Degrassi Generations: The Official 411 by Kathryn Ellis
Recently I received Degrassi Generations and flipped through the pages. At first glance I loved seeing all the colorful pictures and all the info concerning Degrassi. As I delved further, the book is chock full of info about the Degrassi legacy these past 25 years. The charm and impact of this show continues to influence and inspire the fans--especially the audience who are going through or have been through the crazy teen years.
Reading about the history of the '80s and present series, I've learned more about how truly unique the show is with its broad cast of characters and how the adults involved provided an environment for the young cast to still be kids as they grow and learn about the business. The pictures, from both the series and behind the scenes, are amazing. My favorite parts are the comparisons between the past and present, the crew's efforts into making the show alive and realistic, and the TNG actors comments about their characters, insights of the show, and other interests. I also love reading the tidbits about the show. Did you know that Emma was named after "Emmy," the award that the series won in the 1980s? Degrassi Generations furthermore gave me a better idea of the production process from brainstorming ideas, obtaining input from the actors to, decorating and changing the rooms, to adding sound and music. Just reading about this complicated, collaborative exhausted me! The book also covers the issues the series has dealt with and quick synopses of all the episodes.
I recommend Degrassi Generations for any Degrassi fan who's eager to read about the series over the years and look over the wonderful pictures.