Movies - FX

School Library Journal

Gr 6-9-- A fast-paced study of special effects, ranging from the accidental discovery of stop-action by Georges Melies in 1896 to computer-controlled camera systems of the future. Beginning with the historical development of camera tricks, Rimmer explores subjects such as make-up, explosions, models, mechanical effects, lighting, animation, and other well-known ``secrets.'' A final chapter discusses video effects that readers may want to try. Both color and black-and-white photographs, as well as a few sketches, abundantly fill the pages. The book's scant 47 pages are divided into 20 chapters (including a glossary and index), so information is sparce in each area. The format is busy and fragmented withsidebars typical of easy-reader books, but the text is written for a more sophisticated audience. This could prove disconcerting for younger children who find it visually appealing but difficult to understand. Although it offers more historical documentation, it is not as captivating or timely as Rick Clise's Special Effects (Viking, 1987). --Judie Porter, Media Services Center, Portsmouth School Department, R.I.