Starting off the Summer of Nostalgia, we will present five programs from the series, Jump Over the Moon (1981).
"Books can introduce children to nearly all aspects of life, from the important to the frivolous. Books, especially picture books designed for small children, will be the focus of this series of programs." -Rick Sebak, Producer for South Carolina ETV (1981)
Give Us Books (1981)
This episode focuses on explaining what the “Jump Over the Moon” series will cover. In the first segment of the episode, it focuses on children and their treatment in different cultures over the years. In the second segment, it focuses on the history of children’s literature and picture books, as well as their importance.
Raphael and Bolognese (1981)
This episode focuses on the work of Don Bolognese and Elaine Raphael, and what goes into it. Rick Sebak interviews them and asks them what got them started in creating children’s books, and what the process is like. They explain that they collaborate constantly with each other, as well as with their editor. Bolognese explains the importance of illustrations and how they can elevate a book.
Mother Goose Rhymes (1981)
This episode focuses on the history of mother goose rhymes and their various interpretations. It discusses the long history of mother goose rhymes, as well as nursery rhymes. It also dives into the different types of mother goose rhymes, which include anthologies, single rhymes, thematic collections, and variants. It also goes into detail about the many interpretations of mother goose rhymes.
Information Books (1981)
This episode explores information books, which present various concepts/topics to readers. Rick Sebak covers a variety of information books, such as animals, biographies, sports, and cookbooks. Sebak explains that clear and concise wording is important when writing an information book. He also explains that they can help inspire children but can still be a useful tool to anyone of any age.
Counting Books (1981)
This episode explores various counting books, along with a critique of each one. Rick Sebak states that there are three kinds of counting books, which are: potpourri, related examples, and sequential story. Potpourri is defined as “a miscellaneous collection.” Sebak also discusses critiques of some counting books and their effectiveness in teaching young children how to count.
SIDE NOTES
Learn more about series producer Rick Sebak's career at WQED Pittsburgh here.
