Thursday, December 31, 2015

MONSTERS BEWARE!


Winifred isn’t afraid of the monsters in her room but she wants them gone because they’re keeping her awake at night. She makes different attempts to get rid of them but none of them seem to work. She even reads a book about it but that doesn’t seem to do the trick, either. Sleepless nights affect her daily routine since she is tired all the time. Will poor Winifred finally find a solution to her monster problem and eventually get some rest?

Monster Trouble! by Lane Fredrickson and illustrations by Michael Robertson is a cute story about a girl trying to find different solutions for a problem. The rhyming text and colorful, bold illustrations make this a great read-aloud. This book is a good read for toddlers to first graders

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The library will be closed  12/31/15 at 5pm through 1/3/16.  

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

TIME TO SLEEP!

After spending the day at the beach, Pete and his friends don’t want the fun to end so they decide to have a sleepover at Pete’s house. After all the fun and games, Pete decides to go to sleep but his friends want to make noise and stay awake instead. How will Pete get some ZZZs?

Pete the Cat and the Bedtime Blues by Kimberly and James Dean, is one of those stories that readers will love to read over and over again. Similar to other “Pete the Cat” titles, this book has a lot of repetition, and is a great interactive read-aloud for storytime. This book is a good read for toddlers to first grade.  

LET'S SEE WHAT YOUR BODY CAN DO!

This 'action-packed' book is filled with adorable creatures who show readers how to move.  From moving your hands, to tapping your feet, this book for our youngest readers is a special treat!  The drawings are adorable, with bold and contrasting colors too.  From hot pink, green, yellow, and different shades of blue. 

Tim Harrington's Nose to Toes, You Are Yummy! is fun and bright. For adults to a share with young ones in the morning, noon, or night.

Monday, December 28, 2015

RESTLESS

With the evening moon above, all the characters in the house are restless. No one can seem to fall asleep until one special creature sings a calming song that helps them all settle to sleep. This is the sequel to the classic, "The Napping House" where everyone is sleepy. 

The Full Moon at the Napping House by Audrey Wood and illustrations by Don Wood is another fun cumulative bedtime story that children will enjoy. This book is a good read for toddlers to first grade.  

Saturday, December 26, 2015

PLEASE HELP!

Duncan enjoyed coloring and owned many different crayons. One day, he received a stack of postcards from different crayons he had misplaced in various locations, both near and far. The crayons were ready to come home. Each postcard tells the humorous tale of a specific color crayon.

The Day the Crayons Came Home by Drew Daywalt with illustration by Oliver Jeffers does a wonderful job in keeping readers entertained until the very last page. This story makes a great read-aloud for preschool children and older. Children will enjoy listening to the colorful tales of Duncan’s crayons and it might make them think twice about caring for their own crayons.  Recommended for children K-2nd grade.

Thursday, December 24, 2015

CINDERELLA'S NOT SO MEAN STEPSISTER


The popular fairytale, Cinderella, is retold with a fun twist. In this version, Cinderella has three stepsisters. The two are as mean and cruel as the original version but one stepsister, Gertie, is very kind, sweet, and helpful with the house chores. Ironically in this adaptation, Cinderella is lazy and not very nice.

When Gertie is invited to the Ball, her mother does not let her go because she is an embarrassment to the family. She does not live up to their family reputation of being mean and evil. Throughout her training, Gertie meets different fairytale characters and has trouble being mean. What is Gertie to do? She really wants to go to the Ball but doesn’t want to be mean like the rest of her family. Will the Fairy Godmother come to her rescue? Will Cinderella go to the Ball? Will Prince Charming finally find his princess?

Cinderella’s Stepsister and the Big Bad Wolf by Lorraine Carey, illustrated by Migy Blanco, is a great read-aloud. With references to other fairytales, the twist in this adaptation can be amusing to readers, especially if they are familiar with the other stories. Great read for grades K-2nd

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

WE WILL BE CLOSED

The Library will be closed from 12/24/15 to 12/27/15.  

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

COUNTING NUMBERS AND SHAPES

The story of the Three Little Pigs has been retold many times. In this particular version, not only does the author retell the story with a different sense of humor, but she also brings in other well-recognized fairytale characters to help the pigs build their homes. This adaptation also incorporates numbers and geometric shapes into the classic tale.

The Three Little Pigs Count to 100 by Grace Maccarone with illustrations by Pistacchio makes a great read-aloud. The vibrant illustrations and humorous storytelling make this a fun read for all, especially if you are teaching children basic numbers and shapes. Great read for grades K-2nd.

Saturday, December 19, 2015

WHO'S HUNGRY? I AM!

This is a wonderful interactive story about different animals and the food they eat. This book allows children to learn about a variety of animals and their favorite food in a fun, interactive way by turning the half-fold pages and feeding the animals on each page.

Who’s Hungry? by Dean Hacohen and illustrations by Sherry Scharschmidt, makes a great storytime book. The colorful illustrations introduce children to the topic of healthy eating habits. This is the same duo who brought us the popular title, Tuck Me In!  

This is a great book for toddler – preschoolers.  

Friday, December 18, 2015

HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES


The holidays are here and Sophie and her family are preparing for the festivities.  Her good friend Tommy and his family are also getting ready for the holidays.  When Tommy and his family are invited to Sophie's house for a party, Tommy realizes that while some traditions are similar to those of Sophie’s family, Sophie and her family also celebrate Hanukkah. Tommy learns all about Hanukkah and the traditions.

Eight Candles and a Tree by Simone Bloom Nathan with illustrations by Brian Barber tells a great story about how different families celebrate the holidays.  This great story also teaches children about religiously mixed families and is a great overview of some of the traditions celebrated on Christmas and Hanukkah.  This is a great read aloud during the holiday season.  Great read for children pre-kinder – 2nd grade.

Thursday, December 17, 2015

A LIBRARY ADVENTURE TO REMEMBER

Luigi Lemoncello is an ink drinker!  He's loved everything about books and libraries for his whole life.  When he grows up to become a successful entrepreneur, he decides to give back to his community and builds a state of the art public library.  Before its grand opening, twelve students from the local elementary school are selected to take part in a library sleepover.  As part of their stay, they participate in a number of strategy games.  But when a grand prize is announced, they are each faced with the decision to try to win the grand prize individually or win as a team. 

With so many twists and turns, Chris Grabenstein's book is a wondrous read filled with so many treasures and unforgettable characters.  What would you do if you had to Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library? 

If you plan to check out Charlie and the Chocolate Factory then do take this along too.  You won't regret it!!  Also, our very own Central Library is undergoing a renovation.  There are still many adventurous things happening in the Children's Room and at our Branch locations. Pick up a Family Events brochure or click on the link glendalepubliclibrary.org for events.

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

THIS IS NOT YOUR AVERAGE PRINCESS BOOK


The Princess and the Pony by author-illustrator Kate Beaton definitely turns the typical princess story on its head and takes it to new hilarious heights. Princess Pinecone is the smallest warrior in a kingdom of warriors, and she can't wait for her birthday. She's tired of getting cute, cozy sweaters--this year she wants a big, fast, strong warrior's horse. But the horse she gets does not quite live up to what she imagines, and Princess Pinecone worries that she'll never be able to compete in the great battle with her small, round, hopeless pony. How will they ever stand a chance going up against all the other big, mean warriors in the kingdom? 

Full of both humor and heart, this is a wonderful picture book to share with preschoolers to second graders, whether they are fans of princess books or not. 

Saturday, December 12, 2015

IT STARTED ONE SUMMER


Poor Truly Lovejoy, only 12 years old and tall beyond anyone in her class.  With a size 10 1/2 size shoes, she thought at least she would have a new perfect start, with her cousin, and the rest of her family in Texas, but everything changed when her father was hurt by an IED on his last tour of military service. The family plans are changing and now they were all packing up once again, moving to Pumpkin Falls, New Hampshire, the smallest town ever and founded by her ancestors.  

Her father has changed.  There's no more jokes, no more swimming, and she has flunked math and now has to be tutored by him everyday. The only bright thing in her life in this tiny town is watching for birds. She's been a birder ever since her grandfather turned her on to the hobby.  

A great read by Heather Vogel Frederick, author of The Mother-Daughter Book Club series, Absolutely Truly:  A Pumpkin Falls Mystery is not so much a mystery as a story of changes, adapting, belonging and patience. 

For readers in 6th and up. 

Thursday, December 10, 2015

SURPRISE, SKUNK!

The hilarious and oddly matched duo from Who Wants a Hug? returns in a rollicking, splashy bath time story. When good-natured Bear tries to host a surprise birthday for his curmudgeonly friend Skunk he encounters a teeny-weenie, minor problem: no one wants to party with a stinky skunk. Skunk, to absolutely no one’s surprise, is not particularly keen on baths.

It’s a sticky situation (and a smelly one), but the solution seems obvious and simple enough: Bear will persuade Skunk that baths are actually fun! Ever the optimist, Bear’s schemes for bath time fun literally rise to new heights as they dive down slides, soar from swings, and rebound off trampolines-- or one of them does anyway.

Just as Bear is about to throw in the towel, Skunk learns with a squish, slip, boing, swoop, and SPLASH that baths (and pool parties!) can be awesome fun after all.

Jeff Mack’s picture book Who Needs a Bath? is a wonderful read aloud to share with reluctant and enthusiastic bathers alike. For other humorous bath time reads, check out The Pigeon Needs a Bath by Mo Willems, How to Wash a Woolly Mammoth by Michelle Robinson, and Tea Party Rules by Ame Dyckman.


Ages 4+

TOYS' DAY OUT... IN THE SNOW!


The delightful characters of Emily Jenkins's beloved Toys Go Out chapter book series are back in a wintertime picture book adventure for a younger new audience. Lumphy the stuffed buffalo, StingRay the plush sting ray, and Plastic the rubber ball encounter all the wonder of a snowy day for the first time in Toys Meet Snow when their little girl has left them at home during her winter vacation. They try to get to the bottom of what snow is exactly--is it frozen water? or a "blanket of peace over the world"?--by catching snowflakes, building snowmen, and making angels in the snow. 


Paul O. Zelinsky's  captivating illustrations shine in this bold color format, and Jenkins's poetic and gently humorous text makes a seamless transition from chapter book to picture book. This sweet and whimsical story will warm the hearts of readers of all ages, but particularly the preschool to second grade set. 

Monday, December 07, 2015

LAST WEEK OF PROGRAMS

Our last week of storytimes will be the week of 12/7 - 12/12. Please check our online calendar for the few remaining special programs in December.  

Storytimes will resume January 11, 2016. 


Friday, December 04, 2015

WHAT'S OLD IS NEW AGAIN!


Greg Heffley is back and he's as hilarious as ever in Old School, the newest installment of the Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. All the fun--and of course the trouble--begin when Greg's mom lobbies for a weekend of unplugging so everyone can get back to how things were in the "good old days." And so Greg is forced not to rely on his electronics--or even electricity--and get outside for some good old fashioned "fun" in the form of community service and making a lemonade stand. With his signature knack for turning the simple and straightforward into a slapstick comedy of errors, things go uproariously awry. 

And just when you think things can't get any more outrageous, Greg embarks on a field trip to Hardscrabble Farms, where he and his classmates must survive in the woods for an entire week without modern conveniences or junk food, not to mention the rumors of Silas Scratch, a creepy farmer who went crazy in the woods. Armed with just an old book of his grandpa's, a few packs of baby wipes, and his flair for the dramatically ridiculous, is there any way Greg will make it the whole week? 

Fans of the Wimpy Kid series won't be disappointed with this latest book in the series--the crazy antics and the laughs just keep on coming. Recommended for 4th grade and up. 

And don't forget: the Children's Room is having a Wimpy Kid Party this Saturday, December 5th from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, and a library hunt all week. Come join us for all the Wimpy fun! 

Wednesday, December 02, 2015

PARTY OLD SCHOOL


It's our last book party for before the holidays.  Come for some Wimpy Kid fun making crafts and playing games.This Saturday at 11:00 am at the Central Library in the Children's Room.  

Don't forget to play the Diary of a Wimpy Kid hunt while you're in the room.  

This party is perfect for kid who love Diary of a Wimpy Kid stories or who are in 3rd grade and up.  

Tuesday, December 01, 2015

WILD FEELINGS

Feeling sad? Or feeling mad? That’s okay because the little boy in Wild Feelings goes through a series of emotions. In this funny book, each page is filled with illustrations that describe a different feeling. 

Wild Feeling by David Milgrim is a wonderful one-on-one book that sends a nice message about how natural it is to have such feelings. The description of the feelings is also linked to animals (for example: as stubborn as a mule).

For Ages 4-6  

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

HOLIDAY UPDATE

There will be no storytime Wednesday morning, 11/25/15, in the Children's Room. We will be open from 10am to 6pm.  

The Central Library and all branches will be closed for the holiday from 11/26 to 11/29.  We will be open Monday, 11/30/15.  

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! 


Monday, November 23, 2015

NIGHT ANIMALS ON THE PROWL


Shhhhh! Look out for the Night Animals! All the creatures of the night come out to play in this fun and clever book from talented author-illustrator Gianna Marino. Skunk, possum, wolf, and bear are all seeking refuge from the creepy night animals they fear are lurking and chasing after them in the darkness. But what could be bigger than a bear or scarier than a wolf? These animals, along with their captivated readers, are in for a humorous surprise when they discover just who the titular night animals really are. 

The engaging text and boisterous artwork make this an amusing picture book introduction to nocturnal animals, perfect to share with preschoolers to second graders. 

Thursday, November 19, 2015

THE FOURTEENTH GOLDFISH & JENNIFER HOLM

A big thank you to Jennifer Holm and all the readers who came last Thursday evening to hear her speak and for supporting your library! Let's do it again next year, our 10th year!  

Friday, November 13, 2015

A MERCY WATSON PARTY
















It’s
Mercy Watson’s
birthday!

Saturday, November 14, 2015 
11 a.m. 
Children’s Room
https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRNWP1zoCZ3qOu99MaIhQqlniaZtz56_6JigkIOxBqIIljma6Gy

Celebrate Mercy’s 10th birthday with:
  •      Eat buttered toasts
  •      Play a game
  •      Make a craft

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

THE AUTHOR IS COMING, JENNIFER HOLM



One Book One Glendale... for Young Readers November 10, 2015 at 7p.m. We're very excited to have Ms. Holm, Newberry Honor author of Our Only May Amelia, Babymouse, Squish and many other novels, come to the Glendale Library Arts and Culture to talk about her book, The Fourteenth Goldfish. Please join us at the ARC across the parking lot from the Central Library. Click on the book cover to read our review of her book

This author event is for readers in 4th grade and up.   

Central Library - ARC 
222 East Harvard St.
Glendale, Ca 91205
818-548-2035
November 10, 2015
7 p.m. 

Parking is at the Marketplace structure on Harvard and Maryland.  Free parking for 3 hours with validation.  

Thursday, November 05, 2015

SECRET TO IMMORTAL LIFE IS A JELLYFISH?

Is the jellyfish the secret to immortal life? Ellie's grandfather, a scientist, sure thinks so because he's now a thirteen year old living with her and her mom!

Pick up The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer Holm at any branch to find out more about this year's One Book One Glendale for Younger Readers. Play our scientists  hunt and come listen to Jennifer Holm talk about her latest book on Tuesday night, November 10, 2015 at 7p.m. at the Central Library.  

Tuesday, November 03, 2015

ONE BOOK AND JENNIFER HOLM


This is our One Book One Glendale... for Young Readers November 10, 2015 at 7p.m. We're very excited to have Ms. Holm come to Glendale to talk about her book.  Please join us on Tuesday at the ARC across the parking lot from the Central Library. Click on the book cover to read our review of her book.  





Friday, October 30, 2015

MONSTERS BASH!!

This Saturday, October 31st, the Children's Room will be having a monstrous amount of fun from 11-12 pm. Come for crafts, games and treats.  

For kids 4 and up.  

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

GAME OVER

Pete Watson never intended to trigger the end of the world. All he wants is to play the newest Brawl-A-Thon 3000 XL! video game that he’s been saving up for months to purchase. But when Pete’s mother unexpectedly borrows money from his Brawl-A-Thon jar, he decides to hold a spontaneous garage sale to recoup the missing funds. The bug exterminator, a.k.a. Bug Man, looks like just the sort of everyday person who would frequent garage sales to scope out junk. On the other hand, his dad’s dusty, old CommandRoid 85 Video Arcade System game console, hidden away in a corner of the basement, certainly doesn’t look like a portal to the CIA’s top-secret database. How could Pete have predicted that the Bug Man’s nefarious plans would transform and entrap his dad into an 8-bit video game character; lead the president to declare on national television, “I put bird poop in my hair. I have to say I like it there. More than in my Underwear”; and put the entire world in jeopardy? With help from his ex-best friend, Wesley, and his ex-babysitter, Callie, Pete will have to rely on every gaming trick in his repertoire to save his dad and avert the ultimate GAME OVER. Joe Schreiber draws on classic video game references and middle grade humor to present an entertaining tale of embarrassing crushes, awkward friendships, and spy adventures. Filled with cartoon doodles and flip book art, Game Over, Pete Watson will appeal to video game-loving, Diary of a Wimpy Kid fans. Grades 4-6

Thursday, October 22, 2015

THE CASE OF SQUIRREL'S STOLEN NUTS


Frog is a detective who lives at the police station deep in the forest. He is wise and patient but Squirrel is the opposite right now because someone has stolen his nuts.  When Mouse is caught and admits to stealing just one nut because she was very hungry, Frog realizes there is still another nut thief still out there.  

The First Case by Ulf Nilsson is a very sweet and gentle detective story set in a wintery forest that's great for beginning chapter book readers. For readers in grades 2-4.  

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

THURSDAY STORYTIME CANCELED

This Thursday, October 22nd, Mothergoose and Me Storytime at the Central Library will be cancelled.  We apologize for the inconvenience.  Please check the calendar of events for other storytimes that morning.  Mothergoose and Me Storytime for babies will return next Thursday.  

Saturday, October 17, 2015

CHALK THE WALK TODAY

Chalk up the sidewalk with your artwork. Spend the afternoon decorating the library's sidewalk, climb a wall, check out the city's new green plans and have some refreshments. Fun for the whole family. 

Be a part of The Big Draw L.A.  
Central Library  
Saturday, October 17, 2015 
11 am to 2pm
222 East Harvard St. 

The Kogi and Coolhaus food trucks will be in attendance. 

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

CHALK THE WALK



Chalk up the sidewalk with your artwork. Spend the afternoon decorating the library's sidewalk, climb a wall, check out the city's new green plans and have some refreshments. Fun for the whole family. 

Be a part of The Big Draw L.A.  
Central Library  
Saturday, October 17, 2015 
11 am to 2pm
222 East Harvard St. 

The Kogi and Coolhaus food trucks will be in attendance. 

Thursday, October 08, 2015

A SEQUEL TOLD IN STUFF

Five years after the publication of Middle School Is Worse Than Meatloaf, Jennifer Holm returns to Ginny Davis’s story as the now eighth-grader tackles another year of friendships, family life, and school. Ginny’s big plans for the year include, among other things, trying out for cheer, falling in love, looking good in the family holiday photo, and teaching Grandpa Joe how to email.

In this scrapbook-styled sequel told through homework assignments, photographs, notes, bills, and other “stuff,” Ginny faces new challenges with a new baby sibling on the way, her mother’s transition to stay-at-home parenting, and her step-father’s unexpected job loss. Big brother Henry is still getting into trouble; little brother Timmy is still getting into Ginny’s things. 

Those who read and enjoyed the first book will notice the updated tech: Ginny now has a cell phone, photos are higher resolution, instant messaging boxes are streamlined, and there’s nary a mention of VHS tapes anywhere. 

As in the first novel, Eighth Grade Is Making me Sick: Ginny Davis’s Year in Stuff tackles difficult, age-appropriate topics. Both funny and heartfelt, Jennifer Holm’s novel will appeal to fans of James Patterson’s Middle School series, R.J. Palacio’s Wonder, and Raina Telgemier’s Smile.

Wednesday, October 07, 2015

AUTHOR NANCY RAINES DAY VISITS

Children's author, Nancy Raines Day will be visiting our branches this week to share her new book What in the World?  Numbers in Nature.  She will read from her new book and there will be a craft following the reading.    

Tuesday, October 6, 3:30 pm, Children's Room 

Wednesday, October 7, 3:00 pm, Pacific Park 

Thursday, October 8, 10:45 am, Casa Verdugo

Once Upon a Time Bookstore of Montrose will have her books available for purchase and signing.  

Monday, October 05, 2015

AUTHOR VISITS LIBRARY

Don't forget, Miss Meghan's mom, children's author, Nancy Raines Day will be visiting our branches this week to share her new book What in the World?  Numbers in Nature.  She will read from her new book to all the toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners who would like to join us. A craft time will follow the reading. There will be three opportunities to meet Nancy.   

Tuesday, October 6, 3:30 pm, Children's Room 


Wednesday, October 7, 3:00 pm, Pacific Park 

Thursday, October 8, 10:45 am, Casa Verdugo

Once Upon a Time Bookstore of Montrose will have her books available for purchase and signing.  

Saturday, October 03, 2015

JUST SAY IT LIKE IT IS


Just say it like it is is GiGi's motto.  

In life, there's always the unexpected events and the secrets that keep people from saying it like it is. these things make a person think of the what ifs.  

What if there are secrets that you don't know about?  
What if she made a new friend?  
What if the mean girl is not mean anymore?  
What if your Mama is not who you thought she was?
What if someone lies to you?

Tucked between a collection of recipes from her mom is the search for new beginnings, old secrets and a world turned upside down.  The Truth About Twinkie Pie by Kat Yeh is a great realistic and angst ridden story for readers in 6th-8th grades. 

Spoiler alert!!! 
There's teen pregnancy, gay best friend, adoption and rebellious children.  

Thursday, October 01, 2015

wip - pinkerton females

THE AUTHOR IS COMING!



Children's author, Nancy Raines Day will be visiting our branches next week to share her new book What in the World?  Numbers in Nature.  Join us for a reading and craft time and check out a few of her other books. This event is perfect for toddlers and up.  


Tuesday, October 6, 3:30 pm, Children's Room 


Wednesday, October 7, 3:00 pm, Pacific Park 

Thursday, October 8, 10:45 am, Casa Verdugo

Her books will be available for purchase and signing thanks to Once Upon a Time Bookstore of Montrose. 





Tuesday, September 29, 2015

PINOCCHIO AS YOU'VE NEVER SEEN HIM BEFORE


You may think you know the story of Pinocchio, but you've never experienced it quite like this. Retold in lively words by Kate McMullan and a mix of exciting illustrations and graphic panels by Pascal Lemaitre, this abridged version of Carlo Collodi's classic makes a fun introduction to the original tale. If you only know the Disney version, you don't know the half of it. Did you you Pinocchio's origin story starts even before Geppetto with a carpenter named Mr. Cherry? Or about the dog named Wingfoot that saves Pinocchio from becoming a monstrous fisherman's dinner? And that's just for starters. 

The original tale is certainly much more dark and offbeat than the comparatively cheery Disney version, and this retelling pulls no punches, which makes it a similarly eccentric and dreary read for fans of Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unforntunate Events. As an accessible retelling, it will also make a good choice for young readers not yet ready for the more formidable classic version. 

For adventurous readers in grades 3 and up. 

Saturday, September 26, 2015

REVENGE IS A DISH BEST SERVED COLD... WITH SPRINKLES!


Chomp of the Meat-Eating Vegetables, the fourth Notebook of Doom book by Troy Cummings, takes the series' trademark wacky monster-hunting shenanigans to new heights. At first it feels like a dream come true when the school cafeteria starts serving delicious desserts for lunch instead of gross healthy meals--after all, what could possibly be wrong with replacing re-re-re-fried beans with an ice cream sundae bar? But Alexander Bopp, and his friends Nikki and Rip, who together make up the S.S.M.P. (Super Secret Monster Patrol), are always on the hunt for new monsters lurking in the shadows of their town, and though they hate to admit it, the S.S.M.P. begins to find something fishy about the new chef and his aversion to cooking vegetables. But the mysteries don't end there: what is that weird onion-y smell, why is the school so freezing cold all the time, and what's the deal with the new school nurse, Nurse Brock? 

Though the cover itself hints at the reveal of some of these mysteries within, the fast-paced adventure will keep readers turning the pages to find out how our heroes can stop the titular villains from bringing their evil plans to fruition, while the zany humor will leave them in stitches. 

This installment in the series can work as a fun stand-alone read, but the exciting text, madcap humor, and dynamic illustrations make the whole series an especially good pick for reluctant readers in the 3rd and 4th grades. 

Thursday, September 24, 2015

A FELINE RAMPAGE

All Hissy Fitz wants is a nap. Food, fresh water, and gentle scratches between his ears and cheeks are also appreciated, but secondary to the all-important nap. Tormented by a boisterous toddler, and kept frustratingly awake by his own clueless human girl, this snarky, sleep-deprived British Shorthair cat is on a feline rampage as he furiously stalks from home to town, searching for a coveted quiet spot. But humans, as Hissy notes, are a noisy bunch with their roaring cars, pounding hammers, slamming doors, rambling voices, and piercing shouts. No sooner does Hissy settle in for a snooze than another (noisy) interruption jolts him awake. 

As the day drags on, there is no respite for the increasingly frazzled Hissy, who lapses into humorous melodrama and begins courting trouble. No hungry raccoon, straggling cat, cooing child, or stinky shoe is safe from his rage. All this culminates in a curious, and frankly ridiculous, nighttime neighborhood kitty soccer match coordinated by Hissy’s friend, a long-haired cat named Igloo. Will Hissy never have his sleep? 


If you’ve ever wondered what goes on in the mind of a temperamental pet, Hissy Fitz by Patrick Jennings, offers snarky insight. It’s an amusing beginning chapter book read for fans of Nick Bruel’s Bad Kitty series and the Internet sensation Grumpy Cat. 


For grades  2- 4.