Young Producer'S Video Bk, The

Gr. 4^-7. Although they have lots of pizzazz, the cartoonlike illustrations pretty well restrict this first-rate how-to to elementary and middle schools, despite the fact that the information contained in the text could easily be used by older kids wanting to make a "home movie" for class or for fun. The authors, who assume some familiarity with video equipment, take readers step by step through the preliminaries (choosing the type of film and writing the script, etc.) and the actual production process, using a ready combination of illustrations and succinct description to guide the way. Technical sections--on lighting and editing, for example--barely scratch the surface of their subjects, but they still give novice moviemakers an idea of what counts. Given the growing popularity of video cameras and the emphasis on technology in the schools, this book won't stay on the shelf long. Stephanie Zvirin

Grade 4-6?How to make a video, from idea to finished product, is presented in short, precise text and clever cartoons. The authors have efficiently outlined the stages of development, including planning, production, and editing, giving step-by-step instructions for each level and providing sample storyboard forms and camera sheets. Arnsteen's peppy illustrations round out a simple informational book that has more appeal than Perry Schwartz's How to Make Your Own Video (Lerner, 1991) or J.P. Frantz's Video Cinema (Chicago Review, 1994).?Judie Porter, Media Services Center, Portsmouth School Department, RI
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.