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5 Books for Young Aspiring Filmmakers
One of the fun parts of being a kid is trying on different hats in the “what do you want to be when you grow up” game. I wanted to be a ton of different professions before settling on writer (did everyone have an archaeologist stage, or was that just me?). I have a good friend who knew he wanted to be a film director by the time he was in elementary school, though, and he ended up following that path into adulthood! So if your child dreams of becoming the next Stephen Spielberg, here are some fun and instructional books to send your aspiring filmmaker on their way.
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Digital Filmmaking for Kids for Dummies, by Nick Willoughby
This “for Dummies” franchise seems to cover absolutely everything (Minecraft Modding anyone?) and this edition is an excellent starting place for any aspiring young filmmaker, chock full of hands-on projects that will teach them writing, lighting, and editing. And if you want to start a little smaller than a big budget feature then pick up this book (also by Nick Willoughby) on Making YouTube Videos first. Even J.J. Abrams had to start somewhere!
How to Make a Movie in 10 Easy Lessons, by Robert Blofield
Another how-to book to add to your collection, this book promises to teach you everything in only ten easy lessons. Sounds good to me! What’s a “wide angle?” You’ll find out! And your child can take advantage of being born in the digital age, since, unlike in the “olden days”, all you need now to make a great film is a cell phone or tablet, and a dream.
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Please, Baby, Please, by Spike Lee, Tonya Lewis Lee, and Kadir Nelson
The sweet story of one child’s day (starting at 5am!), Please, Baby, Please, is co-written by Spike Lee. Kids who aren’t quite ready to watch Do the Right Thing can still receive an introduction to one of the most influential directors of our time through this sweet picture book.
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Who is George Lucas?, by Pam Pollack, Meg Belivso, Ted Hammond, and Kevin McVeigh
This fun, illustrated series goes behind the scenes with some of the most influential creative people of our time. This book tells the life story of George Lucas, the genius behind a little film called Star Wars. Find out what he was passionate about as a kid, and get some insight into what made him who he is today. And once you finish this one, you can also learn about other cinematic greats like Walt Disney and Academy Award winning director Stephen Spielberg!
Kids Guide to Movie Making, by Shelley Frost
This nonfiction book by Shelley Frost (who is an acting teacher, as well as the creator of the Make-A-Movie kids program) is perfect for your middle grade reader who wants to be involved in movies. Filled with creative activities and practical tips, this book will expose your children to all different aspects of the “biz”, from scripts to shooting schedules.
What books would you recommend to a budding filmmaker?