Dangers of the Core [With Jedi Readers]

As the mother of an autistic son, we have had a great deal of difficulty in getting him to enjoy reading. He doesn't understand a great many words, but has a few "subjects" he really enjoys. Star Wars,Episode 1 is one of them. This book has been a real find that he loves! I am getting more of them, as they don't "talk down" to kids, really explain the movie in detail, and help kids understand many things (in life, as well as the movie!) better. We are really looking forward to the next Star Wars movie this summer- as well as the books that will follow it!

DANGERS OF THE CORE takes a section of the movie 'Phantom Menace' and, step by step, breaks down the action that flies by so quickly on the big screen. This makes it easy for children to follow. The excitement starts with the first sentence and never lets up!The illustrations are expressive and dramatic; nicely done.DANGERS teaches children to respect all living beings. Qui-Gon Jinn is the epitome of patience (especially with Jar Jar!), and remains calm, steady and in control even in the midst of danger. Excellent life lessons for children!Another plus: The story doesn't 'talk down' to children. It assumes an appropriate level of maturity and intelligence.I'd take off half a star because Jar Jar's speech is impossible for some children to understand when reading the book on their own.Nevertheless, all the children to whom I read DANGERS OF THE CORE just loved it! And with such a variety of characters and emotions, it's fun to read out loud, too.Highly recommended for children as well as old fogeys who are young at heart!

"Dangers of the Core" is a great beginning reader, especially for a boy. The book carefully summarizes the underwater chase from the Episode 1 movie into easy-to-read language that captures a boy's attention. I have had trouble finding interesting early readers that my son will read; but when we found this book, he would not put it down. He read it TWICE in the first day--without prompting! Thank you for sparking his interest in reading!