Nonfiction Books

Star Wars: The Complete Visual Dictionary - The Ultimate Guide to Characters and Creatures from the Entire Star Wars Saga

David West Reynolds, James Luceno

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Subjects -> Children's Books -> Ages 4-8 -> General AAS
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 82 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Great in general, but perhaps not completely accurate 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

I really like this book too, it has a ton of detailed info and images on pretty much all the Star Wars creatures and characters. However I noticed that the image of the Boushh costume is not accurate, it is missing her big obi belt, which is a substantial part of her outfit. (Actually I think it's in there but it's under the jacket instead of over it, ...so weird.) I only find this an issue because I am making a Boushh costume and figured this book would be a good reference.

It's still full of info, and a good resource for people interested in learning more about characters in the Star Wars universe, just know that for whatever reason the images might not be completely accurate.

Incredible Reference for Young Star Wars Fans 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

I bought this book last Christmas (2007) for my two young sons (6 and 4). They have spent the past year pouring over this book, debating facts about the characters, and writing their own stories to compliment the illustrations in the book. They haven't seen all of the Star Wars films (only A New Hope) but are thrilled by the detailed illustrations and descriptions of the characters, the far away galaxies, and of course the weapons and ships. This is their favorite Star Wars book. As an adult fan of Star Wars I find it is full of great information and back stories about the characters. My husband and I have found answers to many of our Star Wars questions here. This is a great reference and a really fun book.

FYI, another great Star Wars reference is [...]. Great fun!

Editorial Review:

Provides a complete, comprehensive overview of the Prequel movies (Episodes I-III) and the Trilogy (Episodes IV-VI), this is the definitive photographic guide to the entire Star Wars saga.

The DC Comics Encyclopedia, Updated and Expanded Edition

Michael Teitelbaum, Scott Beatty, Robert Greenburger, Daniel Wallace

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Subjects -> Children's Books -> Series -> Nonfiction -> DK Illustrated Encyclopedias
Subjects -> Comics & Graphic Novels -> Graphic Novels -> General
Subjects -> Comics & Graphic Novels -> Graphic Novels -> General AAS

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 69 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Brings the DC Universe to Life 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

I am a casual DC Comics fan who was much more into comics in my youth. I bought this encyclopedia because I used to enjoy reading "Who's Who," a series in the 80's that featured biographies of DC characters. The cover art on this is striking, done beautifully by Alex Ross. The biographies have all been updated, so it was nice to hear about what my favorite (or obscure) heroes and villians have been up to the last 10-20 years. The entries are generally well-written, though I have found an error here and there. Occasionally, an entry will say deceased, but not mention how or if the character died or not say deceased, but indicate in the entry that the character died. Also, this was produced before the "Infinite Crisis" series, which changed (and in some cases killed) many of the characters in the DC universe. Overall, though, it's a pleasant read for casual fans and a way to pass time here and there. It would make a great gift for children 12 and up, I would say.

Editorial Review:

Following the success of the first edition, the updated and revised DC Comics Encyclopedia offers even more incredible DC detail and imagery than the original. 48 brand-new pages include major updates on characters and storylines (including the recent "Infinite Crisis" story arc). This spectacular, up-to-the-minute encyclopedia will delight comic fans of every age.

The Marvel Encyclopedia

Daniel Wallace, Tom Brevoort, Andrew J. Darling, Tom DeFalco, Peter Sanderson, Michael Teitelbaum

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Subjects -> Arts & Photography -> Design & Decorative Arts -> Graphic Design -> Commercial -> Illustration
Subjects -> Arts & Photography -> Design & Decorative Arts -> Graphic Design -> General AAS
Subjects -> Arts & Photography -> History & Criticism -> General AAS

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 78 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

ABSOLUTELY, DEFINITELY A MUST-HAVE FOR ALL MARVEL FANS! 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 1 people found this review helpful.

Like the average child once, I read comic books, especially marvel comic books. Marvel IMO has the most extensive comic books characters, both hero and villain, ever written. This encyclopedia will open your eyes to all of those characters, educating you on just about every little detail you need to know about them. I was truly excited (and fascinated) upon receiving this book. Although I read a lot of comic books when I was a child, I was totally unaware of the other characters. This book gave me an insight of the extensiveness of the Marvel World. It is truly a work of art. One of this books you must have (and will read from time to time).

Editorial Review:

Marvel Comics' character roster boasts some of the best known and most popular characters ever conceived-heroes that are international household names, both as comic book stars and movie stars, such as Spider-Man, the Hulk and Wolverine. This unique, one-volume encyclopedia contains more than 1000 of Marvel's greatest, with full details of their powers and their thrill-packed careers. The encyclopedia's range of spectacular art features eye-popping work by Marvel's finest artists, while the authoritative text is supplied by a team of top Marvel comic book writers. In addition, double-page features, illustrated with classic covers, trace the fascinating story of Marvel Comics through the decades. The Marvel Comics Encyclopedia is an essential book both for new fans and for those who grew up loving the excitement, heroism and humor of the Marvel Universe. Includes a foreword by Stan Lee.

I Spy Christmas: A Book of Picture Riddles

Jean Marzollo, Walter Wick (Photographer)

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 30 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

I Spy Christmas 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

My, almost three, twin grandsons and I, spend many fun times looking for the objects in this book. They get so excited when they find something asked for! My 5 older grandchildren always loved all of the I Spy books too.

Hours of fun and a new Christmas tradition. 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

Sit cozy in your recliner under an afghan and explore this gorgeous book with the little person in your life. So much to look at and search for. The I Spy books are all fun and this one is particularly well done. Children get so excited when they spot the items listed to search for...and find so many more interesting things along the way! All these books hold their attention, stimulate minds, and promote conversation! No batteries required, does not make electronic sounds, does not plug in.

A fun book for the family to do together. 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

The I Spy books are fun books to read and do with your children. This book is no exception. It's not too hard for the younger children or too easy for the older ones (adults included).

Editorial Review:

A photographic puzzle book features rhyming riddles that invite young readers to locate hidden objects--clocks, nickels, pickles, frogs, and others--among double-page spreads filled with holiday delights.

I Want To Be A Jedi (DK READERS)

Simon Beecroft

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 3 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

So You Want To Be A Jedi? 4 out of 5 stars.
11 of 16 people found this review helpful.

The release of Star Wars books for young people has always been related to a theatrical promotion. In a world that has a seen all six films, a new wave of DK Readers is much appreciated. It gives us comfort that even though the movies are finished, the Star Wars experience isn't completely 'done.' As the title suggests, "I Want To Be A Jedi" is a look into the Jedi Order. Jedi training, powers, lighsabers, the Council, mind tricks and equipment are all described. Beyond discussing the Jedi way in broad terms, focus is placed on Anakin Skywalker. "I Want To Be A Jedi" looks at Anakin's relationship with the Order, Padmé Amidala and Darth Sidious. A discussion of the Jedi and Anakin would be incomplete without mentioning the Sith. Darth Sidious, General Grievous and the Clone Wars are connected to the demise of the Jedi Order. While the content is suspiciously similar to "I Am a Jedi" and "I Am a Jedi Apprentice," the scope is more satisfying since it pulls together all six chapters of the saga. So while there's nothing new here, this is a great read for young fans that are still making the connections between the six acts. A glossary and index is included. In terms of the illustrations, the vast majority were lifted from the films. While the pictures are high quality, the writing is also good. This new series has books for most levels of elementary readers. Given the 48 page length and vocabulary level, this title is best suited to readers on a fourth or fifth grade level. "I Want To Be A Jedi" offers an exciting look at the Jedi Order.

Editorial Review:

Enter the Jedi Academy and find out what it takes to be a Jedi. How do the Jedi work with the Force? What is the Jedi Code? How do the Jedi make their light sabers? All these questions-and more-will be answered in I Want to Be a Jedi.

Find out all about the Dark Side and the Sith who wield power over it. Learn about evil Darth Sidious, Darth Maul and, of course, Darth Vader. Discover how the conflict began between the Jedi and the Sith. Beware the Dark Side has all the Dark Side details you could want to know!

I Spy Treasure Hunt (I Spy)

Jean Marzollo, Walter Wick

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 27 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Great book, Wrong Age Range 5 out of 5 stars.
6 of 6 people found this review helpful.

I think the I Spy Series is Wonderful and Treasure Hunt has great pictures. My only negative is that the age range listed in Amazon is wrong, and even the 4-8 age range usually listed for this book should be a little higher, like 6-8. I have to admit that I have a hard time finding the pictures, so my 4 year old gets frustrated with this one.

I think the Picture Riddles is a great one for 4 year olds to start with.

Great Book Great scenery 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

My husband and 7 kids love these books. They sharpen the mind. We love all I spy except for Spooky Night. Treasure Hunt has great pictures and scenery. You will not be disappointed!!

I spy another great book 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

Wonderful book. I loved it. My students loved using them too.

Editorial Review:

Welcome to I Spy Harbor, where, with the help of a pirate's treasure map, you can find your way from one spectacular location to the next, including an idyllic waterfall, stormy Lighthouse Point, and creepy Skull Rock . . . all on the way to discovering a treasure trove of gold and jewels! Age: 4,5,6,7,8 Manufacturer: Scholastic

Star Wars: The Clone Wars: Anakin in Action! (DK READERS)

Simon Beecroft

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Subjects -> Children's Books -> Literature -> Action & Adventure

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 1 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Good book for kids 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

The DK early reading program is exceptional. Licensing popular franchises for different levels. Anakin is rated 2, while the companion book, Watch out For Jabba the Hut is level 1.

For those who have seen the Clone Wars, this is a good way to explain the story to young viewers. With art taken from the film, these books are topical, and use appropriate vocabulary. Want to raise a young Star Wars fan, pick these up and before long, you'll find your child reading any one of the Star Wars novels.

Great job. Simon Beecroft has a remarkable skill in writing for different age groups.

Keep up the great work DK.

Editorial Review:

Since the first time we heard Luke Skywalker ask Obi-Wan Kenobi "You fought in the Clone Wars!?" in Episode IV: A New Hope, fans the world over have been wondering exactly what the Clone Wars were and what clones in combat would look like. On August 15th, 2008, with the theatrical release of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, much will be explained. The Clone Wars take place between Episode II: Attack of the Clones and Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. Lucasfilm is now bringing the wars to life in an all-new CGI animated series.

The theatrical release will launch this groundbreaking computer-generated animated series, which will then debut on Cartoon Network and TNT in the fall. New characters like female Padawan Ahsoka Tano join old favorites Anakin Skywalker, Yoda, Count Dooku, General Grievous, and others as the Jedi cross lightsabers with the dark side yet again.

© Lucasfilm Ltd. ® & (tm)

I Spy Spooky Night (I Spy)

Jean Marzollo

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Subjects -> Children's Books -> Ages 4-8 -> Picture Books
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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 25 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

I Spy A Winner! 5 out of 5 stars.
4 of 4 people found this review helpful.

The I Spy Spooky Night book is one of many 'I Spy' books our family has enjoyed. We have the 'I Spy Extreme Challenger!',
'I Spy Super Challenger', 'I Spy School Days', 'I Spy Treasure Hunt' and the 'I Spy Mystery' book just to name a few of them. They will entertain no matter what your age. Our children and now our grandchildren have pulled these books out many times. They are like magnets and will draw in whoever is around to your side to help find the hidden I Spy items. Here's a hint. If, no - when, you have trouble finding any of the objects turn the book upside down and that just might help. The I Spy Spooky Night Book in combination with the Boo-opoly Game will provide some frighteningly good Halloween entertainment. ~ Mrs. B.

Editorial Review:

From its rickety gate to its cobwebbed attic, this haunted house contains 13 spooky environments. Readers will marvel at Walter Wick's beautifully executed photographs as they travel through each enchanting scene and solve the rhyming riddles, reading the story along the way. Over two million "I Spy" books have been sold to date.

First Human Body Encyclopedia (Dk First Reference Series)

DK Publishing

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Subjects -> Children's Books -> Reference & Nonfiction -> Encyclopedias

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 13 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Fabulous book! 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

I got this book for my 6 year old son. I have a few books about the body and I have found that most are not descriptive enough when going through the body systems. They were fine when my son was younger, but now he asks many more questions and I find myself having a harder time explaining how the body works. So, I got this book along with a real working stethascope for children. Every night he loves reading through a few pages at time of this book. He really enjoys telling others what he has learned the night before... Sometimes the infomation is a little too descript, and other times not enough. But, overall, it is an excellent book to help your child understand the wonders of the human body. I would highly recommend this for children 5 years old and up.

Editorial Review:

Showing what's inside the human body and how things fit and work together, the Human Body Encyclopedia is packed with fascinating facts and spectacular close-up photographs that make the subject accessible and fun. Covering every part of the body‹from major body systems to individual cells‹in language accessible to young children, this book is an inspiring new edition to the First Reference series and a valuable teaching aid for parents and teachers.

I Spy Little Animals (I Spy)

Jean Marzollo

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Subjects -> Children's Books -> Baby-3 -> General
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Subjects -> Children's Books -> Animals -> Nonfiction

Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 10 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

OK for the I spy beginner.... 4 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

Good starter I spy book for the younger spier in your house. I would say 3 or 4 would be the oldest.

A favorite 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

My son is always picking this book these days. He loves to find everything and does pretty well at 2 1/2.

My Toddler Enjoys This Book 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

My 2 year old daughter enjoys this book. She often ask for her I-spy book(s) again and again and sits and looks through the book by herself. It keeps her occupied and sitting still for several minutes and that says alot.

Great for even 15 mos! 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

My 15 month old daughter loves all the I spy little books. I didn't think she would be ready for them, but after receiving this one as a gift, we've gone out and bought more. Although she loves to read, we find she seems to be more patient when we read this book and sits in our lap trying to spy for 20 minutes at a time (since we reread it).

Wow! another hit for my sons 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

We stumbled on the Eye Spy books purely by accident, but what a find! While we only have a couple of them, we get them from the library all the time and I can't say enough good things. My older son (almost 4) is into counting all the things he finds and finding things that rhyme. My younger son (19 months) will look at it with me, his brother, his father, and do the signs for the objects he knows. He has also learned more signs from these books as we "read" and sign the book with him. These books are terrific!

Editorial Review:

Rhyming verses ask readers to find hidden objects and toy animals in the photographs.