Ramona: Behind the Scenes of a Television Show - Hardcover

Grade 5-7 A sure-fire combination for nonfiction: Cleary's lovable Ramona Quimby and television. This is an unusually well-done treatment of television production as it follows the making of the Ramona series from its inception to publicity and airing. The emphasis here is on the non-technical aspects of television production, and the book focuses on the actors and crew, set design, the script, and the work involved in the actual filming and editing. The mechanics of equipment and broadcasting, readily available in other sources, are appropriately omitted. Scott's descriptions are in-depth without belaboring, and her style is clear and follows a logical progression. Miller's black-and-white photographs, which unfortunately are not captioned, are well integrated and add a great deal to the text. The index makes this useful for report writing in addition to general interest reading. The attractive format and appealing subject make this a highly recommended purchase. Trish Ebbatson, Mansfield-Richland County Public Library, Ohio
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

By the end of this off-the-screen look at the making of the upcoming Ramona TV series, to be aired on PBS, readers will have at their fingertips some interesting tidbits: what a gaffer is and what a lighting grip does. They will also know what Beverly Cleary's role in all of this was (she was a story consultant and cast the stuffed animals from among dozens of toy hopefuls) and meet young Sarah Polley, who plays pesty, loveable Ramona. Scott's tone is cool and straightforward, but she lingers over some facts (the importance of TV in our lives; where PBS gets its funding) when the information isn't absolutely imperative. Miller provides real enlightenment; her clear photos reveal all the complications and tedium of filming a series, and demystify some of the magic of television. This is not a must for Ramona's fans, but it will satisfy anyoneadult or childcurious about how ideas and stories are transferred to the small screen. Ages 8-12. (July) 3 FICTION FICTION
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.