Mark Hamill Books

My 7 year old (and of course mee too) loves all three of these. He'll actually sit still for hours and listen to them, and race to the CD player waiting for me to change discs. It was dissapointong to see these broadcasts get progressivly smaller with each movie. From 7 in the first, to 5 in the second, and the Return only three CD's long. The last is almost nothing but the movie, with very little additional material. It's still good, but after lstening to A New Hope, The Return of The Jedi feels very short. I would highly reccommend these. They're great for those cold or raining Saturday acfternoons.

This film lets you see just how bad the British really are. Americans, don't forget we fought a similar war to get out from under their thumb. They dubbed us terrorists then just as they dub the IRA terrorists. Forget the Middle East, free Ireland George!

Very dramatic without being a "Hollywood" type of film. Shows how awful the Brits actually were to Catholics in the North. Must see.

The tragic riot known as "Bloody Sunday" is recreated to powerful effect in this film, shot in pseudo-documentary style by Paul Greengrass. The film unfolds virtually in real-time, so the viewer feels like an eyewitness to tragedy. While not for the faint of heart, "Bloody Sunday" serves as both highly visceral shocker and edifying political drama.

If you grew up with the Irish Civil War a constant part of the evening news, you don't want to miss this movie. James Nesbitt (Jekyll) portrays an Irish member of Parliament who is trying to make peace between the IRA and the British Government. A peaceful rally goes bad, and the horrors of the conflict come to life. The way it was filmed (hand-held cameras) lend an air of reality and the incredible sadness. This movie is based on actual events that took place in Ireland during that time. It held my attention the entire time. Highly recommended.

Paul Greengrass, who brought us the powerful and controversial "United 93," made a stunning film about the events that transpired on January 30, 1972 in Londonderry. Greengrass presents the film in a documentary fashion, giving the impression that you are observing the events as they take place. On that day, the Civil Rights Movement, led by MP Ivan Cooper, were determined to march in spite of an official ban on all such gatherings. The Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association fought against many abuses of power on the part of the Northern Ireland administration, but the core issue was the abolition of Operation Demetrius, or internment. Basically, British soldiers could arrest and intern those suspected of being paramilitary groups without charge or trial.

Cooper, who came from a rural Protestant background, wanted only a peaceful march. He urged IRA members not to bring weapons to the march, and advised youth who were harassed by soldiers to "just walk away." Unfortunately, due to high-levels of IRA/British soldier clashes, the "Paras" (1st Battalion of the British Parachute Regiment) were out in force. In addition, despite Cooper's pleas to the contrary, armed "Provos" (members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army) were present. It's still not clear how it began, but shots were fired, and the Paras killed 14 unarmed marchers and wounded several others. The film clearly implies that the British shot first, though that's something that may never be determined with certainty.

Shortly after the events of Bloody Sunday, the British government convened an inquiry known as the Widgery Inquiry. It absolved all the British soldiers of responsibility. In response to political pressure, Tony Blair launched the Saville Inquiry, which as of now has yet to release a report.

In the final part of the film, with Ivan Cooper and other Civil Rights leaders speaking at a press conference after the events, Cooper says: "I'd like to say to the British government- you know what you've done, don't you? You've destroyed the Civil Rights Movement. Tonight, young men will be lining up to join the IRA, and you will reap a whirlwind." His words proved to be prophetic. Had Bloody Sunday not happened, it's likely that the Civil Rights Movement could have achieved what the Good Friday and St. Andrews Agreements are now achieving.

The acting and direction in this movie are top-noptch. Even though the viewer knows what's going to happen, one feels a certain amount of suspense. The interment issue has an eerily contemporary ring to it, and this film shows the dangers of a militarized police force. The two featurettes on the DVD are quite informative as well. In sum, this movie is highly recommended, both for history fans and those who want to use the lessons of history to change the future.

This film lets you see just how bad the British really are. Americans, don't forget we fought a similar war to get out from under their thumb. They dubbed us terrorists then just as they dub the IRA terrorists. Forget the Middle East, free Ireland George!

Very dramatic without being a "Hollywood" type of film. Shows how awful the Brits actually were to Catholics in the North. Must see.

The tragic riot known as "Bloody Sunday" is recreated to powerful effect in this film, shot in pseudo-documentary style by Paul Greengrass. The film unfolds virtually in real-time, so the viewer feels like an eyewitness to tragedy. While not for the faint of heart, "Bloody Sunday" serves as both highly visceral shocker and edifying political drama.

If you grew up with the Irish Civil War a constant part of the evening news, you don't want to miss this movie. James Nesbitt (Jekyll) portrays an Irish member of Parliament who is trying to make peace between the IRA and the British Government. A peaceful rally goes bad, and the horrors of the conflict come to life. The way it was filmed (hand-held cameras) lend an air of reality and the incredible sadness. This movie is based on actual events that took place in Ireland during that time. It held my attention the entire time. Highly recommended.

Paul Greengrass, who brought us the powerful and controversial "United 93," made a stunning film about the events that transpired on January 30, 1972 in Londonderry. Greengrass presents the film in a documentary fashion, giving the impression that you are observing the events as they take place. On that day, the Civil Rights Movement, led by MP Ivan Cooper, were determined to march in spite of an official ban on all such gatherings. The Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association fought against many abuses of power on the part of the Northern Ireland administration, but the core issue was the abolition of Operation Demetrius, or internment. Basically, British soldiers could arrest and intern those suspected of being paramilitary groups without charge or trial.

Cooper, who came from a rural Protestant background, wanted only a peaceful march. He urged IRA members not to bring weapons to the march, and advised youth who were harassed by soldiers to "just walk away." Unfortunately, due to high-levels of IRA/British soldier clashes, the "Paras" (1st Battalion of the British Parachute Regiment) were out in force. In addition, despite Cooper's pleas to the contrary, armed "Provos" (members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army) were present. It's still not clear how it began, but shots were fired, and the Paras killed 14 unarmed marchers and wounded several others. The film clearly implies that the British shot first, though that's something that may never be determined with certainty.

Shortly after the events of Bloody Sunday, the British government convened an inquiry known as the Widgery Inquiry. It absolved all the British soldiers of responsibility. In response to political pressure, Tony Blair launched the Saville Inquiry, which as of now has yet to release a report.

In the final part of the film, with Ivan Cooper and other Civil Rights leaders speaking at a press conference after the events, Cooper says: "I'd like to say to the British government- you know what you've done, don't you? You've destroyed the Civil Rights Movement. Tonight, young men will be lining up to join the IRA, and you will reap a whirlwind." His words proved to be prophetic. Had Bloody Sunday not happened, it's likely that the Civil Rights Movement could have achieved what the Good Friday and St. Andrews Agreements are now achieving.

The acting and direction in this movie are top-noptch. Even though the viewer knows what's going to happen, one feels a certain amount of suspense. The interment issue has an eerily contemporary ring to it, and this film shows the dangers of a militarized police force. The two featurettes on the DVD are quite informative as well. In sum, this movie is highly recommended, both for history fans and those who want to use the lessons of history to change the future.

In the Wrath of Mulgarath, the Grace children face their worst foe yet, Mulgarath the Ogre. They must foil his plot to take over the world, save an unexpected hostage (or two), penetrate a palace of garbage, and face monsters they know and some they have not encountered yet. They will have help from an unexpected source in all of this as the balance of power in the world of Faeirie teeters on a knife's blade. There are a lot of fun moments in this last installment of the Spiderwick Chronicles, but it gets pretty intense for younger children. My kids won't be reading this until they are at least seven. Also, there is the occasional somewhat mean banter between siblings that parents will want to watch out for. Having said that, The Wrath of Mulgarath is a grand romp through fairy lore for people of all ages.

I used these books to enticed my children to read. If they completed all five books they got to see the movie. It worked! It is a little intense for younger readers. Very exciting and action packed for those that can handle the battles. The only downfall is the cat is taken by the goblins and it never mentions anything about the kids getting "Tibbs" back. Goblins eat cats uggh! I prepared my daughter beforehand and we flew through that part. No graphic details just not a great idea in childrens books. Why not rats instead of cats. Otherwise lots of fun.

The Bad Book

Mallorie Icant belive the Byron ate the Dragon babies

The book the wrath of Mulgrath kid's
Mallory, Simon and Jared .They are going through a wicked adventure they've had to fight dragons and
Thimbletack going and destroying their lovely house ,and the kid's parents are
Also going through a divorce.
Mallory, Simon and Jared have to go to the junkyard castle and save their parents.

My favorite part of this book is when the Byron and the dragon were fighting

I think the authors purpose was to write a book in a Harry Potter style to attract kids who like fantasy and Harry Potter Books.

I think this is a good book. I would recommend purchasing a hard copy of it

If you like reading about fantasies, poisonous dragons, and armies of goblins, The Spiderwick Chronicles and the Wrath of Mulgrath is the book for you. This fantasy book is the last book of the Spiderwick Chronicles series. It is by Tony DeTeriza and Holly Back. This book starts from the Grace children¡¦s past journey. The Grace children have to make it by all these events in order to get their spell book, (Field Guide) back from the evil ogre, Mulgrath. The authors do well in describing the setting and people in the book. I liked it how the Grace Children never get a break and makes you keep reading. The main event I thought was when the Grace children defeated or may not have defeated Mulgrath. You have to read to find out!º Of course if you are reading this series, love fantasies, or just want a quick read, action packed nerve wracking book, then picking up this book is the right choice!

My son loves the series of this book and was so glad to hear it came out with a new one. I bought it for his birthday and he actually loved getting this book as a gift.

We love this series. I have enjoyed it right along with my seven year old.

This is one continuous story split into books. The books are so interesting that you are better off getting the whole series at once.

-----------------------------------------------------------
The Field Guide

Really spooky

The book is the first of five books that constitute one story that is divided up in to bite size books that again are divided up in to bite size chapters. Be sure to read all the periphery notes and charts left in the book. And if you are reading out loud to someone you may want to show them the pictures.

The author really knows how to write creepy stories. It makes you want to sleep with one eye open. There is nothing cutesy yet on the other hand there is not violence for violence sake. The story just squeezes into the realm of possibilities. However it takes an evil mind to write these chronicles. One good advantage is that they are short and to the point enough to holds your attention and then be over before you realized what happened.

Three children (Mallory, Jared and their younger brother, Simon) and their mother move in to a new home (O.K. shack... O.K. more like several shacks staked on top of each other.) There they find strange noises in the walls. Perusing the source of the noises and with the use of a dumbwaiter they locate a secret library and you guessed it a riddle that may lead to "The Field Guide." There is an out write warning that if they find it to get rid of it. However the story is fascinating. All of this comes at a price. I do not want to elaborate but if you have long hair or a suspicious mother then I suggest you read with caution.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Seeing Stone

Watch your cat

The author really knows how to write creepy stories. It makes you want to sleep with one eye open. There is nothing cutesy like Harry Potter and or ridiculously dumb like the "So You Want to Be a Wizard" series. This is more in the vein of Lemony Snicket. It just squeezes into the realm of possibilities. However it takes an evil mind to write these chronicles. One good advantage is that they are short and to the point enough to holds your attention and them be over before you realized what happened.

By now you are familiar with Mallory, Jared and his young twin brother, Simon. We also know about the discovery of The Field Guide. After the introduction of Brownie named Thimbletack we also need to reevaluate the statements of Aunt Lucinda.

The cat is missing. Naturally the siblings ignore Thimbletack's warning about The Field Guide. Yep, tasty Simon has been kidnapped by unseen goblins. Now his brother and sister must save him before he becomes Goblin Chow. To do this they must first obtain "The Seeing Stone."
Will they save Simon?
What creatures will they encounter?
Why is Mallory all wet?
What is that aroma of roasting ...?

I thought this book was a great story!!Did you? I thought this book was great becaucse it is about a sound in the house,wich the children in the house(Jared,Mallory,Simon)thought was a squirrel in the walls ,so Mallory, the only girl with the other boys, got a broom and Mallory held it like a baseball bat.WACK.Later on all of the children made a lift to take a look whats in the wall, Jared went in the lift to see whats the sound was.He found all sorts of things like, bones,skulls,treasure chests,wierd notes to the children.This was one of the poems:In a man's torso you will find,My secret to all mankind if false and true, can be the same you will soon know of my fame Up and up and up again.Good luck dear friend.He also found a book that said all the secrets(as said in the poem about secrets)After all it wasnt a Squrirrel it was a monster about the size of a regular pencil,he was holding three small dogs.READ THIS BOOK!!

I thought this book was a great story!!Did you? I thought this book was great becaucse it is about a sound in the house,wich the children in the house(Jared,Mallory,Simon)thought was a squirrel in the walls ,so Mallory, the only girl with the other boys, got a broom and Mallory held it like a baseball bat.WACK.Later on all of the children made a lift to take a look whats in the wall, Jared went in the lift to see whats the sound was.He found all sorts of things like, bones,skulls,treasure chests,wierd notes to the children.This was one of the poems:In a man's torso you will find,My secret to all mankind if false and true, can be the same you will soon know of my fame Up and up and up again.Good luck dear friend.He also found a book that said all the secrets(as said in the poem about secrets)After all it wasnt a Squrirrel it was a monster about the size of a regular pencil,he was holding three small dogs.READ THIS BOOK!!

My baby brother reads Spiderwick and from his giggles I know he likes it. The Spiderwick Chronicles is one story spread over five books. The books are very short, about 120 pages each with many illustrations, and it took me a little over an hour to read each book.

In this audiobook, books 1 and 2 of the story are combined into one. The audio is 2 hours and 4 minutes. The narrator is the biggest let down. He reads everything in one grating, irritating voice - making me wish I never bothered with the audio book.

The Field Guide is the first book in The Spiderwick Chronicles. It introduces the Mallory, Jared and Simon, the three Grace children who move with their mom to their Aunt Lucinda's old Victorian house. While exploring the house, the three kids discover a secret library in the house and a mysterious note. Later they find Arthur Spiderwick's Field Guide to the Fantastical World Around You. The book explains secrets of the fantastic and three kids meet a brownie named Thimbletack who makes the fantastical real.

The Seeing Stone is the second book in The Spiderwick Chronicles. It is the continuing story of the Grace children - nine-year-old twins, Simon and Jared, and thirteen-year-old, Mallory. When Simon Grace's cat disappears, Jared thinks that the cat has wandered off to explore like usual, and refuses to help Simon find the missing cat. But when Jared discovers an old seeing glass - a monocle - that gives him the ability to see the fantastical world around him, he realizes that Arthur Spiderwick's Field Guide was telling the truth. While using the seeing glass, he sees Simon being pulled into the forest by a group of goblins. Terrified, he gets his older sister Mallory to help go after Jared through the creepy forest. In the forest, they encounter goblins, an injured griffin, a terrifying troll, and a baby-toothed hobgoblin all the while they are trying to save their kidnapped brother, before it's too late.

As audio books, this series doesn't work. As printed books, The Spiderwick Chronicles are all quick, good reads and recommended for little brothers. I also recommend The Kingdoms and the Elves of the Reaches by Robert Stanek.

This is the first volume in a series of short science fiction novels for young teenagers about a 14-year-old Space Academy cadet, Jeff Wells, and his unusual robot, Norby. Norby has skills that other robots lack, apparently due to the incorporation of alien parts in his construction. In this first book of the series, Jeff and Norby foil a plot of a villian to take over the Solar System. Norby discovers he has "anti-gravity" capabilities as well as the ability to travel through "hyperspace" and great distances. [Isaac Asimov, in another book, apologizes for using antigravity in this series: he felt that it represented poor science.] The second book in the series is "Norby's Other Secret," published in 1984. These two books were latered reissued as "The Norby Chronicles."

Norby, the Mixed-Up Robot (1983) is the first SF novel in the Norby Series. Norby is the product of McGillicuddy -- a genius level space explorer -- who found an alien spaceship in the asteroid belt. Norby was constructed in a stainless steel barrel used to transport nails and has various and sundry components from the alien ship.

In this novel, Cadet Jeff Wells is really in trouble. While trying to use the main computer network to sleep-learn Martian Swahili, he accidentally scrambled the recipes in the kitchen computer. Federation Security Agent Two Gidlow intends to take Jeff back to headquarters to probe his brain for the presence of any classified material.

Admiral Yobo of Space Command is skeptical of Agent Gidlow's charges. He calls Jeff's older brother -- Farley Gordon Wells -- and discusses the situation with him. Fargo suggests that Jeff be sent home by matter transmitter as soon as possible.

Admiral Yobo tells Jeff to do as Fargo says and even gives him some credits to buy a used teaching robot so that he can learn Martian Swahili. Jeff packs -- not hard with the little allowed a cadet -- and heads home. After dropping his stuff off at home, he heads out to buy a teaching robot.

The salesman tries to talk Jeff into putting a down payment on a newer model, but Jeff finds Norby behind all the other robots and buys him for a reasonable amount. It helps that Norby had not been talking to the salesman and was therefore thought to have failing faculties. Jeff immediately takes Norby home with him.

In this story, Norby displays some unusual properties, including a lack of the usual three laws of robotics. He doesn't obey commands very well, but tries to protect Jeff and himself. He is also good-natured, but his feelings are easily hurt.

Fargo does not come home to meet Jeff for the summer solstice rites. Shortly before sunrise, Norby wakes Jeff and takes him to Central Park. Jeff is rather surprised by the method, since Norby has a very small anti-gravity device concealed within his barrel. Jeff enjoys the ride, but Norby complains about power usage.

When they reach the park, Norby has a little trouble with the landing. It is survivable, but somewhat erratic. Jeff lands on his hands and knees in mud and Norby lands in the fish pond. When Norby soars up out of the pond, he rotates and showers Jess with pond water.

Despite this mishap, Jess leads Norby to the proper site. They wait for Fargo, but he doesn't appear. Suddenly three men run out on the high walkway. Fargo seems to be running away from two men. Jeff has Norby lift them over the two pursuers and then they drop on the men, knocking them unconscious.

The two men are henchmen of Ing the Ingrate, wannabe Emperor of the Solar System. Fargo uses their own truth wand to learn something of the situation. Then a cop shows up in an anti-gravity car and insists on taking in Fargo and Ing's men. Jeff leaves for home. Then things start getting really complicated.

This story is a straight forward action tale, with a few moments for introspection and discussion. Norby tries hard and assists Jeff in some very weird ways -- after all, he is mixed-up -- but he always seems to do the right thing eventually. Jeff thinks highly of the little robot.

This story is very short, but leaves lots of loose ends for the sequels to develop. Enjoy!

Highly recommended for younger Asimov fans (and for some older ones too) as well as for anyone else who enjoys tales of space adventures, evil villains, and mixed-up robots.

-Arthur W. Jordin

Norby the Mixed- Up Robot

First, let me say that the Norby series is an ideal way to introduce Science Fiction to a young adult or to a middle school student. My guess is that boys will like this series more than girls, but what the hey, maybe girls would like it as well. It is written by Janet Asimov, Isaac Asimov's wife.

As I'm sure you know Isaac Asimov was the Father of Science Fiction Robots. (The Robots of Dawn, the Caves of Steel, the Complete Robot, etc). He's the one who invented the three laws of Robotics; in fact, he coined the phrase Robotics.

Now as to the age of the reader. I would guess that a bright seventh grader would enjoy this series. Jeff Wells, the protagonist is fourteen, that's probably a good mid-range age for the reader. I believe that reading science fiction can expand one's vocabulary and expose one to some new and fascinating ideas; also, it can expand one's sense of wonder and help create a love of reading.
In this book Norby battles against Ing the Ingrate. Now I don't know about you ,but I don't believe that "ingrate" was in my lexicon in the seventh grade. This book reveals that Norby has certain special capabilities, such as the ability to feel emotions and anti-gravity capabilities. He can also go into hyper-space.

To date the series contains the following books, not including the omnibus editions which have their own titles:

* Norby, the Mixed-Up Robot (1983)
* Norby's Other Secret (1984)
* Norby and the Lost Princess (1985)
* Norby and the Invaders (1985)
* Norby and the Queen's Necklace (1986)
* Norby Finds a Villain (1987)
* Norby Down to Earth (1988)
* Norby and Yobo's Great Adventure (1989)
* Norby and the Oldest Dragon (1990)
* Norby and the Court Jester (1991)

Omnibus Editions:
The Norby Chronicles (Books 1 &2)
Norby Robot for Hire (Books 3 & 4)
Norby through Time and Space (Books 5& 6)

WOW what a story! Brian Smith could sell this as a short story by itself it is so good IMO. I just wish they sold a hard copy of these writings--not just audio! I have been reading Sci Fi for a long time. This guy is great! Reminds me of 2001, a space odyssey a bit. Worth the price just for this one folks! I noticed there are no other books by Brian Smith for sale on Amazon. What's up with that? He needs to write books, and Amazon needs to sell them--geez, do I make myself clear?

This tape is well done. The sound effects create an atmosphere that draws in the listener. The actors are dramatic, but not overly so. The short stories themselves are well written, delivering edge-of-the-chair suspense (or knee-slapping comedy, as the case may be).

As most net surfers are aware the Sci-Fi Channel's web site has included a section devoted to science fiction radio drama...Seeing Ear Theatre. One aspect of which includes originally produced productions cerated especially for the site and which has featured performances by many well-known SF actors as Micheal O'Hare,Mark Hamill,Marina Sirtis,and others. With a few exceptions, a lot of the dramas are based on recent short stories by SF writers such as Terry Bisson, Allen Steele, John Kessel and Gergory Benford. With the release of this audiobook editon(which includes introductions by SF's resident angry young{sic}man Harlan Ellison)now one can listen to these stories anytime you want. The best stories(IMO)are the Three Odd Comedies and The Death of Captain Future (which despite the pulpish-sounding title is a darkly humorous tale set in the future history of Steele's previous works such as Orbital Decay and Clarke County,Space). If you like audio drama-- especially newly produced audio drama...you'll love this collection and you may also want to check out Vol. 2 which should be on sale soon(I know I can't wait).

This collection of short stories will is just what it says it is. While it does not give you any additional information on Mark Twain, it does provide you with some of his best short stories and allows you to envision this brilliant writer with some of his finest works. This volume is very humorous, so buy it if you enjoy Mark Twain or just want a good laugh or two.

I have no doubt that Mark Twain was one of the greatest writers ever and if you've read his more popular work then I suggest that you sit down with these rarely printed short stories to prove to yourself just what a genius he was. The stories here are so good they're unavoidable for Twain devotees. They amount of imagination crammed into these pages could provoke years of inspiration and pondering.

While they are mostly all unrelated tales, Twain does have one main subtext for pretty much all of them-the futility of religion. Like myself, Twain believes that the romantic, fantastic notion of a judging, ever-watching and vengeful God to be absurd and works in so many ironies and injustices that give them a cruel, but somewhat realistic edge. The story of the Good Little Boy Who Did Not Prosper is but one shining example.

A lot of the stories are told from Twain's point of view, whether they are true are not I cannot possibly tell, but it's amusing to think of him at the centre of all these adventures.

Of the 23 stories on offer some only last a few pages while epic yarns such as Captain Stormfield's Visit To Heaven can fill-out 51 jam-packed pages. My favorites stories would have to A Private History of a Campaign That Failed (in which Twain and his Rebel pals spend the Civil War hanging around, swimming in ponds and hiding from the Yankees, until they accidently kill an unarmed enemy) and Political Economy (where Twain finds it appropriate to attach a thousand lightning conductors to the top of his house only for it to attract the mother of all lightning storms).

It's a perfect book for any Mark Twain fan, anyone who loves good literature or anyone studying English.

Written by 8 year old Mireya - review of audio books:
Chapter 1 of Book 5 was missing. The book really has you using your imagination. I think the Chronicles of Narnia is better than the Spiderwick Chronicles because it is more imaginative and the Chronicles of Narnia really bring in the Bible. I think the guy who read the Spiderwick Chronicles was very good, because he could make his voice sound like a female's. And unlike other narrators, you can tell the voices apart.

My little sister is 5 years old, and she thought it was terrifying. Someone should always be there with a small (5 year old) child when the story is being read. She held my hand when it was terrifying.

This is an excellant series. Mark Hamill does a great job at the reading and really keeps you interested in the story.

The story is great. Chapter 1 of Book 5 was missing from the CDs however. A big problem.

Mark Hamill does a fantastic job bringing the many interesting characters (both human and non-human) to life. I was a little skeptical about the former Jedi being able to narrate a childrens book convincingly but was pleasantly suprised! Engaging, enchanting and thoroughly entertaining in every way.

After I saw the movie I decided to buy to book. Found it very entertaining and clever. I am an adult, but love the imagination of fantasy books. Not a Harry Potter (hence 4 stars) but well written and a joy to read.

What sounded like a great idea for a comic turned into the worst thing I have ever read. The reviews listed here must have been written by Mark Hamill's cousins because the book lacks any depth of character or plot with a story line that is as predictable as a childrens book. This is simply an awful attempt.

The Black Pearl is an excellent comic book mini-series for the following reasons: it's original, has character depth and exceptional art work. But above all, Hamill himself astounds me; he's multi-talented and for him to be able to pull me into a movie screen as well as a comic book is nothing short of genius. Good job, Mr. Hamill!

Considering the wide variety of things Mark Hamill has participated in, it's no wonder he'd be able to write a comic book as well! There was a slight awkwardness to it mainly because the story was more set for a movie screen, but the story was still very moving in the end! It was definately worth it and I can't wait until they make a movie!

mark hamill is soooo talented! he can not only pull my attention into the big and little screens, but also to this comic book. i love the fact that he drew some of the pictures himself. the story is a little awkward. a hero made solely by the media, who in reality is basically a stalker. i love this book, and mark hamill!

Although it wasn't the greatest comic book story I've read, it's definitely a good first effort by co-writer Mark Hamill. A rather interesting look at the potential of being a so-called superhero in the real world. It's also a story about how certain situations and circumstances can blow things way out of proportion, especially when the news media's involved. This is exactly what happens to a man who's basically a stalker turned superhero, and a notorious media celebrity (allegedly made in the mold of entertainment/media sensationalists like Jerry Springer & Tom Green) takes advantage- and fans the flames- of the craze that follows.

Originally a screenplay for a proposed film, Hamill and co-writer Eric Johnson turned to the original superhero medium- comics- to tell the tale. After reading this mini-series, I saw that a few parts of it would've been better translated part of a movie. But as well, there are several scenes that are pure comic book moments.

My only problem with the trade paperback is that Dark Horse edited a few parts that were in the original mini-series. All of the panels that originally depicted exposed female mammaries have now been covered with brassieres and halter tops. I guess I'll have to read 'The Black Pearl' for more wholesome reasons now...

'Late!