Video/DVD

Gr 4-7–As a founder of Pop Art, Andy Warhol employed everyday objects and cultural icons as the subject matter of his canvases. In addition to such diverse themes, his medium ranged from painting and sculpture to printmaking and film. This animated film explores a small, but representative selection of the artist’s prodigious output. It features a deadpan Andy Warhol, interviewed at his art studio by Puffer, a puffin. The five representative art works examined will engage 10 to 14 year olds, but the puffin will seem a bit silly and the static animation probably won’t appeal to that age group. The artwork partially overcomes these flaws. Viewers will be amused and intrigued by Big Torn Campbell’s Soup Can, Various Box Sculptures, and Bald Eagle. The reporter/interviewee technique succeeds in pointing out some interesting aspects of each piece, while capturing an enigmatic and droll Warhol. For example, Do It Yourself, based on the paint by number’s concept, focuses on a work of art’s uniqueness, and the stylistic hallmarks of Warhol’s silkscreen works are noted throughout. The video is less successful in explaining more complex techniques such as screen-printing. A brief biography skims Warhol’s childhood and early days in New York. Pair this with James Warhola’s wonderful picture book, Uncle Andy’s (Puffin, 2005), for an effective introduction to the artist.–Ann Elders, Mark Twain Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

PreS-K–This animated bilingual collection of poems, songs, and stories about animals and the alphabet introduces young children to members of the animal kingdom. The content is available in an English and a Spanish version. The name of the animal and an action it performs is presented at a pace that allows youngsters time to recognize and retain what is shown. Simple, bold animation, bright colors, fun characters, and engaging original music combine to create an entertaining and educational environment for learning a language. The voices are clear and articulate, and the words are well-enunciated. Bonus features include three additional short animation pieces about a dog, peas, and the seasons.–Denise A. Garofalo, Astor Learning Center, Rhinebeck, NY

Gr 6 Up–For 10 weeks in an after school program, 10 teens worked with a communication coach, Gail Noppe-Brandon, the founder of Find Your Voice, Inc., a not-for-profit organization that works with people of all ages to tackle their communication fears. Her goal was to help these diverse teens overcome their fear of public speaking and improve their communication skills. The students learned to listen to others, read aloud, and then write and perform a short two-person play. The teens began by telling stories about pictures the coach showed them. The coach’s positive comments about plot, character development, and their delivery encouraged the students. The film shows the students working with each other and with the coach, taking part in various activities, and performing some of the plays. Although this specific program goes beyond the average school’s resources, the coach’s techniques can be used in drama, speech, and language arts classes to help students become more confident communicators.–Anitra Gordon, formerly Lincoln High School, Ypsilanti, MI

PreS-Gr 1–This sure-fire exercise starter for young children groups original transportation-themed songs with exercises. It opens with a brief “ABC’s of Safety” and includes a warning about consulting a doctor before beginning any exercise program. As each exercise/song begins, children’s voices call out the name of the activity. A female instructor demonstrates and explains how to execute exercise. The children then perform the exercise on an animated background with three animated monkeys often participating. The diverse group of children, ranging in age from 5 to 8, all wear loosely fitted t-shirts and sneakers, but some of the girls are inappropriately dressed in skirts; the instructor is dressed in a t-shirt and jeans instead of exercise clothing. Exercises focus primarily on gross motor skills such as bouncing, marching in place, and twirling, but also include a few aerobic activities. Among the upbeat songs and ballads are the jazzy “Paddleboat” (rolling arms in front of the body), “My Magic Bicycle” (lying on the floor, pumping legs), “Clickety Clack” (marching in place, pumping arms), and the 1960’s inspired “Surf’s Up” (balancing). A healthy snack craft demo (“Plane Delicious”) and a downloadable helicopter craft activity round out the video.–Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

Gr 9 Up–Filmed in a school gymnasium, a multicultural role-playing group called the “Looking Glass Players” perform three scenarios for a large high school audience that show warning signs of dating violence. In the first vignette, Emily is chatting with a friend about an upcoming party. Her boyfriend, Todd, approaches and accuses her of ignoring his phone calls. She apologizes as he pulls her away. A second scenario shows Lisa asking Karen about changes she has made, not only to her hair, but dropping friends and quitting activities. She explains that her new boyfriend, Steven, has been occupying her time but she will try to convince him to go to the upcoming party. Steven takes control of party plans and what Karen will wear. The third vignette takes place at the party where Todd and Emily have been arguing. Although Emily claims it was an accident, it is apparent Todd has hit her. The partygoers take sides in determining whose fault it was and continue to argue until the police arrive, signaling the end of the vignette. Remaining in character, the actors respond to audience questions such as what would Todd do if Emily hit back, and why Emily’s friend didn’t try harder to help her. This no-frills program with less than perfect audio effectively portrays some red flags of dating violence in a social context teens will relate to. – Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY.

Gr 7-12–This upbeat production uses dramatizations that show teens in dangerous situations to illustrate why young people need to make good choices to avoid trouble. In the dramatized vignettes, students are asked to smoke marijuana, cut classes, ride in a car with a drunk teen driver, and meet an unknown “friend” from an Internet social site. In each instance, teens must confront a friend who is engaging in risky behavior. The dramatizations are combined with advice from a pair of young on-screen narrators who explain the four characteristics of a good decision, encourage students to be prepared for difficult situations, offer ways to resist negative peer pressure, and give suggestions to help young people remove themselves from danger. The diverse young actors and narrators speak in a casual manner. Live-action footage is supplemented by graphics that emphasize the points made by the narrators. The teacher’s guide includes a wide variety of activities, including hypothetical situations for students to analyze. The program will hold student attention and spark discussion about how to avoid negative peer pressure. It could be used in health or family and consumer science classes and is a good choice for middle- and secondary-school collections.–Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 7 Up–Like the bullies it portrays, this series pulls no punches. The most powerful video, Bullies, opens with the male narrator linking headlines from Columbine and other school shootings to students who turned violent in response to being victims of incessant bullying. In an interview in prison with one of the shooters, a young man from Alaska says that in order to put an end to the daily bullying he faced, “I decided to go into my high school with a shotgun.” He is serving a 210-year prison sentence after killing two administrators. In the next segment, three teens relate how empowered they felt when they transformed themselves from bullying victims to bullies. Finally, two types of bullying prevention programs are compared, one featuring education, and the other emphasizing punishment. In Cyberbullying and Bully Girls, different bullying scenes are acted out, and then a panel of teens discuss their reaction and offer insightful comments. Bully Girls addresses the types of bullying prevalent among girls, and also looks at the Queen Bee phenomenon. Most girls will relate to the realistic scenarios. Students will be familiar with the many different types of Cyberbullying discussed. Viewers are given tips on protecting themselves in the virtual world and on how to deal with being victimized. The scenarios are provocative, ranging from a student who receives anti-Semitic text messages to students whose pictures are super-imposed in embarrassing situations on personal Web pages. Mention is made of MySpace.com and AIM.–David Bilmes, Schaghticoke Middle School, New Milford, CT

Gr 7 Up–This program documents the experiences of an American teenager, Margaret, who travels to South Africa with her church group to meet a 16-year-old orphan, Sine, whose parents have died of AIDS. The young women bond over their shared interest in the music of Dave Matthews, who is from South Africa. It is estimated that three out of every four young people in Africa will contract HIV. The audience, along with Margaret, learns about the many factors that conspire to shorten the average lifespan of Africans by decades. Although the effects of the AIDS crisis are overwhelmingly apparent in South Africa, the film addresses the implications of the virus for American teenagers as well. Complacency is presented as a very real threat, as risky behavior among high school students is on the rise. A surprise twist in the film’s final moments reveals the identity of the narrator, an African singer and activist living with HIV who educates others about the importance of abstinence and safe sex. The unifying theme of music is brought full circle as she is shown performing at a shopping mall in Cambridge, reinforcing the idea that there are lessons to be learned in both cultures regarding the AIDS epidemic.–Meghann R. Matwichuk, University of Delaware, Newark

Gr 4-8–This segment in the series based on Arkady Leokum’s books deals with diet and exercise. The format is fast-paced, with a child asking a series of simple questions such as “Why does the body need water?,” and the adult male narrator replying at length using live-action footage as well as informative graphics and animation to enhance the explanation. Viewers learn about digestion, nutrition, vitamins, body type, and ways to be fit and combat obesity. The new food pyramid, as well as well as the old one, are briefly shown but not explained in detail. The questions skip by rapidly and similar subjects are grouped together for clarity. Key words and concepts are presented both orally and in written format. The lively background music is sometimes a bit distracting, and some students may not enjoy the question/answer format, but the overall program provides important information about food, diet, and exercise. A good addition to the health curriculum.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

K-Gr 3–After being caught in a lie, Libby decides to always tell the truth no matter how much, or whom, it hurts. Her truth-telling, however, soon alienates friends and acquaintances. Libby’s mother points out that there is such a thing as a hurtful truth, and Libby learns a lesson about empathy and tact. This charming story (Atheneum, 2000) is another wonderful example of Patricia McKissack’s masterful wordsmithing. There’s a delightful touch of vernacular here, home-spun similes, and a gentle humor. The author narrates her own story with an audible smile as Giselle Potter’s folk-art illustrations are scanned iconographically. Original background music, as well as some sound effects, add to the fun. This title would lead naturally into discussions about honesty and consideration.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

K-Gr 5–Four professional storytellers each tell one Christmas story in front of an audience of multiethnic elementary school-age children. Kevin Cordi recounts “A Gift for Santa” with lots of expression, gesticulations, and vocal sound effects. The story follows the adventures of Maria in the North Pole as she conducts a door-to-door quest for the perfect gift for Santa. Christine Petrell Kallevig, a quiet storyteller, uses origami to enhance the telling of “Home for Christmas,” set in the 1800s and featuring people in a German-American community. When Martin’s uncle breaks his leg at Oktoberfest, Martin offers to go home with him to help him out on his farm, but promises his own family that he will be home for Christmas. Kallevig uses a large piece of green origami paper to make different folds that help emphasize various scenes in the story. Mary Jo Huff is energetic, employs a lot of gesticulations, and creates different voices for the characters in “Christmas Is Cancelled.” Santa is too sick to care about delivering toys on Christmas Eve, but Mrs. Claus comes up with the perfect remedy. Michael Kasony-O’Malley, also an energetic, gesticulating teller, involves the children in the story with lots of hand clapping and knee slapping. “Christmas Fairy of Strasburg” is a long, romantic fairy tale in which stone-hearted Count Otto eventually marries a beautiful fairy woman and becomes a much more caring person. In between each of the story segments, several muppet-like children puppets discuss Christmas gifts and where they are going to spend Christmas. Also joining the discussions is a book puppet and bookworm. A “Special Features” section includes children telling stories; storytellers talking about the importance of storytelling today; and “Meet the Storytellers,” in which the four storytellers discuss how they became interested in professional storytelling. An excellent production to enhance Christmas collections.–Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

K-Gr 3–Viewers learn about money and making change in this educational and entertaining program hosted by two animated characters. Penny is a singing and dancing coin, while Bill, a paper dollar, plays the guitar. Together they perform songs that introduce coin values from pennies to silver dollars. They show how to count coins and different combinations that add up to one dollar. The duo then move on to teach youngsters about paper money and discuss the different values of dollar bills from one to one hundred. Throughout the video, interesting facts are introduced. Although the music and lyrics are not as sophisticated as those on School House Rock (Scholastic), the disco lights and psychedelic video backgrounds will entice elementary students.–Cynthia Grabke, Halifax Elementary School, MA

Gr 10 Up–Rick Zingher, a professor of social work and a psychotherapist, is concerned about the role of fathers in our society today. He offers excellent information about the positive effect fathers have in many areas of their children’s lives including academic performance, sexual behavior, self-concept, self-control, and drug and alcohol use. He discusses popular conceptions about the role of men in society and the emphasis on economic success that may conflict with their being effective dads. He suggests ways these men can become more involved and enrich the lives of their children. His facts and examples are well presented, often illustrated with photos, videos, and vignettes from his own family. Films nominated for the 2004 Academy Awards are used to illustrate positive and negative behaviors of men and fathers in the lives of young people—Ray, Million Dollar Baby, Aviator, and Sideways—which will date the film. In some scenes Zingher is talking to a group of adults; in most he is in an empty playground. The limited range of settings and the talking head format may not hold the interest of teens. However, if viewed in short segments followed by discussion, this instructive program could be useful with psychology and family living classes. It could also be used for staff development programs or shared with parent and community groups.–Anitra Gordon, formerly, Lincoln High School, Ypsilanti, MI

Gr 7 Up –In a span of less than 100 years, one of the major biomes in North America virtually disappeared. The tallgrass prairie that once spanned the center of the continent was rapidly transformed into cropland, leaving behind only scattered remnants of prairie vegetation. Employing spectacular cinematography, archival photographs, and poignant narration, the filmmakers artfully tell the story of this forgotten landscape. Short appearances by biologists, historians, and others add flavor to the narration. Viewers are introduced to the rich variety of plants and animals that inhabit that tallgrass prairie, as well as the climatic and physical conditions that favor the growth of prairie vegetation. This is followed by a description of the human history of the area, starting with the arrival of Native Americans, moving through early explorers, settlers, and land rushes, and culminating with the almost complete conversion of prairie to farmland by the end of the 1800’s. The program then jumps to the 1930’s, explaining how environmentalist Aldo Leopold worked to restore a plot of tallgrass prairie and to develop a land ethic that helped spark the modern environmental movement and the interest in restoring tallgrass prairie that continues today. With human development threatening ecosystems throughout the world, this film tells an important story. A beautiful and moving addition to classroom or library collections for high school students.–Tim Maret, Shippensburg University, PA

Gr 6 Up–This comprehensive, current series covers many aspects of the study of space and proposes some reflective questions to viewers. The programs reflect on how far we have come and where we are heading in the future, while they ask questions about what we know today. In Is Anybody Out There?, Drake’s Equation is explained along with how scientists are locating extrasolar planets by the Doppler method and the Kepler Mission. Students learn about our missions to the moon and future plans for using rovers and robotics to gather information in trips to Mars and the moon in Yesterday the Moon, Tomorrow Mars. In The Planets, the features of each planet are discussed and the requirements necessary for life are explained. The Invisible Universe discusses invisible energy, like radio waves, gamma rays, and microwaves, and how it is measured. Living in Space shows footage of the International Space Station, the Mir Space Station, and Skylab as the advantages and disadvantages of living in space are covered. Viewers see some of the oddities of space in Black Holes, Pulsars, and Other Odd Bodies. Scientists offer clear and enthusiastic narration, except for one who has a very heavy foreign accent. The titles featuring live-footage of space missions are the most engaging. Photos and simulations are clear and relevant. Scrolling text may be difficult for some viewers to read. The series’ content supports the teaching objectives for the national science standards for middle and high school programs. With rapid advances in space exploration, some content will need to be expanded upon within the next few years.–Gay Ann Loesch, Sun Valley Middle School, Indian Trail, NC

Gr 8 Up–The study of life’s origins has led to a reorganization of the long-held classification system of all life designated either plant or animal. Aided by advances in technology, scientists have expanded to five kingdoms, but a more contemporary system utilizes a focus on an organism’s molecular structure as a means of organization. This program explores the three domains into which all life is categorized under this method with emphasis on Eucarya, organisms having cells with nuclei and membrane-bound structure. Stunning microphotography and computer-generated animation complements a well-paced delivery. The DVD version is composed of nine segments with optional subtitles. The content begins with an examination of how single cells developed into other types of life through the advent and expansion of multicellular organisms. The DVD version offers a dazzling array of supplemental interactive features in the computer-based learning guide—video clip segments, links to Web sites, supplemental diagrams and charts, self-study quizzes, and a bountiful password-protected instructor’s section.–Dwain Thomas, Lake Park High School, Roselle, IL

Gr 1-5–This brief production explains the rotation and revolution of the earth in brief segments: “Earth and the Solar System,” “Day and Night,” “Earth Revolving,” “Seasons,” “Solstices and Equinoxes,” and “Summing Up.” This organization by sections makes it easy for teachers to present individual topics. Explanations are clear and concise with diagrams, labels, and excellent photography to illustrate the principles. Viewers may be confused by the use of the metric measurement of kilometers per hour. Student involvement is encouraged through the use of questioning and prediction strategies. A quiz follows the final segment. The female narrator’s voice is clear but somewhat monotone. The live-action videography is excellent and the diagrams are informative. Visual text helps support comprehension. Extras on the DVD include a glossary, still pictures, and optional subtitles. A useful introduction or supplement for earth science units.–Ann Elders, Mark Twain Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 1-6–This award-winning series from the Discovery Kids channel is a fun and eclectic introduction to applied science. The four 22-minute programs on this DVD concentrate on forces found in the natural world. In “Ice,” viewers learn about Hollywood ice special effects, how to construct an igloo, ice-skating physics, the fridge of the future, airplane de-icing, and the invention of the Zamboni. “Water” teaches about combating oil spills, white water rafting (including a trip to a raft factory), the Hoover Dam, bubbles and water tension, and how to move a ship through locks. Avalanche prevention, volcanoes, lightning, and twisters are covered in “Earth Power.” “Struck by Lightning” concentrates on electricity and includes information about energy sources, electromagnets, electron microscopes, electric cars, lightning, and the northern lights. Each live-action program is kid-hosted, fast-paced, and caters to the interests of the intended audience. The fun topics and ever-present kid humor makes this an appealing purchase. This entertaining title also has some curriculum applications, making it a useful addition to school collections.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

K-Gr 3–This live-action program focuses on the job of recycling coordinator. Host David Robinson, recycling coordinator for Philadelphia, takes viewers from curbside recycling to the materials recovery facility where items are processed, and then discusses what happens to plastic containers and aluminum cans. Viewers follow paper as it is sorted, baled, and taken to a factory to be recycled into cardboard boxes. Composting is also introduced. Throughout the program, concepts are presented in kid-friendly fashion. Pacing is good, and both video and audio quality are excellent. While this program does introduce a community job, it is more useful as an introduction to the recycling process and would be a handy addition to ecology units.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 6 Up–This series, hosted by Bo Svenson, presents ten video capsules exploring ten national monuments located across the Great Plains. These sites range from natural wonders like the Devil’s Tower and the Capulin volcano to the only battlefield with this designation at Little Big Horn. Each chapter, averaging ten minutes in length, begins with a virtual tour of the site followed by two segments documenting both its scientific and natural aspects and its historical and cultural significance. Geologic concepts are illustrated using easy-to-understand computerized diagrams. Park rangers familiar with the individual sites talk about each monument’s unique features. The narration is both descriptive and poetic, conveying a sense of awe appropriate to the significance of these sites. Many of the monuments are related to the Native American culture of the grasslands tribes; proper attention is given to these original inhabitants and their principal role in the nation’s history. This series synthesizes the various disciplines it covers seamlessly, and will serve as an exemplary tool for teachers exploring the natural history of the Great Plains.–Meghann R. Matwichuk, University of Delaware, Newark

Gr 9 Up–The soft-spoken male narrator of this colorful, well-edited program outlines the conundrum of world trade. By examining two industries, coffee and timber, it probes the unfair aspect of world trade and its relationship to environmental degradation. The film poses two questions: how can small businesses compete with multinational companies, and how can consumers buy products yet live green. Buying products with eco-labels like Fair Trade and certification by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) offer solutions. Fair Trade assists small scale coffee growers who practice organic cultivation and raise shade grown coffee. Consumers are willing to pay more for this coffee because the forest habitats are being preserved by using environmentally friendly techniques. Viewers see examples of timber certification in the Netherlands, the UK, Sweden, and the United States. The goal of sustainable forests means selected harvesting that insures forests for the future. FSC certified wood is used in furniture and sold in stores such as Home Depot. The video includes interviews with farmers, foresters, and consumers in various countries as well as on-site footage. Classes across the curriculum can utilize this production to examine a lesser-known concept of globalization and the power each consumer has to join the movement for a better world by demanding environmentally friendly certified products.–Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 10 Up–This is a story as current as today’s headlines with its charges of terrorism and delayed justice. In 1990, Judi Bari, an Earth First! activist, was severely injured in a car bomb explosion. She was arrested as a terrorist. Government officials believed she was transporting the bomb to be used at an Earth First! sponsored protest. Bari decided to sue the FBI. This is the story of the ensuing 12-year legal battle. What makes the video even more appealing is the fact that the narrator and filmmaker, Bernadine Mellis, is the daughter of the 68-year-old civil rights lawyer, Dennis Cunningham, who represented Bari. Early in his career, Cunningham represented the Black Panthers and the Weathermen. Historical film footage of Earth First! protests and interviews with logging company executives and people who worked with Bari are interspersed with banter between Cunningham and his daughter. The anguish of the struggle for civil rights and liberties is at the forefront of the story. Bari, a victim of breast cancer, filmed her deposition and it was presented at the trial in 2001, five years after her death. A six week trial, and 3 ½ weeks of deliberation, vindicated Bari and awarded $4.4 million in damages. Classes in social sciences can utilize this title as a case study for further examination of individual rights in time of war, FBI and COINTELPRO (counter-intelligence conducted by the FBI) activities, and a history of Earth First! Teachers utilizing this video are advised that vulgar language peppers the dialogue.–Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 9 Up–The history of the United States is told through these programs detailing the role of women in the development of the political, economic, and social fabric of the nation from 1621 to 2006. Hosted by actress Donna Mills, female voices narrate the major segments. Historical photographs, re-enactments (not always the best), commentary from historians, and performances of the actual words of these unique women add interest to the presentations. Both well-known and lesser-known women in fields such as politics, sports, the arts, and science are highlighted. Among the women covered are Abigail Adams, Sacagawea, Sojourner Truth, Emily Dickenson, Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony, Nellie Bly, Ida B. Wells, Isadora Duncan, Amelia Earhart, Eleanor Roosevelt, Althea Gibson, Betty Friedan, Sandra Day O’Connor, Nancy Lopez, Oprah Winfrey, and Madeline Albright. Numerous events are highlighted, such as women achieving the right to vote and Roe v. Wade. DVD extras include historical documents, a photo gallery, and student quizzes. The brief segments are perfect for classroom use to introduce the topic or inspire more in-depth research. History and social studies teachers will find this a welcome addition to library collections.–Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 9 Up–This History Channel production characterizes Benjamin Franklin as “something of a mystery,” a man who was America’s first Renaissance man, a patriot who made innumerable contributions to our country, and an occasional scoundrel in his personal life. It follows Franklin’s life from his early years as a printer and civic leader through his years as a scientist and inventor to his distinguished service as a patriot leader, diplomat, and founding father. While the film is admiring of Franklin’s many achievements and leadership, it also discusses his personal life, speculating on the sexual nature of his relationships with young women and examining his relationship with his wife and children. The narration by actor Edward Herrmann is supplemented by quotes from Franklin’s works and comments and analysis by historians and Franklin biographers. Visuals include period art and illustrations, reenactments, and interviews. The lesson plan CD-ROM includes video clips from the film, primary source documents, student questions, and suggestions for classroom activities. This interesting and informative biography help viewers understand the man’s unique personality and contributions to and impact upon our nation. However, the segments on Franklin’s sexual activities and family relationships, which would appeal to a television audience, will limit its school audience below the high school level. A good choice for secondary school library collections.–Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 10 Up–The Los Angeles garment district, the largest in the United States, is the setting for this documentary’s examination of the search for an alternative to the traditional “sweat shop” working conditions so often found in this type of industry. Two companies set out to provide a more humane work environment for the employees, who are typically Hispanic or Asian women and often undocumented aliens. Both firms offer a number of new benefits to the workers, including a “living wage” salary, despite the ongoing tendency to outsource the manufacture of clothing to Third World countries. The program utilizes interviews with all the parties in the effort, including one with Ben Cohen (Ben & Jerry’s ice cream) who has subsidized one of the ventures, in an effort to provide a comprehensive account of this noble undertaking. Unfortunately, for a program aimed at high school audiences, one of the key players employs totally unnecessary expletives. The bulk of the film compares the markedly different paths that the two companies take to achieve their common goal. Only one of the companies survives. Since many of the subjects interviewed speak Spanish, English subtitles are provided. As our society struggles for a fair and equitable national policy on undocumented residents, this program can help personalize one of the key factors in that dilemma.–Dwain Thomas, Lake Park High School, Roselle, IL

Gr 10 Up–In the remote Indian province of Rajasthan, where one of the region’s most enduring myths is about a woman who dies in her quest to find water, the “water women” who travel long distances to fetch water for their families are called the “Panihari.” Indian-American filmmakers Abi Devan and Sudhi Rajagopal travel to the desert region to examine the plight of the Panihari, visiting a small village where the women have formed a cooperative that makes loans to women so that they can establish small businesses or buy animals to provide for their families. The film focuses on Paru, a woman who walks an eight-mile round-trip two or three times each day for water. She describes her family’s struggle to eek out a livelihood and the devastation that occurs when their cattle and goats die in the drought. When she meets with the women’s group, her husband beats her. When Paru eventually defies her husband and purchases more animals with a loan from the cooperative, her husband accepts her efforts to help their family. The filmmakers provide some general narration about the region’s culture, treatment of women, and poverty, but most of the story is told through the words of Paru and her family. This film will give students a glimpse into the culture of this little-known part of the world and is a good choice for geography, current events, or women’s issues classes.–Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 9 Up–This segment from the news show Nightline examines the little-known plight of the “night commuters,” African children who trek by the thousands nightly from their small villages to safer cities to avoid forcible recruitment by the Ugandan rebel militia, the Lord’s Resistance Army. In order to replenish their ranks, the militia has kidnapped over 30,000 children since 1994, requiring them to participate in brutal acts. Characterized as a “slow bleeding emergency,” this crisis has attracted very little media attention. Inspired by his work on the Academy Award nominated film, Hotel Rwanda, Don Cheadle decided that it was important for his wife and daughters to see these atrocities. News cameras accompanied them as they traveled amongst the displaced Ugandans. Interviews with shelter workers and with the refugees themselves drive home the details of their dismal plight. The program ends on a tenuous note of hope—a rehabilitation worker with the sanctuary group World Vision speaks of efforts to help those children who have escaped the LRA. At certain points during the young soldiers’ and refugees’ dramatic testimonials, one might question Cheadle’s judgment in exposing his young children to these horrors. He acknowledges that he has had second thoughts, but this is certainly a story that needs to be told. Instructors should be advised that some of the more violent details may be unsettling to younger students.–Meghann R. Matwichuk, University of Delaware, Newark

Gr 9 Up–With the tenet that military power leads to economic power—the ultimate overall strength—the producers of this brilliant historical perspective of military muscle illustrate that principle from England’s defeat of the Spanish Armada through events of the 21st century. There are six chronological segments: “Britain Arises,” covering the political and military ascendancy of England as a naval power through the end of the 17th century; “The 18th Century,” featuring the critical struggle between France and England for domination including the American Revolution; “Pax Britannica,” explaining how England’s navy allowed for worldwide colonization up to the country’s weakening after World War I; “Changing the Guard,” covering the emergence of the United States as the world’s primary naval power despite Japan’s challenges during World War II; and “Space, the Great Commons,” explaining how technological advances shifted the avenue of power from the oceans to the skies and to space. The well-written text is supplemented by a clear, smooth narration while the on-screen images are composed of stunning re-creations, perfect computer simulations, classic artwork, and concise interviews with historians. A dynamic background score is reminiscent of the classic Victory at Sea documentary film series from 50 years ago in which the music perfectly punctuates the images. This superior production has unlimited potential in a classroom setting and as a core component of a school media collection.–Dwain Thomas, Lake Park High School, Roselle, IL