Card catalog description
Explores how animation works, how animated films are produced and who is best known for making them, and how to pursue one's interest in the field, either as a career or as a hobby.

ANNOTATION

Explores how animation works, how animated films are produced and who is best known for making them, and how to pursue one's interest in the field, either as a career or as a hobby.

FROM THE CRITICS

VOYA - Sherry Korthalls 0516243233

This five-volume "Backstage Pass" series hones the cutting edge of career-guidance literature for adolescents. Providing realistic behind-the-scenes looks at some high-profile industries, these books introduce readers to the myriad employment opportunities available. Formatting is formulaic: a bold introduction, a historical overview of industry developments and pioneers, a chapter devoted to basic production processes, one chapter outlining a typical day "backstage," and another offering career advice. Appendixes include professional and Internet resources. Animated Series is the collection's finest, distinguished by its crystal-clear focus, smooth transitions, and skilled writing style. Co-creator of the 1990s Spider-Man series and story editor for Showtime's WhirlGirl cartoon, Fingeroth provides an expert's view of the animation industry from its inception, through its popularization by Walt Disney, to its success with contemporary films such as Shrek and Toy Story. In easy-to-understand terms, he describes the forms and processes of animation, deftly illuminating "how the magic works." Fingeroth's valuable career recommendations and resources will assuredly put aspiring cartoon artists on the right track to a career in animation. The complete series proves an on-target addition to Scholastic's High Interest Books collection, despite some inconsistencies in writing quality that stronger editing could have precluded. Consistent use of simplified vocabulary and the series' strong visual appeal makes each title an easy and exciting read for young adults. Vibrant covers, smart formatting, and a plethora of appealing photographs will attract even the most reluctant readers, while acomplement of insider "trade secrets" and contemporary cultural references will maintain interest. Glossary. Index. Photos. Further Reading. Appendix. VOYA CODES: 4Q 2P M (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; For the YA with a special interest in the subject; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8). 2003, Children's Press/Scholastic, 48p. PLB

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