44 Pages

44 Pages, a documentary film directed by Tony Shaff, released in 2017, provides an intricate and engaging exploration of the influential and highly popular children's magazine, Highlights, as it embarks on the journey to create its 70th-anniversary issue. The film features notable personalities such as editor Andy Boyles, art director Kevin Bayne, and partnership director Patty Courtright, among others, providing an intimate understanding of their roles and contributions.

At the heart of its narrative, 44 Pages delves into the humble beginnings of the magazine, its core values, and the profound cultural impact it has had over the course of several decades. Founded by the husband-and-wife team of Dr. Garry Cleveland Myers and Caroline Clark Myers in 1946, Highlights initially began as a twelve-page magazine focused on promoting literacy, and instilling a sense of wonder, kindness, and curiosity in children. Today, it is ubiquitous in households, school libraries, and doctors' waiting rooms across America, with a circulation of over two million monthly copies.

However, the real stars of the film are the people behind the pages, a dedicated team of creators and editors who are as diverse and captivating as the stories and features they craft. Viewers are given a behind-the-scenes look into the rigorous, meticulous, yet wonderfully imaginative process of an issue's development, from initial brainstorming to final print. It mirrors the complexity and beauty of children's minds and experiences, encapsulated within the pages of this cherished magazine.

Prominently displayed throughout the film is the unconventional approach Highlights employs to address complex and potentially controversial topics, such as racial segregation, war, and family breakdowns; all using language and concepts that are comprehensible and meaningful to young readers. It showcases the magazine's commitment to sparking conversations around such difficult issues and promoting empathy and understanding among its readers, no matter their age.

The narrative documents the keen eye for detail Highlights is admired for, showing how intrinsic research, child psychologies, evolving cultural contexts, and educational theories are incorporated into its content. Its steadfast objective for children to become more compassionate, responsible, and lifelong learners is evident in the stories, puzzles, and Hidden Pictures illustrations that have made the magazine bold, innovative, and relevant across generations.

Central to 44 Pages is the magazine's commitment to honoring the voices and perspectives of children. The film wonderfully captures how this commitment navigates the editors' decisions - whether it's in selecting reader-submitted art and stories, responding to thousands of letters from children, or engaging with young readers on their terms, reflecting their world and concerns in a respectful, thoughtful manner.

Tony Shaff offers audiences a fascinating insight into the detailed artistic process as the team works diligently on the 70th anniversary issue. Kevin Bayne's art direction is noticeably seen in the magazine's vibrant illustrations and layouts, which beautifully balance their educational content with playful creativity. Patty Courtright embodies the magazine's ethos as she engages with readers and external partners. Additionally, the input from editor Andy Boyles shines a spotlight on the extensive research and thoughtful discussions that underline the choice of every article, game, and feature, thus revealing the intellectual depth that each issue carries.

44 Pages succeeds in encapsulating the enduring legacy of the Highlights magazine and celebrates its unflinching dedication to children's learning and growth. It underlines how, in a rapidly evolving digital age, Highlights continues to inspire curiosity, promote literacy, and empower children, shaping young minds by connecting them to the wider world one page at a time.

In conclusion, 44 Pages is more than a behind-the-scenes documentary; it is a celebration of a cherished institution's formidable yet heartwarming journey. It presents a captivating narrative of dedication, creativity, and childlike wonder, proving why Highlights continues to kindle the flame of knowledge, empathy, and joy in millions of children and adults worldwide. This film is truly an enlightening watch for educators, parents, former readers, and anyone who appreciates the enduring magic of children's literature.