A Bright Start
Ernest Pintoff's Animation 101 is more of a "what it's all about" than a "how to" book. Its primary value lies in the 20 essays by various luminaries in the industry, like directors John Lasseter, Nick Park, Bill Hanna, Bill Melendez, Bretislav Pojar, Pablo Ferro and Bruno Bozzetto. Also contributing: Noel Blanc (Mel's son), Herbert Klynn, anime expert Fred Patten, Cartoon Network executive Linda Simensky, writers Emru Townsend, John Callahan, Al Brodax, Jules Engel and Debra Kaufman. Even Marvel's Stan Lee offers his point of view.

The book includes a biography of its Oscar-winning author, and a handy list of recommended animation schools. Notably, Pintoff's list of recommended films includes Pocahontas, The Fox and the Hound and The Black Cauldron.

A Turn For The Worse