May 2008

The wait is finally over for those of you (like all of us at Kidsreads.com!) who have been anxiously anticipating the next movie in the Chronicles of Narnia series, because Prince Caspian hits theaters in wide release on May 16th. This guaranteed summer blockbuster sequel, based on the classic good vs. evil tale by C. S. Lewis, will surely enthrall and enchant moviegoers of all ages with its epic adventure, whimsical fantasy and dazzling special effects.

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
Cast: Ben Barnes, Liam Neeson, Tilda Swinton, William Moseley, Anna Popplewell, Eddie Izzard, Warwick Davis, Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes
Director: Andrew Adamson
Distributor: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: May 16th (wide)
Based on: THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: PRINCE CASPIAN by C. S. Lewis

The characters of C. S. Lewis’s timeless fantasy come to life once again in this newest installment of The Chronicles of Narnia series, in which the Pevensie siblings are magically transported back from England to the world of Narnia, where a thrilling, perilous new adventure and an even greater test of their faith and courage await them.

One year after the incredible events of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, the Kings and Queens of Narnia find themselves back in that faraway wondrous realm, only to discover that more than 1,300 years have passed in Narnian time. During their absence, the Golden Age of Narnia has become extinct, Narnia has been conquered by the Telmarines and is now under the control of the evil King Miraz, who rules the land without mercy.

The four children will soon meet an intriguing new character: Narnia’s rightful heir to the throne, the young Prince Caspian, who has been forced into hiding as his uncle Miraz plots to kill him in order to place his own newborn son on the throne. With the help of a kindly dwarf, Trumpkin, a courageous talking mouse named Reepicheep, a badger named Trufflehunter and a Black Dwarf, Nikabrik, the Narnians, led by the mighty knights Peter and Caspian, embark on a remarkable journey to find Aslan, rescue Narnia from Miraz’s tyrannical hold, and restore magic and glory to the land.

April 2008

That summer beach vacation we've been dreaming of all winter long is coming a full season early this year with the release of the big-screen adaptation of Wendy Orr's modern tale of survival, Nim's Island. Join Nim on her tropical adventure as she attempts to save both her missing father and the secret island where they live, with the help of her unlikely literary hero --- a reclusive and agoraphobic big-city author.

Nim’s Island
Cast: Abigail Breslin, Jodie Foster, Gerard Butler
Directors: Mark Levin and Jennifer Flackett
Distributor: Fox Walden, Summit Entertainment, LLC
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: April 4th (wide)
Based on: NIM’S ISLAND by Wendy Orr

Anything can happen on Nim’s Island, a place where imagination runs wild and adventure rules. Here, a feisty young girl named Nim, surrounded by her exotic animal friends and inspired by legends and books, leads an amazing tropical existence that mirrors that of her favorite literary hero: Alex Rover, the world’s greatest adventurer. When her island is threatened she reaches out to her hero for help.

But what Nim doesn’t know is that the acclaimed author of the Rover books is, in fact, Alexandra Rover, a retiring, fainthearted recluse locked away in a big city apartment. Now, as Alexandra nervously ventures forth into the world and Nim faces the biggest challenge of her exciting young life, they must both draw courage from the fictional gallantry of Alex Rover and find strength in one another to save Nim’s Island.

March 2008

They say that good things come in small packages, and this month's Books into Movies feature proves just that. Join a sweet, lovable elephant on his quest through the jungle to save the itty bitty city of Whoville…that just so happens to be located on a tiny speck of dust! Be sure to catch this animated film adaptation of Dr. Seuss's beloved HORTON HEARS A WHO! when it hits the big screen on March 14th.

Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who!
Cast: Jim Carrey, Steve Carell, Seth Rogen, Dane Cook, Amy Poehler, Jesse McCartney, Will Arnett, Carol Burnett
Directors: Jimmy Hayward and Steve Martino
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
MPAA Rating: G
Release Date: March 14th (wide)
Based on: HORTON HEARS A WHO! by Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who! is about an imaginative elephant who hears a cry for help coming from a tiny speck of dust floating through the air. Suspecting there may be life on that speck and despite a surrounding community that thinks he has lost his mind, Horton is determined to help.

February 2008

Anyone who has ever believed that there were monsters under the bed, ghosts in the attic or faeries in the garden should not miss The Spiderwick Chronicles, which hits the big screen on February 14th. Based on the bestselling series by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black, this deliciously dark, enchanting and action-packed fantasy chronicles the adventures of the Grace family, whose youngest members discover a world of magic within the parameters of their great-great-uncle’s dilapidated Victorian mansion. We at Kidsreads.com know how much you love the books, so we're sure you'll fall under the spell of this exciting and whimsical film, overflowing with brownies, goblins, sprites, trolls, ogres and more fantastical creatures than you can imagine lurking around every corner.

A number of special edition books have been released that will give you an insider’s view of the faerie world as well as a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film. Check out the adventure from Thimbletack’s point of view, create your own field guide, learn how to protect your home against unfriendly creatures, and much more. Have a blast interacting with these fantastical titles!

The Spiderwick Chronicles
Cast: Freddie Highmore, Mary-Louise Parker, Nick Nolte, Joan Plowright, David Strathairn, Seth Rogen
Director: Mark Waters
Distributors: Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon Movies
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: February 14th (wide)
Based on: The Spiderwick Chronicles by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black

Peculiar things start to happen the moment the Grace family (Jared, his twin brother Simon, sister Mallory and their mom) leave New York and move into the secluded old house owned by their great, great uncle, Arthur Spiderwick. Unable to explain the strange disappearances and accidents that seem to be happening on a daily basis, the family blames Jared. When he, Simon and Mallory investigate what’s really going on, they uncover the fantastic truth of the Spiderwick estate and the creatures that inhabit it.

December 2007

This holiday season, be sure to set aside at least two days of your well-deserved winter break for a trip to the movies. Not to be missed is The Golden Compass, the first film in Philip Pullman’s award-winning His Dark Materials trilogy. This epic fantasy features a star-studded cast and chronicles the adventures of a young orphan in an alternate universe who sets out to rescue her best friend from a mysterious organization and learns she must save the world as well.

Also hitting the big screen in December is The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep, which releases on Christmas Day. This sweet and enchanting film, based on Dick King-Smith's memorable tale about the origins of the infamous Loch Ness Monster, offers a little bit of magic and lots of laughs to moviegoers of all ages.

The Golden Compass
Cast: Nicole Kidman, Dakota Blue Richards, Sam Elliott, Eva Green, Daniel Craig, Tom Courtenay, Christopher Lee
Directors: Chris Weitz and Robert Shaye
Distributor: New Line Cinema
MPAA Rating: Not Yet Rated
Release Date: December 7th (wide)
Based on: THE GOLDEN COMPASS: His Dark Materials, Book 1 by Philip Pullman

Based on author Philip Pullman's novel, The Golden Compass is an exciting fantasy adventure set in an alternative world where people's souls manifest themselves as animals, talking bears fight wars, and Gyptians and witches co-exist. At the center of the story is Lyra, a 12-year-old girl who starts out trying to rescue a friend who's been kidnapped by a mysterious organization known as the Gobblers --- and winds up on an epic quest to save not only her world, but ours as well.


The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep
Cast: Emily Watson, Alex Etel, Ben Chaplin, David Morrissey, Brian Cox
Director: Jay Russell
Distributor: Sony Pictures Releasing
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: December 25th (wide)
Based on: THE WATERHORSE written by Dick King-Smith, illustrated by David Parkins

Rooted in one of the most enduring and intriguing legends of our time, The Water Horse begins with an enchanted egg. What hatches will set in motion an adventure that will take a young boy on the unforgettable journey of a lifetime.

October 2007

October's Books into Movies feature offers quite a treat for lovers of fantasy and big-budget epics à la The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings. The Seeker: The Dark is Rising --- based on the award-winning series by Susan Cooper --- hit theaters on October 5th, providing a breathtaking battle of epic proportions between the forces of good and evil. The dazzling sets and jaw-dropping special effects, not to mention an addicting story full of magic and adventure, make this a must-see for moviegoers of all ages.

The Seeker: The Dark is Rising
Cast: Amelia Warner, Gregory Smith, Alexander Ludwig, Christopher Eccleston, Ian McShane, Frances Conroy, Jonathan Jackson
Director: David L. Cunningham
Distributor: Fox-Walden Media
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: October 5th (wide)
Based on: THE DARK IS RISING by Susan Cooper

A young man named Will Stanton discovers that he is the last of a group of immortals dedicated to fighting dark forces of evil. Traveling back and forth through time, Will uncovers a series of clues, some dating back to biblical times, that lead him to a showdown with forces of unimaginable power.

July 2007

This is, without a doubt, the summer of Harry Potter! It's impossible not to get swept in the mania with two (yes, TWO) Potter releases heading our way. On July 11th, just days before the publication of the most anticipated book of the year, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix comes to the big screen, promising a darker, more intense story. This trip to the movies is the perfect way to catch up with the characters we all know and love before their ultimate fates are revealed in HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS, set to hit stores on July 21st.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Michael Gambon, Ralph Fiennes, Gary Oldman, Helena Bonham Carter, Imelda Staunton, Maggie Smith, Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson
Director: David Yates
Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Release Date: July 11th (wide)
Based on: HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX by J. K. Rowling

Harry returns for his fifth year of study at Hogwarts only to discover that much of the wizarding community has been led to believe that the story of the teenager's recent encounter with the evil Lord Voldemort is a lie, putting Harry's integrity in question. Worse, the Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge, has appointed a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, the duplicitous Professor Dolores Umbridge. But Professor Umbridge's "Ministry-approved" course of defensive magic leaves the young wizards woefully unprepared to defend themselves against the Dark forces threatening them, so at the prompting of his friends Hermione and Ron, Harry is convinced to take matters into his own hands. Meeting secretly with a small group of students who name themselves "Dumbledore's Army," Harry teaches them how to defend themselves against the Dark Arts, preparing the courageous young wizards for the extraordinary battle that lies ahead.

June 2007

Boys and girls, it’s time to pick up your magnifying glasses and get a clue --- because America’s most popular female detective is coming to the big screen! While on a business trip to Los Angeles with her father, Nancy Drew stumbles across evidence about a long-unsolved crime involving the mysterious death of a beautiful movie star. So she decides to take matters into her own hands and find out who is responsible. Watch the mystery unfold beginning June 15th, when Nancy Drew creeps its way into theaters.

In anticipation of the film's release, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing has made available a number of movie tie-in books that fans of the series will want to investigate. Happy sleuthing!


Nancy Drew
Cast: Emma Roberts, Josh Flitter, Max Thieriot, Rachel Leigh Cook, Tate Donovan, Barry Bostwick
Director: Andrew Fleming
Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution
Release Date: June 15th
MPAA Rating: PG
Based on: The Nancy Drew series by Carolyn Keene

Nancy Drew, the resourceful teen detective, leaves her friendly hometown of River Heights for the West Coast and enrolls at Hollywood High School. There, her unique personal style immediately sets her apart from her self-absorbed, fast-living peers, especially reigning fashionistas Inga and Trish, who can't quite figure her out but know that everything about her is different --- from her super-smarts and retro manners to her perfect picnic lunches and penny loafers. Their less-than-warm reception might bother the average new girl in town, but not Nancy. She has more important things to think about --- namely, a brand new mystery.

Even though she promised her worried Dad that she'd quit the "sleuthing" business, it isn't long before Nancy gets a lead on one of the greatest unsolved cases of all time: the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of famous actress Dehlia Draycott. It happens that the Drews are staying in the former Draycott mansion, long reputed to be haunted and now a site where some very strange things have been happening. How could she resist?

March 2007

If you’ve been to the movies in the last few months or so, you probably have seen the singing frogs of Meet the Robinsons crooning soulfully about movie etiquette to the tune of “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” (a classic song your parents probably loved) before the previews roll. Here at Kidsreads.com we’ve decided that this undoubtedly is the best incentive to silence our cell phones. And, needless to say, seeing Frankie the Frog and his swinging band every time we go to the movies has gotten us totally psyched for the film. Now it’s here! So hop to the theater for this fun and fantastical time-traveling tale.

Meet the Robinsons
Cast: Angela Bassett, Spencer Fox, Jordan Fry, Tom Kenny, Harland Williams
Director: Stephen J. Anderson
Distributor: Walt Disney Feature Animation
Release Date: March 30th (wide)
MPAA Rating: G
Based on: A DAY WITH WILBUR ROBINSON by William Joyce

Lewis is a brilliant 12-year-old with a surprising number of clever inventions to his credit. His latest and most ambitious project is the Memory Scanner, which he hopes will retrieve early memories of his mother and maybe even reveal why she put him up for adoption. But before he can get his answer, his invention is stolen by the dastardly Bowler Hat Guy and his constant companion, Doris. Lewis has all but given up hope in his future when a mysterious boy named Wilbur Robinson whisks our bewildered hero away in a time machine and the two travel forward in time to spend a day with Wilbur's eccentric family.

January and February 2007

It's getting cold outside, and here at Kidsreads.com we think going to the movies is the perfect way to stay warm on teeth-chattering winter days. Animation buffs will love Arthur and the Invisibles --- in theaters now --- with its cast of quirky and heroic characters voiced by some familiar names (Madonna anyone?). Be sure to visit the film's incredible website, which features downloads, games and the chance to create your own trailer! Coming to the big screen later in February is Bridge to Terabithia, based on the classic novel by Katherine Paterson. Both stories of magic, mystery and the power of friendship, Arthur and the Invisibles and Bridge to Terabithia will thrill fantasy lovers, story spinners, or anyone who has ever created a world in their imagination.

Arthur and the Invisibles
Cast: Freddie Highmore, Mia Farrow, Calvin 'Snoop Dogg' Broadus, David Bowie, Penny Balfour, Madonna
Director: Luc Besson
Distributor: The Weinstein Company
Release Date: January 12th
MPAA Rating: PG
Based on: ARTHUR AND THE MINIMOYS by Luc Besson

Ten-year-old Arthur has a lot on his plate: a real estate developer is about to snap up his grandma's home --- and there's no way Arthur is going to hang around for his parents or grandparents to sort out the problem. Maybe the solution lies in his grandpa's treasure, which is hidden somewhere on the "other side" in the land of the Minimoys. The creatures that inhabit this world are just a tenth of an inch tall and live in perfect harmony with their environment. Arthur ventures into this world of the Minimoys, where he meets Princess Selenia and her brother Betameche. Together they set off to look for the treasure that will save his grandma.

Bridge to Terabithia
Cast: AnnaSophia Robb, Josh Hutcherson, Zooey Deschanel, Lauren Clinton, Bailee Madison, Robert Patrick
Director: Gabor Csupo
Distributor: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution
Release Date: February 16th
MPAA Rating: PG
Based on: BRIDGE TO TERABITHIA by Katherine Paterson

Based on the popular Newbery Award-winning novel, Bridge to Terabithia is a fantasy/adventure story of friendship, family and the power of imagination. Eleven-year-old Jess Arrons is an outsider at school and even in his own family. He has trained all summer to become the fastest kid in his middle school class, but his goal is unexpectedly thwarted by the new girl in school, Leslie Burke. Despite their awkward introduction, Jess and Leslie quickly become best friends. Together they create the world of Terabithia, an imaginary kingdom filled with giants, trolls and other magical beings.

December 2006

Just in time for the holidays comes the movie everyone here at Kidsreads.com has been waiting for. Charlotte's Web snorts, squeals and oinks its way into theaters on December 15th, and we're ALL planning on being first in line. With an all-star cast that includes Julia Roberts, Dakota Fanning and Oprah (!), the film adaptation of E. B. White's classic story of friendship against all odds is a gift for all ages.

HarperCollins has made available a number of tie-in books --- many of which can be found here --- to coincide with the movie's release. For more Charlotte's Web-related fun, including a complete list of all available tie-in books, games and quizzes, and a chance to enter the Charlotte's Web sweepstakes, visit the HarperCollins children's site here.

Charlotte's Web
Cast: Julia Roberts, Dakota Fanning, Oprah Winfrey, John Cleese, Steve Buscemi
Director: Gary Winick
Distributor: Paramount Pictures
MPAA Rating: G
Release Date: December 15th
Based on: CHARLOTTE'S WEB by E. B. White

Fern is one of only two living beings who sees that Wilbur is a special animal as she raises him, the runt of the litter, into a terrific and radiant pig. As Wilbur moves into a new barn, he begins a second profound friendship with the most unlikely of creatures --- a spider named Charlotte --- and their bond inspires the animals around them to come together as a family. When the word gets out that Wilbur's days are numbered, it seems that only a miracle will save his life. A determined Charlotte --- who sees miracles in the ordinary --- spins words into her web in an effort to convince the farmer that Wilbur is "some pig" and worth saving.

August 2006

HOW TO EAT FRIED WORMS by Thomas Rockwell has been grossing out readers since 1973, and the film version promises to be creepy crawly fun. Starring former Pepsi-Girl Hallie Kate Eisenberg, How to Eat Fried Worms asks the all-important question: Could YOU eat 10 worms in one day? This is one totally satisfying late-summer movie treat --- although you may want to wait until after the credits roll to eat your Twizzlers.

How to Eat Fried Worms
Cast: Luke Benward, Adam Hicks, Hallie Kate Eisenberg, Austin Rogers, Kimberly Williams
Director: Bob Dolman
Distributor: New Line Cinema
MPAA Rating: PG
Release Date: August 25th
Based on: HOW TO EAT FRIED WORMS by Thomas Rockwell

Based on the popular Thomas Rockwell book, How To Eat Fried Worms tells the story of a boy whose bravado lands him in a difficult predicament. The film revolves around 11-year-old Billy, who inadvertently challenges the school bully on his first day at a new school. In order to save face and earn the respect of his new classmates, Billy agrees to a bet that calls for him to eat 10 worms in one day. As the pressure mounts, Billy must summon all his strength to keep his younger brother from blabbing, his weak stomach from betraying him, and his big mouth from getting him in even more trouble.

May 2006

Hoot
Cast: Logan Lerman, Brie Larson, Cody Linley, Blake Nelson, Luke Wilson
Director: Wil Shriner
Distributor: New Line Cinema
Release Date: May 5th
Based on: HOOT by Carl Hiaasen

Three middle-schoolers take on greedy land developers, corrupt politicians, and clueless cops in the mystery adventure HOOT, based on Carl Hiaasen's Newbery Honor-winning book. It revolves around a Montana boy who moves to Florida and unearths a disturbing threat to a local population of endangered owls. Determined to protect his new environment, the boy and his friends fight to prevent the adults from making a big mistake.

March 2006

This is the time of year when winter seems to have been going on for a long time, but summer still seems miles away. Luckily March's Books into Movies feature offers you and your friends the chance to dive into the warm and sunny waters of Aquamarine --- a sweet and entertaining adaptation of Alice Hoffman's tale of love, friendship and magic.

Aquamarine
Cast: Emma Roberts, Sara Paxton, Joanna 'JoJo' Levesque, Jake McDorman, Arielle Kebbel
Director: Elizabeth Allen
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: March 3rd
Based on: AQUAMARINE by Alice Hoffman

Two best friends, about to be parted forever, discover a sassy mermaid named Aquamarine in the pool of their neighborhood beach club. When the mermaid develops a crush on a local hunky lifeguard who works at the club, she enlists the girls' help to win his heart and in exchange offers to grant the girls one wish.

January and February offer two wacky and wonderful opportunities for kids who love movies based on books to head to the theater. The first is Nanny McPhee, which is based on Britain's Nurse Matilda series from the 1960s. If you're not familiar with the books, here's all you need to know: they're fun and fantastical --- think Mary Poppins meets Harry Potter --- and we're sure you'll love them.

On February 10th, the much-anticipated film version of the Curious George books by Margret and H. A. Rey climbs and swings its way into theaters. Starring the hysterical Will Ferrell as The Man in the Yellow Hat, this adaptation of one of the most beloved children's book series ever published is destined to be a classic.

January 2006

Nanny McPhee
Cast: Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Angela Lansbury, Kelly MacDonald, Thomas Sangster
Director: Kirk Jones (III)
Distributor: United International Pictures, Universal Pictures Distribution
Release Date: January 27th
Based on: The Nurse Matilda series by Christianna Brand

A new nanny enters the household of the recently widowed Mr. Brown and attempts to tame his seven extremely ill-behaved children. As Nanny McPhee takes control, the youngsters begin to notice that their vile behavior now leads swiftly and magically to rather startling consequences. Her influence also extends to the family's deeper problems, including Mr. Brown's attempts to find a new wife; an announcement by the domineering Aunt Adelaide that she intends to take one of the children away; and the sad and secret longings of their scullery maid, Evangeline. As the children's behavior begins to change, so too does Nanny McPhee's appearance, creating even more questions about this mysterious stranger whom the children and their father have come to love.


February 2006

Curious George
Cast: Will Ferrell, Drew Barrymore, Eugene Levy, David Cross
Director: Matthew O'Callaghan
Distributor: Universal Pictures
Release Date: February 10th
Based on: The Curious George books by Margret and H. A. Rey

It's been 60 years in the making, but that inquisitive and endearing little monkey named George is finally bound for big-screen glory. Based on Margret and H. A. Rey's beloved children's books and with original songs by Jack Johnson, Curious George tells the tale of a playful young chimp who's rescued from the jungle by The Man in the Yellow Hat. When George gets to the big city, his natural curiosity goes into overdrive --- introducing him to a slew of colorful characters (including the lovely Drew Barrymore) and landing him in a series of hilarious misadventures.

November is Turkey Time! At Kidsreads.com we're always grateful when the movie versions of the books we love are as good as the original. This month two very special films hit theaters, and we think both are worthy adaptations.

Everyone is talking about HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE, the fourth Harry Potter movie, which reunites us with our favorite bespectacled hero as he battles the forces of good and evil in his fourth year at Hogwarts Academy. ZATHURA is another fantastical tale, based on the picture book by Chris Van Allsburg, about two brothers and a mysterious board game that gets more out-of-this-world with each roll of the dice. To celebrate the release of Zathura, Houghton Mifflin has made available a number of tie-in books that we know you'll devour!

So if you want a taste of adventure this month, you're in luck. There's no need to travel far --- simply head to your favorite movie theater and be whisked away to a land just beyond your imagination with these two mystical, magical tales.

November 2005

Zathura
Cast: Josh Hutcherson, Jonah Bobo, Dax Shepard, Kristen Stewart, Tim Robbins
Director: Jon Favreau
Distributor: Sony Pictures Releasing
Release Date: November 11th
Based on: ZATHURA by Chris Van Allsburg

Two brothers discover an oblong box in the park, which they dismiss as "just some dumb old game." The boys turn their attention away from the game's "jungle adventure" board to discover a second game board inside with an outer-space theme and a colored path leading to the purple planet, Zathura. Mayhem ensues each time one of the boys draws a game card or rolls the dice. Facing meteors and giant robots, the brothers' relationship begins to change.

To celebrate the release of this highly anticipated film, Houghton Mifflin has made available a number of tie-in books that we know you'll love!

ZATHURA THE MOVIE: DELUXE STORYBOOK by David Seidman
This lavishly illustrated storybook brings readers on a thrilling journey to outer space and includes a full-color keepsake poster.

ZATHURA THE MOVIE: BROTHERS TOGETHER (Early Reader) by Ellen Weiss
Just the right book for Zathura fans beginning to read on their own, with full-color illustrations throughout.

ZATHURA THE MOVIE: Junior Novel by Ellen Weiss
This novel takes readers on a thrilling journey, with an eight-page color insert of scenes from the movie.

ZATHURA THE MOVIE: ZORGONS ATTACK! by Ellen Weiss
An out-of-this-world picture book for young children!

ZATHURA THE MOVIE: ZATHURA SHADOW BOOK: An Intergalactic Shadow-Casting Adventure by Annie Auerbach
In this innovative book, use a flashlight to project amazing scenes onto your wall.

ZATHURA THE MOVIE: STICKER BOOK
This cool sticker book for kids features removable stickers from the stellar story.


Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Robbie Coltrane, Ralph Fiennes
Director: Mike Newell
Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution
Release Date: November 18th
Based on: HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE by J.K. Rowling

In his fourth year at Hogwarts, Harry faces his greatest challenges and dangers yet. When he is selected under mysterious circumstances as a contestant in the Triwizard Tournament, Harry must compete against the best young wizards from schools all over Europe. During his preparations, signs begin to point to the return of Lord Voldemort. Before long, Harry is playing not just for the Cup, but for his life.

The beloved Roald Dahl classic CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, originally published in 1964, has been made into a major motion picture and will be in theaters on July 15th. Johnny Depp stars as eccentric chocolatier Willy Wonka, who launches a worldwide contest in which five lucky children will be taken on a tour of his chocolate factory. To celebrate the film's highly anticipated release, two exciting new editions of the novel are now available.

July 2005

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Cast: Johnny Depp, Freddie Highmore, David Kelly, AnnaSophia Robb, Helena Bonham Carter
Director: Tim Burton
Distributor: Warner Bros.
Release Date: July 15th
Based on: CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY by Roald Dahl

Charlie Bucket comes from a poor family and spends most of his time dreaming about the chocolate that he loves but usually can't afford. Things change when Willy Wonka, head of the very popular Wonka Chocolate Empire, announces a contest in which five gold tickets have been hidden in chocolate bars and sent throughout the country. The kids who find the tickets will be taken on a tour of Wonka's chocolate factory and get a special glimpse of the wonders within. Charlie miraculously finds a ticket, along with four other children much naughtier than him. The tour of the factory will hold more than a few surprises for this bunch...

To celebrate the film's highly anticipated release, Puffin Books has published a movie tie-in edition of Roald Dahl's treasured novel --- complete with stunning new movie art for the cover and an eight-page full-color insert of movie stills. Also, Knopf Books for Young Readers has released a full-color 40th anniversary edition of the book, which features vibrant spot art by illustrator Quentin Blake on candy-colored pages enhanced by candy-filled borders.

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This winter two popular children's books will be brought to life on the big screen: BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE by Kate DiCamillo, which is about a young girl's special bond with her dog, and MILLIONS by Frank Cottrell Boyce, the story of two brothers who suddenly find themselves with a large sum of money.


February 2005

Because of Winn-Dixie
Cast: Jeff Daniels, Cicely Tyson, Dave Matthews, Eva Marie Saint, Anna Sophia Robb
Director: Wayne Wang
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: February 8th
Based on: BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE by Kate DiCamillo

Ten-year-old India Opal Buloni moves to the small Florida town of Naomi with her preacher father. India Opal has a difficult time adjusting to her new life because she doesn't know anyone there and she still misses her mother, who abandoned them years ago. But eventually she befriends Winn-Dixie, an orphaned dog. The bond that develops between them brings together the townspeople --- but can it help heal her own troubled relationship with her father?


March 2005

Millions
Cast: James Nesbitt, Daisy Donovan, Lewis McGibbon, Alex Etel
Director: Danny Boyle
Distributor: Fox Searchlight Pictures
Release Date: March 11th
Based on: MILLIONS by Frank Cottrell Boyce

Starting anew after the death of their mother, nine-year-old Anthony is ever practical, while his seven-year-old brother Damian uses imagination, fantasy and faith to make sense of his confusing world. When a railway heist goes wrong and an enormous bag falls from the sky, Anthony and Damian suddenly find themselves with a large sum of money. What on earth will they do with their newfound wealth?

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Did you like the book? Well now you can see the movie! Check out the newest fall flicks that are based on books to get another dose of the stories you love. Standouts include The Polar Express, Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events, and The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie (which is based on Nickelodeon's popular animated series). Plus, Simon & Schuster has released a cool new book that ties in perfectly with the SpongeBob film!


November 2004

The Polar Express
Cast: Tom Hanks, Michael Jeter, Peter Scolari, Nona Gaye, Eddie Deezen, Charles Fleischer
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Distributor: Warner Bros.
Release Date: November 10th
Based on: THE POLAR EXPRESS by Chris Van Allsburg

When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary ride on a steam train to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. This delightful film is based on Chris Van Allsburg's 1986 Caldecott Medal-winning picture book.


The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie
Cast: Tom Kenny, Rodger Bumpass, Bill Fagerbakke, Carolyn Lawrence, Clancy Brown
Director: Sherm Cohen and C.H. Greenblatt
Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Release Date: November 19th

SpongeBob SquarePants is an optimistic, free-spirited sponge that was born in a rectangular shape, similar to a kitchen sponge. He lives at the bottom of the sea in a pineapple in the community of Bikini Bottom and works as a fry cook at the Krusty Krab diner, where his friends include a squid and a starfish. In this latest adventure, SpongeBob sets out to retrieve the stolen crown of King Neptune and save Mr. Krab's life.

In addition to seeing the movie, we suggest that you "read" the film too. So be sure to check out THE SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS MOVIE: A Novelization of the Hit Movie by Marc Cerasini, which features an 8-page color insert with movie stills.


Christmas With the Kranks
Cast: Tim Allen, Jamie Lee Curtis, Julie Gonzalo, Dan Aykroyd, Jake Busey
Director: Joe Roth
Distributor: Revolution Studios
Release Date: November 24th
Based on: SKIPPING CHRISTMAS by John Grisham

Luther and Nora Krank, a couple who usually looks forward to Christmas, decide to skip the big holiday this year; it just won't be the same without their daughter, who's vacationing in the tropics. They think about joining her in sunny paradise as a surprise --- but she ends up shocking them instead by cutting her trip early to spend Christmas at home. What follows is a mad scramble to prepare for a traditional Christmas on extremely short notice.


December 2004

Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events
Cast: Liam Aiken, Emily Browning, Jim Carrey, Cedric the Entertainer, Jennifer Coolidge
Director: Brad Silberling
Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Release Date: December 17th
Based on: A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS by Lemony Snicket

Fourteen-year-old Violet is brave and a fast-thinking leader. Klaus, who's 12, is highly intelligent and obsessed with words. Sunny, an infant, speaks in a language only Violet and Klaus can understand, and she has a tendency to...bite. After their parents perish in a terrible fire, these three siblings are taken in by a series of odd relatives and other individuals, starting with Count Olaf, a demented evil genius who hatches one outrageous plot after another in order to get his hands on the children's vast inheritance.

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Did you like the book? Well now you can see the movie! Check out the newest summer flicks that are based on books to get another dose of the stories you love. And here's an extra special treat. Some of the films we've assembled have companion books that are based directly on the motion picture screenplay and that take you behind-the-scenes at the making of the movie --- which means you can enjoy the story long after the credits stop rolling.

May 2004

New York Minute
Cast: Mary-Kate Olsen, Ashley Olsen, Andy Richter, Jared Padalecki, Riley Smith, Andrea Martin, Eugene Levy
Director: Dennie Gordon
Distributor: Warner Bros.
Release Date: May 7th

New York Minute follows one monumental day in the lives of 17-year-old sisters Jane and Roxanne Ryan, adversaries who journey together from Long Island to New York City, where overachiever Jane is due to deliver a speech to qualify for a college scholarship abroad. Meanwhile, laid-back punk rock rebel Roxy hopes to go backstage at a music video shoot and give her demo tape to the band.

But Roxy's and Jane's plans go awry when a mix-up involving Jane's day planner lands them in the middle of a shady black market transaction. Pursued by an overzealous truant officer and accused of kidnapping a Senator's dog, the Ryans must find a way to overcome the forces that are threatening to jeopardize Jane's college dreams and send Roxy to a convent school.

Before (or after) watching Mary-Kate and Ashley on the big screen, why not read the movie book, NEW YORK MINUTE: The Movie Novelization? You can then get more backstory on the film by reading the prequel, THE SECRET OF JANE'S SUCCESS, and the sequel, THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT ROXY.

NEW YORK MINUTE: The Movie Novelization
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen
HarperEntertainment
ISBN: 0060595094
192 pages

Jane skips school to give a speech in New York that she hopes will make her dream of going to Oxford University come true. Meanwhile, Roxy skips school and heads into New York with a rock CD that she hopes will make her a star. But then, Jane is caught sneaking out of a fancy hotel wearing a towel, and Roxy is being chased through the New York City streets by two men she doesn't know. Jane and Roxy discover anything can --- and everything does --- happen in a New York Minute.

THE SECRET OF JANE'S SUCCESS
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen
HarperEntertainment
ISBN: 0060595078
128 pages

Jane has a three-step wish list: First, volunteer on a senator's campaign. Next, get elected student body president. Then, win a scholarship to Oxford University. Doesn't sound too difficult, does it? But what will Jane do when she uncovers a scandal, falls in love with her presidential opponent and, thanks to Roxy, ends up in trouble with the police?

THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT ROXY
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen
HarperEntertainment
ISBN: 0060595086
128 pages

There's something about Roxy. Something cool that snags her a hot job on a music video. Something wild that lands her on stage with a rock band. Something mischievous that pulls her sister Jane into trouble. Something sweet that finds her the romance of her life!

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Shrek 2
Cast: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Jennifer Saunders
Directors: Andrew Adamson, Conrad Vernon, Kelly Asbury
Distributor: DreamWorks Pictures
Release Date: May 19th

Picking up exactly where the first movie left off, Shrek 2 takes us to the kingdom of Far, Far Away as Shrek and Fiona return to her homeland to tell her parents the good news. Not everyone is happy to find her married to an ogre, with the most irate in this group being Prince Charming, who was supposed to be the one to lift Fiona's curse. We're also introduced to the mysterious Fairy Godmother and a bar called the Poison Apple, where the villains of the fairy tale world hang out, including the great ogre-slayer, Puss-in-Boots.

If you simply cannot get enough of the green swamp-loving ogre and his companions, be sure to check out SHREK 2: THE MOVIE NOVEL by Jesse McCann (Scholastic) and SHREK 2: THE MOVIE STORYBOOK by Tom Mason and Dan Danko (Scholastic).


June 2004

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Gary Oldman, David Thewlis
Director: Alonso Cuaron
Distributor: Warner Bros.
Release Date: June 4th
Based on: HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN by J.K. Rowling

Right before Harry's third year at Hogwarts, a new adventure begins when he has to go on the run after an incident where he was unable to control his anger. While on a bus, he hears about Sirius Black, a dangerous renegade wizard who has escaped from the infamous Azkaban Prison. What Harry doesn't suspect is that Black escaped to look for ... him!


Garfield
Cast: Bill Murray (the voice of Garfield), Breckin Meyer, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Stephen Tobolowsky, Geoffrey Gould
Director: Peter Hewitt
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Release Date: June 11th
Based on: The Garfield series by Jim Davis

When a dog named Odie is brought home, Garfield is forced to compete with him for the affection and attention of their perpetually single owner, Jon Arbuckle --- much to Garfield's disgust. But when Odie is kidnapped by a mean dog trainer, Garfield feels responsible, so he picks himself up from his favorite spot and springs into action to rescue his fellow pet in crisis.

In addition to watching the movie, we suggest that you also "read" the film. GARFIELD: THE MOVIE by H.S. Newcomb (Ballantine Books) reveals how Garfield's world is turned upside down by the arrival of that hapless pup, Odie. The book also gives readers a full-color behind-the-scenes look at the making of the movie.


August 2004

The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement
Cast: Anne Hathaway, Heather Matarazzo, Hector Elizondo, Caroline Goodall, John Rhys-Davies, Callum Blue, Chris Pine, Julie Andrews
Director: Garry Marshall
Distributor: Walt Disney Pictures
Release Date: August 11th
Based on: The Princess Diaries series by Meg Cabot

After getting over the revelation that she is a princess of the small and obscure European nation of Genovia, American teenager Mia moves to the actual country she represents, with her best friend Lilly accompanying her. As she learns the job of being a country's future ruler, one challenge she must face is the prospect of being set up in an arranged marriage.

   --- Compiled and written by Sara Shapiro

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ELLA ENCHANTED, Gail Carson Levine's Newbery Award-winning debut novel, has now been made into a feature film! When Ella of Frell was born, she was given the gift of obedience by a fairy. But Ella soon realizes that this "gift" is also a curse, and she decides to break the curse once and for all. Her quest for freedom and the encounters she has along the way will stick with readers --- and moviegoers --- for a long time to come.

April 2004

Ella Enchanted
Cast: Anne Hathaway, Hugh Dancy, Cary Elwes, Vivica A. Fox, Joanna Lumley, Minnie Driver, Steve Coogan, Eric Idle
Director: Tommy O'Haver
Distributor: Miramax
Release Date: April 9th
Based on: ELLA ENCHANTED by Gail Carson Levine

Ella lives in a fanciful and magical world where all children are given a "gift" from a fairy Godmother at the moment of their birth. Little Ella's birthright is the gift --- and curse --- of obedience, which means that she cannot refuse any command and is often left at the mercy of unscrupulous personalities. In a bid to regain control of her life, Ella goes on a quest to free herself from this mysterious curse. Ella must outwit a kingdom filled with ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, talking books and evil plots. And, if she's lucky, she may find love along the way.

Interview with Gail Carson Levine

In this interview Gail Carson Levine talks about what it was like to see her novel ELLA ENCHANTED become a movie and her involvement in the film's production.

Available on Video:

Holes
Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Sigourney Weaver, Patricia Arquette, Rick Fox, Khleo Thomas
Director: Andrew Davis
Distributor: Walt Disney Pictures
Video Release Date: September 23rd
Based on: HOLES by Louis Sachar

A teenager named Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, a Texas detention camp, for a crime he didn't commit. There, the warden tells the boys they must dig holes in order to "build character." But Stanley soon realizes that this isn't the real reason why they're being subjected to such treatment. The boys are digging holes because the warden is looking for something --- and Stanley will do his best to dig up the truth.


November 2003

The Cat in the Hat
Cast: Mike Myers, Spencer Breslin, Dakota Fanning, Alec Baldwin, Sean Hayes
Director: Bo Welch
Distributor: Universal Pictures
Release Date: November 21st
Based on: THE CAT IN THE HAT by Dr. Seuss

THE CAT IN THE HAT by Dr. Seuss was first published in 1957 and remains one of the top ten bestselling hardcover children's books of all time. The mischievous feline visitor in the striped stove pipe hat makes his big screen debut with this live-action production, which will bring the off-kilter Dr. Seuss characters --- as well as some new ones created especially for the film --- to life on the big screen.


December 2003

Peter Pan
Cast: Jason Isaacs, Jeremy Sumpter, Richard Briers, Olivia Williams, Lynn Redgrave, Ludivine Sagnier, Rachel Hurd-Wood
Director: P.J. Hogan
Distributor: Universal Pictures
Release Date: December 25th
Based on: PETER PAN by James M. Barrie

Peter Pan, a boy who doesn't age, lives in Neverland with other ageless kids, the Lost Boys. Tinkerbelle, a fairy, gives three children --- Wendy, John, and Michael Darling --- the ability to fly and soon they're off to Neverland, where they battle the evil Captain Hook and his band of pirates.


Young Black Stalllion
Cast: Biama Tamimi, Patrick Elyas, Richard Romanus
Director: Simon Wincer
Distributor: Walt Disney Pictures/IMAX
Release Date: December 25th
Based on: THE YOUNG BLACK STALLION by Walter and Steven Farley

Disney's first dramatic feature made specifically for the big screen follows a black stallion's adventures with a young girl named Neera, who has been separated from her father in Arabia by WWII. Left alone in the desert, she befriends the wild colt who she names Shetan. Once reunited with her father, however, Neera remains haunted by images of the "lost horse of the desert" --- one of a few stallions of legend rumored to be "born of the sands, sired by the night sky, drinkers of the wind."

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