What's On?

* MONDAY - 7/7

TV Guide Looks at Science Fiction (Sci-Fi Channel, 7-8 p.m.): Who better than William Shatner, a.k.a Capt. James T. Kirk of "Star Trek," to trace with viewers the rise in popularity of sci-fi shows.

* TUESDAY - 7/8

The Inventors' Specials (HBO, 7-8 p.m.): It's not something most children experience: Einstein helping them with their homework. But for an African-American girl, assistance from the physicist is just the inspiration she needs to excel in school - and he needs to continue his work. This program launches a family series that mixes fact and fiction about famous inventors. It does well by science but would have benefited from better acting and fewer caricatures. (TV-Y7)

Baseball All-Star Game (Fox, 8-11 p.m.): Thanks to the introduction of interleague play this year, fans are getting more opportunities to see American and National League players go head to head. Tonight's game at Cleveland's Jacobs Field features the best of the best. Among those suiting up for the AL are Baltimore Orioles third baseman Cal Ripken and Seattle Mariners outfielder Ken Griffey Jr., who got more votes in the ballpark balloting than any other player. The big NL winner was Los Angeles Dodgers' catcher Mike Piazza.

* WEDNESDAY - 7/9

China: Born Under the Red Flag (PBS, 9-11 p.m.): This documentary is well timed for those wanting to know more about the country now ruling Hong Kong. The last in a three-part series on China, the program covers events from the passing of revered leader Mao Zedong in 1976, through the student uprising and subsequent massacre in Tiananmen Square in 1989, and beyond. Although long, the program is worth the time for its clear presentation of recent economic and social changes in the Communist country.

Perfect Crime (USA, 9-11 p.m.): Surprisingly, this TV movie is intriguing fare. Based on actual events, it focuses on a missing marine (Jasmine Guy) and the primary suspect in her presumed murder: her husband (Nick Searcy). There is no body or weapon, but that doesn't stop a determined investigator (Mitzi Kapture, "Silk Stalkings") from bringing the case to trial. (TV-PG)

PICK OF THE WEEK

Baseball All-Star Game

Tuesday, July 8

8-11 p.m. (Fox)