Starring Steven Spielberg: The Making of a Young Filmmaker

Budding film buffs gain insight into the work of Steven Spielberg (b. 1946) in this play-by-play account spotlighting his school-age cinematic efforts and first amateur feature-length film. Opening with Spielberg’s early experience as a moviegoer in the 1950s, the book shines a particular spotlight on the way that experiences from his youth, ranging from anxiety to his parents’ divorce, shaped his sensibilities as a director. Through filmmaking, the creators present Spielberg as finding solace from trouble at home, bullying, and antisemitism—themes the title readily identifies in his movies. Italicized quotes from the subject and references to his box-office creations trace a clear path to Hollywood acclaim, while Orback’s painterly digital illustrations depict him at work alongside re-creations of relevant film reels. Back matter includes a filmography and references. Ages 5–9. (Oct.)