Jim Henson: The Works - The Art, the Magic, the Imagination (Hardcover)

~ Christopher Finch (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

At the time of his death in 1990, Jim Henson had created some of the world's most beloved characters, invigorated the d{‚}emod{‚}e art of puppeteering, and achieved in TV and films critical and commercial success unheard of since the heyday of Walt Disney. This oversize, colorful volume, sure to delight Henson's many fans, traces his career from local TV in the mid-1950s through the triumphs of Sesame Street and The Muppet Show, his leap into movies (The Muppet Movie, The Dark Crystal, etc.), and late projects like Fraggle Rock. The book also covers Henson's little-known forays into experimental film and the contributions of his Creature Shop puppetmakers to non-Henson movies. The authorized nature of this project gave Finch access to fascinating archival materials, such as behind-the-scenes photos. Unfortunately, it also results in an annoying lack of critical detachment and a one-dimensional portrait of Henson. Even so, Finch convincingly portrays Henson's visionary dedication to the craft of puppetry. The continuing popularity of Kermit, Big Bird, and Henson's other creations ensures that this showcase of them will be in demand for many years to come. Gordon Flagg

Product Description

The ultimate gift for Muppet lovers everywhere, this extraordinary tribute celebrates 40 years of Henson's creative genius--from his best-known inventions to his lesser known but equally fascinating notions for everything from designs for futuristic nightclubs and homes to experimental films. 500 color illus.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 268 pages
• Publisher: Random House; 1st edition (October 12, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0679412034
• ISBN-13: 978-0679412038
• Product Dimensions: 10.2 x 10.2 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (26 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #36,457 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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  #10 in	Books > Arts & Photography > Performing Arts > Theater > Puppets & Puppetry
  #43 in	Books > Entertainment > Television > Shows

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A GREAT BOOK ABOUT A GREAT MAN!, December 28, 2003

By	Michael J. Chrush (Kent, WA United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

A must have gem for any die hard Jim Henson fan. This book is rich and loaded with information and pictures on the evolution of Kermit the Frog and Jim Henson's life. From SAM AND FRIENDS to COMMERCIAL SHORTS (Wilkins Coffee and La Choy Chow Mein) to SESAME STREET. That's not all there's great stuff on THE MUPPET SHOW, including an entire page of small pictures of all 120 Guest Stars with songs and pictures and skits from the shows. From THE MUPPET MOVIE to LABYRINTH to FRAGGLE ROCK to so much more, you will want to read it over and over again. Something to share with your young one's over the years as well.

BUY IT, YOU'LL LOVE IT! Rest in peace, Jim Henson! You were THE genius!

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Best Book Ever Written!, March 16, 1999

By A Customer

Christopher Finch does a great job of detailing Jim Henson's life. He includes colorful pictures and stories about Henson from his colleagues and friends. "Jim Henson The Works" always keeps your interest by containing interesting and fun sidebars. Every Muppet fan should read this book.

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars an incredible book for muppet lovers everywhere, March 30, 2000

By	"gabecca" (University of Oklahoma) - See all my reviews

This book is absolutely incredible! Every page is bursting with the zany creativity that Jim Henson inspires in us all. This book is well-worth the price for the photos alone -- everything from early obsure works to Sesame Street to my hero, Kermit the Frog. The text is engaging, informative and full of interesting stories behind the movies and tv shows that have made so many of us laugh. If you are part of the Muppet generation like me you will especially appreciate the fond memories this book brings back.