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Investments (Detail) - Schedule of cost and equity method investments (USD $)
In Millions |
Aug. 31, 2011
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May 31, 2011
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Aug. 31, 2010
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| Cost method investments | $ 5.7 | $ 5.7 | $ 9.1 |
| Equity method investments | 15.5 | 14.7 | 12.6 |
| Total | 21.2 | 20.4 | 21.7 |
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Usborne [Member]
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| Equity method investments | 14.2 | 13.4 | 11.7 |
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Childrens Television Programming Holdings [Member]
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| Equity method investments | 1.3 | 1.3 | 0.9 |
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The Book People Ltd [Member]
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| Cost method investments | $ 5.7 | $ 5.7 | $ 9.1 |
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- Definition
This item represents the aggregate carrying amount of all cost-method investments as reported on or included in the balance sheet. The original cost of the investments may differ from the aggregate carrying amount disclosed due to various adjustments such as: (i) dividends received in excess of earnings after the date of investment that are considered a return of investment and therefore recorded as reductions to cost of the investment, or (ii) a series of operating losses of an investee or other factors which may indicate that a decrease in value of the investment has occurred which is other than temporary and accordingly such decrease in value has been recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
This item represents the carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its investment in common stock of an equity method investee. This is not an indicator of the fair value of the investment, rather it is the initial cost adjusted for the entity's share of earnings and losses of the investee, adjusted for any distributions (dividends) and other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Total investments in (A) an entity in which the entity has significant influence, but does not have control, (B) subsidiaries that are not required to be consolidated and are accounted for using the equity and or cost method, and (C) an entity in which the reporting entity shares control of the entity with another party or group. Includes long-term advances receivable from a party that is affiliated with the reporting entity by means of direct or indirect ownership. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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