Author: Better Homes and Gardens
Hardcover: 548 pages
Publisher: Wiley
Release Date: December 10, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

My wife and I recently got a new slow cooker, double the size of our last, so we have been dying to try out some new recipes. When I started looking around at newly released slow cooker recipe books there is no shortage but none of them really stood out like this release from Better Homes and Gardens.  Just the look and feel of the book really drew me in.  It comes in a nice hardcover with a binder feel and tabbed pages.  It is very each to leave open and view on the counter while cooking.  What I also liked about the book is simply the title recipes that you can prepare “year-round”, I think that is key.  They are all also low maintenance and low-fuzz and that is a must for us.  We have little time to prepare dinner and these include the recipe for success.

Another main draw for me is that there are over 500 recipes included throughout.  The sections included in this book are breakfast and bunch, soups and stews, sandwiches, casseroles, meat,  poultry, and desserts.  There is also a section for those looking for even healthier food with “Skinny Slow Cooker”. There is something for everyone here for sure within these delicious recipes. What I also liked about this book is that is for the everyday cooker and actually attempts to help you cook… and cook well.  There are tips and guides in order to make the recipes extra yummy. I like to think that I am decent cook, not as good or creative as my wife, and this really spoke to me and inspired me to cook.

Let’s get to some of the yummy recipes now.  In the casserole section, I turned immediately to the recipe for “New Potato, Broccoli, and Chicken Casserole”.  I couldn’t help but prepare straight away. Let me tell you it was beyond amazing! I am usually not one to try something off the “skinny” menu but I turned to the “Slow-Cooked Beef Fajitas”, I couldn’t say no…and I am sure glad that I didn’t.  I recently tried “Ratatouille” in Disney World and I really liked it but the recipe here to be honest is so much better…sorry Disney. What is a recipe book with out great desserts! I am a big fan of brownies and I couldn’t say no to “Fudge Brownies with Strawberries”.  Let’s just say when I make them again, I will be doubling the recipe, since I couldn’t get enough of these.

What is also very attractive about this book is that it comes packed with hundreds of mouth watering photos, which really left me wanting to run out to my nearest Publix supermarket in order to get more groceries.  I have a feeling that this book is going to get used quite a bit over the next few months.  It is going to take a long time to make over 500 recipes, especially since I do not think that there is one item in this book that I wouldn’t want to eat immediately. Released perfectly timed for the holidays, this will make a nice Christmas gift for anyone! It is also very reasonable priced for the quality of product that you are getting.  I look forward to the next release from Better Homes and Gardens

Author: Daniel Falconer
Hardcover: 272 pages
Publisher: Harper Design
Release Date: December 14, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

If you are a fan of “The Lord of the Rings” franchise and what Peter Jackson has done to the series, then “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey – Chronicles” is definitely for you.  The book focuses the art and design of the first film in the new trilogy “The Hobbit”. With Academy Award-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson behind this film you know that it is going to hold the same charm that he brought over 10 years ago. I have to admit that Harper Design delivered here my favorite making-of film adaptation of the year. This is sure to leave every fan of the series literally drooling for more and counting down the days till next December for “The Desolation Of Smaug”. Perfect gift for the holiday season!

When you hold this book you just feel like you are holding a map of Middle Earth.  The cover is edged with a lot of detail and overall quality. Inside the book is jam-packed with over 1,000 images of every aspect of the production from concept artwork to photographs and development paintings.  Amongst the images is commentary from their artists including the concept art directors, Alan Lee and John Howe and others from the Art Department and Costume Department at Weta Workshop. I also need to point out that the book also has a very cool bonus fold-out map printed in glow-in-the-dark ink and a giant four-page fold-out of Bilbo’s contract. I mean that is worth the purchase alone.

I feel like the this book acts like a visual special features in book form. The detail of these pictures are just amazing.  We get to meet and learn about every aspect of the film’s characters, especially those awesome dwarfs. You see everything from costumes to hair to make-up etc.  Since this book was put together by Weta Workshop senior concept designer Daniel Falconer, you know that that means quality. This is official and guarantees that this book comes back with insider information and the top notch visual imagery. If you are a fan of this movie, then this book is a perfect companion and will hold you over until the extended Blu-ray release in 2013…or until you see the film again in theaters.

Author: Neil Gaiman
Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: William Morrow
Release Date: November 1, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

If you are familiar with Neil Gaiman’s work, then surely you know about his best selling book “Stardust”, which was first published back in 1999. If you haven’t and enjoy classic fairy tales- then this book is for you.  This book is a really quick read and just very fun.  There is romance, action and everything you can want in a fairy tale story. Of course, it goes without saying that the book is far superior to the movie adaptation, in case you made the mistake of watching that film before reading the book.

This new “Gift Edition” of the book comes beautiful trim-look within its clothbound hardcover.  There is a new gold-stamped cover, as well as a new interior design with a illustration and chapter opener by artist Charles Vess. The new release also includes an introduction by Neil Gaiman, as well as the author’s postscript, “Wall: A Prologue” and updated acknowledgements. If you own this book already, I am not sure it really warrants a repurchase but if your copy is running a little ragged this looks very sharp on the bookshelf.

Official Synopsis: Tristran Thorn will do anything to win the cold heart of beautiful Victoria Forester—even fetch her the star they watch fall from the night sky. But to do so, he must enter the unexplored lands on the other side of the ancient wall that gives their tiny village its name. Beyond that stone barrier, Tristran learns, lies Faerie . . . and the most exhilarating adventure of the young man’s life.

With the holiday’s right around the corner, this would be a nice gift to give to friends that are Gaiman fans or even better those that are not and looking for a way to get introduced.  This is a great way to get into Gaiman’s work.  Plus, who doesn’t love a timeless fairy tale?  If you are a mega-fan you might want to check out the “Gift Edition: Deluxe Signed Limited”, which comes in a collectible slip case.

Author: Jim Pauley
Hardcover: 336 pages
Publisher: Santa Monica Press
Release Date: December 15, 2012

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I think about The Three Stooges, I think about the classic days of Hollywood.  I think about real sets and classic film production.  If you are a fan of The Three Stooges, like myself and have the same questions, then “Hollywood Filming Locations” is for you. It exploring the original locations that were the sites of the Stooges’ most famous Columbia Pictures short films made in and around Hollywood between 1934 and 1958.  The book is really well done and beautifully delivered, thanks to Santa Monica Press.

The details of the book are jam-packed with numerous archival photographs, some of which are rare and never-been-seen before or published. They also range from some really neat candid shots to classically vintage publicity stills.  Then there are simple screen captures from films and other contemporary photographs.  This isn’t just photos of The Stooges though, there is a focus on the location themselves within aerial views and maps detailing this locations. This book isn’t just photos though, there are quotes throughout from the Three Stooges’ directors, supporting actors, and family members.

Jim Pauley is definitely the author for this book.  He is a noted expert on the Three Stooges filming locations.  He has written articles on this subject since 2001 published in “Three Stooges Journal”, which is released by the Three Stooges Fan Club. He really gets a chance to show his love for this trio of comedic legends.  There is also a very sharp foreword from film critic Leonard Maltin. If you are a Stooges fan , then this book is a must have to show Hollywood’s cinematic history and the legacy of these comedic geniuses.

Author: Neil Gaiman
Illustrator: Adam Rex
Reading level: Ages 4 and up
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins
Release Date: January 8, 2013

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Neil Gaiman is one of my favorite authors. Coraline is one of my favorite stories in the last decade. It may be a little too scary for some kids but I am a big kid, so it is ok. This book is aimed a much younger audience. On the book cover it says Newborn to 4 but Amazon is listing the book as 4 and up. I feel that this book is much more suited for under age 4. It may not be my favorite book from Gaiman but more important my daughter loved it and that is all that matter.

The story of Chu is short and sweet. It follows a a little panda that packs a big sneeze and as the book reads, “when Chu sneezes, bad things happen”. It is a very simple story and does get a few laughs even for the adults like myself that was acting out the lines. I felt like some of the words could have rhymed a bit better but overall it was still a cute and fun book.

Adam Rex has delivered some very colorful and interesting illustrations. As I was reading this book to my 6-month old daughter, she was literally grabbing the pages right out of my hand and turning them. The book itself is a little short in terms of quality but at least it has great replay value. I believe I ended up reading this book about 5 times in one sitting.

Author: Sally Symes
Illustrator: Nick Sharratt
Board book: 22 pages
Publisher: Candlewick; Brdbk edition
Release Date: December 11, 2012

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Whose Toes Are Those?” is a very cute book, which let preschoolers keep guessing who’s hiding. Whether it is tails, toes, noses — it is short running 22 pages but has enough to keep the little reader interested throughout and also keep coming back to see which each animal is peeking out.  This is a really clever book and recommend for all parents looking to keep your little one entertained and also stimulated.

Premise: Whose tail? Whose toes? Whose twitchy nose? Who is that hiding behind a big hunk of cheese? What has a cold wet nose, a big pink snout, or a long gray trunk? In this lift-the-flap book for the very young, simple, repetitive text and bold, bright illustrations combine to make a funny guessing-game of a book.

The book is worded from author, Sally Symes.  It is repetitive like advertised but very effective and memorable.  She is also the author of “Yawn”.  The book is perfectly illustrated by Nick Sharratt, who also worked with Sally Symes on “Yawn” and also is the author-illustrator of “What’s in the Witch’s Kitchen?”, “Dinosaurs’ Day Out”, and “The Foggy, Foggy Forest”. The illustrations are sharp and very colorful. I look forward to the next installment!

Author/Illutrator: Leslie Patricelli
Reading level: Ages 1 and up
Board book: 26 pages
Publisher: Candlewick; Brdbk edition
Release Date: December 11, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Leslie Patricelli is back with her one-haired wonder returning to this time share the love. “Huggy Kissy” is a wonderful children’s book and one of mine and my 6-month daughters’ new favorite. The book makes you want to smother your children with love and affection and I am A-Ok with that! I call this book a must-read for all parents to share with their children. It is being released in perfect time for stocking stuffers! Hint-Hint!

Premise: When you’re an adorable bald baby, your family finds lots of ways to show you how much they love you: Mommy lifts you uppy, Daddy kisses you on the tummy, and everyone wants to snuggle. What’s not to love? With comedy and warmth, Leslie Patricelli offers a universal tribute to love and affection in a board book full of instant appeal for little valentines everywhere.

Author/Illutrator, Leslie Patricelli has released many board books based around this character and honestly I cannot get enough of them. Each one is better and cuter than the next. After reviewing, Patricelli’s Christmas entry “Fa La La”, I was excited to see what she has planned next and here it is already with “Huggy Kissy”. I say, “Keep them coming Leslie!” I can’t wait to see what is planned next.

Author/Illustrator: Mary Murphy
Reading level: Ages 2 and up
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Candlewick
Release Date: December 11, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

I find that as a father of a new born girl, 6 months now, I am guilty of smothering her with about 354 kisses per day since she was born.  I am very big fan of author/illustrator’s Mary Murphy’s “I Kissed the Baby!”.  This book is a great follow up to it and is equally as cute.  If it does nothing else it will make you give many kisses throughout to your child, which I think is worth the prize of the book alone.

Premise: A giraffe kiss is very tall — just turn the page and see! Elephant kisses are long, of course, while tiny mice and bubbly fish have kisses all their own. Using a clever split-page format that makes for charming surprises, author-illustrator Mary Murphy shares a series of animal kisses that are sure to have babies and toddlers gurgling, giggling, smiling, and leaning over for their kisses, too.

Mary Murphy delivers not only a wonderful book her but also beautifully illustrated.  It is simple yet enough to keep the attention.  Besides the “Kiss” books, she also has done other great kids books including “Utterly Lovely One”, “Panda Foo and the New Friend” and “How Kind!”.  I look forward to what she has has planned next.  Another gem from Candlewick, though being released in time for the Holidays. This book could be a nice Valentine’s Day give also!

Author: Maggie Malone, Jennifer Lee
Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Release Date: November 1, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

When I saw the film “Wreck-It Ralph”, I thought that my prayers were answered as a video gamer that grew up in the 80’s.  This book shows just how much work went into this film and really allows you to appreciate it much more.  I had seen this film prior to reading this book and it literally made me want to run out again to see it.  If anyone reads this in reserve order you will surely get the immediate urge to see it. It is literally a perfect companion to this fantastic film.  The film is so extremely colorful and creative and unique and this book compliments all those aspects very well. Perfect idea for a Holiday gift!

The collaboration between authors Jennifer Lee and Maggie Malone really show that they love this film themselves and are looking to share it.  Jennifer Lee was a writer on “Wreck-It Ralph” and Maggie Malone is the director of development at Walt Disney Animation Studios, where she has worked on films including “Tangled”, “Tinker Bell”, and “The Princess and the Frog”. They succeeded in developing and delivered a very sharp book that makes you unable to put down.  It is very in-depth and goes into great detail on each of the video-game worlds created for this film.  There is specific focus on the design process and character development, which I enjoyed the most. It was cool to see the evolution of Ralph and how he came about. I also enjoyed the different interviews with the people behind this film. The artwork in the book is beautifully presented and very colorful.  Great job, Chronicle Books – yet again!

There is a preface included by Pixar’s John Lasseter, which nicely sets the mood for the book.  Rich Moore, the director of “Wreck-It Ralph”, gives a supporting foreword. Since this film takes aims at video games from the classic 8-bit arcade games to the video games of today’s high-def digital age. Both periods of gaming are perfectly respected and honored throughout this book. If you are looking for something to complement this great film or just something for your sweet tooth, then be sure to check out the “Sugar Rush” section. It made me crave some sweets ASAP, especially Devil Dogs.  Oh I miss Hostess already! If there is anything wrong with this book is that it ended, I would have love to kept reading for much longer.

Dallas Clayton is a children’s book author of “An Awesome Book” series, as well as his new book “Make Magic! Do Good!”. He is also being called the new Dr. Seuss. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Dallas about his work and what we can expect next.

Mike Gencarelli: What is it about being a children’s author that drives you?
Dallas Clayton: I like being able to share ideas with people who are open, welcoming and in many ways innocent. Also I like having maximum fun at all times.

MG: How does it feel to be considered the new Dr. Seuss?
DC: Flattering. A bit overwhelming at points, but ultimately exciting. I mean, really that’s something I’m never going to be, that dude was a massive force not unlike the Beatles or Jordan. I can only hope to be the best version of myself.

MG: Tell us where you got inspiration for latest book “Make Magic! Do Good!”?
DC:  Make Magic! is just about sharing small simple inspirational silly poems with kids and adults. It’s a real mixed bag of fun thoughts that swirl up in my head coupled with colorful drawings that maybe in some small way can make people’s days a bit brighter.

MG: How does “Make Magic! Do Good!” differ from “An Awesome Book” series?
DC:  Make Magic! is a collection of poems, 50 poems whereas the books in the Awesome Book series are just linear books. One poem vs. 50 poems. When you think of it that way, it’s a steal really!

MG: Tell us what we can expect from upcoming “Awesome Book of Love!”?
DC: Mega radness? I dunno, it’s a book about the idea of love. The concept of what it means to be in love. Ultimately my love poem to the world.

MG: What else do you have in the cards upcoming?
DC: Two books over the next two months, plus three books next year, touring, working on a ton of film and TV stuff, just making as much as possible and trying to hug everyone everywhere.

Author: Mark Salisbury
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: November 27, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

When I first saw Tim Burton and Johnny Depp’s “Dark Shadows”, I have to say I was a little let down.  I am very familiar with the 70’s Soap Opera series and I thought this would have been a perfect collaboration for them.  After my second viewing of the film, I enjoyed it a bit more.  Honestly after reading this visual companion, I am feeling very compelled (vampire…get it?) to watch this film again. This book literally takes you through every aspect of the film from the characters to the score.  If you have your doubts about this film, I suggest you check out this book it will easily convince you to give the film a chance.

“Dark Shadows: The Visual Companion” is wonderful produced by Titan Books, yet another gem. Author Mark Salisbury was in close cooperation with Tim Burton and the production team during its creation.  It includes a very nice foreword by Depp, an Introduction by Burton and an afterword by the late producer Richard D. Zanuck.  I really enjoyed Zanuck’s words, it is sad that this was his last film but at least from his what he said it seems like he really enjoyed the experience.  Mark Salisbury is the former editor of Britain’s magazine, Empire, and has worked with Burton before including “Alice in Wonderland: A Visual Companion” (one of my favorites) and also on “Burton on Burton”.

Like the film itself, this book really took two going throughs in order to really wow me.  I did my usual quick flip through to see what catches my eye and I though it looked good but not great.  But when I really dug into this book, I realized that it was in fact a great visual companion, as it is titled.  It is jam packed with wonderful photos, concept drawings and production designs.  You really get to learn about the characters and their part in the film.  There are also some great interviews with the cast and crew.  All that would normally be good enough for me but there is still more.  They touch on the visual effects, creating the town of Collinswood and even the score from Danny Elfman.  There is not a detail left out here.  So if you whether you are a fan of this film or a curious party, I highly recommend picking this up.

Author: Daniel Pinkwater
Illustrator: Will Hillenbrand
Reading level: Ages 2 and up
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Candlewick
Release Date: August 14, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

“Bear in Love” could have been a cute title to release around Valentine’s Day. Our friendly bear finds that he might have a secret friend that is leaving him surprises. The story is very sweet and funny as well, thanks to the notable authro Daniel Pinkwater. Will Hillenbrand’s subtle yet effective illustrations really deliver. I will be highly recommend this book to all the family’s I know, since it is a must have!

Premise: “One morning, the bear finds something just outside his cave. It is orange and long and pointy and has bushy green leaves at one end. And it’s sweet and crunchy! Where did it come from? Did someone leave it for him? Then there are two more of the sweet crunchy things the next morning! The bear knows that someone nice is leaving him these treats. If only he could discover who it is! Should he leave something tasty in return?”

I hope that this is the first in a series of books with Bear, hint hint Daniel! I feel that he is a alternative to Disney’s Pooh and just as cute. I will be keeping an eye out for more of Hillenbrand’s illustrations since I was a big fan. I could see some of the drawnings blown up and frame even! Candlewick delivers yet another fantastic children’s book and thanks to them to reference “Jaws”, my daughter is going to need a bigger book shelf.

Author: Paul Davies
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: November 6, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

When it comes to video games, “Halo” is definitely the master chief of them all.  “Halo” has become such an iconic franchise over a short period of time.  “Halo 4” is the latest blockbuster installment, which is set to change history and re-define gaming. The story is set in the aftermath of “Halo 3”, it marks the beginning of a new trilogy as the Master Chief confronts an ancient evil that threatens the fate of the entire universe. In this book we get a glimpse into the beginning of this new trilogy within a stunning array of concept art, character sketches and much, much more. If you are a “Halo” fan, this is the holy grail of kick-ass books that you need to own for sure.

From the minute I opened this book, I was flooded with colors and amazing images.  It is one of those books that you literally cannot put down once opened.  Every page – every chapter is better than the next.  “Awakening: The Art of Halo 4” will satisfy all give gamers, whether they are hardcore or novice.  This book contains an in-depth look at the behind-the-scenes of how the stunning worlds of “Halo 4” were created. Fans of the series don’t fret since this book is also packed with some great commentary from the art director and game designers, so there is plenty of insider goodies.  We mentioned concept art and character sketches above, that is one the tip of the iceberg.  There is very detailed environments layouts, as well as an additional section on the forthcoming multiplayer game.

Author Paul Davies is definitely the right man for this job.  He is a crazy Halo fanatic (just like us) and has worked in gaming journalism for twenty years, where he has written and edited magazines and websites including Official Nintendo and Computer & Video Games. He wrote this book as a fan and therefore fans are going to really did it.  I read a lot of “art of” books and this one literally jumps off the pages.  Titan Books has deliver probably one of their best to date.  The quality of this book is just very high and it is aimed to satisfy the hardest gamers out there.  And if you are not the biggest “Halo” fan and just looking to see what all the fuzz is about this book will make you run to the store, trip the person in front of you and buy this game ASAP!

Author: Ramin Zahed
Hardcover: 158 pages
Publisher: Insight Editions
Release Date: October 22, 2012

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

If you are aware of “The Guardians of Childhood” series, which “Rise of the Guardians” is based off of, then you will appreciate the artwork from the series. The world that was created for this movie are provided in very high-detail through this book.  The children’s series is written by William Joyce, who’s also the film’s executive producer and gives a very nice foreword on the book.

“The Art of Rise of the Guardians” includes wonderful concept art for the DreamWorks animated film. The basis of the book is focused on the six main characters: North, Bunny, Tooth, Sandy, Jack Frost and Pitch. There is character profiles, as well as 3D and classic animation for each. Like I mentioned about the detail, besides just the character profiles, there is landscapes and sketches of the environments that were developed.  In the book, you get to see the work of all these fantastic artists and craftspeople who have collaborated in order to create DreamWorks Animation’s most ambitious films to date.

In the film “Rise of the Guardians”, North (Alec Baldwin), Bunnymund (Hugh Jackman), Tooth (Isla Fisher), and Sandman try to recruit the mysterious Jack Frost (Chris Pine) to help them stop Pitch (Jude Law) from putting an end to childhood belief and sending the world into eternal darkness.

Ramin Zahed is the editor in chief of Animation Magazine.  The man knows animation and gives this film art book the right treatment.  Alec Baldwin who voices North, gives a wonderful foreword.  The book itself has this very simplistic feeling.  Some of the pages are very simple, while some are jam-packed and extremely colorful.  I feel that it is really a wonderful balance of the two. The pastel of colors used in the book and throughout the film really pop-out here in the art-of book.  I am looking forward to this film very much and now more so since reading this book.

Author: Sam McBratney
Reading level: Ages 3 and up
Hardcover: 72 pages
Publisher: Candlewick
Release Date: August 28, 2012

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

I am new to the beloved character of Nutbrown Hare but I am already in love with him.  This new book includes four new exciting adventures from the author, Sam McBratney, of the best-selling “Guess How Much I Love You” series.

Synopsis: “Just like young children everywhere, Little Nutbrown Hare likes to explore, play, venture out into the world, and sometimes just savor the comfort of being at home with loved ones. But whatever he does, and wherever he goes, Big Nutbrown Hare is always there to cheer him on. In a beautiful jacketed Guess How Much I Love You storybook, here are four heartwarming new stories that little readers (and their bigger companions) will instantly relate to.”

The illustration is very simplistic yet very warm and soft. The travels of Nutbrown continue as his explores the world around him including the rivers, mountains, fields and trees! This book will give kids the desire to get out and explore the world around them just like Nutbrown Hare. Hopefully this is only the beginning of these adventures with more to come.