The TV Book: The Kids' Guide to Talking Back

Christine Linge is a past director of the Toronto & District Parent
Co-operative Preschool Corporation and a freelance writer.

The goal of this book is to reveal the artifice and commercialism of
television, thereby defusing the medium’s power to some degree. The
author begins, however, with praise for the variety of entertainment and
education offered by TV, and takes a balanced look at such issues as
violence and children’s advertising.

In “Welcome to TV Land,” Wallace describes the conventions that
furnish this unique environment and the stereotypes that populate it.
Subsequent chapters describe how a new series is designed, debugged, and
delivered; how

special effects and stunts provide the necessary illusions; the tricks
and talent behind advertising; views on TV violence; and TV’s future.
Each section includes an interview with a professional involved in the
area in question. A glossary, excerpts from the Broadcast Codes on
advertising and violence (for both Canada and the United States), and
useful addresses (networks, citizens’ groups) are found in the back of
the book. Colorful illustrations, quizzes, and highlighted
info-snapshots help make the book very accessible.

Wallace learned from her parents that “it was necessary, and fun, to
talk back to TV.” The TV Book will convince young readers of the truth
of this statement, and empower them to talk back themselves.
Recommended.