Daily Planet

Gr 9 Up—Ice climbing, speed skiing, jai alai, kite boarding, and a variety of white water kayaking activities are some of the pastimes featured in this production that is hosted by science enthusiasts Jay Ingram and Natasha Stillwell. There are additional segments on proper screaming techniques for punk and heavy metal vocalists, as well as information on the Scoville scale used to measure the intensity of spicy food. While some segments, like the ones on speed skating and skiing, provide information on the aerodynamics of drafting and the use of special equipment to increase speed, the educational value of the program is minimal. The production quality throughout is fine and the athletic feats are impressive to watch. There is no chapter menu, but the fast-forward button takes viewers to the next segment.—C.A. Fehmel. St. Louis County Library, MO