How to Do Homework Without Throwing Up

Based on the bestselling books by author/illustrator Trevor Romain, How to Do Homework Without Throwing Up features two animated pals named Jack and Skye, who hate doing homework to the point of “puking” over it. Thrown from Romain's sketchbook into the Amazon jungle, where they embark on an Indiana Jones-style adventure to the Tomb of Doom, the pair discover the importance of homework and study along the way (for instance, they see a Peligro (Danger) sign, but don't know what it means since Skye didn't do her Spanish assignment). Key lessons taught include: “you cannot escape homework, "get it before it gets to you,” “no excuses,” “don't rush,” “have a plan,” “eat nutritious snacks,” “ask for help,” and “do the hardest assignment first.” Although the DVD is labeled as 80 minutes long, the actual feature is about a half-hour (DVD bonus features include a live-action segment with Romain and kids talking about the episode, an interview with Romain, three music videos, and downloadable resources for educators and parents). It's hard to determine the target audience: the box claims “ages 6 and up,” but the characters talk about physics and biology, and algebraic formulas are shown. Although the publicity material's claim that this title comes from a series of “Videos That Change Kid's Lives” is rather overstated (aside from the improper use of the apostrophe--should be “kids' lives”--plural possessive), the slick production and good intentions of this high-profile release make it a strong optional purchase. Other titles in the series include Bullies Are a Pain in the Brain and What on Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies? Aud: E, I, J. (R. Reagan)