JacketFlap connects you to the work of more than 200,000 authors, illustrators, publishers and other creators of books for Children and Young Adults. The site is updated daily with information about every book, author, illustrator, and publisher in the children's / young adult book industry. Members include published authors and illustrators, librarians, agents, editors, publicists, booksellers, publishers and fans. Join now (it's free).
Login or Register for free to create your own customized page of blog posts from your favorite blogs. You can also add blogs by clicking the "Add to MyJacketFlap" links next to the blog name in each post.
Blog Posts by Tag
In the past 7 days
Blog Posts by Date
Click days in this calendar to see posts by day or month
Viewing: Blog Posts Tagged with: Superhero, Most Recent at Top [Help]
Results 1 - 25 of 31
How to use this Page
You are viewing the most recent posts tagged with the words: Superhero in the JacketFlap blog reader. What is a tag? Think of a tag as a keyword or category label. Tags can both help you find posts on JacketFlap.com as well as provide an easy way for you to "remember" and classify posts for later recall. Try adding a tag yourself by clicking "Add a tag" below a post's header. Scroll down through the list of Recent Posts in the left column and click on a post title that sounds interesting. You can view all posts from a specific blog by clicking the Blog name in the right column, or you can click a 'More Posts from this Blog' link in any individual post.
In the spirit of being a reading superhero for this year’s Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge, I’ve created a quiz to help you find your inner superhero based on The Avengers.
So what do you think? Would you be the great Captain America, the powerful and Incredible Hulk, the god of lightning, Thor, the ultimate fighting machine, Iron Man, or the expert spy, Black Widow? Answer the questions below and find out for yourself.
Which characteristic do you relate to the most? a) Loyalty. b) Patience. c) Leadership. d) Genius. e) Athleticism.
Your favorite color is . . . a) blue. b) green. c) red. d) yellow. e) black.
If you saw an old lady crossing the street with heavy bags, you would . . . a) help her carry her bags because it’s the polite thing to do. b) smash all the cars around her to make sure she gets across the street safely. c) send someone to go help her. d) pick her and her bags up and fly her across the street. e) you want to help but you really can’t because you’re already running late.
If you could have any super power in the world, it would be . . . a) phenomenal endurance and fast brain capacity. b) great size and strength. c) ability to control thunder and lightning. d) flying e) amazing speed and agility… all natural talent.
If you were stranded on an island, what would you choose to have with you? a) A strong shield. b) Nothing! Just my hands will do. c) A box of matches. d) Flashlight. e) A knife.
What is your favorite school subject? a) History. b) Science. c) English. d) Math. e) Gym.
What is your spirit animal? a) Falcon. b) Panda. c) Lion. d) Wolf. e) Leopard.
What are you good at? a) Being popular. b) Watching TV. c) Giving advice to my friends. d) Getting good grades at school. e) Pretty much everything.
If you were an ice cream flavor, what would you be? a) Vanilla. b) Chunky Monkey. c) Cookies and Cream. d) Coffee Caramel. e) Strawberry Shortcake.
Would you rather… a) use your power for good. b) keep your power a secret. c) use your power to rule the world. d) show off your power to your friends. e) use your power for evil.
Answers:
If you picked mostly A’s, you are Captain America!
You are a brave soul who is never afraid to stand up for your beliefs. Your friends know you are loyal and trustworthy so they have a tendency to tell you their deepest thoughts and secrets, which of course, you never tell!
If you picked mostly B’s, you are the Incredible Hulk!
People think you’re kind of crazy on the outside, but really, you’re just a regular person with a big kind heart. Your friends love having you around because you’re smart, honest, and humble. You pretty much never brag about your awesomeness because it speaks for itself.
If you picked mostly C’s, you are Thor!
You have a commanding presence accompanied by sound judgement. People trust you to always do and say the right thing, which is why all your friends want you in their circle of trust. What can I say? You’re a natural leader!
If you picked mostly D’s, you are Iron Man!
You are a fearless, sophisticated genius and you know it. Hey, there’s nothing wrong with a little bit of confidence especially when your confidence is contagious. People flock to you because they want to be you. Friends love you because you inspire them. Keep up the good work!
If you picked mostly E’s, you are the Black Widow.
Although rumored to be an enemy, you’re actually spirited and loving. You care a lot for the people you love and will do anything in your power to make them happy and keep them safe. Did I mention your alter ego is also really beautiful? Yup, that’s you!
Which superhero are you? Drop a Comment below to let us know who you got.
बच्चे और कार्टून चैनल – बहुत सारे बच्चे पार्क में खेलते हुए बतिया रहे थे कुछ स्कूल की तो कुछ होम वर्क की बाते कर रहे थे और एक बच्चों का समूह शायद थक हार कर बैठ गया था और उनके बीच शुरु हो गया कार्टून का वार्तालाप. सभी अपनी अपनी पसंद के कार्टून बता रहे थे. किसी को डेक्स्टर किसी को पावर पफ गर्ल तो किसी क शिन चैन पसंद है…
शिन चैन का नाम लेते ही मुझे याद आया कि कुछ दिनों पहले जब शिन चैन देख अतो उसकी शब्दावली ऐसी थी कि अगर बच्चे बोले तो …. अच्छा नही लगेगा. वैसे एक ये भी महसूस की कि अगर कोई मूवी डब हो हिंदी में या कार्टून हिंदी मे डब हो तो भाषा बहुत गंदी इस्तेमाल करते हैं जबकि आम बोल चाल मॆं ऐसा नही होता.
इसी की कुछ और बाते सर्च करने के लिए मैनें पर देखा.
आजकल कार्टून की दुनिया भी अपनी सोच और हास्य में बॉलीवुड फ़िल्मों की तरह हो गई है. फ़िल्मों पर ‘क़ैंची’ चलनी तो आम बात थी ही अब बच्चों के कार्टूनों पर भी क़ैंची लगने लगी है.
BBC
आजकल कार्टून की दुनिया भी अपनी सोच और हास्य में बॉलीवुड फ़िल्मों की तरह हो गई है. फ़िल्मों पर ‘क़ैंची’ चलनी तो आम बात थी ही अब बच्चों के कार्टूनों पर भी क़ैंची लगने लगी है.
जिन कार्टूनों को देखकर बच्चे हँसते हैं, ख़ुश होते हैं उन पर भी ‘कैंची’ चलने का दौर शुरू हो गया है.
भारत में पिछले एक दशक में ‘जापानी’ कार्टूनों ने अपना दबदबा बनाया है. जो बच्चे ‘टॉम एंड जेरी’ और ‘टेलस्पिन’ जैसे कार्टून देखा करते थे. वहीँ आज ‘डोरेमोन’, ‘शिनचैन’ जैसे कार्टून चरित्रों के दीवाने हैं.
बी.सी.सी.सी, यानि ‘ब्राडकास्टिंग कंटेंट कम्प्लेंट्स काउंसिल’ एक संस्था है. यहां टेलीविज़न पर दिखाए जा रहे कार्यक्रम के ‘आपत्तिजनक’ दृश्यों के विरोध में कोई भी शिकायत दर्ज करा सकता है.
हाल ही में बी.सी.सी.सी में बहुत से माता पिता ने शिकायतें दर्ज कीं. इन शिकायतों में कहा गया कि कार्टून चैनल ‘अनुचित’ दृश्य दिखा रहे हैं. बी.सी.सी.सी ने तुरंत इन कार्टून चैनलों को हिदायत दी की वे ऐसा कोई दृश्य न दिखाए जो बच्चों के लिए ठीक न हों.
अब कार्टून चैनल आपत्तिजनक दृश्यों को हटा कर उन्हें बिलकुल ही नए रूप में ढाल रहे हैं.
डबिंग इंडस्ट्री के निर्देशक या क्रिएटिव एक्सपर्ट ऐसे कार्टूनों पर अपनी पैनी नज़रें जमाए रखते हैं. उन्हें बदल कर वे ऐसे कार्टून तैयार करते हैं जिसके चाहने वाले देश भर के बच्चे होते हैं.
कार्टून किरदारों को डब करते वक़्त छोटी मोटी तब्दीलियाँ अक्सर हर विदेशी कार्टून और प्रोग्राम में करनी पड़ती है. क्योंकि उनके विचार स्थानीय दर्शकों के विचारों से मेल नहीं खाते.
पर कई बार कार्टून की तब्दीलियाँ काफ़ी अजीब और मज़ेदार होती हैं.
अलका शर्मा अरसे से शिनचैन की आवाज़ रही. ‘शिनचैन’ जापानी कार्टून है. वह एक पांच साल का बच्चा है और अपने माता पिता और बहन के साथ रहता है.
शिनचैन बेहद नटखट किरदार है और बच्चों में ख़ासा लोकप्रिय है. अलका शर्मा ने ‘शिनचैन’ में हुई कुछ मज़ेदार तब्दीलियों के बारे में बताया.
अलका बताती हैं की कई बार डबिंग डायरेक्टर स्क्रिप्ट बदल देते थे.
वे कहती हैं, “अक्सर हम ‘ओरिजिनल’ स्क्रिप्ट को छोड़ देते थे और स्क्रीन पर शिनचैन जो कर रहा है उसी से एक नयी कहानी बना लेते थे.”
उन्होंने आगे बताया, “अगर कोई ख़ूबसूरत लड़की जा रही है तो शिनचैन ‘ओरिजिनल’ स्क्रिप्ट में कहता था ‘ओये होट्टी मेरे साथ डेट पर चलोगी’. तो हम उसे बदल कर बोलते थे ‘अरे दीदी! आपकी ड्रेसिंग सेंस तो बहुत अच्छी है. मुझे भी अपने साथ शौपिंग पर ले चलो.’ इस तरह से हम उसे बिल्कुल सरल और सभ्य बना देते थे.’ See more…
amitabh bachchan to play superhero cartoon in tv series: :
एक सूत्र ने कहा कि 72 साल के महानायक ने ‘एस्ट्रा फोर्स’ कार्टून के लिए एंटरटेनमेंट कंपनी ग्राफिक इंडिया और डिजनी से हाथ मिलाया है. इस सुपरहीरो की रचना अमिताभ और ग्राफिक इंडिया के सीईओ और सहसंस्थापक शरद देवराजन को करनी है. अमिताभ बच्चन के सुपरहीरो अवतार वाली इस काटूर्न सीरीज को डिजनी चैनल लॉन्च करेगा. यह कार्टून हंसी-मजाक, मारधाड़ , रोमांच और रहस्य से भरपूर बताया गया है.
अमिताभ छोटे पर्दे पर इससे पहले रियलिटी शो ‘कौन बनेगा करोड़पति’ के सूत्रधार के रूप में और धारावाहिक ‘युद्ध’ में मुख्य भूमिका में नजर आ चुके हैं. Read more…
कार्टून साफ सुथरी हों प्रेरक हों तो बहुत कुछ हम इनसे सीख सकते हैं जैसाकि बचपन में हम अमर चित्र कथा पढ कर सीखते थे. अगर सुधार नही होगा हर बच्चा बहुत शान से शीन चैन जैसे किरदार बोलता नजर आएगा और हमारी आखॆ शर्म से झुकती चली जाएगी …
It’s strange. From October to December, there seems to be very little time to do much other than marvel at how fast time flies. I do as much as I can to get done what needs to be done. I love that time of year, even the hustle and bustle of it all. But from…
3 Comments on January is here — and I’m loving it!, last added: 1/5/2015
Donna,
Called to create! I love it. I’m feeling called to organize so I can create. I’m writing a memoir of my experiences as a caregiver. Over the weekend, I attempted to write the opening chapter/scene and found I was confused over some details. I have notes on calendars, in notebooks, on loose paper. Time to pull it together in an more organized fashion so I can write without stumbling over the details. I want to type it up in sequential order. I’ve also been straightening some drawers and sorting things to give to charity. A little at a time!
If you love super-hero books, here is a super-fun one with a twist. Superfab is the best-dressed superhero around. He's got a walk-in closet, an extensive collection of outfits, and fabulous style to boot. The only problem is, he can't leave his house to go fight crime until he has the perfect outfit ––and sometimes that takes awhile. It often takes so long that by the time he arrives at the scene of a crime, another superhero has already gotten the job done.
Superfab finds himself less and less in demand, until one day he gets called to help out in a crisis where all other superheroes have been defeated –– and he discovers that his exquisite sense of style is just the weapon he needs to beat (and befriend) this particular monster.
Published by Owl Kids and written by Jean Leroy, this fun, quirky superhero story will have the reader rooting for the underdog and celebrating Superfab's unique pizazz.
The whimsical illustrations, by Bérengre Delaporte, are loose and childlike in their colored-pencil style, filling the page with lots of hidden details and energy. And Leroy's fresh approach redefines the traditional superhero and shows the value of embracing your own unique interests and talents.
0 Comments on Book Review: Superfab Saves the Day as of 11/30/2014 3:29:00 PM
Book: Hero Worship Author: Christopher E. Long
Pages: 240
Age Range: 12 and up
Hero Worship is an upcoming young adult title by Christopher E. Long. Technically, Hero Worship is a dystopia, set in a future civilization that is similar to ours, except for the some advanced technologies, and the harsh rules guiding the rights of certain segments of the population. But for practical purposes, Hero Worship is speculative fiction that explores what might happen to society if a small percentage of the population developed superpowers. Funnily enough, I recently read an adult title with a very similar premise (Marcus Sakey's Brilliance). But Hero Worship is clearly young adult fiction, with its emphasis on the personality, and personal growth, of the primary narrator, Marvin.
Marvin is something of a classic superhero - he has super-strength and speed, but only after he drinks in fear from someone nearby. He's quite powerful, and wishes that he could be part of The Core, a group of famous superheroes who aid law enforcement. But because his power was branded "dirty" after a required government blood test, it's illegal for Marvin to use his superpowers. He's relegated to earning a meager living as a dishwasher. He lives with two other teens who are also dirty: Yvonne, who can induce mindless bliss in anyone she touches; and Kent, who can change his appearance by molding his shape (and can turn into a puddle, basically). After Marvin saves a family, a member of The Core seeks him out, and offers him a chance to become part of their group. And Marvin learns that things are not always as they seem.
I think that this premise, and the various superpowers held by the different characters, will appeal to young readers. I found it interesting, but I would have liked to see a bit more background/context. How did these superpowers develop? How long has the world been divided into "clean", dirty", and "normies", and people with no powers?
I did like Marvin as a character. He's driven by personal demons, and tries hard to do the right thing. He matures quite a bit over the course of the book (though not much calendar time passes). I found him a bit naive, especially early in the book, but this does nothing to diminish his appeal.
Hero Worship has a reasonable balance of introspection and action. Here's some introspection:
"On the way to the convenience store, I think about last night and how Eliza just acted. Perhaps that is what's required of members of The Core -- just act, don't think. I recognize that I overanalyze everything. I spend so much time thinking about how I should act, I don't do anything." (Chapter Eighteen)
And here's some action:
"In a blur, I speed toward the hoodlum. I reach out and grab hold of Jackson, pulling him out of the hood-rat's grasp. Clutching the boy to my chest, I run him to safety behind the SUV. The ringleader hasn't even had time to process that he no longer has a grip on the young boy as I connect my clenched fist to the side of his head."(Chapter Three)
There's one coincidence in Hero Worship that I found overdone (an unnecessary scene in which Marvin reads a seemingly random books, the knowledge from which turns out to be helpful later). But I thought that the superhero bits were well-done. Kent is particularly interesting as a case study. And the larger societal aspects (discrimination against the "dirties", the collapse of the factory districts, the rise of a shadow economy) lend a bit of heft to what is otherwise a quick, light read.
Much of Hero Worship would actually be fine for readers younger than 12, but there are some references to sex (a character who uses her sex appeal as a weapon), as well as drinking and drug use (not by the protagonists, but it's there). It's like a complex comic book come to life, though Long leaves the reader to imagine his or her own pictures). I think it would be a good fit for reluctant teen readers, especially boys, and anyone who has ever wondered what it would be like to be a superhero.
Publisher: Flux (@FluxBooks)
Publication Date: January 8, 2014
Source of Book: Advance review copy from the publisher. Quotes should be checked against the final book.
FTC Required Disclosure:
This site is an Amazon affiliate, and purchases made through Amazon links (including linked book covers) may result in my receiving a small commission (at no additional cost to you).
Finally peeking my groggy head up after a bit of time underground, building a new portfolio. Squeaked by just in time for the SCBWI L.A. Summer conference, from which I just returned.
I’d love to share some of the inspiration and new focus with y’all, once my head ceases to spin, that is!
Over at his blog, Sonny Liew’s been posting some lettered pages from his as yet untitled upcoming book with Gene Yang for First Second, and it looks pretty great, particularly that 50′s inspired pulpy cover. As a fan of Liew’s work, I’ve been keeping up with this project for a while, (although aware of Yang -as the author of American Born Chinese and Level Up- I’ve yet to get round to reading any of his books), so I knew it was a retro superhero book, but that’ s about it. Here’s an exclusive, and intriguing, little synopsis from Liew:
‘It’s basically a origins story of a character created back in the 40s – his distinction being that he was meant to be Asian American. Gene has been exploring identity issues with his comics, of course, so this is another angle.
One of the interesting things about the comic was that the artist and creator (Chu Hing) has to go out of his way never to show his face in the comic – which apparently was due to his publishers or editors not wanting to reveal too clearly that he was, in fact, Asian! We did try to incorporate those elements into the book.’
Chu Hing is credited for working on 29 issues in the 40′s and 50′s, 4 of which were on a title called Blazing Comics (the book Liew’s homaged in the cover above). These books featured the character Yang and Liew are reviving: Green Turtle- ‘the first Asian superhero’, a ‘mysterious individual who almost never let anyone see his face (the reader included). Armed only with his wits, combats skills, a remarkable light aircraft (the Turtle Plane,) and a mystic jade dagger, he and Burma Boy, a youngster he saved from the Japanese, flew across Asia battling the Imperial Japanese Army. While having no obvious powers granted by his jade dagger, he did seem to cast a shadow that had a bright pair of eyes and face.’ (via Comic Vine)
No projected release date for this yet, but another title to add to your list of ‘books to keep an eye on.’
3 Comments on Preview: Sonny Liew’s and Gene Yang’s retro superhero book, last added: 4/3/2013
Gene Yang’s work is awesome. He does a fantastic job communicating a lot of information with each of his drawings. It’s not the flashiest stuff, but it’s soooo fundamentally sound.
Keith said, on 4/3/2013 5:47:00 AM
Sonny and Gene’s Green Turtle is featured in a three-page story called “The Shadow Hero,” told via old newspaper comic strips in SHATTERED: The Asian American Comics Anthology. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1595588248
Zainab Akhtar said, on 4/3/2013 7:57:00 AM
Thanks Keith, I wasn’t aware of that, it looks great. Now to hunt down a copy…
Mrs. Burgess worked as an elementary teacher and school counselor for a total of seven years. She has a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University. Starr is busy working on her second children’s book: Counselor Dynamite Befuddles the Bullyville Crew. She currently resides with her husband, Clyde, and their daughter in Pflugerville, TX.
Thank you for this interview, Starr. Can you tell us a little about yourself and how long you’ve been writing?
I am a former elementary school teacher and school counselor. I live with my husband, Clyde, and our daughter in Pflugerville, TX. I have been working on writing books for five years and finally created the main character, Counselor Dynamite, whom I lovingly refer to as the pioneer super hero of schools.
Can you tell us briefly what your book is about?
This book is about Counselor Dynamite, who is the superhero of schools. The story takes place the day before Christmas break. Teachers and staff members are tired and running low on patience and the students are full of unbridled energy. Counselor Dynamite notices that something is amiss and quickly jumps into action knowing that if something isn't done soon, students, teachers and staff will never be the same once chaos is unleashed.
Why did you choose your particular genre?
I choose this genre because I worked as an elementary school counselor and had the wonderful opportunity to work with a diverse group of students. I learned that a lot of students had difficulty in the areas of conflict/resolution, problem solving, and boundaries. As a result I began writing stories that are amusing but instilled and reinforced positive character traits. I know that many children connect with and hold superheroes in high regard so I decided to create the first superhero of schools, Counselor Dynamite.
Where do you write? Do you have a favorite place?
I write in areas of my home where there is an abundance of natural light. My most favorite place to write is in my living room by the window.
What was your greatest challenge writing this book?
My greatest challenge was not in the writing of the book but in how to market the book.
Are you a disciplined writer?
I am somewhat of a disciplined writer, however most times I prefer the spontaneity of being in the moment.
Are you published by a traditional house, small press or are you self-published?
I am self-published.
Was it the right choice for you?
Absolutely! I appreciate the fact that I retain control of the creativity and direction of the writing and how Counselor Dynamite is portrayed.
How are you promoting your book thus far?
I am a vendor at the Texas Counseling Association conferences; I participate in author readings/book signings in book stores and private schools; I utilize social media such as Facebook and Twitter, and I work with an online book promotion company, Author & Book Promotions.
How is that going for you?
It’s going very well; I really enjoy meeting people with inspiring feedback and hearing about their ministry and journey.
Do you have another job besides writing?
Yes, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My private practice is LifeMenders Counseling.
Have you ever gotten an inspirational book-related moment at work and had to go run and write and it down?
No those moments usually come in the middle of the night.
Do your co-workers know they have a star among them? What has their reactions been? I don’t know if my co-workers think I’m necessarily a star but I do believe they think I am a visionary and a go getter. My colleagues have been a great source of support; they have given me words of encouragement, purchased my book and supplemental guide, and promotional products from my product line.
If you could give one book promotion tip to new authors, what would that be?
Utilize as much social media as possible, in addition to an online book promotion service company such as Author & Book Promotion.
What’s next for you?
My next book will focus on bullying and will be available in the fall along with a supplemental guide which contains lessons plans and activities for children. In the near future I will be publishing more Counselor Dynamite books, I would love to go on a book tour, be a regular on a talk and/or radio show discussing challenges children face and parent resources, and eventually partner with companies and build the Counselor Dynamite brand, maybe one day turning the adventures of Counselor Dynamite into a cartoon for children.
Thank you for this interview, Starr. Can you tell us where we can find you on the web? Of course, my website is www.counselordynamite.com. Please also check out and like us on www.facebook.com/counselordynamite as well as follow me on Twitter.
3 Comments on Meet Children's Author Starr Burgess, last added: 3/7/2013
Yes, I agree. The biggest challenge these days is marketing, not writing. It takes up a large bulk of the time an author could be spent writing!
I set up my computer desk and write in the dining room. I don't like the thought of being shut away and writing. I feel more energy being in the thick of things.
I recently came across your blog and have been enjoying reading through it very much! You post lots of interesting things about children's literature here- I particularly enjoy the interviews you include like this one!
I was wondering if you would be interested in sharing your blog on Glipho? Glipho is a new social blogging network that aims to promote the writing of its users and help build their audiences. We are trying to establish a creative community at Glipho, and could help your blog reach new readers and gain exposure.
As your blog is powered by Blogger, you can simply import all your old posts to Glipho without affecting your existing blog at all. You can use your Glipho account to connect to any other major social network accounts you may own, so you can spread your blog as far as possible. We also use our own social media accounts to promote your content.
If you're interested check out our website at http://glipho.com and have a look around. Please feel free to ask me any questions, and if you would like to receive an invite to set up an account.
Have a great day,
Teo
Glipho Limited 14 Suite 3 D Docklands Business Centre 10-16 Tiller Road London E14 8PX
I felt a bit under the weather yesterday so I took some time off and ended up reading a big pile of Batman comics. And I did this sketch of Catwoman on my iPad using the Procreate app. Catwoman can be a visually really interesting character. It'd be really fun to do a comic set in the Batman universe some day. My favorite Batman comics are the ones that have Batman as a sort of super detective and that really use the geography of Gotham. I find the city in Batman comics a bit underused. So much potential there.
This is very true. Batman has all this interesting gear and a huge brain to boot for it. I think setting him loose to solve crime in the city would be an awesome idea.
Santa is the superest hero of them all! And you really got him. Great idea! (Even with a super hero class, I probably wouldn’t have thought of this) Great drawing too!
I recently saw a preview for the musical Spider-Man: Turn Out the Dark. It’s not really a musical; it’s a spectacle. It succeeds as a spectacle, fails as a musical, and hangs itself as a Spider-Man origin story. It’s easier to find good things to say about the spectacle aspect, so I’ll start by reviewing that aspect of the play.
Spider-Man: The Spectacle
Director/writer Julie Taymor and co-writer Glen Berger wanted to create a spectacle-something that was more than a musical. They succeeded. The sets were a wonder to behold (especially in the first half of the show). Aerialists, dressed as Spider-Man, the Green Goblin, and Arachne, flew about the stage and balcony, allowing viewers to feel a part of the production. In fact, because of the numerous injuries suffered by actors during rehearsals and previews, when the aerialists flew overhead it made me wonder-what if their cables broke and they fell on the audience? (And wouldn’t that be analogous to what New York’s pedestrians would wonder if an actual Spidey and actual Green Goblin were duking it out in the skies above Manhattan, without the cables?)
Even as a spectacle, though, the pacing of it didn’t work for me. Most of the spectacular elements were in the first half of the show, so when the effects and wow elements were fewer (and repeating) in the second half, it was a let down. During the last hour of the play, I kept looking at my watch. If you see the play and leave at intermission, you’ll see the best parts. Grade for spectacle (especially the first half): A.
Spider-Man: The Musical
In a good musical, the songs move the story forward. Unfortunately, the music in this play didn’t do this very effectively. The actors often spoke a “recap” of the gist of the song in order to transition to the next scene or to move the story along. (If you see this play, bring along some tissues or napkins to stuff into your ears: some songs were so loud that I had to cover my ears with my hands; I didn’t enjoy those.)
As you may know, the songs were written by Bono and The Edge, and it showed. The songs didn’t have the structure or feel of a “Broadway musical,” which is okay in theory, but not in this execution. Sad to say, none of the songs were memorable – they didn’t have a great “hook” as do many Broadway songs or even U2 songs. Plus the feel of the music didn’t match up with Spider-Man’s character or story. Grade for music: B- (I’m being generous here, taking effort into consideration in my grade)
Spider-Man: The Origin Story
I’ve read (or seen) almost every Spider-Man origin story there is because I’m writing a book on origin stories that includes a chapter on Spider-Man’s origins. I was looking forward to this musical to see how it compared with previous origin stories of the Webbed Wonder. I was disappointed. There isn’t a whole lot of character development here, and there isn’t much more of a plot; what plot there is focuses too much on Mary Jane and not enough on Peter. Even though Peter/Spider-Man is a comic book character, his story is rich in the human drama of shouldering the burden of
0 Comments on ‘Spider-Man’ is little more than spectactle as of 1/1/1900
Two Margaret Atwood fans received an unexpected gift from the novelist recently: superhero costumes.
It began when nephrologist Dr. Joel Topf (@kidney_boy) tweeted about an Atwood novel to his friend, a writer named Melissa Travis (@Dr. Snit). To thank them for their support, Atwood made an unsolicited offer to design superhero costumes for their Twitter aliases. You can see Atwood’s designs for Dr. Snit and Kidney Boy in the above image.
Topf couldn’t be more pleased and wrote in a personal blog post: “This has been wonderful and exciting. How cool is it to exchange with an author I love and respect. It demonstrates how small the world can be.”
Dr. Robin S. Rosenberg, co-editor of What is a Superhero, author of Superhero Origins: What Makes Superheroes Tick & Why We Care (forthcoming 2011). Take the SUPERHERO SURVEY!
Thanks to early screenings and leaked footage, the much-anticipated movie Kick-Ass gained massive buzz among fanboys, bloggers (and pretty much everyone else under the age of 30) months before it hit movie theaters, poising itself to possibly be the best superhero move ever made. But when the feature finally released last month–replete with glorified violence and a young girl with the dirtiest mouth since Bob Saget–it was met with formidable resistance from parents and critics alike. Although Roger Ebert called the film “morally reprehensible”, publications such as New York Magazine and the Los Angeles Times recognized Kick-Ass as a guilty pleasure. Yes, it’s shockingly violent and raises the question of child abuse—but gosh it’s fun, and that 11-year-old really kills with some gumption, don’t she?
The strong reactions this film elicited recalled for me a recent book by media psychologist Karen Dill, titled How Fantasy Becomes Reality. Dill is well known for her research on the effects of media violence, which actually earned her a “character” in Grand Theft Auto IV, the car “Karin Dilettante.” Dill was at a conference the majority of last week, but enthusiastically agreed to take a break in between panels for a quick phone interview on the film. Here Dill continues her discussion of media’s influence on our realities. For Part 1 click here.
Michelle Rafferty: Have you only found that it’s mainly imagery that influences people and their behaviors, or have you also looked at the way text influences people? Or what do you find to be the most influential when it comes to media?
Karen Dill: I’m very interested in studying the image in media, and I believe that imagery is really powerful, because in part it evokes an immediate emotional response. It’s not really that we think through something, it’s just that we’re moved by it. For instance, I was just at a conference where someone was talking about the political power of showing a photo of a polar bear on a melting ice cap versus showing data about climate change. So when we see this polar bear our heart goes out to it, we feel so bad, it’s one polar bear, versus all this scientific data that explains this same type of thing, but not with the picture. So I do think pictures move us emotionally, maybe unconsciously in a way that we don’t have to process cognitively. On the other hand, another thing that I would focus on as moving people is simply story. It could be a movie, a narrative, it could be a book, or a textual narrative. But there’s some really fascinating research coming out of Florida by a man named Norman Holland who is a psychologist and he has a book called Literature and the Brain, and wh
0 Comments on Kick-Ass Podcast: Day 2 as of 1/1/1900
For my boy's friend's birthdays I love to be able to give something personal and handmade if I have my act together. The boys get excited about it and help a lot with design ideas. This last weekend we had 2 birthday parties to attend. Our first friend needed a super hero outfit...
The cape is actually cut from the bottom piece of the Emmeline apron pattern, it has just the right shoulder size, cape angle and nicely curved bottom. I roll-hemmed around the sides, using a lightweight cotton and lightweight iron-on webbing to add the appliqué pieces then stitched around each shape. I added a wide grosgrain ribbon to the top for a tie-on.
3 Comments on a "Super" Birthday present, last added: 1/15/2010
by Thomas E. SniegoskiDelacorte 2009At the risk of repeating myself, and stating the obvious, I cannot fathom for the life of my why anyone would seek out a superhero novel. Movies have made the idea of superhero stories vogue, and comics have long perfected and delivered the superhero story in an economical and vibrant format, but I am still unconvinced there is any sort of hue and cry for
by Sarah CrossDutton 2009Alright, once again: what's the rule regarding words in the title of your book that can be used against you in a review?Let me back down a bit here, lest the Blog Review Police accuse me of being snarky.What we have here, in a nutshell, is... could it be a version of the X-Men movie? Avery has these superpowers that manifest themselves as he hits puberty. He's got super
You all know how much I love superheroes--I have to ask all my interviewees what their superhero power would be. So this contest is totally up my alley. Go to Diana's blog for the rules. And if you'd like, go to The Hero Factory and create your own superhero identity.
Here's my secret identity, The Great Kicking Ninja. Don't you just love her ripped abs? The girls helped design her outfit.
Princess Rock Star insisted on a pink outift and unicorn emblem, because I must be a good superhero. "Promise you won't be a mean? You have to be friends with Wonder Woman!" She LOVES Wonder Woman.
Ninja Girl insisted on the nunchaku and was thrilled with our secret identity name. "She can kick out evil!"
Spy Girl pointed out pink was too cutesy and convinced Princess Rock Star the salmon color was pink enough. "Mom, you can't look like a wimp. You've got to have power."
Yeah, that's my girl.
Superheroes sometimes need an alternate identity, so here's The Great Kicking Ninja undercover as The Fantastic Kicking Master - though the name isn't as snazzy.
The recent issue of PaperTigers focuses on the power of children to change the world. As I read it, I thought of a book my sister gave me called The Umbrella Girl. My sister works for The Leprosy Mission, an organization dedicated to treating leprosy victims and assisting those who suffer from its after effects. The Umbrella Girl is the story of Mali. Mali lives in Chiang Mai, Thailand. While still young, she is struck down with leprosy and can no longer help with the family business of making umbrellas. What will Mali do? Where will she go? How can she help the family when she is becoming sick?
The Umbrella Girl recounts the plight of many children in the world who are struck down by disease. Innocent and vulnerable, often without access to medical care, they have little recourse in life to alter their circumstances. Their mere survival is itself heroic. In Mali’s case, The Leprosy Mission diagnosed and treated the disease. After spending time in hospital, Mali returned home and according to reports from my sister who visited Chiang Mai recently, is now a healthy young woman. Books like The Umbrella Girl are of two-fold purpose — to make children aware of the plight of other less fortunate children, and to enable them to make a difference to children like Mali by praying for them and/or by donating to these organizations. The Umbrella Girl fell into my hands when my son needed a cause for which to be a ’superhero’ for his class’ SuperHeroes project. In reading The Umbrella Girl, he came to know more about leprosy and the people it affects, and was able to transmit this information to his class.
The Umbrella Girl can be obtained by requesting it from The Leprosy Mission or the story can be found here in PDF format.
0 Comments on The Umbrella Girl as of 2/11/2009 5:04:00 PM
Marvel Super Heroes Personality Quiz
.jpg?picon=696)
Donna,
Called to create! I love it. I’m feeling called to organize so I can create. I’m writing a memoir of my experiences as a caregiver. Over the weekend, I attempted to write the opening chapter/scene and found I was confused over some details. I have notes on calendars, in notebooks, on loose paper. Time to pull it together in an more organized fashion so I can write without stumbling over the details. I want to type it up in sequential order. I’ve also been straightening some drawers and sorting things to give to charity. A little at a time!
Here’s to creativity! Keep that energy flowing!
Beautifully said!😊👍😊
love you! Thank you!