Television Books


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Television Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

Television
Peter Jennings: A Reporter's Life
Published in Paperback by PublicAffairs (2008-10-27)
Author:
List price: $14.95
New price: $10.17

Average review score:

A Great Book About A Great Man
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-21
I was never a regular viewer of Peter Jennings' news broadcast or any of his documentaries, but now I wish I was.

This book pointed out all the great time, effort and blood, sweat and tears that Peter Jennings put into all segments of his broadcast and documentaries. He did not take his anchor position lightly and wanted all viewers to share his same passion and understanding of the subjects he was speaking.

It also went into great depth to speak of the man that none of us saw on his nightly newscasts. One who was such a humanitarian and lover off people from all different walks of life.

This book kept my attention and made me feel sad that I did not pay closer attention to his newscast while he was still with us.

Jennings book a Gem
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-09
If you loved Peter Jennings you will love this book. It was written in an innovative style by way of an amalgam interviews with his colleagues. If you are looking for dirt on Peter skip this book, but if you want to relive the hundreds of wonderful hours you spent with him on your TV, this book does the trick. Your memory might also be jogged when you read the many adjectives describing him in the book: charming, distinctive, exuberant, thoughtful, reflective, gracious, caring, sincere, whimsical, questioning, authentic, direct, gentle of spirit, warm, great sense of humor, intelligent.

I loved the insight many of the contributors gave, as well as the quotes from Peter: "He connected with every person he met. He didn't use them." "He had this life force that seemed to surround him--his enthusiasms, his boundless energy and curiosity. He was one of those people that was just a great sense of nirvana to be around." "And when he was faced with the actual test, he instantly did the right thing." Peter: "Be spare, be precise, take your time, and don't say too much. Let each work carry the weight of the story....communicate in a concise way."

Peter would ask, "What are we going to do today what will distinguish us?" He despised predictability, mediocrity of any kind, laziness." "Listening to Peter was...riveting." Peter WAS riveting, and so is this book!

Bill Kizorek, CEO, Two Parrot Productions

The format of A REPORTER'S LIFE both works and doesn't work
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-27
When ABC newsman Peter Jennings died from lung cancer in 2005, he left a void in the industry that has yet to be filled. Along with the likes of Walter Cronkite, Chet Huntley and David Brinkley, Jennings helped revolutionize television news, sitting on both sides of the desk, transforming the genre from a 15-minute afterthought to a major component of network broadcasting.

The editors of PETER JENNINGS: A REPORTER'S LIFE, including his wife, have collected the thoughts and memories of scores of family, friends and colleagues who are universal in their praise and turned these stories into an oral biography. It seems as if Jennings was almost predisposed to the profession. As the son of one of Canada's most respected radio broadcasters, he got an early start, hosting his own children's show as a nine-year-old. Formal education held little interest for Jennings; these days he might have been diagnosed with ADD. His success, despite dropping out of high school, was truly remarkable.

Jennings was just 26 when he was handed the anchor assignment for ABC News in 1965, a job to which he admitted he was not suited at the time. He earned his stripes by going out into the field --- far, far afield to Europe and the Middle East where he thrived on the exotic surroundings and the action.

The entries in A REPORTER'S LIFE reveal a man in a hurry, ever curious and always willing to do whatever it took to get the job done, even when that meant putting himself in harm's way. Jennings was no "Scud-stud," a term used to describe reporters who made a name for themselves during the first war in Iraq; he didn't even like to fly. But he impressed everyone, from his sound men to heads of state, with his ability to soak up information and present it to his audience.

When he stepped down as an active reporter to once again take over the anchor desk for ABC News, he brought that same restlessness with him. He was a demanding boss, always expecting the reporters to do the same thorough job he did. But his humanity was always evident. During the coverage on 9/11, he wanted the audience to see the devastation of the World Trade Center rather than in-studio shots of him. And he was never afraid to defer to experts or admit he did not know every issue involved.

Many of those interviewed said that Jennings never wanted to be the center of attention, which made his on-air revelation of his illness all the more conflicting. For him, it served as an abject lesson, another chance to educate his viewers.

The format of A REPORTER'S LIFE both works and doesn't work. Since it's not a straightforward biography, it appears choppy at times, a series of mini-monologues interspersed with Jennings's own words. It is also understandably biased; you won't find too many speaking ill of him. On the other hand, these are the people who knew Jennings best, and the book serves as their final chance to pay him tribute.

--- Reviewed by Ron Kaplan

Purchased as a gift but...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-19
I purchased this book for my son who greatly admired Peter Jennings as I did and before wrapping this birthday gift I had to read several chapters. I loved what I read so far and my son has promised to "lend" the book to me so I can read the entire book.

ps My son truly loved reading about this talented reporter!

Simply the best
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-12
There were reasons why, after watching all three major networks, I settled on Peter Jennings to learn about the day's events...he was the best in the business and this new book, "A Reporter's Life", allows those who knew him best to tell us what we didn't know so much about ....the personal and professional side of Peter's life. Many recollections amassed shortly after Peter's death from lung cancer in 2005 and his own thoughts and reflections about world events that he covered are nicely assembled here. He must have been quite a guy.

It was fascinating to know that Peter Jennings had a brief life as an anchor in the 1960s before going off to become a world-travelled correspondent. As Diane Sawyer assesses... [he had] "a Ph.D. in curiosity". What made him unique was his command and his coolness on the air....one felt he knew exactly what was going on and as a viewer, you felt better for it.

There is suprisingly little about the family side of his life, however. Married four times, he was nonetheless very close to his two children and I suspect the thrust of "A Reporter's Life" was to place the emphasis on "reporter". There are a couple of terrific offerings that really caught my attention.....his Millenium Eve special (which was brilliantly conceived and executed) and an intriguing chapter about the differences he felt about being a Canadian working in America. His becoming an American citizen in 2003 must certainly have been one of the highpoints of his life.

I highly recommend "A Reporter's Life" for being a tribute to a great individual and one whom millions came to know over the years. As told by his friends and colleagues (and Peter himself) it's a good way to remember him and the contributions he made to our better understanding of the world.


Television
Sagwa, the Chinese Siamese Cat (PBS Kids)
Published in Hardcover by PBS (2003-01)
Author:
List price: $19.98

Average review score:

ENDEARING FELINE WHIMSEY
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-11-16
A WONDERFULLY TOLD CAT-TAIL! THE ILLUSTRATIONS ARE LOVELY AND APPROPRIATE TO THE PLAYFUL THEME OF THE BOOK.

A home run for a Chinese native and a cat lover!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-16
This is a fantastic story. It sparks children and adults (I'm 53!) the imagination and creativity that will help make the world a more beautiful place. I hence started to write my own children's stories. Amy Tan is my inspiration, and I hope she becomes yours.

Sagwa
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2005-08-17
I am the mother of 2 boys and have little knowledge of "girl" books. I bought this book for 2 little girls ages 4 and 5. The parents of each girl said their daughters were thrilled with the book and asked that it be read to them twice the day the book arrived. I bought the book because I love Amy Tan's novels and assumed that a child's book would be just as engaging. Amy Tan's story and the beautiful illustrations did not let me down.

Siamese cat lovers....
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2004-01-11
The most exquisitely illustrated book I've ever owned! A fun, fictitious way to describe how white siamese kittens get their colors.
It's a bit long for a bed time story, but really fun! Kids ages 8 or 9 and up may be able to read it themselves, but the beginners may have a hard time.

Beautifully written and illustrated book!
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2003-07-08
I've read Amy Tan's "Joy Luck Club" and "Kitchen God's Wife" and had no idea that she's a wonderful children's author as well. I learned about this book from watching the same titled PBS series. The series is cute for kids, but the book is a wonderful story, rich in history and beautifully illustrated. Tan is a gifted writer that children and adults can appreciate.

Television
The Simpsons Handbook: Secret Tips from the Pros (Simpsons (Harper))
Published in Hardcover by Harper Paperbacks (2007-06-01)
Author:
List price: $39.95
New price: $21.17
Used price: $24.47

Average review score:

Good buy
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-22
My husband and I grew up watching the Simpsons, so when this book came out my husband was very interested in it. I got it for Christmas for him. He was very happy to see how many characters they show you how to draw, and how detailed the pictures are.
This is very good buy for a Simpsons fan, or someone interested in learning to draw.

First Class Instructional Guide
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-19
Very well written and illustrated, Very easy to follow the instructions and get first class results. I bought it as a gift for my eight year old nephew and now he's ready to start illustrating for the TV show ... well not quite But he's enjoying it. Five Star Product

If you love to draw
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-23
Great book. So much fun for the weekend drawer. Could have more information/fun facts. But still, great book.

Excellent item!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-13
This is a really good book! If you love the art of The Simpsons, ever wondered how they are made? This book is for you. It is that very well made that it even seems easy to draw them!

Exxxxxxxcellent!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-11-28
Fantastic "how to" book -- can't recommend this one highly enough! Not only do you get lessons on drawing the characters, but you also get schooled in perspective. Richly illustrated, the drawing tips are solid and can be applied towards drawing danged near ANYTHING -- not just Simpsons characters.

As Barney Gumble himself once said, "Where *burrp!* have you been all my life?"

Television
Sit, Ubu, Sit: How I went from Brooklyn to Hollywood with the Same Woman, the Same Dog, and a Lot Less Hair
Published in Hardcover by Harmony (2008-02-05)
Author: Gary David Goldberg
List price: $23.95
New price: $11.96
Used price: $7.00
Collectible price: $50.00

Average review score:

Couldn't put this down!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-07
What a refreshingly funny, sincere, and insightful read. I laughed out loud so many times I lost count. I loved the way he included just the right amounts of different aspects of his life, none dominating the story - his work in television, his adorable chocolate Lab Ubu, his friendships, and his heartwarming relationship with his wife Diana. It was simply delightful cover to cover. I read few books more than once; this will be one of them.

The best book I've read!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-02
I've read sooooooo many books in my day, but this one has the charm, warmth and insight into Gary's humanity, that I couldn't put it down. Now what do I read????!!!! Please, Gary, write another one!!!

Ubu Gets A Treat For Being Such A Good Book!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-01
Sit Ubu Sit is a heart warming,entertaining and thoroughly engaging memoir. The life experiences of Gary David Goldberg are interesting in and of themselves and the lessons learned from his life's path are invaluable to just about everyone.The book is like a Philosophy 101 course putting into perspective the priorities of life using Hollywood and Brooklyn as two polar opposites of life's spectrum. Gary Goldberg is the friend we all want...........the father we all crave........the husband we all dream of......His warmth, sense of humor, family devotion,intelligence and uniqueness all interplay to make this a fabulous read.

Quick and very enjoyable read
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-26
Reading this book feels like watching a sitcom, but you don't have to wait from episode to episode to get a few laughs. You get a concentrated dose of humor mixed with some tragedy. Another reason it is better than a sitcom is that all of the stories are true. The book is hard to put down and when you are finished it leaves you feeling uplifted, despite the parts that make you cry.

Terrific Book, Fun Read
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-19
Wonderful book, very well written and a fun read. Gary David Goldberg tells the best and the most challenging about Hollywood, his wonderful family and especially his wife Diana.

But, when will Brooklyn Bridge be available on DVD?

Television
The Sonoran Grill (Cookbooks and Restaurant Guides)
Published in Paperback by Northland (2000-04-25)
Author: Mad Coyote Joe
List price: $16.95
New price: $8.86
Used price: $4.99
Collectible price: $16.95

Average review score:

Mad Coyote Joe Knows Good Food!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-20
Every recipe I have made from this book has never ceased to amaze me and those I serve it to for unique and amazing flavor. The ensalada de orzo diablo is amazing - I make it often and it is received with enthusiasm and even those unsure who may take a little at first (even if to be polite) come back for a big second serving. Don't forget to try the chinese asparagus salad, it's so good!

I collect cookbooks, and many I have never used, or barely used; this book however is well loved, is used frequently, and has the splatter marks to prove it!

A nice little airport pickup
Helpful Votes: 15 out of 15 total.
Review Date: 2000-09-07
I had some time to kill while waiting for a flight to take off from Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix. I started looking at some cookbooks, and this offering from Mad Coyote Joe was displayed prominently. Once you flip through this book, it's as good as bought!

MCJ is upfront about his background - he's not a trained cook, but he loves the food he makes, knows it backwards and forwards, and has a passion for letting others know about how to make the stuff he loves. Most importantly, the language he uses is clear and concise and is therefore accessible to all levels of readers, including those like me who have to ask our spouses where they keep the butter.

The recipe for Joe's 'Two-Chile Salsa' is alone worth the price of admission. This is the type of dish you bring to a gathering and as the guests gorge themselves you're bound to get an incredulous "*you* made this?"-type of reaction.

I know Joe!
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2003-04-21
I live in arizona and make sure to watch the "sonoran grill" on tv everyday. Sorry to those of you outside the arizona area. I dont believe they broadcast anywhere else. Mad coyote joe lives in cavecreek arizona with his wife and children and hosts this great cooking show from his own backyard while throwing scraps at his yellow lab. He is the top authority on everything sonoran. This book is full of his best recipes for fresh,hommade salsa.BBQ rubs and anything else grilled. If you like the flavor of the southwest you'll love this book even if you dont know the show!

Excellent recipes
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2002-04-05
I have tried most of the recipes in this book, and have repeated many of them over and over again. I have not tried one yet that was not a big hit with the family and friends, all of which are southwestern cuisine fans. The instructions are vague, but I was curiously complimented that Mad Coyote thought I already knew the basics. The flavors from each of the recipes (ie: Black Bean/White Corn Salad and Gazpacho Soup) are outstanding. A great way to impress any dinner party guest.

Now anyone can become a grilling expert!
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2000-09-05
Mad Coyote Joe hosts "The Sonoran Grill", a popular television cooking show and in this superb regional cookbook showcases 130 of his favorite recipes featuring a Southwestern touch. From Posole (a classic American Indian soup), to Chile Rellenos (a delicious Mexican dish), to Habanero-Lime Butter (perfect for vegetables, potatoes, grilled fish and pork), to Sonoran Mesquite-Smoked Brisket (a true Sonoran dish with a twist!), The Sonoran Grill offers the best of the Southwest suited for transforming even the most novice kitchen cook into a skilled grilling expert!

Television
A Third Face: My Tale of Writing, Fighting and Filmmaking
Published in Paperback by Applause Books (2004-04)
Authors: Samuel Fuller, Christa Lang Fuller, and Jerome Henry Rudes
List price: $18.95
New price: $5.34
Used price: $5.35

Average review score:

He lived to tell his tales.
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-07-10
I read Sam Fuller's, A Third Face: My Tale of Writing, Fighting, and Filmmaking, after seeing three of his more mainstream movies on dvd. Told in a tough-guy no-nonsense style (with a bit of mild profanity), the book is a blast.

Parts one and two (the first 229 pages of the paperback's 562 pages of narrative) rank among the best memoirs I have read of the first half of the twentieth century. In the first part he tells of his youth in New York City's vigorous newspaper business in the 1920s--from selling papers to copy boy to crime reporter--followed by his years in the 1930s hoboing around the country doing free lance journalism, ultimately ending up in Hollywood writing for the Hollywood machine. Part two is his account of his years as an enlisted man in the First Infantry Division, the Big Red One. It is interesting to find out how many happenings in his film of that name actually occurred. If you have a friend who only reads about WWII, you can recommend this to him/her just for part two; s/he will thank you.

The remaining parts recount his experiences in Hollywood making movies, then the years when things fall apart, and finally his years as a famous man in France sought after by many young filmmakers. It is amazing to read how the Pentagon once called him to Washington (and he went!) to grill him about one of his movies and how J. Edgar Hoover objected to certain aspects of his films as un-American.

The book's many illustrations are well chosen and fit the text where they appear.

Fuller had an amazing life and an ever active imagination. In his last days he produced a book well worth reading even if you have never seen any of his films. Highly recommended.

Sam Fuller's Best Work
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-02-03
Sam Fuller has a strong, cult like following. He made a couple great films, but to be honest, the rest were very choppy, B grade thrillers that get a bit overrated by that cult.

A THIRD FACE is his greatest work.

This is an absolutely wonderful autobiography. Following his early days as a newspaper writer, his time in WWII, and his years as a writer and director. This is honestly more fun to read than any of his films are to watch.

The most amazing thing about the book is that it is written in his voice. If you ever saw him interviewed, or act in a film, he had a very distinctive voice. The book sounds just like he spoke. With short phrases, lots of exclamation points, just like he sounded!! It is the closest you are going to get to him reading it to you.

Even if you aren't familiar with his films, this is a great read.

A monumental acheivement
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2004-09-30
"A Third Face" is one of the great crusty, caustic autobiographies of recent years. Fuller died a few ago, an old cigar smoker of pithy phrase, maverick tendencies and artistic courage. As a crime reporter in New York in the 20s, as a hobo in the 30s, as a GI in World War II, as a novelist, screenwriter and director of noir and war movies ("Pickup on South Street," "House of Bamboo," "The Big Red One"), Fuller was a force of nature, a no-BS realist who knew how to tell a story. The photo on the back cover speaks volumes: raised pistol in one hand; a camera lens in the other. Yet he was, at core, a powerful pacifist. He was a survivor.

Fuller's style is profane, anecdotal, street wise and hugely engaging. It's no wonder, since he was the young protege and buddy of hard-boiled writers like Gene Fowler and Damon Runyon.

Fuller's account of his "dogface" years as a G.I. in North Africa, Italy, France and Germany is one of the best descriptions of WWII Army life I've read.

Later, Hollywood studios offered him big money to make their blockbusters ("The Longest Day," "Patton"), but he turned them down so he could make little movies his own way. ("I make A movies on B budgets," he liked to say.)

Out of curiosity,I recently rented a couple of his movies. "Pickup on South Street," with Richard Widmark and Jean Peters, just crackled. "Shock Corridor," with Peter Breck, was ambitious but flawed.

Though I can't wait to see some of his other films, my hunch is "A Third Face" will stand as Fuller's single greatest artistic achievement.

In later years, Fuller became mentor to many young directors: Jonathan Demme; Tim Robbins; Jim Jarmusch, Martin Scorsese. It's clear from Scorsese's introduction that they idolized him.

As a writer, Sam Fuller teaches this lesson: Write fast; never give up; to hell with the naysayers. His final two or three paragraphs offers a capstone philosophy that all should embrace.

I loved this book. It saddens me to finish it.

Inherently fascinating reading for film buffs
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2004-06-06
A Third Face: My Tale Of Writing, Fighting, And Filmmaking by Samuel Fuller (with the posthumous and collaborative assistance of his wife Christa Lang Fuller and longtime friend Jerome Henry Rudes) features a Foreword by Martin Scorsese and and presents the reader with an autobiographical account of one of Hollywood's most prolific and independent writer/director/producers. The late Samuel Fuller (1911-1997) made 29 tough, gritty films from 1949 to 1989. His film "Park Row" was inspired by his years in the New York newspaper business. His years of service in the army during World War II provided material for his films "The Big Red One", "The Steel Helmet", and "Merrill's Marauders. From "Pickup on South Street" and "Underworld U.S.A.", to "Shock Corridor" and White Dog", A Third Face provides the story behind the films and the man who created them. A Third Face is highly recommended and inherently fascinating reading for film buffs and students of 20th Century American Cinema.

A Third Face
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-19
"Film is like a battleground. Love. Hate. Action. Violence. In one word, emotion." That line of dialogue, ad-libbed by Samuel Fuller in Jean-Luc Godard's `Pierrot le fou,' seems to more or less sum up his philosophy of film making. Those of us who aren't fans of the film director may mourn the absence of words like `coherence' and `plausibility,' but there's no denying that most of Fuller's film literally burst with energy.

As does his autobiography `A Third Face,' written with wife Christa at the end of a long and event filled life, even those who find Fuller's film a little too energetic will find this book interesting. Starting out in New York City, where he found working as a copy boy and reporter on Park Row more interesting than the high school he'd abandon without graduation, to his service in the 1st U.S. Infantry Division (the Big Red One) in World War Two, through to his post-war career as a screen writer and film director, Fuller is never boring.

With the possible exception of `The Big Red One' (1980), a film that he'd nursed for years, Fuller's career peaked in the mid-60s with independent productions like `Shock Corridor' and `The Naked Kiss.' Although Fuller claims he was offered both `The Longest Day' ("My own vision of war and the world made me say no") and `Patton' ("After my war experiences, I didn't have the necessary detachment to do a picture celebrating the man"), it's as intriguing to contemplate how he might have directed these films as it is to wonder how serious were the offers. After all, as he admits, he `was prone to excess' and loved to grab the audience and shake them. Not necessarily what you look for in a big picture director. The third face, to Fuller, is the inner person that nobody else sees. "My third face was my own holy sanctuary... It was a storage room that nobody but me could enter... It wasn't just a concept for me but a very real locale, captivating and whimsical, cozy and seductive, the geisha girl of my brain." A Third Face is captivating and whimsical, cozy and seductive, too. A strong recommendation for this one.

Television
Unfinished Business - The Life and Times of Danny Gatton
Published in Paperback by Backbeat Books (2003-07)
Author: Ralph Heibutzki
List price: $17.95
New price: $8.76
Used price: $10.96

Average review score:

Satisfied customer
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-16
Very satisfied with product purchased from this seller. Fast delivery, honest description of product per seller and packaging was great. I bought this book for my husband and he enjoyed reading it. Thank you!

At last, Danny Gatton's story is told!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-02
"Unfinished Business" by Ralph Heibutzki is a great read and provides great insight into the life of a not-so-well-known American guitarist. I was a fan of Danny Gatton before his untimely death and own 8 CDs by him. After reading Ralph's book, I ordered the other half of Gatton's canon (8 CDs and an instructional DVD) including a live soundboard recording by Evan Johns from the period when Danny was playing with Evan.

As I was one that always wondered what would cause a "normal" guy like Danny to take his life, on the heels of Roy Buchanan taking his own life, the book provided much insight into those dark days. It also provided insight into his glory days, his love of classic cars, and his struggles with the music industry.

The book was so captivating that I took it everywhere with me. I doing so, many folks inquired about it ... and more people in my town knew of Danny than I ever imagined. One friend was so impressed with my overview of the book, he requested to read it when I finished with it. Because I want to keep my signed copy intact, I'm buying him a copy as a gift.

If you have any interest in Danny Gatton or any interest in an amazing American guitar hero, "Unfinished Business" is his story.

reinvigorated my interest in Danny Gatton and replaced my ignorance with information
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-09
The book reinvigorated my interest in DG. I had a couple cds of his and knew him to be a hot shot guitarist, but never concentrated much focused listening time on his music. Reading the book has gotten me on a DG binge, and I've picked up a few more cds and some live recordings (Fat Boys 1974!) and have listened alot more closely. Before reading this book, I didn't know about his death or anything about any interfamilial squabbles, but the author presented them very even-handedly. I knew Gatton was a well respected and influential guitarist but I was still surprised to read about some of the other musicians who were influenced by or impressed by his music. And being a guitar player myself (big surprise) I feel motivated to try to learn a lick or two of his myself. Thanks for the great book!

The Real Story
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-06-22
As a musician, I was very fortunate to know Danny personally as he played in one of his earliest DC bands with my uncle, Rick Harmel. I recall that he took time to show me a few practice scales almost everytime I ran into him - no matter how busy he appeeared - and he was a warm-hearted, generous guy to the core.

This book balances the abrupt, tragic end of Danny's life with the highs and motivations that made Gatton a player's player. It also spotlights many of the people (like Arlen Roth) that contributed their loyalty and friendship to Danny. Thank you Ralph for a great homage and superb, thorough account of the life of the Master of the Telecaster. A "must read" for all guitarists - and anyone else who enjoys a moving account of an accomplished human being.

Thorough Research & an Appreciative Ear
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2004-10-28
The other reviewers have discussed the merits of Danny's playing, so I will mostly stick to extolling the book. Heibutzki talked to just about everybody, and found most if not all of the print material and used this in his thoughtful, comprehensive biography.
As an interviewer, the author got his subjects to open up, and what they say frequently tells as much about themselves as about Danny. As a consequence, the reader gets a sense of the mileau of clubs, studios, band and record label politics, and Washington DC and Southern Maryland music and lifestyle from the 60's to the 90's. A great deal of attention is paid to Danny's interest in cars, and his family life, as well as his early days gigging in various teenage bands and with Liz Meyer & Friends before he became "unfamous".
Also, the book comes with a bibliography and discography, as well as a useful index, showing the author's almost academic thoroughness.

Television
Acting Out: Your Personal Coach to a Money-Making Career in Television Commercials
Published in Paperback by Cricket Feet Publishing (2003-08)
Authors: Stuart Stone and Dennis Bailey
List price: $16.95
New price: $3.69
Used price: $0.57

Average review score:

A Great Guidebook
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2004-04-29
When a few friends and I decided to explore commercial acting, we needed a roadmap. This book is it! There are a lot of acting books out there, but Stuart's stands out by explaining the process of breaking into commercials from the ground up without talking down to his reader. Concise, highly readable, and, most importantly, backed by Stuart's knowledge as both a working actor and casting director, this book teaches you how to be a professional and hit the ground running in a very competitive business.

One of the best of it's kind
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-26
This book is short and to the point. Sometimes when people write these kind of books, they elabroate forever. Not this one. There's not a lot of wordy explanations. I appreciate that. Info very precise with good advice and techniques pertaining specifically to commercials. Stone not only deals with the audition process, he helps you avoid making mistakes and falling for scams as well as showing how to market yourself.
I have not seen a more detailed or informative book on the subject.

Very basic info
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-12
This book is very short and the information is very general. Only a few things pertained specifically to commercials at all. There are much more detailed and informative books out there.

The Best Acting Book Ever
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2005-06-23
I read Stuart's book and became so motivated to get out and start making things happen for myself with reagards to my acting career. He give excellant advice on what to do and how to do it. Anyone reading this book, will not want to put it down. It truly is the best book ever!

ActorNation Feb. 2006 [...]
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-18
Industry Insight - "Acting Out"
By Holdon Log, LLC

If you are looking to work as a successful actor in commercials, or perhaps you already are and are in need of a brush up, we'd like to point you in the direction of Acting Out written by Stuart Stone, CCDA (Commercial Casting Directors Association) and Clio Award winner and Dennis Bailey.

If you haven't had the pleasure of meeting Stuart at an audition or in a class, reading the book he co-authored, Acting Out, will offer you guidance and give you insight on what is expected before, during and after a successful audition. More importantly, as mentioned on Stuart's Web site (www.CommercialActing.Info) is how to "turn callbacks into bookings."

Several of us at Holdon Log (from all different backgrounds and at various stages in our commercial acting pursuits) recently read Acting Out and we agree that more Industry mysteries had been revealed, explained better and reinforced while turning the pages of this easy-to-read guide book complete with cleverly depicted moments that happen in real commercial casting sessions.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS

Before Meeting A Prospective Commercial Agent:

"When you get an appointment with an agent you should call and confirm the night before, for a morning appointment, and the morning of, for an afternoon appointment. This effort will show them you are responsible. Many actors forget the business part of the equation; your professionalism will set you apart from the actor wannabees. Dress like you would on a general commercial call-with a leaning towards upscale casual. Avoid perfumes or colognes. Bring an up-to-date picture and resume with you. If you have a demo reel of your commercials, bring that as well. Arrive twenty minutes early to secure a parking space and find the office. Do not be late. And call if you have any problem keeping your appointment. The agent is taking time from his or her busy schedule to meet with you. DO NOT keep them waiting."




While Preparing For Your Photo Shoot & What To Look For While Selecting Your Headshots:

"The most important thing to remember is this: You want your picture to look like you do when you walk into any given audition. We can't stress that enough, so we're going to repeat it. You want your picture to look like you do when you walk into any given audition at any time. Not how you'd like to look after a visit to the plastic surgeon, not how your mother tells you how you look when she pinches your cheek, but how you really look."


During The Commercial Audition:

"It is imperative that you establish a beginning, middle and an end to your actions. This is a hard and fast rule in approaching any type of audition. You are, in a sense, performing a complete, short scene for the camera."



"While working, whether alone or with a partner, do not memorize the lines. Fully familiarize yourself, stick an operative phrase or two in your head, but do not commit the pages to memory. Unlike a theatrical audition where you have leeway to rehearse and memorize, the time you have with commercial copy is minimal. Most actors try to impress the casting director by having the dialogue memorized but they end up trying to remember the copy and are not able to act at all. They end up leaving the acting out, which is 50% of the work. Once in the audition room there will be a cue card with the copy clearly printed in bold magic marker situated on and easel next to the camera. Use it. If you memorize the copy, it's almost impossible to use the cue cards to help you out if you forget memorized lines. Instead, develop the skill of cue card reading."


During The Callback:

"No matter how many people are crowded into the room, focus your attention on the director. He or she is in charge this time around."

"It is generally important to wear the same clothes and hairstyle you did on the original call. (Click Here To View An ActorTrack Software Tip) "



When You've Worked The Job You've Booked...Before You Go:

"Then before you climb into your car, circle the set and thank everyone. Everyone. Not only is it just good manners-personal and professional-it is good business. Human nature being what it is, people like to work with actors they know are talented and personable...Kindness and integrity-as well as talent-are remembered."

[...]

Television
The Art of Inuyasha: Anime Art Gallery
Published in Paperback by VIZ Media LLC (2003-03)
Author:
List price: $22.95
New price: $23.00
Used price: $1.52

Average review score:

Love it
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-01-10
Great Book. It's a wonderful comparison of the manga and the Anime as well as a great reference for how each character is developed. Also makes a great picture book for my 2 year old. She sits with daddy and looks at the picturers.

Great Book!!!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-11-11
This book has lots of interesting info on all the characters and enemies throughout the first part of this great anime/manga series Inuyasha. It has many full colored pages and director, voice actor,etc, commentary. It also features sketches of important characters and enemies in the series from Kagome, Inuyasha, Sango, Miroku to Kaede, Seshomaru, Jaken, Yura, Mistress Centipede, and many others. I found the sketches useful for learning how to draw. Anyways, this is definetly a must have for all Inuyasha fans.

Tons of great background on InuYasha
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-13
First of all, let me say my daughter is a complete InuYahsa addict. :) She loves the serial tale. That said, this book is marvelous! It has drawing examples, story snippets, voice character interviews.... very informative.

Beautifully colored drawings and detailed black and white work.

My only complaint refers to the hardbound version..... The spine of the book broke down the back very quickly and had to be taped. Otherwise the book is very well constructed.

Be aware the book is made to read from back to front in the typical Japanese manga manner. A little difficult for me, but my 9 year old daughter grasped the concept immediately....

Well worth the money for reference value alone.

better than expected
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-01-17
Other reviewers have given accurate particulars about this volume, and I agree with their high ratings. This book is really a delight and a perfect way to spend a couple hours in Inuyasha bliss. I was incredibly impressed with the color panels from the manga, taken from Shonen Sunday Jump. The beautiful printing job brings out the quality of Takahashi's art, and I find myself going back and studying these pages again and again. There is also a nice section at the beginning (short but sweet) about the difference between manga and animation when it comes to storytelling techniques. As it's been said elsewhere in these reviews, if you're a fan of Inuyasha, this is a must-have. Keep in mind this isn't a voluminous book with tons of text ... you can read the whole thing in just two or three hours. But the art in it, and its A-plus presentation here, offers many more hours of enjoyment and you may, like me, find yourself returning to this book repeatedly and feeling like you've picked it up for the very first time. The art in it is that good.

excellent book for all ages who are into Inuyasha
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-06
I am actually over 13 years old , however I didnt want to give my email address out so I said I was younger. This is a great book. I bought it for my 16 year old son and he absolutely LOVES it. He is into drawing japanese animation and this book was a great inspiration. All of his friends who are mostly the same age want to get the book to. I did see it at Borders also , for the same price , and you dont have to pay shipping and handling charges, also you dont have to wait for it to show up. Borders also had a huge selection of other Inuyasha books and other Japanese animation characters.

Television
Breaking into Television (Breaking Into)
Published in Paperback by Peterson's (1998-08-14)
Author: Weaver & Siegel
List price: $14.95
New price: $5.00
Used price: $0.61
Collectible price: $39.55

Average review score:

A book for every intern
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 1999-04-29
This book is incredible. My class will be required to read it, learn it, live it! EVERY STUDENT SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO READ THIS BOOK.

It's conversational, practical, and not only do you get great advice from the authors, but from TV professionals all over the country.

The Bible for Anyone Looking to Find and Ace an Internship
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1999-07-23
Siegel and Weaver's book walks you through the entire process of finding an internship and then how to make the very best of the opportunity. Resumes, interviews, and successful phone manners are just a few of the many topics this book covers. After reading this book I found a great internship in LA and even was hired full time! Make sure to pick one up!

Useful and easy to read!!!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1998-09-27
This book is a useful source for everyone in need of advice regarding interning in the media industry. From day one of looking for your dream internship Breaking Into Television holds your hand. This book guides you from the interview to your first day, and then into making your internship into a potential career. After reading this book you feel motivated and informed to become a "super intern".

Reassuring and helpful
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2000-05-30
If you are a college student majoring in television production, you know that internships are the only key to getting a career in the field. This book will be a vital asset to anyone fighting to secure an internship in the field of broadcasting.

While many of the suggestions on actions one should take and how one should behave were things I found to be common sense, it was reassuring to read them being suggested in this book, not only by the authors but by the countless TV professionals that they quoted throughout the book.

There were also several suggestions made that I wouldn't have thought of. I'm so glad that I read this book before I began my search for an internship. Now that I am in the middle of working as an intern for a local PBS station, I continue to find the book's suggestions helpful. I consult it every once in a while for new ideas.

Very good book
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 1998-09-23
Breaking into Televsion is one of the most useful books I have ever read. I just started an intership working for my local Senator. My friend who wants to get into television gave me this book to read before I started. Wow, this is great imformation! There is advice from just about everone in the television business who stated out as as interns. There is also advice from people who now are incharge of inters. If you are an intern or are planning on interning this is a very useful book.


Books-Under-Review-->Arts-->Television-->26
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