"In this insightful book, Velarde provides a great service to Christian families who love movies. His analysis of Pixar movies in light of their themes of identity, friendship, family, courage, ambition and other values is a great help for those who want a fuller, richer experience from their movie viewing. He helps to draw out important values from Pixar movies that illuminate for the viewer/reader that these movies are much more than family-friendly entertainment; they are modern parables of wisdom and virtue."

-Brian Godawa, screenwriter, To End All Wars, author, Hollywood Worldviews

"Thank you, Robert Velarde. Here is the book that needed to be. For years I could not help but notice certain spiritual connections in the amazing Pixar films; haven't you? Robert Velarde has given us a true gift with The Wisdom of Pixar. I highly recommend his book to all film-loving Christians. It is insightful and useful for both individuals and groups."

-David Bruce, webmaster, HollywoodJesus.com

"Robert Velarde's fascinating book The Wisdom of Pixar reminds us why Jesus engaged the culture of his time through the power of stories. After reading the book I wonder if the next generation of teaching pastors may be filmmakers. Velarde has done a great service by reminding us that virtue indeed matters, perhaps now more than ever."

-Phil Cooke, CEO, Cooke Pictures, author, Branding Faith

"Wow. And here I thought I was just watching cartoons with my kids! I love how Robert takes readers through the beauty, fun, depth and warmth of Pixar films and frames the solid values that run through them. This book is a must-read for parents who love Pixar films as much as their kids - and for those interested in generating some great postfilm family conversations."

-Caryn Rivadeneira, author, Mama's Got a Fake I.D., cofounder, TheMommyRevolution.com

"Robert Velarde has made an interesting and thoughtful contribution to film and philosophy literature. He avoids an overly-simplistic analysis without getting bogged down in heavy moral philosophy. Not only will this book help readers gain a deeper understanding of virtue ethics, it will increase their appreciation of one of the best studios in film history."

-Douglas Beaumont, author, The Message Behind the Movie

"Velarde does not reduce the films to parables or suggest that they are crypto-Christian; instead, he finds teachable virtues within them ... With its discussion questions, movie discussion guide, and appendixes on Pixar's plots, this is perfect for Christian discussion groups and should also serve Christian educators very well. An important purchase for many church libraries."

"Velarde offers a thoughtful perspective on Christian principles as presented in some of the most popular animated films in recent years ... draws sensible conclusions and connections between the Christian life and many Pixar characters and plotlines ... Concise chapters and discussion questions make this book accessible for group studies."

"The book is at its best when [it] sticks closely to the narrative of such modern classics as Finding Nemo, Up, or Ratatouille ... Each chapter closes with strong discussion questions that will be helpful for church groups, especially youth."

"You'll notice very quickly while reading this book that the author is a huge Pixar geek like the rest of us. His enthusiasm, passion and awe for Pixar's filmography is evident ... Whether you are a Christian or not, you will find much to love and enjoy about this book. Robert Velarde is certainly not preaching here and his insights into Pixar's films are valuable."