Showtime

April 1, 2014

Gr 6-8-Eleven individuals involved in the behind-the-scenes aspects of putting on a live show are introduced; a vocal coach, a promoter, even a long-haul trucker-all play important roles. Machiko Weston is a set designer, Hiro Miura makes instruments, and Al Domanski is a pyrotechnics expert. Each section describes the occupation, gives background information about professional, and ends by revealing the skills and education needed for the particular job. Having real people explain their work creates a personal, welcome feel. The book is colorful, with clear action shots and large type. A final chapter, "Welcome to the Show," briefly discusses other positions, such as security guard and director of live entertainment. These jobs are more in tune with the actual performance night. There is no index; a table of contents lists the positions included. This is an accessible read for teens interested in all aspects of the large-scale live-entertainment industry.-Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2013
Grades 6-9 This informative book takes readers backstage at a major live entertainment event. Choreographers, set designers, and pyrotechnic experts each get their due credit, but the behind-the-scenes look extends beyond the confines of the arena itself. Consider the long-haul trucker who ensures that all the necessary equipment is safely delivered before showtime; the instrument maker who crafts the guitars played by rock superstars; and the director of live entertainment who negotiates with promoters to attract the best talent for his or her community. Each well-organized chapter contains interviews, color photographs, and anecdotal tidbits relevant to the career at hand. Many of these jobs require a meticulous attention to detail, the ability to focus on a single project for long periods of time, or superb math skills. In considering the variety of skills required for a career backstage, the author shows that the glamour of show business is available to all personality types. And, hey, maybe this will inspire a new generation of costume designers or songwriters.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)