I haven’t seen the new version of detention but I have seen the original versions, good instructional and keeps you entertained at the same time. But I agree the book can probably help you out some more for the basics. It goes into much more detail and you could just buy the disc one of the book getting started and use the detention for the more advanced stuff as you progress.

Polar is dead on with the carving, its all about the weight shift and handle position.

Also for getting up in what you where calling the side slide position, I would say try to point your toes up some more and it should keep you from being pulled over. But the more you ride the more you will get the feel for it and getting up in that position will more than likely just come to you.