Television Books


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

Television
Science Fiction (Aurum Film Encyclopaedia)
Published in Paperback by Aurum Press Ltd (1995-11-17)
Author:
List price:

Average review score:

Science Fiction Encylopedia
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-07
Bought this as a present for my husband though i had a look in it and it covers a-z of Sci-Fi flicks. Would recommend to any fan.

Outstanding!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-30
This is an outstanding book. Great reference and all that implies. I like Science Fiction and this book is indispensable. Seems to be little known but it is an outstanding reference work.

Outstanding reference work!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2001-01-28
This really has to be recognised as a monumental reference work. The sheer breadth of material found and reviewed by Hardy is extraordinary. I will be using this book for years to come.

Buy two...you'll wear the first one out!
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2005-06-26
I've had this excellent book for several years, and I still go back to it at least once a month to look something up. There is simply no more complete reference guide to science fiction films available. Think you know science fiction cinema? Prepare to be humbled by the sheer volume of this book. I especially appreciate the reviews of the early, silent films, many of which we will probably never get to see.

Some of the reviews are better thought-out than others. And you may occasionally marvel at how a film you were sure was an all-time classic only gets a mediocre review. But these are minor quibbles for an otherwise excellent volume.

If you're a fan of sci-fi films, you absolutely MUST own this book. Yes, it's pricey, but it also might be the last film reference book you will ever need.

The Overlook Film Encyclopedia (Science Fiction)
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2003-02-17
You can spend hours browsing trough this encyclopedia. Of course you will recognize many of the classic. Yet you may be surprised at the multitude of great films that you missed. There are better descriptions and stills than you find in most of the genre magazines.

Contents:

THE EARLY YEARS: Innocent Beginnings (1895-1919)
THE TWENTIES: Dark Visions and Brash Adventure
THE THIRTIES: Mad Scientists and Comic Book Heroes
THE FORTIES: Science Fiction Eclipsed

THE FIFTIES: Science Fiction Reborn
THE SISTIES: Science Fiction Respectable
THE SEVENTIES: Big Budgets and Big Bucks
THE EIGHTIES: Science Fiction Triumphant

I am not going to bore you with the list of my favorites but I challenge you not to fine one of yours.

Television
Scorsese on Scorsese (Directors on Directors)
Published in Paperback by Faber & Faber (1990-11)
Author: David Thompson
List price: $14.95
New price: $3.95
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $19.99

Average review score:

A Master of His Craft, in His Own Voice
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-04
Now that Hollywood has finally given Scorsese his due with what amounted to a career-Oscar, the time is ripe to read the revised edition of this superb book. The questions asked of the director are intelligent, not fawning, and his answer's are lengthy and fascinating. The generous space devoted to his childhood and early years help one better understand why Scorsese has been so attracted to a particular genre and how he executes it so well. This director is, of course, immensely knowledgeable about the history of film, and his comments on other directors' work are fascinating. A readable mine of information about one of the most important popular artists of our time.

A Book That Would Satisfy ANY Scorsese Fan
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2002-07-07
I bought this book out of respect and deep admiration for Martin Scorsese. What I got was keen insight into a creative genius. The numerous interviews reveal a side to Scorsese that not many people see outside the camera. It's a lot more personal than that. When he talks about his movies, he ultimately parallels them to what his life was like at that time. So it's a fine blend of his personal life mixed with his professional life. There's also the obvious vibe that this man always was and always will be a student of film; his passion is infinite. Perhaps that's what makes him as influential and well-respected as he is.
You're the best there is, Marty!!

An absolute must for the Scorsese-reverent
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 1999-07-06
There are few filmmakers more brilliant than Martin Scorsese, and this book provides wonderful insight into the sources of his obsessions. Almost any book on Scorsese is worth reading, but this volume gives equal time to his less-appreciated, (but no less wonderful), films like The King of Comedy and After Hours. By far, the most informative book on Scorsese yet.

Answers Scorsese Fans' FAQS
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2001-03-30
This reader felt almost privileged to read these interviews, lectures, and conversations with Martin Scorsese. He simply shares everything, and indeed he is, if nothing else, a true fan of movies!

The insightful words of Scorsese, arranged to parallel his filmography up through New York Stories, are annotated by the redoubtable editors Thompson and Christie. Scorsese is arguably the greatest postmodern artist, (and I would have to say the only postmodernist I unhesitatingly adore -with possible exception of Matt Groening), and the reader really gets to see how Scorsese constructs a film. His inspirations are as predictable as directors Pasolini and Powell, yet as diverse as Mahatma Ghandi and Little Richard. He loves all with equanimity and enthusiasm.

That's the joy of this book... the guy loves movies, loves making them, and all that energy just shines through.

Extremely valuable resource for the student of film, but good fun for the humble film buff, too. Bonus: interesting black and white photos you won't find elsewhere. Excellent (though naturally out-of-date) filmography appendix.

A fascinating peek inside the mind of a film master
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2000-12-29
I absolutely devoured this book, essentially reading in two sittings a day apart. A rare and privledged look into the mind of Scorsese in his own words, followers of his work will be thrilled with the insights and anecdotes. Anyone half-aware of the man's work can recognize the thought that goes into it, but these interviews reveal the incredible depth and passion for film and its history that underlies his craft.

An essential read for anyone that considers her- or himself a film buff.

Television
Secrets of the Mirror
Published in Paperback by Authorhouse (2001-08)
Author: Daveda Kert
List price: $21.95

Average review score:

She rocks for a firs time writer
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-08-22
The best book I have read in years.

A TRUE STORY THAT GRABS YOUR INTERST AND TUGS AT YOUR HEART
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2002-07-15
Truly this author must be a sensual and extremely strong willed human being. Her unique style of writing makes the reader feel a personal involvement in her truly amazing life. This remarkable tale takes you back in time as you relive with her a life that is filled with drugs, sex, extortion, gambling, kidnapping, stalking, mental and physical abuse, and even more! Her strong will and love of life are all the tools she has to keep her alive. The book compels one to keep reading and is very difficult to put down. She blames no one for her misfortunes. She shows us that life is a learning experience. Her ability to convey her erotic experiences (with many famous rock stars and sport superstars) is done with a flare that brings the reader into her soul. Although she is the first to admit the mistakes she has made, she stands proud. She tells us, "If we cease to learn from experience, we might as well be dead".

Buy and read this book. It will make you cry, laugh, and experience remarkable feelings. I learned much as the writer helped me to understand my own views. She gives us a jolt of reality. In essence this woman shows us not to judge others without all the facts and even then to understand that there is always the unknown. I hope she writes another book (or has already done so). I would buy it in a flash!

the best I've read in a very long time!!!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2002-06-21
This book takes you on an incedible journey in the author's life. You travel through time and witness the intoxicating events that keep you uncontrollably turning the pages. She brings you through the world of gambling, extortion, drugs, murder, stalking, mental and physical abuse. Even after she has been through what most of us could not live through, there is more. She becomes a stripper to survive and winds up having affairs with some very famous sports celebrities. This book is definately adult material.
...
This book is a must read for those who think that the light is difficult to see at the end of the tunnel. If miss Kert could have made it to the other side she gives insperation to all of us. BRAVO

hi...i am....Daveda Kert...the author....
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2002-06-20
thx to those who have reviewed my book and to those who may purchase it...this is my story....it is the story of a woman who had to keep fighting ...just to stay alive...i was kiddnapped, stalked, physically and mentally abused and that list goes on...the mountains that i climbed to get out of my situations are amazing to say the least... that as well as the complexity of my life story....and my reasons for writing this heart wrenching account of this captivating story....

if u have bought the book...or are contemplating buying it...please visit my wesite
http://www.cybertpi.com/daveda/

Turning your life around
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2002-06-22
Speaking from personal experience, I was aghast at the review
from Lilgurl. She is in fact a little girl who could not understand the obstacles and malicious men her mother faced.
She turned her life around to become a dedicated mother to her 2 children.
This book is a life experience and those that are to young should not be permitted to read it, until they can fully comprehend, and not condemn their mother, but praise her for turning her life around.

Television
Ships of the Star Fleet: Akyazi-Class Perimeter Action Ships (Ships of the Star Fleet)
Published in Paperback by Mastercom Data Center (1998-08)
Author: Todd Allen Guenther
List price: $14.95
New price: $50.53
Used price: $7.49

Average review score:

Another Great "Ships of the Star Fleet" Publication
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-11-08
For those who have a copy of Volume 1, Ships of the Star Fleet, covering most Star Fleet's capital ships (Cruisers & Frigates), Volume 2, this volume will be largely familiar in format and execution.

It is a well-executed work loosely following the format of works such as "Jane's Fighting Ships" with extensive additions regarding the rationals and political processes involved in the development, construction, histories and records of the classes and individual vessels of the classes of Perimeter Action Ships (circa 2290-91) covered by the volume.

I have both Volumes (1 & 2), and they have provided me with quite literally hundreds, if not thousands of hours of rapt enjoyment. I dearly wish that more volumes were available. As it is, I want dearly to buy a second copy of this one as well as Volume 1 (to replace my now somewhat dog-eared and damaged from years of being poured overe for hours at a time), if I can find another copy of Vol. 1.

I unhesitantly, heartily recommend this work for the library of any Star Trek (emphasis on the Kirk, Spock & company-era movies) enthusiast, especially if you (or they) are interested in the type & quality of information that allow you to absorb what's offered in the books and, at your heart's desire, extrapolate from what's already there into your own overview of what would be happening in the Star Trek: The Movies universe including such things as "how would I employ these assets in how I choose to intrepret the social, political and military environment in this era?"

What else can I say? It's a great book for those interested in this kind of information, including, of course (but not limited to) those who have Volume 1.

Bravo!

Craig A. Bassett

I wish there were more of these...
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2000-03-14
I wish that there were more of these books out there. I was suprised to discover a whole new starship class I've never before heard of. A must have for Star Trek fans all over!

Excellent but hard to find non-canon series
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2000-01-03
The books in this series really go into the nuts and bolts, almost reading like current military texts. It non-canonical for those who care what Paramount thinks. I highly reccomend it. Also, please be advised that they have their own timeline, similar to, but not identical to Paramounts. It also ties in w/ the original Tech Manual. If anyone has a web address for the publisher, Mastercom Data Center, please post it or email me.

Pleased....but saddened
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 1999-07-29
Since checking this page, I now learn this book is a stand alone issue. How sad. If similar publications had been produced, I would have puchased the entire series. A brilliant idea, and extremely well presented. A serious must for anyone interested in Star Trek.

Info for D.W. Ewing
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2004-03-21
The website for Mastercom is:
http://www.mastercomdata.com/

Television
Sight Sound Motion: Applied Media Aesthetics (with InfoTrac®)
Published in Hardcover by Wadsworth Publishing (2004-07-07)
Author: Herbert Zettl
List price: $130.95
New price: $25.00
Used price: $1.66

Average review score:

Zettl Disciple
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-29
I was an Army broadcaster for nearly thirty years, commanding major audio-visual activities and the largest radio-television network in the Defense Department, located in central Europe. In these assignments, all of Dr. Zettl's texts were used as our training gold standard. When I managed the Army "audiovisual school", the Soldiers Manual and other texts for television production were written with his principles, theories, and practices in mind. As an educator pioneering a film and TV school in a large college, all my TV courses in production were Zettl-based. I found that many leading industry executives (who's who among top networks) began their early education - as I did - in colleges that used the Zettl TV Production Handbook. In TV hands-on assignments, I continue to use his lighting templates and theories. I admonished my students to never cash-in his texts at the end of the course, but to keep them as references.

I have the essential text series: Video Basics, TV Production Handbook, and most especially, Sight, Sound & Motion. The best DVD on the subject ever produced is his own Zettl TV Lab 3.0.

I can't imagine any professional without the "Bibles" of visual information and TV production. All are well worth the price if you are career-minded, or a current industry member but learned your trade "on-the-job". The texts will not only provide context, but with details and information to help you throughout your career.

Inexpensive Textbooks
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-10-16
I love that you offer these books so inexpensively. If I went to my universtiy bookstore I would have paid three times as much. I can use my own money without having to use loan money to pay for books!

5 stars
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2005-10-10
The book is totally new and under very good condition, and the dilievery time is much earlier than i expected.

Best in field
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2004-12-28
This text thoroughly explains the intricacies of applied media asthetics in a concise and completely accessible way. It is a well organizied text that ehances its presentation through the use of many illustrations. I believe that this is the best text on the subject and that it has been since its first edtion.

motion graphics professor
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2002-06-04
"Sight, Sound, Motion: Applied Media Aesthetics explains the WHY of film and video production. If you're looking for HOW then turn to another book."

I would disagree with the above review. Only by learning WHY first, can we learn HOW later. This book is more than a cookie cutter approach to film and video. If you want to "click and drag" your way through an editing program, then true, this book is not for you. Add this to your collection if you want a book that teaches how to see and create film. Sight, Sound, Motion: Applied Media Aesthetics has staying power.

Television
Sinnoh Handbook (Pokemon)
Published in Paperback by Scholastic Inc. (2007-09-01)
Authors: Tracey West and Katherine Noll
List price: $6.99
New price: $2.00
Used price: $1.00

Average review score:

A good resource for Pokemon fans
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-21
The Pokemon Sinnoh Handbook was released to give information about the Pokemon that are part of Pokemon: Diamond and Pearl. The first page of the book explains why the book was written. The second page explains what the reader will find on the page for each Pokemon (the Pokemon's name, what species it is, a pronunciation guide for the Pokemon's name, its possible moves, what Pokemon type it is, its height and weight, its evolution chain, and interesting facts about the Pokemon. Five Pokemon (Abra, Blissey, Cleffa, Golduck, and Seaking) also have a special "Remember When..." box included in their entries for trivia from the TV series. There is also an introduction to the Sinnoh region, which explains how a trainer starts out in the region.

After all of the pages about the Pokemon, there is an appendix titled, "Ash & Friends," which gives brief biographies for Ash, Brock, and Dawn; included on each trainer's page are pictures of which Pokemon they have. At the very back of the book is a fold-out poster with all the Pokemon featured in the book.

I did find a couple of errors in the book. Blissey's height is included, but the weight was left off. Also, Cherubi's Solarbeam attack is listed twice under its possible moves.

From the design of the book, as well as the way the book is written, it's obvious that children are the target audience. However, there is valuable information included, so adults shouldn't shy away from purchasing the Pokemon Sinnoh Handbook.

Great book for any Pokemon fan
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-28
My 8 year old loves this book. It has all his favorite characters, the pictures are big and detailed so he enjoys drawing them on paper as well. A+

Daughter loves it
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-07
My 7 y.o. daughter caught the Pokemon craze from her 15 y.o. brother who has loved those pocket monsters since he was very little. This book was read cover to cover within the first day and it is taken along on doctor visits & car trips to pass the time - great selection!

Pokemon Sinnoh Handbook
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-03
Meant as a Christmas gift, this book was intercepted by my two boys, who absolutely loved the artwork and creature descriptions.

Well worthwhile for any Pokemon fan.

Great Pokemon "dictionary"
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2007-12-18
I ordered this book for my 6-year-old son who is really into Pokemon at the moment. He absolutely loves this book.

The book features many of the most popular Pokemon, gives a brief summary of their abilities and even states their height, weight and possible moves.

What's best about this book for me as a mother is that my son, a first-grader, practices his reading without me asking him too, because he is so fascinated by all the informative stats about all his favorite Pokemon. And the book does actually use some big words that he would not encounter in the typical first-grader reading books.

I can recommend this book to any Pokemon fan or parent thereof!

Television
Smile When the Raindrops Fall
Published in Hardcover by The Scarecrow Press, Inc. (1997-12-23)
Author: Anthony Brian
List price: $47.50
New price: $33.00
Used price: $35.56

Average review score:

Not just a great comic performer
Helpful Votes: 13 out of 15 total.
Review Date: 2001-01-05
Until this book appeared, there wasn't much information available on Charley except in Leonard Maltin's book on sound shorts. This great book will illustrates the life of both Charley (Parrott) Chase and his brother James Parrott. Their lives were intertwined, and when one of them had problems it certainly affected the other. While Chase always had a jolly face on, this book illustrates both his triumphs and his failures. Chase worked with many great comics like Charlie Chaplin, Roscoe Arbuckle, Laurel & Hardy, Thelma Todd and the Three Stooges. Chase also directed and/or supervised many good comedies where he did not appear on-screen. There is a very detailed filmography (and musicography) in the back that includes the lyrics to many of the songs that Charley wrote, his many directing credits, and other film appearances. Sure this book is expensive, but if you love silent comedy or early sound shorts you will not be able to stop reading it.

A fascinating and affectionate tribute to a great comic
Helpful Votes: 13 out of 15 total.
Review Date: 1999-03-08
"Smile When the Raindrops Fall" is a fascinating and affectionate look at the career of the vastly underrated motion picture comic Charley Chase (1893 - 1940). It's hard to imagine that Chase, whom time has mostly obscured, could be so vividly portrayed. However, through interviews with Chase's family, friends, and associates, the authors ressurect the comic in a biography that lovingly alternates between hilarity and heartbreak. Calling Chase one of the comic greats is no exageration: this brilliantly inventive and prolific figure contributed to over 300 films as writer, director, or actor (sometimes all three) before his untimely death at the age of 46. Chase worked with almost every major name in early film comedy, including Charlie Chaplin, Fatty Arbuckle, Harold Lloyd, Laurel & Hardy, and the Three Stooges. The reader is taken on a nostalgic tour of silent and early sound comedy, its evolution paralleling the career of one of its pioneers. Excellent photo's and a detailed biography are included. An important piece of Hollywood history has finally been documented, and done justice, in this fine biography.

A great bio on a forgotten comedian!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-14
Well, it took me awhile to track this one down through my local library but it was worth it!! Charley Chase practically invented the situation comedy!

This wonderfully concise and well-written bio traces the life of Charles Parrott/Chase from his early days as a entertainer on the East Coast to his move to California and his two-reel comedy career. The book also focuses on many aspects of Charley's personal life, from his protective/co-dependent relationship with his brother, comedy director James Parrott to his own bouts with alcohol. The book is also full of wonderful photos and stills from his films. My favorite parts of the book are the chapters that pertain to his career at his final comedy home, Columbia Studios, where he not only churned out some excellent comedies (THE HECKLER, THE BIG SQUIRT, THE WRONG MISS WRIGHT), but directed other two-reel comedy players of the day, most notably The Three Stooges.

Charley left us all too soon at the age of 47 in 1940, but his legacy of great comedy is out there for all to enjoy!

A Very Well-Researched Book
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2003-05-27
I was introduced to the comedy of Charley Chase by a film collector friend of mine back in college and have always appreciated his unique style. Brian Anthony's and Andy Edmond's book does justice to this far underrated and nearly forgotten talent in a way that is readable and as entertaining as Charley himself. In fact, the wealth of material here is so great, one wonders why no one has mined it for a film. In any event, if you're into early film history, or even if you are just curious about a man who was a powerhouse both in front of and behind the camera, you owe it to yourself to check this book out.

Fine bio of underrated Chase, can be enjoyed again and again
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2002-03-19
I just finished re-reading "Smile When the Raindrops Fall" (third time, I think) and I second the opinions of the other reviewers. Very few authors have ever discussed the films of Charley Chase in print, and nobody has ever delved into the prolific comedian's personal life in so much detail. Brian Anthony and Andy Edmonds have done Mr. Chase proud, amply demonstrating how he created many clever and amusing movies, and how his private life sometimes colored his work. There are many rare and charming photos, including a memorable candid shot from his final days: his camera crew has just presented the new grandfather with "Gramp's Chair." If you've only been casually acquainted with Charley Chase, here's your chance to get to know him. Great reading for movie buffs, and well worth the publisher's price tag.

Television
Talking Animals And Other People
Published in Paperback by Da Capo Press (1998-03-21)
Author: Shamus Culhane
List price: $17.95
New price: $6.50
Used price: $4.25
Collectible price: $45.99

Average review score:

Talking People and Other Animals
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-16
There seem to be two kinds of animation books: the "just the facts, ma'am" kind, and those filled with endless anecdotes of the lost golden age. Shamus Culhane's book falls between them and yet hits both extremes. He doesn't clean up history or trim the facts to fit the legends. Which is to say it's unexpurgated (which means uncensored) told in a rollicking, stream of consciousness you are there style.

It's also the untold backstory of animation, as well as a peek at numerous cartoons which have yet to make DVD. Shamus Culhane created the best Woody Woodpecker cartoons including "Barber of Seville," very different from but equally intriguing as "The Rabbit of Seville" (Chuck Jones/ written by Michael Maltese), as well as darkening the doors of most of the then current studios. Not only that, but it's absolutely crammed with photos, character sheets and other animania so as to render the book a visual feast. Anyone with even a passing interest in cartoons or looking for a good read will be delighted to find Culhane's book which is, ironically, one of the few animated histories of animation.

Not just for animators... it's the web!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2002-01-29
This book was recommended to me by another web/multimedia developer. He told me that I should read it, that it was the web industry in a nutshell. The main difference is the web has a very compressed time line. I first read the book over a year ago... it still reads like prophesy.

Talking Animals and Other People by Shamus Culane
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2001-12-11
This is a "must have" for anyone who wants to create animation. Although not a how-to book, it has an incredible amount of insightful and useful information that is pertinent to those starting out or thinking about starting out their animation career. Shamus writes his animation life story in a way that will entertain and enlighten you. Many of his adventures and experiences are as relavant today as when they happened to him long ago during the Golden Age of animation. The author gives you a ring side seat as he is introduced to animation and evolves as an animator and producer. This was a book that I wish had no end; it actually made me sad to reach the final page.

A must....
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2001-07-15
This book is a must.It is extremely useful for those who want to animate cartoon characters.Shamus description of his life which he shares with the animation history is a very brilliant and inspirated storytellig.This is the book that all animator's should buy. It contains all the valuable information about american animation and all those wonderful pioneers who created the most amazing industry in the world: animation.Do not hesitate! Just buy this book and you will love it. I bet!

Excellent memoir from the curmudgeon of animation
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2001-03-24
James "Shamus" Culhane is not a name that is instantly recognizable to the general public, as is Chuck Jones, but his contributions were every bit as significant. Like Jones, he can be maddeningly arrogant and dismissive of the efforts of his fellow animators, but the truly annoying thing is that he is often right. Culhane worked at virtually every major cartoon studio during its "Golden Age", and generally improved the output of every studio with which he was involved--however briefly. He turned the Fleischer's version of Popeye into a fluid, living character, whereas before Popeye seemed to move like some sort of animatronic figure at Disneyland. He directed one of the few bright spots at Walter Lantz, a Woody Woodpecker cartoon called "Barber of Seville" (which garnered an Academy Award nomination). He also takes us where few other books in animation dare to go--the early days of cartooning for television (did you know he was one of the first producers to make animated commercials for TV? The Ajax elves were his). He even attempted to get in the ground floor of the TV animated series market, though his efforts did not succeed.

This is a must-read, if for no other reason than it avoids rehashing the same material covered again and again by previous books, and gives us an insight into the inner workings of an animation studio as few other books do.

Television
To Twilo and Beyond! My Walnut Adventures with The Dick Van Dyke Show Cast
Published in Paperback by iUniverse, Inc. (2005-11-03)
Author: David Van Deusen
List price: $17.95
New price: $11.49
Used price: $11.48

Average review score:

I Savored Every Page!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-20
This book was a complete joy to read! I'm going to have to restrain myself from a writing a long, glowing review here. I'd rather you get the book and read it instead.
Author, David Van Deusen takes you from the inception of his brilliant idea to publish his newsletter, "The Walnut Times," dedicated to The Dick Van Dyke Show, to his eventual interviews and friendships with the cast and creative crew. This is no exaggeration. As you will see to your own envy (and certainly to mine), David has literally become friends with the people who brought us this classic TV show, earning nicknames from Carl Reiner and Dick Van Dyke! Ever dream about being in Rob and Laura's living room or kitchen? Me too. David's gone one better; he's actually been there - and they were home!
I very much enjoyed David's relaxed, unembellished writing style. You'll flow along effortlessly from one wonderful experience to another, sharing David's anxiety, trepidation, and exuberance all the way. David worked hard to bring about "The Walnut Times," and he shares it all with us in "To Twilo And Beyond! My Walnut Adventures With The Dick Van Dyke Show Cast." He lets us in on phone conversations, snail mailings, emails and all. The interviews are thoughtful and insightful.You won't want to put this book down until you've finished it.
Every true fan of The Dick Van Dyke Show should buy this book. It doesn't matter who your favorite character or star from the show is, they will be represented here, either by interview, a chat with their family members, or reminisced by those who loved or worked with them. If you love The Dick Van Dyke Show, you will love "To Twilo And Beyond."

A definite "must read" for any and all (Wal) nuts out there
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-09-14
David Van Deusen is the #1 fan and authority on the Dick Van Dyke Show. He not only writes about all the characters but also has worked to get to know each cast member and anyone associated with the show. Many "look back" books are just a compilation of the facts, but David has put his entire heart and soul into this project. He also publishes "The Walnut Times" which is not only the official but only newsletter on the Dick Van Dyke Show. We don't see TV like this anymore. And it is great to see a book like David's that helps us relive that past.

"Without My Thumbs, I Couldn't Type!" -- Rob Petrie (Dick Van Dyke), Doing An Excellent Boris Karloff Imitation
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-08-28
Take a very pleasant trip "To Twilo And Beyond" by opening up this 202-page book, written by David Van Deusen (the "other DVD"), who is one of the world's biggest fans of the everlastingly-entertaining 1960s television series, "The Dick Van Dyke Show".

I, myself, just might rank as one of the most-ardent admirers of that TV sitcom, too, having seen each episode many times (which is easier to accomplish now than ever before, what with the fact that all 158 episodes of the series have been made available on the DVD-Video format through the superb efforts of Image Entertainment Inc. and Paul Brownstein Productions).

Keeping this book right next to those DVD boxed sets is a wise thing to do. They complement each other nicely. In fact, Mr. Van Deusen even appears on camera within one of the Dick Van Dyke Show full-season DVD boxed sets (the Season-Two collection). David produced and hosts a bonus featurette located in that set, called "The Making Of 'It May Look Like A Walnut'", which includes interviews with cast members as they reminisce about creating that enduring and well-remembered 51st filmed episode of the Van Dyke Show.

In my opinion, it's very difficult to think of any other single television program in the history of that medium that is as downright satisfying and warm and "real" (and just flat-out good) as "The Dick Van Dyke Show" (1961-1966; CBS-TV).

"Leave It To Beaver" (1957-1963) probably comes the closest to the Van Dyke Show in all of the above-mentioned regards, in my own personal opinion. "Beaver", like Mr. Van Dyke's series, is a TV show I never get tired of watching. And I doubt I ever shall.

The cast of the Van Dyke Show will forever remain one of the very best ensembles placed on a TV soundstage -- Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, Rose Marie, Morey Amsterdam, Carl Reiner, Richard Deacon, Jerry Paris, Ann Morgan-Guilbert, and Larry Mathews.

Mr. Van Deusen has developed friendships with all of the surviving cast members, which he warmly relates in this book. I envy David greatly. :)

Perhaps the best and most accurate reviews for this publication come from some of the actual members of the Dick Van Dyke Show cast. The two endorsements below sum things up pretty well:

"By doggedly going about contacting everyone ever connected with 'The Dick Van Dyke Show', David Van Deusen has unearthed information and anecdotes about those good old days and the good, young actors and directors who made it work. He has given me a second look at things that I was too busy to look at the first time around and I thank him and his book for affording me that rare and pleasant opportunity." -- Carl Reiner

"For any fan of 'The Dick Van Dyke Show', this book is a MUST read. David {Van Deusen} has captured the soul of each character to a 'T'. You will not be able to put this book down until you finish reading it. Enjoy all the wonderful memories!" -- Rose Marie

------------------

Thank you, Mr. Van Deusen, for helping to keep the memory of "The Dick Van Dyke Show" alive as we proceed well into the 21st century. And I'd be willing to wager a closet-full of Kolac's and Lolac's walnuts that people in the 22nd century will still be watching (and enjoying) that TV series too. For, no matter how many years that go by, Mr. Van Dyke's program will never grow stale. After all, a truly fine wine only gets better with age.

Great fun!!! But don't lose your thumbs!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-05-16
Have you ever tripped over an ottoman? Or a MOUNTAIN? Ever get an overwhelming urge for walnuts (and then found you had no thumbs to help get them into your mouth)? Ever have one of those days when you keep hearing "Uhny Uftz" while tripping the light fantastic in Herbie's Hiawatha Lodge at Lake Sissy Manunu?

No??? Well then obviously you haven't seen the greatest TV show in the HISTORY of TV shows!!! The DICK VAN DYKE SHOW! And maybe this book is not for you. But for the majority of us intelligent, classy, sophisticated connosseurs of fine entertainment, this book is a MUST!

The author takes you behind the scenes of the Dick Van Dyke Show via interviews with it's top stars and crew. But these are no flashy Entertainment Tonight interviews -- these come straight from the heart, from someone who is a long-time fan, with an exuberant awe and appreciation not only for the brilliance and genius of each individual's talent, but a genuine loving curiosity about the stars and crew as fascinating individuals in their own right.

You will travel vicariously, via your host David Van Deusen, to places most DVDS fans never get to go -- on the set of the Dick Van Dyke Show, backstage at the TV Land Awards, the Dick Van Dyke Show Reunion, and even to Rose Marie's house!

This book was written with a lot of love -- and it shows! You'll feel it with every word. Sit back, relax and dig in!

Oh, and watch out for that ottoman! . . . and mountain! . . . and those damn walnuts! . . . Still got your thumbs? Great, they'll be helpful in reading this book!

What an adventure--GREAT FUN!!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-02-08
What a wonderful book David Van Deusen has written. He loves this show and has such great respect and admiration for the cast and creators of "The Dick Van Dyke Show". He has allowed us to catch a glimpse of what it's like to set up a publication, meet many favorite stars and the troubles that arise in trying to meet them and the great adventure of writing it all down. This is a great read for anyone who loves classic television and "The Dick Van Dyke Show". David Van Deusen has been aptly named the Head Walnut. Thumbs Up!!!

Television
Unauthorized X-Cyclopedia
Published in Hardcover by MJF Books (1998-08)
Authors: James Hatfield and George Burt
List price: $9.98
New price: $1.25
Used price: $0.01
Collectible price: $20.00

Average review score:

The Best X-Files Book Out There!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1998-12-04
This is so packed with details that I am always searching for. It's awesome, it's so cool. It has everything that you need to know about the X-files, I have nothing but praise for the author. I love the fact that it told so much about all of the characters and stuff, and it's just so great that I recommend if you're as obsessed as I am about the show, to go and buy it. It's definitely worth the price. Again, really great book!!!

The book gives all the info you need up to season 4
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 1998-06-23
I thought that the book had alot to give and I realy liked it. If any one has a good X-files book tell me what it is called

Absolutely, positively, without doubt a must for X-Philes.
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 1997-11-02
Absolutely, positively, without a doubt the best and most complete reference book that has ever been published on THE X-FILES. This incredibly detailed and beautifully illustrated book covers everything you ever wanted to know about THE X-FILES but were afraid to ask! It is a massive undertaking that covers everything in easy to use A-Z alphabetical format. Every entry cites the episode it came from and every character has the actor's name. Say for example, in the letter (B): you will find lengthy entries for everything from Bear ("Ice") to Bay Area Carpeteers (the Chinese employer of Shuyang Hsin in "Hell Money") and Big Blue ("Quagmire"), from Babcock ("Gethsemane") to Bright White Place ("Nisei") and Biodiversity Project ("F. Emasculata") and tons of entries in between. It is also a very timely book as it covers all previous 4 seasons. I also love the classy look of the book, the good-grade paper and the typeset inside and, especially the price. Oh, how could I forget the illustrations! No more reused stock photos (that we've all seen in every magazine), but the coolest artwork enhances the book. Wait until you check out Flukeman, Mama Peacock and Dr. Zama! THE X-CYCLOPEDIA is a BIG book (with thousands of entries) and for only $15 it's a better deal than the 2 or 3 X-Files magazines I buy each month that total more than $15. If you call yourself an X-Phile, then you don't want to be without this DEFENITIVE reference book to the series! This is THE book of the X-FILES, and I highly recommend it.

'A MUST HAVE'!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2000-01-22
This is definitely a 'must have' book for all X-Files fans! Every person, place, company name, historical reference or 'you name it' ever mentioned in seasons 1-4 is covered here! Also serves as an episode guide! Mine stays right next to me whenever I am watching the reruns! Get it...now!

EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT THE X-FILES
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 1997-11-27
This is the COMPLETE reference guide to my favorite TV show. Idon'tthink the authors missed a thing in this book...it is absolutely mind-boggling to see so many entries. From A to Z, The X-Files has never before been put under such focused, affectionate, and meticulous scrutiny. The X-CYCLOPEDIA is the ULTIMATE reference book on the series and if I only had $15 in my pocket and could only buy one book about THE X-FILES, then it would be this one. Hands down, this is THE best reference book on THE X-FILES ever written. I give it two thumbs up, four stars, or whatever critics use as a measuring stick. No X-Phile should be without it! The truth is no longer OUT there...it is IN the X-CYCLOPEDIA!


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