Thanks to Debbie for turning us onto this show. We're not really a TV family, so we had no hope of catching it on the airwaves. But when the fifth season was released on DVD I decided we had to check it out.The premise of the show is "what if TV had been around for the great events of history over the past 4,000 years?" Each show examines a historical event or personality by applying the subject matter to the format of modern day ads, talk shows, call-in shows, sitcoms and the like. Some informative background is given, and then the history is realized as comedy through terrific satirical sketches spoofing modern-day television.
Familiarity with television makes it all the funnier; there are spoofs of everything from 20/20 to Seinfeld to All in the Family to Martha Stewart Living. But the comedy stands alone too, so that my kids, who have never seen any of those shows, find it very funny. And if they ever do see Martha Stewart Living, I think they'll recognize it from History Bites.
The intended audience is probably teens on up. There's a fair bit of adult humour in here. But my older three kids are really enjoying it. And so are their parents!
Glad you are enjoying it! I was worried that my kids were abnormal or something for liking it so much. They are also huge Monty Python fans, most especially The Search for the Holy Grail - I wonder if that's something your kids would like too?
ReplyDeleteI just found your blog on Nablopomo in the Homeschooling group. I wanted to let you know that I've been on here quite a while and have really enjoyed it and been inspired.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to unschool, yet haven't quite had the guts to let go. My oldest (7) isn't interested in reading and I think if he was, I would have an easier time letting go.
My youngest(3) is already interested in words and may be my salvation.
I'm working on it and blogs like yours help keep me on track. Thanks.
Robin, I will never underestimate how easy I had it moving into unschooling with a first-born who was an early reader and a natural academician. It's so much easier to trust natural learning when it occurs before you expected it. It took some time before my trust was really put to the test, and by then I had more experience and confidence.
ReplyDeleteStill, there's nothing wrong with not unschooling. What really counts is whether we put our kids' needs and their uniqueness first, whether we truly have their best interests at heart. I'd be willing to bet you have that going for you. There are many ways to homeschool!
Debbie, I think Monty Python would be an excellent litmus test for History Bites. If your sense of humour, your maturity and your sensibilities find Monty Python a good laugh, you'll likely enjoy History Bites.
ReplyDeleteYes, my kids love Life of Brian, etc..
Oooh, I love this show, and was wondering if I could find it somewhere. Thanks for reminding me about it.
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