Best of
Tv

2009

Ooh! What a Lovely Pair: Our Story


Anthony McPartlin - 2009
    An idiosyncratic collection of vivid observations, colourful reminiscence and charming digressions, Ant and Dec's book is packed with comical anecdotes, and will give millions of fans an insight into the genuine intimacy and refreshing sense of humour that the two TV icons share.

In the Hunt: Unauthorized Essays on Supernatural


Leah WilsonAvril Hannah-Jones - 2009
    When their dad mysteriously disappears, brothers Dean and Sam Winchester join forces to bring him home and are pulled headlong into the world he knew best—one full of demons, spirits, monsters, and ghouls. Featuring essays from three lucky fans as well as leading writers and pop culture experts, this insightful anthology sheds light on a variety of issues, including why such a male-centric show has such a large female fan base, “Wincest” and homoeroticism, how Supernatural can be interpreted as a modern-day Brothers Grimm, and the questionable nature of John Winchester’s parenting habits.

The Dragon's Call


Simon A. Forward - 2009
    But he soon finds that amidst the excitement there is a darker side to Camelot. Magic is outlawed here, so Merlin must keep his unique magical talents a closely guarded secret...From the BBC TV series: Merlin

Finding Lost: Season 5


Nikki Stafford - 2009
    Featuring the most comprehensive episode guide available as well as many never-before-seen photos, this resource is invaluable for all followers of Lost, whether casual viewers or hard-core theorists. With an analysis of how John Locke could become the mysterious Jeremy Bentham, the in-depth handbook also includes background information on the show's historical, philosophical, religious, and literary references, such as those alluding to James Joyce's Ulysses and Stephen King's The Stand.

Ghost Trap (Ghost Whisperer)


Doranna Durgin - 2009
    Melinda came to understand that the spirits are trapped, and in need. She listens, tries to understand what keeps them from crossing over, and helps them find what they need to be free. It's not easy, but with time and patience her gift allows her to come to bring those spirits to peace. The sound of a mournful lullaby has been haunting Melinda in her sleep, the song of a ghost who doesn't seem ready or willing to accept her help. Knowing that earthbound spirits are often confused and troubled, Melinda feels that with time she will make a connection. But there is no time; the melodic tapestry that the ghostly singer is weaving with her words -- meant to comfort a child -- has become a trap, lulling the young listeners into such a deep sleep that no one can ever awaken them. It takes one child, then another and another, until all across the town children are drawn in by the gentle song, their lives slowly slipping away. Even Melinda, with her knowledge of the spirit world, finds herself being pulled into the beautiful snare, where she nearly loses herself. Only then does Melinda begin to worry that this is a spirit so troubled, so heartsick, that it may be beyond her help.

South Park Guide to Life


Matt Stone - 2009
    No series skewers pop culture and politics with more effective wit and wisdom than South Park—from dysfunctional family life to bad manners to the entire country of Canada, for the residents of this tiny town, no subject is sacred or taboo!A regular ratings monster and Emmy-winner, South Park is also an unlikely source of advice on all facets of life. Stan, Kyle, Cartman, and Kenny along with the rest of the town offer hilariously twisted insights and questionable counsel on topics such as teamwork, spirituality, and the opposite sex. South Park Guide to Life is a much anticipated collection of colorful illustrations and original lines from the show. Great for grads and fans alike!

Doctor Who: The Ultimate Monster Guide


Justin Richards - 2009
    With fully-illustrated entries that cover everything from Adipose and Autons to Zarbi and Zygons, this guide tells you everything you need to know about the many dastardly creatures the Doctor has fought since he first appeared on television.Featuring a wealth of material from the current and classic series, the Guide also includes behind-the-scenes secrets of how the monsters were created, as well as design drawings and images. Find out how the Cybermen were redesigned over the years, and how Davros was resurrected to lead his Daleks once again. Discover the computer magic that made the Beast possible, and the make-up wizardry that created the Weeping Angels. Learn how many incarnations of the Master the Doctor has encountered, and which other misguided Time Lords he has defeated...Lavishly designed with photos and artwork throughout, The Ultimate Monster Guide is essential reading for all travellers in time and space!

The Adventures of Merlin: The Complete Guide


Jacqueline Rayner - 2009
    It is filled with facts and great imagery of all the cast, locations and props. It lets you discover the lore and legend of Merlin! It looks at each character and their various relationships as well as exploring the baddies and the monsters that lurk in Camelot! Never-seen-before footage, as well as maps and spells from the spell book, finish this complete guide. It's a must-have for any Merlin fan!

The Poisoned Chalice


Simon A. Forward - 2009
    Merlin is poisoned by the sorceress Nimueh and Arthur seeks the only antidote that can save him — but the prince is walking into a trap.

Ace of Cakes: Inside the World of Charm City Cakes


Duff Goldman - 2009
    An eye-popping collection of photos, illustrations, stories, reflections, collages, and memorabilia celebrating the eccentric Baltimore bakery where everything takes off, Ace of Cakes is a truly delectable volume that shows the magic that can happen when creativity is king and “no limits” is the mantra.

Life


Martha Holmes - 2009
    From cold-blooded reptilian killers to the armoured invaders of the insect world, the long-distance migratory birds to predatory mammals and the sociable and intelligent primates, Life reveals animal behaviour as never described before.By telling a series of unforgettable stories and focusing on intimate details, the book draws us into the biggest story of all - the many different ways animals and plants cope with the challenges of life and, ultimately, the survival of their species. We learn how fish can be the most caring of parents, how cuttlefish seduce with colour, how penguin chicks learn the hard way and how monkeys and apes teach their young to use tools. We discover some of the wonders of life, including dragons that wrestle, lizards that do cartwheels, toads that bounce, elephant shrews that run like greyhounds and birds that create art.Narrated by David Attenborough and with never-before-filmed animal behaviour, breathtaking cinematography and emotional story telling, Life is BBC1's landmark natural history programme for 2009, and this is the unmissable companion book.

The Case Files of Sherlock Holmes


Guy Adams - 2009
    His adventures have been portrayed in fourteen different TV series and twenty different TV movies as well as around 600 Holmes-related radio programs. He has been inducted as an honorary fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, the only fictional character ever to achieve such distinction. In the UK, a national computer database used by the police is called HOLMES - Home Office Large Major Enquiry System. In short, everyone knows that Sherlock Holmes is the greatest detective who never lived, but his fictional adventures have held us in thrall for over 120 years. "The Case Notes of Sherlock Holmes" is written, just as most of his adventures, by his trusty friend Dr John H Watson. These are the notes on which Watson based his later, more elaborate accounts of Holmes' investigations. They take the form of a scrapbook containing letters, sketches, newspaper articles and other items sometimes mentioned in the more familiar forms of these stories, but often neglected. Here you will find Watson's sketches of the paw prints discovered near the body of Sir Charles Baskerville, the address label from the gruesome parcel that was sent to Susan Cushing in "The Adventure of the Cardboard Box", Sherlock Holmes' final, heartrending letter to Watson before his violent struggle with Moriarty in "The Final Problem", as well as many other fascinating documents. All of the items are reproduced as genuine historical artifacts, with tears, stains, folds and handwritten annotations by Watson. Eighteen of these items are held in special 'evidence' bags on the page, to be removed for easy study by the reader. Painstakingly researched, beautifully designed and packaged, and rich in period detail, this is a book that brings the world of 221b Baker Street vividly to life. It is a volume that no Sherlock Holmes fan will want to be without.

The Chronicles of Hernia


Barry Cryer - 2009
    In a career spanning forty years, Barry has worked alongside the greatest producers and performers in show business: Tommy Cooper, Humphrey Lyttelton, Morecambe and Wise, Willie Rushton, Peter Cook, Kenny Everett, Rory Bremner to name but a few - this book is a veritable Who's Who of comedy.From humble beginnings at the Windmill Theatre and Expresso Bongo, to The Frost Report, Call My Bluff and I'm Sorry I haven't a Clue, Barry recalls the good, the bad, and the downright ugly in his own inimitable style.'Barry Cryer ...an anecdote jukebox whose whole life is basically one big chatshow.'Guardian

The Death of Arthur


Jason Loborik - 2009
    Uther ignores Gaius' warning, that the creature's bite is always fatal, and sends Arthur and his knights out to kill it. The beast knocks Arthur unconscious and bites his shoulder. As Arthur's life hangs in the balance, Merlin must travel to the Isle of the Blessed and there strike a potentially fatal bargain with the sorceress, Nimueh. The young warlock is the only one who can save Arthur - but at what cost?

Best in Hollywood: The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful


James Best - 2009
    He writes, "You can share with me the Golden Age of Hollywood, when movies had unequaled World Class. Now solidly in my eighties, I'm one of the few living actors who can hope to tell of the past glory and glamour of Hollywood as the industry really was way back when. "This was the Hollywood where I lived, loved, and worked during the time when she was the ruling queen. This was the time of a wonderful movie industry, where genuine actors and actresses created truly entertaining musicals, comedies, dramas, and action for an eager moviegoing public. "Even in those glorious golden days of Hollywood, my attempt to be a big winner was never all sunglasses and autographs. I tell how I survived in a sometimes cruel town where a lifelong dream can be fulfilled or broken in a heartbeat. I didn't escape without my share of scars. "I've written this book for those who might enjoy reading about the experiences of a very lucky ragtag orphan from Kentucky. I thank God for the opportunities given me. I was blessed to be adopted and to be given both a desire to work hard and, just as important, a love of fishing. I've been in a few scraps along the way, but I've done my level best to become a successful actor and to grow as a person. "If you're curious about the good, the bad, and the beautiful of Hollywood, including The Dukes of Hazzard and many other adventures-it's all in this book. I simply tell my story as I've lived it. I hope you enjoy it." 324 pages and illustrated. James Best appeared in many films, including Winchester '73 (1950), Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man (1951), The Caine Mutiny (1954), and Forbidden Planet (1956). His extensive American television appearances include Wagon Train (three times), The Adventures of Kit Carson (twice as Henry Jordan), the Western anthology series Frontier (twice), Sheriff of Cochise, Pony Express, Rescue 8, Behind Closed Doors, The Texan, The Rebel, Bonanza, Gunsmoke, Have Gun Will Travel, Trackdown, The Barbara Stanwyck Show, Tombstone Territory, Whispering Smith, Stagecoach West, The Twilight Zone episodes entitled "The Grave," "The Last Rites of Jeff Myrtlebank," and "Jess-Belle," Wanted: Dead or Alive, Overland Trail, Bat Masterson, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, The Man and the Challenge, Combat!, The Mod Squad, I Spy, The Fugitive episode entitled "Terror At High Point," and In the Heat of the Night. KEYWORDS FOR ALLAN James Best, Dukes of Hazzard, Winchester '73, Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man, The Caine Mutiny, Forbidden Planet, Wagon Train), The Adventures of Kit Carson, Frontier, Sheriff of Cochise, Pony Express, Rescue 8, Behind Closed Doors, The Texan, The Rebel, Bonanza, Gunsmoke, Have Gun Will Travel, Trackdown, The Barbara Stanwyck Show, Tombstone Territory, Whispering Smith, Stagecoach West, The Twilight Zone, Wanted: Dead or Alive, Overland Trail, Bat Masterson, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, The Man and the Challenge, Combat!, The Mod Squad, I Spy, The Fugitive, In the Heat of the Night, Hollywood, cinema, films, movies, Westerns, Western, film, movie, actor, film history, television history, science fiction, biography, biographies,

Writing Television Sitcoms


Evan S. Smith - 2009
    This new edition of Writing Television Sitcoms features the essential information every would-be teleplay writer needs to know to break into the business, including: - Updated examples from contemporary shows such as 30 Rock, The Office and South Park - Shifts in how modern stories are structured - How to recognize changes in taste and censorship - The reality of reality television - How the Internet has created series development opportunities - A refined strategy for approaching agents and managers - How pitches and e-queries work - or don't - The importance of screenwriting competitions

Battlestar Galactica: Downloaded: Inside the Universe of the Critically Acclaimed TV Series


David Bassom - 2009
    With a classy ensemble cast, including Edward James Olmos (Miami Vice) and Mary McDonnell (Independence Day), cutting edge special effects, superb production design and adult-oriented scripts, the new Battlestar Galactica is both a worthy successor to a classic original, and a stunning piece of television in its own right.This official full-colour companion to the first and second seasons is packed with exclusive interviews, stunning photos, behind-the-scenes secrets, and a complete episode guide with in-depth commentary from both cast and crew.

Filmed in Supermarionation


Stephen La Riviere - 2009
    Packed with interviews from the original cast and crew, this Kindle edition also contains rare pictures and a lengthy section of extra features including previously unpublished storylines and original studio paperwork.

Babylon 5: The Scripts of J. Michael Straczynski, TV Movies


J. Michael Straczynski - 2009
    Focusing on The Telepath War, and appropriately titled "Wars of the Mind," JMS' notes reveal the background of the conflict -- teeps vs. teeps, the cast of characters -- including the identity of the Interstellar Alliance's Vice President, and the explosive deaths of two B5 regulars -- something hinted at, but never stated in an official series document.* The lost tale from The Lost Tales. Did you know that there were originally three lost tales, not two? The middle segment, never produced due to production considerations, featured Michael Garibaldi making a startling discovery on Mars. Only a handful of people involved in the production have ever read this script, but now you can enjoy this "lost" installment.* The original short story on which The Lost Tales segment "Over Here" was based. It's called "The Darkness Between the Stars" and was originally published in the now out-of-print seventh issue of The Book of Dark Wisdom (Fall 2005). See how JMS adapts a story from one medium to another and witness a different ending than the one that concludes the B5 version.* J. Michael Straczynski's personal, behind-the-scenes photos taken on the set of The Lost Tales and The Legend of the Rangers -- included in these 36 images are the last pictures taken of Andreas Katsulas as G'Kar.YES, WE'VE ALSO INCLUDED "JOE CUTS"Because there are many differences between the scripts and what you see on the DVDs, you also get the Script/DVD Variations inventory, which catalogs all the changes, deletions, and additions that were made as the stories traveled from script to screen. It's all in this handy, easy-to-reference grid, just like the ones in JMS' Volume 15 and the Other Voices series.The TV Movie book includes 12 pages of "Joe Cuts" chronicling 78 of these variations exposing B5 data you never knew.BUT WAIT THERE'S MOREInstead of episode analysis, J. Michael Straczynski answers frequently asked questions about each of the TV movies. Here's just a sample of what you'll discover:* How JMS had to "spread the cast" over the movies and how that affected the stories.* What one theme JMS finds most intriguing about the Babylon 5 universe.* How much Lyta knew about Vorlon history.* Why Thirdspace is set after the Shadow war.* Learn about H.P. Lovecraft's influences on JMS in general and Thirdspace specifically.* A detailed description of JMS's headspace when writing The River of Souls after he had just said goodbye to B5 with the final episodes of season five.* What drew JMS back to the Soul Hunter idea after five years and 90 teleplays.* How Joe crafted The River of Souls to explore the archaeological science fiction ideas that would later be found in Crusade.* Why Lieutenant Corwin gets a bigger spotlight in The River of Souls.* How the Love Bat came to be.* How The River of Souls relates to the essential B5 question of "Who are you?"* What it was like to work with Martin Sheen and what he felt everyone he met should involve themselves in.* Why the Rangers of LotR were supposed to learn about "dying for the One."* How The Hand was differed from the the Shadows in the grand scheme of things.* Reflection from JMS about his days on the Ranger set with Andreas Katsulas, the very last time he would be Citizen G'Kar.* Londo's intention in sending Vintari to Sheridan in The Lost Tales.* What it was like being in the Babylon 5 universe during The Lost Tales after so many years had passed.* How the alliance got the quantum space technology from the Vorlons.* Who was first in line to succeed Londo (remember that Vir was second in line and Vintari was third).* Why JMS decided to base one of The Lost Tales on his short story "The Darkness Between the Stars" (note that the original short story is also included as a bonus).

Gundam 00 Lite Novel 1


Noboru Kimura - 2009
    Although fossil fuels have been depleted, humanity has obtained a new source of energy to replace them in the form of a large-scale solar power generation system based on three huge orbital elevators. However, the benefits of this system are available only to a handful of major powers and their allies. The three orbital elevators belong to three superpower blocs. These are the Union, led by the United States of America; the Human Reform League, led by China, Russia, and India; and the AEU, led by Europe. These superpower blocs continue to play a grand zero-sum game for the sake of their own prestige and prosperity. In this world of never-ending conflict, a private armed organization appears, dedicated to the elimination of war through armed force. Its name is Celestial Being, and it is in possession of "Gundam" mobile suits. With these Gundams, it begins armed intervention into all acts of war.

The Ultimate Book of Sports Movies: Featuring the 100 Greatest Sports Films of All Time


Ray Didinger - 2009
    Especially sports movies, where every underdog has his day, every team achieves glory, and every hero gets his moment of redemption. Next to watching Monday Night Football, there's nothing more enjoyable than plopping down on the couch with the remote and a bottle of beer and firing up the special-edition DVD of Rocky, Hoosiers, Caddyshack, or any other fan favorite.Now, two nationally renowned sports media personalities take on the task of ranking the top 100 sports movies of all time, including entertaining and informative lists, special features, and contributions from over 75 top sports figures. From drama to comedy to tragedy to documentary, all the greatest sports films are here, brought to life through detailed summaries, fun facts and trivia, behind-the-scenes revelations, plus images from the greatest moments in sports film history.Original comments from some of the top personalities in sports and entertainment--including Peyton and Eli Manning, Charles Barkley, Tony Romo, James Gandolfini, Bill Parcells, Dennis Quaid, Arnold Palmer, and many more--provide further insight and marketing punch.

Doctor Who: The Forgotten (The Forgotten, #6)


Tony LeeJohn Wycough - 2009
    Part 6: Reunion

Joe's Allotment: Planning and planting a productive plot


Joe Swift - 2009
    But with hard work and dedication, in less than a year Joe created his very own urban oasis and a source of delicious, fresh, organic produce for himself and his family.In this book Joe takes us through every stage of his education as an allotment gardener, from putting his name on the council waiting list to harvesting his first crops. He reveals everything he's learned about acquiring a plot, clearing the site, planning the beds, and planting, nurturing and protecting his fruit and vegetables. All the techniques he has mastered are described and illustrated, step by step.Joe also introduces us to his Veg Heroes like Monty Don and Geoff Hamilton - fellow plot-holders with years of experience and the crops to show for it - who inspired Joe to take up veg growing in the first place. And he shares with us his enjoyment of allotment gardening, the combination of hard work, fresh air and a sense of community that makes his plot such a special place to be.Whether you are an established allotment gardener or are thinking of putting your name down for a plot, Joe's Allotment will provide you with a wealth of advice and inspiration.

The Art of Wallace and Gromit (Wallace & Gromit)


Nick Park - 2009
    

The Mark of Nimueh


Jason Loborik - 2009
    Merlin must help Gaius find a cure and save his friend from execution.

Hijinks Ensue Vol. 1: Godspeed, You Fancy Bastard


Joel Watson - 2009
    THE FINAL FIVE OR THE FELLOWSHIP OF NINE? RED SHIRT OR BROWNCOAT? NINJA OR PIRATE? This first HijiNKS ENSUE collection will attempt to answer these eternal questions as it takes you on a journey of geeky enlightenment.All HijiNKS ENSUE comics from 2007 and 2008, with new creator's commentary on each comic, plus extras from creator Joel Watson.

Philosophy in the Twilight Zone


Noël Carroll - 2009
     Features essays by eminent contemporary philosophers concerning the over-arching themes in The Twilight Zone, as well as in-depth discussions of particular episodes Fuses popular cult entertainment with classical philosophical perspectives Acts as a guide to unearthing larger questions - from human nature to the nature of reality and beyond - posed in the series Includes substantial critical and biographical information on series creator Rob Serling

Agora


Marta Sofía - 2009
    Her student Orestes is in love with her, as is Davus, her personal slave. As the city's Christians, led by Ammonius and Cyril, gain political power, the great institutions of learning and governance may not survive. Jump ahead 20 years: Orestes, the city's prefect, has an uneasy peace with Christians, led by Cyril. The Christians enforce public morality; first they see the Jews as their obstacle, then nonbelievers. Hypatia has no interest in faith; she's concerned about the movement of celestial bodies and the brotherhood of all. What place is there for her?

TV's M*A*S*H: The Ultimate Guide Book


Ed Solomonson - 2009
    Written by fans and for fans, this book covers material never covered in previous books. Aside from an astounding amount of researched info for nearly every episode of the series, this book covers every aspect of the show from the opening theme to the production codes, including a season by season analysis. But even more importantly, there is fresh commentary from over 45 MASH alumni who were contacted just for this book with never-before published experiences and anecdotes.With a foreword and all new M*A*S*H dialogue by Larry Gelbart, a "History of MASH" with commentary by William Self and even more interviews and commentary from most major players, the original producers, writers, directors, guest stars, a technical adviser for William Christopher's character and even a stunt man, we think you'll find this to be "The B*E*S*T Book Anywhere"!!

Flights of Fantasy


Michael J. Hayde - 2009
    Hayde significantly broadens our empathy for The Man of Steel through his profound revelations surrounding an imposing figure based on popular myth. In a meticulously researched discourse, he supplies the gaps about a character that became a mid 20th century hero to the nation's boys and girls. Hayde probes the backgrounds of the real-life individuals behind-the-scenes and before the microphones and cameras that intensified that aura. In breezy, comprehensive style, he focuses on the radio and TV manifestations while interweaving timely inferences from the newspaper strip, comics, books, film and other formats plus a prosperous merchandising trade. Lovers of the genre of juvenile adventures are rewarded by the author's efforts to expose how one man wearing a cape and bearing incredible strength could pervade an impressionable younger generation and a society that pursued his exploits intensely." - Jim Cox, author of Radio Crime Fighters "With so many books about Superman out there, it's pleasing to know that one book has everything you'd want to know under one cover. Trivia, background production and numerous behind-the-scenes stories make this a must-have for everyone's shelf. An enjoyable read." - Martin Grams, Jr., author of The Twilight Zone: Unlocking the Door to a Television Classic Over 500 pages of intense research.