hosted by actor James Avery who introduces each title's overall theme. The programs are divided into four to seven separate segments. Some of the segments explain the significance of an event, such as the 1705 Virginia Slave Codes or the 1896 Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court ruling, but most profile individual African Americans whose "achievement spurred equality" in a wide variety of fields and endeavors. Some, such as Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, and Martin Luther King, Jr., are very well known, while others, such as explorer Matthew Henson, General Benjamin O. Davis, and author Gwendolyn Brooks, will be unfamiliar to most students.Each segment explains how the event changed history or how the person's achievements created precedents and opportunities for future African Americans to follow. The visuals include period art, photos and news footage, black-and-white reenactment footage, and contemporary clips. The programs can be viewed as documentaries or as individual "chapters." Although the brief segments don't offer in-depth information, the wide variety of subjects covered will show students that black history is indeed American history. The segment format gives teachers the flexibility to integrate this material into any existing American history curriculum, making this series a good choice for all middle and secondary level library collections.–Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Home of the Brave. videocassette or DVD. color. 75 min. Prod. by Counterpoint Films & Dickerson LLC. Dist. by Bullfrog Films. 2003, 2005 release. video: ISBN 1-59548-243-2, DVD: ISBN 59458-244-5. $295 (Rental: $95).

Gr 10 Up–In 1965, the Civil Rights Movement was in full swing. National attention was focused on the Voting Rights March in Selma, Alabama. Viola Liuzzo, a married woman from Detroit with five children, took part in the March. While driving her car after the March, she was shot and killed by a car full of Klansmen, becoming the only white woman to die in the Civil Rights Movement. J. Edgar Hoover took control of the Liuzzo case and initiated a smear campaign against her. Her FBI file ran 1,000 pages–three times more than that of the Ku Klux Klan. Interviews with her children and commentary by notable figures of the era tell Liuzzo's story and its aftermath. The trial of the Klansmen was scandalous as an FBI informant was involved in the shooting. Stockard Channing ably narrates video which uses interviews with Sander Vanocur, Gloria Steinem, participants in the Civil Rights Movement, and Liuzzo's friends and family to shed light on the events in Selma and their aftermath. Through the Freedom of Information Act, Liuzzo's children began investigating the case in the 1970s and were disturbed by what they found. The film examines the damaging effects of the murder on her children as well as the government's mishandling of the case. The film is interesting in its examination of the terrible personal toll the murder took as well as the great societal changes that the Selma March spurred. It is a disturbing investigation into the misuse of power and its lasting, detrimental effects. For high school classes studying civil rights, political science, government, and history.–Mike Brown, Bowie High School, MD

Mystic Voices: The Story of the Pequot War. videocassette. color. 1:57 hrs. Cinema Guild. 2005. ISBN 0-7815-1089-9. secondary schools: $175 (Rental: $55).

Gr 11 Up–This beautifully produced documentary provides a superb telling of the often tumultuous relationship between the European settlers and the Pequots of Connecticut. The history of New England settlements from the Native peoples to the Pilgrims and the Puritans is explored. European expansion by purchase, patent, possession, and right of conquest resulted in a loss of lands for the Native people. Trouble between the newcomers and the Pequots escalated until the murder of pirate and scoundrel John Stone gave the English the excuse they needed for a full-scale attack. The English Puritan colonists, the Mohegans, and the Narragansetts attacked the Pequot village at Missituck (Mystic, CT) in 1637. It is estimated that between 400 and 700 men, women, and children were massacred. Pequots were forbidden to use their tribal name and native language. Eventually, with the help of sympathetic English leaders, the Pequots were able to reestablish their own communities, which became the first Indian reservations in America. Roy Schieder, Dovie Thomason, and Sheri Graubert ably narrate the piece. Visually beautiful and balanced paintings, photographs, and reenactors tell the tale. The musical score by Charles David Denler is superb. The treatment of the subject matter, one that still enflames emotions, is well balanced and even handed. It is refreshing that, in addition to the politics of the English and Dutch, inter-tribal relations are discussed. The length and sophisticated nature of the film makes it most suitable for advanced high school students.–Mike Brown, Bowie High School, MD

One Day in Ping Wei. DVD. color. 30 min. Pearl River Prods. 2004, 2005 release. $24.95.

Gr 5-9–Filmed in China, this charming production follows a Chinese girl through a typical day. Liu Yen Twin, or "Twin-Twin" as she is called by her family, does chores, goes to school, does her homework in front of the TV, plays, and helps her mother prepare dinner for guests. Her family, which includes a brother and sister, parents, and aunts and uncles, also work very hard, and viewers follow the adults as they do laundry by hand in the Huai He River, make tofu to sell in the market in the neighboring city of Huainan, farm, and tend domestic animals. Since Twin-Twin is frequently off-screen, this film is best described as a slice-of-life look at how families live in rural China. While it is clear that the entire family works and lives in primitive conditions, the overall tone of the film is very upbeat. There is no mention of political repression or the growing disparity of income and opportunity distribution in China. Visuals include many beautiful shots of the Chinese countryside and the vibrant market in Huainan, with additional footage of river barge and train traffic that illustrates how rapidly all parts of China are changing. A young girl does the English narration but Twin-Twin's comments in Mandarin about her life are translated in subtitles, which may be difficult for some younger students to follow. The film offers middle level students a glimpse into how their counterparts live in China, making it a good choice for school libraries that need material on modern China.–Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Primaries: Defining the Battle in New Hampshire. videocassette or DVD. color. 23 min. (closed captioned). Films Media Group. 2004. ISBN 0-7365-9772-7. $89.95.

Gr 9 Up–Every four years, the world's attention focuses on one of America's smallest and least populated states as it becomes a virtual battleground for a critical conflict in the struggle for the American presidency. Late in the 20^th century, political parties moved from selecting their presidential candidates at national conventions to a more grass-roots level selection process, and many states opted to have primary elections to indicate which candidate they backed. The producers of this enlightening and engaging program take us through both the mechanics and the philosophy of New Hampshire's first-in-the-country presidential primary election. While the content focuses on the 2004 contest in just that state, we gain a sense of its importance to all the elections which follow. Utilizing a number of interviews with all the groups of players in the electoral process (citizens, candidates and their staffs including volunteer college students, media, political scholars, and other political figures), the fast-paced program also includes a generous sampling of the intense television coverage of the campaign and election. What emerges is a clear picture of how New Hampshire's notoriously independent electorate forms its individual and collective decision through what comes as close to personal contact with candidates as is possible in today's society. Highlighted is the balance of this one-on-one interaction with the candidates as well as the growing influence of technology (including the Internet) in this decision-making process. Librarians seeking a quality, contemporary title for use now and especially in 2008 will want to purchase this program.–Dwain Thomas, Lake Park High School, Roselle, IL

Runway. DVD. color. approx. 86 min. National Film Network. 2004. home use, ISBN 0-8026-0296-7: $29.95; public perf., ISBN 0-8026-0297-5: $179.95

Gr 10 Up–In 1944, 1700 young Hungarian Jewish women were transported from the Auschwitz concentration camp to Morfelden-Walldorf, Germany to build a concrete runway for jet aircraft. They labored in terribly inhumane conditions that were designed to eventually kill them. As the allied countries advanced, the young women were returned to the death camps, where only 200 survived to liberation. In 2000, 19 survivors returned to the Frankfurt area to visit the camps, see the memorial dedicated to them, and demand recognition of their suffering. This film tells their story and also describes the efforts of some of the local residents and students who were determined to pierce the "veil of silence" that descended upon the region at the end of the war and allowed area residents and the giant German construction company, Zublin, to deny all knowledge of and complicity in the exploitation of the women. Most of the story is told through the spoken memories of the survivors and the comments of the Germans who worked to reveal the women's story. A male narrator provides background information and ties the elements of the story together. Visuals include period photos, moving footage, and the contemporary film of the women and local residents, with subtitled translations. Although this production tells the underreported story of the German war machine's dependence upon forced and exploitative labor from concentration camps, it is too long and lacking in a clear focus for effective classroom use, making it a supplementary purchase for schools that need Holocaust materials.–Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

20th Century Presidents: Ronald Reagan. videocassette or DVD. color. 20 min. Landmark Media. 2005. $149.

Gr 5 Up–A student narrator takes viewers on a tour of the Ronald Reagan Library and Museum while filling in the highlights of Reagan's impressive career. A generous use of film clips convey why Reagan became known as "The Great Communicator." Despite a few notable omissions from the narration, this is a balanced look at Reagan's life. For example, when referring to "Reaganomics," the narrator simply says, "It didn't work," and then notes that in the following year Reagan signed the largest tax increase in U.S. history. It's also mentioned that Reagan's harshest critics included blacks, women, and environmentalists, although he silenced some of them by appointing the first woman to the Supreme court–Sandra Day O'Connor. Gripping footage of John Hinckley's 1981 attempt at assassinating Reagan is balanced nicely by Reagan later reading a letter from a second grader urging him to recover quickly so he won't "have to read a speech in his pj's." Reagan's foreign policy is highlighted as his strong point. The Iran Contra scandal is also discussed. While it is noted that Reagan sent U.S. troops to Lebanon, we're never told how the troops were withdrawn following a devastating attack on their base. Overall, though, this is a solid look at the former president's life, and there's little to argue with the closing statement: "In spite of record high taxes, unemployment, and budget shortfalls during his administration, he will go down as one of America's most popular presidents."–David Bilmes, Schaghticoke Middle School, New Milford, CT

Test-Taking Skills

New SAT Prep (Series). 6 videocassettes or 6 DVDs. color. 25 min. ea. Prod. by Standard Deviants School. Dist. by Goldhil Educational. 2005. video series: ISBN 1-59443-019-5, DVD series: ISBN 1-59443-020-9. $160.98 ser., $29.98 ea. Includes: New SAT Prep, Program 1: Introduction to the SAT & Sentence Completion (ISBN 1-59443-013-6/ISBN 1-59443-007-1); New SAT Prep, Program 2: Critical Reading & Vocabulary (ISBN 1-59443-014-4/ISBN 1-59443-008-X); New SAT Prep, Program 3: The Writing Section (ISBN 1-59443-015-2/ISBN 1-59443-009-X); New SAT Prep, Program 4: Introduction to the Math Section (ISBN 1-59443-016-0/ISBN 1-59443-010-1); New SAT Prep, Program 5: Algebra (ISBN 1-59443-017-9/ISBN 1-59443-011-X); New SAT Prep, Program 6: Geometry (ISBN 1-59443-018-7/ISBN 1-59443-012-8). 

Gr 10-12–Teachers looking for an interactive, visual resource to prepare students for the changes in the new SAT exam will be pleased with this series. Upbeat and crisp, a combination of narration, graphics, and live-action footage provides a test overview, time management tips, problem solving strategies, and sample questions. More than a dozen young people narrate each program, and the changing faces help lock in specific key points that might be forgotten if delivered monotonously. Introduction to the SAT & Sentence Completion answers general questions about format and scoring, followed by a careful look at sentence completion questions where students are advised to look for positive and negative words and "prove it" phrases to narrow answer choices. Critical Reading & Vocabulary adds to these strategies with tips on charting the passage to find information and circling buzz words. The Writing Section addresses usage, improving sentences, and general essay techniques such as transitions. Introduction to the Math Section explains the increased level of difficulty, actually dividing questions into sections called, "the good, the bad, and the ugly." Students are encouraged to guess and not to worry about completing the entire test. Specific math problems are dissected in the Algebra and Geometry programs, keying in on formulas, ratios, decimals, fractions, circles, angles, and more. There are pauses for responses to interactive questions. The series can be commended for focusing on identifying individual strengths to use to one's advantage. The combination of colorful graphics, upbeat narrators, and solid advice will make this an indispensable resource for individual and classroom use.–Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY