Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls: How to Start a Band, Write Songs, Record an Album, and Rock Out!
by Marisa Anderson
Published 2008 by Chronicle Books

Paperback, English. ISBN: 9780811852227

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Jacket Notes:

Girls, get ready to rock! Since 2001, the Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls has taught legions of girls, ages 8 to 18, how to let loose and rock out. This book brings the camp's inspiring, hands-on approach and advice from its all-star crew of female musicians to girls everywhere. Fun and informative features offer instruction and tips on how to play instruments, write songs, publicize a show, sing your heart out, and much more. Featuring a short history of women in rock, 50 awesome illustrations and photos of young bands, and contributions by members of Sleater-Kinney, the Gossip, Mirah, and others, Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls will have readers turning up their amps in no time.

Publisher's Marketing Text:

Girls, get ready to rock! Since 2001, the Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls has taught legions of girls, ages 8 to 18, how to let loose and rock out. This book brings the camp's inspiring, hands-on approach and advice from its all-star crew of female musicians to girls everywhere. Fun and informative features offer instruction and tips on how to play instruments, write songs, publicize a show, sing your heart out, and much more. Featuring a short history of women in rock, 50 awesome illustrations and photos of young bands, and contributions by members of Sleater-Kinney, the Gossip, Mirah, and others, Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls will have readers turning up their amps in no time.

Girlspoken: From Pen, Brush & Tongue
by Jessica Hein
Published 2008 by Orca Book Publishers

Paperback, English. ISBN: 9781897187302

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Jacket Notes:

From pen, brush, and tongue, girls and young women (ages 13-19) speak their truths, tell it like it is, and call for change. This collection of creative works is an exploration of young women's identities, self-expression and voice. Their voices are quirky and flirtatious, strong and adventurous, outraged and scared --and often are searching for truth. Taken collectively, the girls' pieces read like a whispered conversation between friends. The contributors want to tell other girls that they are not alone in what they're experiencing as they navigate adolescence. Each contributor invites you into a piece of her life.

12/01/2008 School Library Journal

Gr 10 UpThis collection of personal stories, poems, and art by young Canadian women is a true testament to the power of the arts in girls' lives. The selections give expression to teens' struggles and joys. The themes are universal: "voices: telling truths about ourselves and our girlhoods"; "beauty: rants & reflections on love, desire & the beauty beast"; "strength: speaking out about our struggles & calling for change"; and "becoming: tales of where we've been & visions of where we're going." Among the standouts are Kyra Shaughnessy's "Forget Me Not," a teen's musings on her place in the world, and Claire Heisler's haunting poem, "In My Head," which offers a glimpse of a young girl's image of self filtered through her mind's eye. Diana Biacora's "Open Letter," a powerful story of immigration, is a journey of self-acceptance and discovery. Especially poignant is Hannah Schultz-Durkacz's "when you're yourself," a letter to her former BFF. Anonymous's "Finding the Pieces" is a heartbreaking story of a young girl learning to trust after her birth mother gives up parental rights. The only weak spot is the artwork-the quality of the reproductions does not always do justice to the selections. This exploration of the up and downs of being female is sometimes raw but always real. It is sure to strike a chord with its intended audience."Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta" Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.

Publisher's Marketing Text:

From pen, brush, and tongue, girls and young women (ages 13-19) speak their truths, tell it like it is, and call for change. This collection of creative works is an exploration of young women's identities, self-expression and voice. Their voices are quirky and flirtatious, strong and adventurous, outraged and scared --and often are searching for truth. Taken collectively, the girls' pieces read like a whispered conversation between friends. The contributors want to tell other girls that they are not alone in what they're experiencing as they navigate adolescence. Each contributor invites you into a piece of her life.

Cool Cars: Learn the Art of Cartooning Step by Step
by Jack Keely
Published 2008 by Walter Foster Publishing

Paperback, English. ISBN: 9781600580642

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Jacket Notes:

050283003014 Learn to draw muscle cars, street rods, customs, super cars, classics, and more!In this entertaining 32-page book, popular illustrator Jack Keely shows aspiring cartoonists how to draw a variety of cool cars-from classic beauties to custom roadsters. Beginning with the basics, Jack demonstrates several different cartoon styles, shows how to draw from a photograph, and provides tips on adding lifelike color. He then explains traditional cartoon techniques such as squash and stretch, exaggeration, and anthropomorphism. He also shares his tricks of the trade for drawing in a graphic-novel style, designing custom paint jobs, depicting movement, and adding human caricatures. With humorous illustrations and witty instructions, this clever how-to-draw book is the perfect addition to any cartoonist's library.

Manga Mania Romance: Drawing Shojo Girls and Bishie Boys
by Chris Hart
Published 2008 by Chris Hart Books

Paperback, English. ISBN: 9781933027432

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Jacket Notes:

The author of several bestselling how-to-draw books now offers aspiring young artists a complete course in the manga-romance genre. He shows how to create classic manga characters, from sweet-and-caring pretty girls with huge, glistening eyes to handsome teen-idol types. Illustrations. Pencils! Paints! Passion! The Japanese-style comic books known as manga have a huge following in America. Chris Hart, author of several bestselling how-to-draw books, now offers aspiring young artists a complete course in the manga-romance genre. He shows how to create classic manga characters: sweet-and-caring pretty girls with huge, glistening eyes; exciting boy heroes, including handsome teen-idol types, rough-hewn rebels, and young mystery men; girl comedy characters, who not only provide laughs, but also help high school girls deal with their insecurities; and many others. With thorough art instruction and lots of ideas for story plots, this is an intriguing invitation to an art form that anyone who loves to draw will find irresistible.

09/01/2008 School Library Journal

Gr 6 UpThis crisply illustrated work aims to give aspiring cartoonists the basics of drawing as well as some of the trademark stylistic elements of the increasingly popular "shojo" style of romance manga. This work starts off with the basics of figure drawing, character design, and facial expressions for both female and male characters; special care is given to explain the details of creating those luminous eyes so popular in Japanese comics. Movement and perspective are given a brief explanation, and the "chibi" style of humorous facial expression is explained as well. Basics on creating costuming for characters (especially the famous schoolgirl uniform) are included; tips are also given for creating the popular "magical girl" characters à la Sailor Moon. The "bishies" of the title certainly aren't forgotten, and care is given to explain and depict some of the most common male characters. Advice on creating romantic and humorous scenarios, staging, and more essential elements of cartooning round off the work, along with a useful list of popular Japanese male and female names and some basic Japanese written characters commonly used in sound effects. Although not for advanced artists, this is nonetheless a wonderful introduction to the "shojo" style. A great first choice for creating a cartooning/drawing collection."Dave Inabnitt, Brooklyn Public Library, NY" Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.

Indie Girl: From Starting a Band to Launching a Fashion Company, Nine Ways to Turn Your Creative Talent Into Reality
by Arne Johnson
Published 2008 by Orange Avenue Publishing

Paperback, English. ISBN: 9780979017339

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Jacket Notes:

From Starting a Band to Launching a Fashion Company, Nine Ways to Turn Your Creative Talent Into Reality. Indie Girl is a fun and comprehensive guide for young women that contains all of the information needed to start independent creative ventures like dance companies, rock bands, art galleries, fashion companies, and more! Written by Arne Johnson (filmmaker of the acclaimed documentary Girls Rock!) and Karen Macklin (professional writer, teacher, and theater artist), Indie Girl also includes quotes from teen and professional artists, technical and creative advice from pros, and empowering commentary on why and how women should be working together in the arts.

08/01/2008 School Library Journal

Gr 7 UpA feisty guide for teens to bring their creative impulses to fruition. Fresh and fun in their approach, Johnson and Macklin walk readers through the basics of publishing a zine, mounting an art exhibit, forming a dance troupe, organizing a parade, filming a TV show, staging a play, and hosting a poetry slam. Each chapter is sprinkled with suggestions from successful professionals and other "insiders." The chapter on mounting an art exhibit offers good, practical advice. The competition (and drive needed) in these fields is fierce. The accessible text also works hard to give readers a fuller understanding of why and how women can work together in the artsthat when there is collaboration, the possibilities are endless. There's nothing new in terms of the advice, but this is a good guide nonetheless. A great choice for readers as they think about their futures."Elaine Baran Black, Georgia Public Library Service, Atlanta" Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.

Publisher's Marketing Text:

From Starting a Band to Launching a Fashion Company, Nine Ways to Turn Your Creative Talent Into Reality. Indie Girl is a fun and comprehensive guide for young women that contains all of the information needed to start independent creative ventures like dance companies, rock bands, art galleries, fashion companies, and more! Written by Arne Johnson (filmmaker of the acclaimed documentary Girls Rock!) and Karen Macklin (professional writer, teacher, and theater artist), Indie Girl also includes quotes from teen and professional artists, technical and creative advice from pros, and empowering commentary on why and how women should be working together in the arts.

Seize the Story: A Handbook for Teens Who Like to Write
by Victoria Hanley
Published 2008 by Cottonwood Press (Fort Collins, CO)

Paperback, English. ISBN: 9781877673818

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Jacket Notes:

Supplemented by interviews with successful authors of teen literature--including T. A. Barron, Jona Bauer, Chris Crutcher, and Lauren Myracle, among others--this book presents all the elements of fiction, from creating believable dialogue to executing an exciting plot, through real story excerpts. Packed with tips, tricks, and writing exercises from an award-winning author of teen fiction, the guide encourages teen writers to write creatively and explore all the elements and responsibilities of fiction. With the book's goal of building competent, satisfied young authors, young people are emboldened to write the stories that are theirs alone to tell.

11/01/2008 School Library Journal

Gr 7 UpCapturing readers' attention from the very first page, this book is an excellent resource for both teenagers and their teachers. From the development of characters, setting, voice, style, and plot, to the end with rewriting and polishing, readers are able to hone their writing skills. By using the "building your story" activities at the end of each chapter, they have opportunity to apply the techniques presented and experience the whole process. Hanley uses examples from familiar novels and authors such as "Harry Potter" and Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight" (Little, Brown, 2005) to illustrate elements of writing. The book concludes with interviews with young adult authors, in which they include advice to aspiring young writers. This book is an excellent resource for creative writing classes as well as individuals."Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD" Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.

Publisher's Marketing Text:

Supplemented by interviews with successful authors of teen literature--including T. A. Barron, Jona Bauer, Chris Crutcher, and Lauren Myracle, among others--this book presents all the elements of fiction, from creating believable dialogue to executing an exciting plot, through real story excerpts. Packed with tips, tricks, and writing exercises from an award-winning author of teen fiction, the guide encourages teen writers to write creatively and explore all the elements and responsibilities of fiction. With the book's goal of building competent, satisfied young authors, young people are emboldened to write the stories that are theirs alone to tell.

How Does the Show Go On?: An Introduction to the Theater
by Thomas Schumacher
Published 2007 by Disney Editions

Hardcover, English. ISBN: 9781423100881

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Jacket Notes:

Filled with detailed explanations, captivating illustrations, and entertaining trivia, this clearly written, lively, and uniquely-designed book is a first-of-its-kind introduction to the world of the Theatre, from the box office to backstage, and beyond. From one side of the book, the reader enters via the front door, where the people and activities of the "front of house" can be examined. From the book's other side, the reader enters the "Stage Door," where the behind-the-scenes world of the "Back of house" is revealed.

In exploring this visually-inviting "theatre of the mind," readers encounter the people, places, occupations, and equipment of the theatre world, and have the opportunity to investigate them all. From the box office and the Usher Staff to the Dressing Rooms and the Backstage doorman, the reader may wander at will within this one-of-a-kind world, discovering the wonders of theatre all along the way.

Publisher's Marketing Text:

Filled with detailed explanations, captivating illustrations, and entertaining trivia, this clearly written, lively, and uniquely-designed book is a first-of-its-kind introduction to the world of the Theatre, from the box office to backstage, and beyond. From one side of the book, the reader enters via the front door, where the people and activities of the "front of house" can be examined. From the book's other side, the reader enters the "Stage Door," where the behind-the-scenes world of the "Back of house" is revealed.
In exploring this visually-inviting "theatre of the mind," readers encounter the people, places, occupations, and equipment of the theatre world, and have the opportunity to investigate them all. From the box office and the Usher Staff to the Dressing Rooms and the Backstage doorman, the reader may wander at will within this one-of-a-kind world, discovering the wonders of theatre all along the way.

Hip-Hop and Urban Dance
by Tamsin Fitzgerald
Published 2008 by Heinemann Library

Library Binding, English. ISBN: 9781432913786

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Jacket Notes:

11/01/2008 School Library Journal

Gr 3-5Despite their varying authorship, all of these books are consistent in terms of presentation. Each one discusses the history of a particular form of dance, including the progression of the style and significant performers, as well as what is happening currently with respect to each of them. All are liberally illustrated with large, clear photographs that convey a sense of the kind of movement involved in each style. The books are attractively designed with text boxes in complementary pastel colors that punctuate the main body of the text. Amazing fact, Dance fact, Technique, and Biography boxes provide additional interesting information. There is little in the way of actual instruction in the books, nor is that their intent, but they could encourage readers to pursue their favorite style in a more practical way. With the recent popularity of numerous dance shows on television, these titles are sure to find an audience. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.Gr 3-5Despite their varying authorship, all of these books are consistent in terms of presentation. Each one discusses the history of a particular form of dance, including the progression of the style and significant performers, as well as what is happening currently with respect to each of them. All are liberally illustrated with large, clear photographs that convey a sense of the kind of movement involved in each style. The books are attractively designed with text boxes in complementary pastel colors that punctuate the main body of the text. Amazing fact, Dance fact, Technique, and Biography boxes provide additional interesting information. There is little in the way of actual instruction in the books, nor is that their intent, but they could encourage readers to pursue their favorite style in a more practical way. With the recent popularity of numerous dance shows on television, these titles are sure to find an audience. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.Gr 3-5Despite their varying authorship, all of these books are consistent in terms of presentation. Each one discusses the history of a particular form of dance, including the progression of the style and significant performers, as well as what is happening currently with respect to each of them. All are liberally illustrated with large, clear photographs that convey a sense of the kind of movement involved in each style. The books are attractively designed with text boxes in complementary pastel colors that punctuate the main body of the text. Amazing fact, Dance fact, Technique, and Biography boxes provide additional interesting information. There is little in the way of actual instruction in the books, nor is that their intent, but they could encourage readers to pursue their favorite style in a more practical way. With the recent popularity of numerous dance shows on television, these titles are sure to find an audience. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.Gr 3-5Despite their varying authorship, all of these books are consistent in terms of presentation. Each one discusses the history of a particular form of dance, including the progression of the style and significant performers, as well as what is happening currently with respect to each of them. All are liberally illustrated with large, clear photographs that convey a sense of the kind of movement involved in each style. The books are attractively designed with text boxes in complementary pastel colors that punctuate the main body of the text. Amazing fact, Dance fact, Technique, and Biography boxes provide additional interesting information. There is little in the way of actual instruction in the books, nor is that their intent, but they could encourage readers to pursue their favorite style in a more practical way. With the recent popularity of numerous dance shows on television, these titles are sure to find an audience. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.Gr 3-5Despite their varying authorship, all of these books are consistent in terms of presentation. Each one discusses the history of a particular form of dance, including the progression of the style and significant performers, as well as what is happening currently with respect to each of them. All are liberally illustrated with large, clear photographs that convey a sense of the kind of movement involved in each style. The books are attractively designed with text boxes in complementary pastel colors that punctuate the main body of the text. Amazing fact, Dance fact, Technique, and Biography boxes provide additional interesting information. There is little in the way of actual instruction in the books, nor is that their intent, but they could encourage readers to pursue their favorite style in a more practical way. With the recent popularity of numerous dance shows on television, these titles are sure to find an audience. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.Gr 3-5Despite their varying authorship, all of these books are consistent in terms of presentation. Each one discusses the history of a particular form of dance, including the progression of the style and significant performers, as well as what is happening currently with respect to each of them. All are liberally illustrated with large, clear photographs that convey a sense of the kind of movement involved in each style. The books are attractively designed with text boxes in complementary pastel colors that punctuate the main body of the text. Amazing fact, Dance fact, Technique, and Biography boxes provide additional interesting information. There is little in the way of actual instruction in the books, nor is that their intent, but they could encourage readers to pursue their favorite style in a more practical way. With the recent popularity of numerous dance shows on television, these titles are sure to find an audience. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.Gr 3-5Despite their varying authorship, all of these books are consistent in terms of presentation. Each one discusses the history of a particular form of dance, including the progression of the style and significant performers, as well as what is happening currently with respect to each of them. All are liberally illustrated with large, clear photographs that convey a sense of the kind of movement involved in each style. The books are attractively designed with text boxes in complementary pastel colors that punctuate the main body of the text. Amazing fact, Dance fact, Technique, and Biography boxes provide additional interesting information. There is little in the way of actual instruction in the books, nor is that their intent, but they could encourage readers to pursue their favorite style in a more practical way. With the recent popularity of numerous dance shows on television, these titles are sure to find an audience. Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.

Look Closer: Art Masterpieces Through the Ages
by Caroline Desnoettes
Published 2006 by Walker & Company

Hardcover, English. ISBN: 9780802796141

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Jacket Notes:

Look closer at 18 famous paintings with this innovative and interactive format. With this lift-and-learn adventure, readers are invited to explore famous paintings by world-renowned artists through the centuries. Full color. 18 flaps & 18 gatefolds. Look closer at eighteen famous paintings with this innovative

and interactive format!

You are invited to explore famous paintings by world- renowned artists through the centuries. Look at the masterpiece and observe its details, then lift the flaps to take a closer look: learn about the palette, the painting's history, and the artist's life. Including such masters as Leonardo da Vinci, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Marc Chagall, this book encourages readers to discover fine details and appreciate art in a whole new way. Art history has never been so much fun!

12/01/2006 School Library Journal

Gr 3-6Creating an art-appreciation book for children that is both substantive and interactive is a challenging undertaking. This title succeeds admirably in certain respects. The die-cut cover arouses curiosity about the guilty facial expressions on Georges de La Tours card players. The reproductions of masterpieces, which range from the 14th-century illumination of the month of August from "The Very Rich Hours of the Duke of Berry" by Jean de Limbourg to Marc Chagalls "Song of Songs IV", are exceptionally focused and vibrant, and the glossy, cream card stock provides a pleasing background. Each spread includes the painting on the left page and two flaps with details on the right. Underneath the central flap are bulleted directives and questionsand some answers. Unfortunately, there is not always a relationship between the queries and the highlighted scenes, so the choices seem arbitrary. A number of the questions are merely quantitative (How many birds are on the tree?) and do not engage higher-level thinking skills. Brief formal and biographical notes are located under the flap and again at the end, adding to the somewhat chaotic arrangement. The second flap reveals four samples from each artists palette. When a book looks this good, one would hope that the approach would be equally dazzling. Henry Sayres "Cave Paintings to Picasso" (Chronicle, 2004) manages to cover interesting formal and contextual considerations with more global examples and a narrative and design that are quite accessible. Libraries will want to own both titles."Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library" Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.

How to Be a Hit Songwriter: Polishing and Marketing Your Lyrics and Music
by Molly-Ann Leikin
Published 2003 by Hal Leonard Publishing Corporation

Paperback, English. ISBN: 9780634050015

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Jacket Notes:

073999309942 You've written what you think is a great melody, what you hope is a strong lyric, and you've cut what sounds to you like a killer track. But how do you know if it's a hit? And what do you do with it if it is? Your only option is How to Be a Hit Songwriter, essential reading for advanced songwriters. Molly-Ann Leikin is the award-winning songwriter/songwriting consultant who helps good songwriters all over the world become hit songwriters. Whether your work just needs a little rewriting, polishing or some strong connections, Leikin will guide you step by step to the top of the charts. In How to Be a Hit Songwriter she offers expert advice and exercises, including "Seven Easy Steps to Writing Hit Lyrics." The book features inside information that can turn your song into a potential hit. What's more, she's interviewed music industry power players who share tips that are essential to all developing artists.

Wreaking Havoc: How to Create Fantasy Warriors and Wicked Weapons
by Chuck Lukacs
Published 2008 by Impact

Paperback, English. ISBN: 9781600610004

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Jacket Notes:

035313642043

Finding Your Voice: A Practical and Philosophical Guide to Singing Andliving
by Carolyn Sloan
Published 1999 by Hyperion Books

Paperback, English. ISBN: 9780786883882

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Jacket Notes:

Holistic in its philosophy, "Finding Your Voice" offers easy-to-follow exercises for such preparatory measures as breathing and diction; it also ventures to teach readers to use singing as a metaphor for facing other challenges in their lives. Illustrations, exercises, and sheet music throughout. Finding Your Voice won't teach you to sound like Frank Sinatra, Maria Callas, or the latest rock singer. This rare and inspiring book will encourage you to sound like you -- and once you develop your own voice, you are likely to find inner harmony and strength as well. Professional singing instructor Carolyn Sloan explains to readers that "voice" extends way beyond the mere sound produced by your own vocal chords. Instead, the way you sound has more to do with your unique form of self-expression. Whereas many books on singing are impersonal and "how-to" in their teaching methods, Finding Your Voice is holistic in its philosophy, allowing readers to create their own individual course of study. Therapeutic and spiritually engaging, this book offers easy-to-follow exercises for such preparatory measures as breathing and diction; it also ventures to teach readers to use singing as a metaphor for facing other challenges in their lives. Finding Your Voice is for people of all levels -- from the shower to the Metropolitan Opera.