FISH IN A TREE

As if life in the 6th grade is not hard enough, Ally Nickerson’s secret made it that much more difficult.  She was convinced there was no cure for her condition.  Ally never heard of being cured of dumbness, so she suffered everyday humiliations and refused to ask for help.  She has convinced herself it was better to misbehave and get sent to the principal’s office than let others know that she could not read.  

Ally was never given a chance to fit in until the new teacher, Mr. Daniels, arrived and he realized that Ally had learning difficulties. 

What could be the cause of Ally's problems? Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt is a remarkable story! Hunt portrays the life of a young girl and the emotional turmoil she goes through.  Readers will connect with the characters in this realistic fiction. Do not miss out on this story all about endless possibilities! 

For grades 4-6

THE FOURTEENTH GOLDFISH

Ellie's goldfish has lived for seven years, since her day as a preschooler or so she thought.  Her mother tells her that the fish was really goldfish number 14.  Her life is about to change even more when a 13 year old "distant cousin" comes to live with them. There's something very familiar yet odd about him, but she can't quite put her finger on what it is.  This isn't really a story about goldfishes or even pets, but a great coming of age tale, using humor and a bit of science fiction to force us to deal with the cycle of life - birth, growth, death - in a gentle and thoughtful way.   

Jennifer Holm, author of the Babymouse series, creates a story filled with adventure, humor, suspense, and love.  Best for readers from 4th - 8th.

Note: This will be our One Book One Glendale... for Young Readers in November.  We're very excited to have Ms. Holm come to Glendale to talk about her book.  Please check in for a date and time as we get closer to the event. 

LUNCH WITH US IS NEXT WEEK!

There will be a special treat for all the kids who come to the last week of lunch and stories under the tree.  Remember that lunch is first come first serve from 11:30-12:30.

The Bug Bus will be here right after lunch from 1-2:30 p.m.  on Tuesday, July 28.

We had a lot of fun under the tree this summer and we'll see you all in September for another season of children's programs.

THE BIG BAD DETECTIVE AGENCY

The Big Bad Wolf (BBW), a.ka. Wolfgang and a fourth little pig, Ferkel combine forces in order to solve a crime the BBW has been accused of committing.  Does this sound like a big whopping tall tale to you?  Well, it's not. It's the plot of a new series by Bruce Hale, author of the Chet Gecko series.

Wrongly accused, the Big Bad Wolf has no choice but to become a detective in order to find the real vandal who trashed the Three Little (really ginormous) Pigs' house.  The two detectives follow clues, talk to suspects and try to figure out what motive the criminal would have for doing this.  Their list of suspects grow as they delve deeper into the crime.  

Was it H&G (Hansel & Gretel)? 
Was it Mama Pig? 
Was it Cinderella?  
Was it Goldilocks?  
Can they find the culprit before Wolfgang's time is up and he's thrown in jail?  

Find the Big Bad Detective Agency in the beginning chapter books area.  Perfect for readers in 3rd-4th grades who enjoy humor and twists on the fairytale classics.  

LAST WEEK!

Our summer programs are coming to an end, so bring in your Summer Reading logs if you haven't done so and join us for the last few programs before school starts.  

Wednesday, July 22 at 1p.m. - Animal puppet show presented by the Actors and Others for animals. 

Saturday, July 25 at 2 p.m. - Last Dance!  is our last Saturday Special where we dance to some oldies. Join Theresa and myself to some groovy music. 

Tuesday, July 28 at 1 p.m. - Bug Bus is coming to share everything they know about mosquitoes and bugs in LA.  

WHO ARE THE PEOPLE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?

CJ and his nana have a long trip back from church and, unlike his friend Colby, whose family has a car, they have to take the bus to get there. As they make their way back to their neighborhood, CJ and his nana experience all the sights, sounds, and feelings their vibrant and diverse city has to offer. Nana teaches CJ to see the beauty all around him, even in unexpected and gritty places, and when they arrive at their destination--a soup kitchen--both CJ and the reader come to appreciate the importance of spiritual richness over material wealth. 


Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña is a moving and joyous celebration of the little things in life, and Christian Robinson's vibrantly heartwarming illustrations are reminiscent of classic Ezra Jack Keats. This multi-layered picture book is much more than a lively tour of a diverse city neighborhood--it's also a tribute to intergenerational relationships, empathy, compassion, and, above all, the joy of human connection.


A wonderful book to share with children ages 4 and up. 

CUTE, CUDDLY, AND A LITTLE... CREEPY?

There’s something spooky about Koala in this picture book tale by Sean Ferrell. Perhaps it’s the eyes? When Adam receives a (presumably) stuffed koala bear as a present, he immediately declares: “I don’t like Koala.” 

Each evening Adam schemes to rid himself of the seemingly omnipresent Koala: he hides it under the couch, over the refrigerator, behind a tree, among toy cars, in a purse, and even with the dirty laundry. Every morning, however, Adam wakes to find Koala there. In his bed. Sharing his pillow. A furry paw reaching over to grasp his face.

Spooky, indeed.

Despite his vocal protests, Adam's parents remain outwardly oblivious to Koala’s eerie abilities. And after a final attempt to lose Koala in the woods, Adam ultimately discovers that there’s more to fear than a cuddly, stuffed koala bear… isn’t there? 

I Don’t Like Koala might not be for every child, but young fans of spooky, quirky reads might enjoy this subtly eerie picture book. For another darkly humorous story, try Creepy Carrots by Aaron Reynolds. 

Ages 4+

HONEY - A SUMMER SURPRISE

“Honey.”  Who’s Honey? That’s what Melody wants to know.  Ten-year-old, Melody is full of questions. Why has her father, Henry, been so distracted, spacey and whistling “You Are My Sunshine” lately? And who did he call Honey over the phone, then try to cover up with a lame excuse… “they got the wrong number?” 

As if Melody didn't have enough on her plate with Henry’s odd behavior and her flunking her math test, Teeny, Melody’s 6-year-old neighbor blurts out that Henry’s been bitten by the love bug. Now, Melody wants to find out the secrets surrounding Royal, Indiana. 

Read Honey to unveil the secrets in the town of Royal and learn about new twists and turns in this story. Sarah Weeks touches on many important topics in this realistic fiction.  Honey is a delightful, quick read with fun characters.

For 3rd-5th grade

MORE THAN JUST ANOTHER SAD COUNTRY SONG

The year is 1948 and Tate P. Ellerbee is captivated by rising country star Hank Williams, tuning into his Louisiana Hayride radio program every week from Rippling Creek, Louisiana. So when her teacher assigns the class to choose a pen pal, she decides on Hank Williams without hesitation. Despite his lack of response (other than a few autographed photos), she writes him constantly and tells him all about her life and family, including her Aunt Patty Cake, Uncle Jolly, brother Frog, movie-star mama and world-travelling father, just for starters. Tate P. is also practicing her singing in secret for the upcoming May Festival Talent Contest, and wants to make her family, and the country star, proud. But the more letters she writes, the more secrets come to light, and it's clear that her picture perfect life isn't so perfect at all. Tate P. must come to terms with her family's truth and find enough grit to push forward and become more than just another sad country song. 

This poignant epistolary novel by National-Book-Award winner Kimberly Willis Holt features multi-layered characters, rich historical details of post World War II life in the rural South, some smiles and tears, and more than a few twists and turns.  

Dear Hank Williams makes a moving read for 4th grade and up. 

"SIBLING RIVALRY, BRAVERY, UNCONDITIONAL LOVE... AND VEGGIES"

Dot never asked to be a big sister and, had anyone asked her, she would definitely have objected to getting a wolf as a baby brother. But Dot has little choice in the matter when the Bunny family returns home one day to find a tiny wolfish bundle awaiting them. Mama and Papa are immediately smitten with their newly adopted son, but Dot is skeptical at best. 

Unconvinced by Wolfie’s excellent sleeping habits and hearty carrot appetite, unmoved by his indefatigable affectionate devotion, Dot repeats her wary refrain: “HE’S GOING TO EAT US ALL UP!” When Dot finds her new brother threatened, however, she’ll adopt some wolfish traits herself to save them both.

Ame Dyckman’s Wolfie the Bunny is a humorous picture book tale on the familiar topic of family relationships and new sibling dynamics. Wolfie’s adorable charm perfectly counterbalances Dot’s surly distrust, which admittedly has some justification; it is a rare story in which rabbits and wolves can both be good. This sweet story would make a lovely, lively read aloud. 

For another picture book celebrating the bonds of (interspecies) family, try Guji Guji by Chih-Yuan Chen.

Ages 2+

LET'S PARTY WITH RICKY AND HIS ROBOT

Tuesday, June 30th at 2p.m. join us in the Children's Room for a Ricky Ricotta and Mighty Robot Party.  We will have activites themed around these fabulous book characters. 

Check out their books online through our catalog.  

KINDERWISE IS IN THE HOUSE!

Kinderwise, will have you dancing and singing up a storm.  

Join us this Saturday, June 27 at 2 p.m. in the auditorium at the Central Library for an afternoon of fun. 

IMAGINARY FRIENDS MEET THE REAL WORLD

Rudger is Amanda Shuffleup's imaginary friend. No one else can see him but her, and that's just fine by him--Amanda is the only one with enough imagination to dream him up in the first place. But when a suspiciously creepy man comes to the door one day asking Amanda's mum to take a survey, it appears he can see Rudger too, and that's when things begin to go amiss. He sees the man lurking everywhere, determined to get his hooks on Rudger. And then--worst of all--there is an accident that causes Amanda to be rushed to the hospital, and for the first time in his life, Rudger is all on his own. How will Rudger escape the nefarious grasp of the sinister man, and, perhaps more importantly, without a real person to imagine him, can an imaginary boy even exist? 

This fantasy by A.F. Harrold told from various points of view is at turns whimsical and downright spooky, and proves no one is too old to tap into their imaginations and let them run wild. Emily Gravett's striking illustrations--some in black-and-white and occaisionally in color--add just the right balance of eerieness and eccentricity. 

An exciting and offbeat read for 4th to 6th graders. 

AN OLD STORY WITH A NEW TWIST

You would be wise not to anger the Brixen witch. But what if you make her angry by accident? Nope, doesn't matter. She is still going to haunt and hex you. That's what happens to Rudi when he stumbles upon a gold coin while he's out foraging around the forest. The next thing he knows he is being haunted by a creepy noise. Even after he puts the coin back on the mountain (sort of) a plague of rats infects the town! 

THE BRIXEN WITCH by Stacy DeKeyser will have you guessing about what happens next, and it's not what you expect! This is a retelling of the classic Pied Piper story, but with many great twists and a completely different ending. 

For 3rd - 6th grades.

SURVIVOR COLONIAL STYLE

Tori and her mother are in deep financial trouble.  Along comes a chance for them to win big and save the dress shop, but they have to compete with all the extended members of their family and live on their dead aunt's estate in "colonial style".  That means no modern conveniences; make the food, no daily baths, and make the furniture. The family who performs best will win it all, millions and millions of it.  

Tori wants to win and be serious about the contest, but can her flakey mom pull it together?  Add to all this stress Tori is seriously crushing on the local boy whose father thinks she's a witch and another member of her family sabotaging their efforts.  

It's a fun survivor, reality television show, and boy meets girl story all rolled together in Colonial Madness by Jo Whittemore.  

For readers in 6th-8th grades. 

THE BIG ZUCCHINI HEIST

Who would steal a 200 pound zucchini?  The person who has never won first prize for the biggest zucchini that's who. Zeeta and Zelda want Max to find out who stole their giant vegetable.  With the help of his uncle Larry, a ghost and former detective, Max set out to gather clues and suspects in order to solve this most unusual case.  

A typical but silly beginning chapter book with lots of people to suspect.  Join them in this new mystery series The Ghost and Max Monroe: The Case of the Missing Zucchini by T. L.M. Falcone.  

For beginning chapter book readers in 2nd -4th. 

TWO WILD AND CRAZY GUYS, GERALD AND PIG!

FUN ACTIVITIES FOR FANS OF GERALD AND PIGGIE.  THEY JUST WANNA PARTY ALL THE TIME! PARTY WITH ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE ON TUESDAY, JUNE 16TH AT 2 PM.

CHILDREN'S ROOM 
CENTRAL LIBRARY 
818-548-2035

DANCE! DANCE! DANCE!

Dance the morning away with us in the Children's Room.  Monday, June 15 at 10:30 a.m.. Wave those scarves in the air all you preschoolers!  

Children's Room 
818548-2035 

IT'S ROUGH BEING A PRINCE

Prince Lucas doesn't really have many friends. There aren't a lot of kids in the castle, and he's definitely not allowed to play with the common folk. His only friend is Clara, who is the daughter of he's mother's attendant, and his dad doesn't really want him to be friends with her either! How boring! But that all changes one day, and Clara and Prince Lucas team up on a real life mystery adventure! THE KINGDOM OF WRENLY: THE LOST STONE by Jordan Quinn is the first book in a promising series for beginning chapter book readers. 

For 2nd - 4th grades.

APRIL 2015

IS GOOD LUCK ALL IT'S CRACKED UP TO BE?

Nate Harlow is about as unlucky as one kid can get. He has never once in his life won a coin toss, the toaster burns his toast every morning, and there's never a prize at the bottom of his Cracker Jacks. His best friend Gen Beam, the smartest person Nate knows, swears there's no such thing as luck at all--with the law of averages it's all bound to even out over time. Until then, though, Nate's stuck being a loser with just a single friend. 

But everything changes on Nate's 11th birthday--the day he's struck by lightning. Not only is he lucky enough to survive, all of a sudden Nate can't lose. Coin tosses, contests, and baseball games--he wins them all! Just when it seems like all his wishes are coming true, things start to get complicated, and all Nate's luck sets off some unintended consequences. Pretty soon Nate starts to wonder--is there such a thing as too much good luck? 

Bobbie Pyron's charming novel Lucky Strike, about family, friends, and fortune, will make a page-turning read for 4th to 6th graders. 

A SECRET REVEALED

From Theresa, Children’s Librarian at the Central Library

Ally, a sixth grader now at her seventh school, works hard to hide her terrible secret from her teacher and classmates. It’s not that she isn’t smart, she’s great at math and a talented artist. She’s also often in trouble and spends a lot of time in the principal’s office. When Ally inadvertently gives her teacher who was going on maternity leave a sympathy card instead of a congratulations on the birth of your baby, it wasn’t done to be mean but happened because she just does not know how to read. The kids in her class particularly a couple of “mean girls” often bully and make fun of her which makes school an even bigger challenge. When the new teacher takes over the class he is much more difficult to fool than any of the other teachers have been but fortunately for Ally he diagnoses her problem and offers to help.

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullay Hunt deals with some very sensitive issues, dyslexia, bullying, friendship and courage. She does not sugar coat any of these but chooses to develop them fully in the middle school setting. In the end there is no miracle cure but there is progress brought about by small steps and lots of work. Ally is one of those characters that most readers will be glad they met. 

For readers in grades 4-6

PARTY WITH ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE!

PARTY WITH ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE ON TUES., JUNE 16TH AT 2PM.

GAMES, CRAFTS AND FUN ACTIVITIES FOR FANS OF GERALD AND PIGGIE.  

CHILDREN'S ROOM 
CENTRAL LIBRARY 
818-548-2035

A PRANKSTER'S PARADISE

Yawnee Valley: where a cow was once elected as Mayor due to a balloting error, and then reelected to a second term following record-high approval ratings. This bovine-enthusiast’s paradise, notable for counting moos as a popular pastime, is hardly Miles Murphy’s idea of a great place to live. 

Miles doesn’t know much about cows, nor does he care to. After being forced to abandon his familiar friends and home, all he wants is to reestablish his reputation at his new school as biggest prankster. There’s just one fly in the ointment: another prankster has already taken up residence, and truly masterful one at that. Miles isn't about to be cowed by some amateur, but when he finds his first big prank foiled, he’s given a proposition: he’ll  have to choose to beat ‘em at their craft or join ‘em. So let the pranking war begin…

With dry wit, quirky characters, comical illustrations, and some serious pranking Mac Barnett and Jory John’s The Terrible Two is a natural next read for for fans of Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. A humorous read for grades 4 and up that will have kids cracking up until the cows come home.

A PUPPET MUSICAL THIS SATURDAY

Saturday, June 6, 2015 Noteworthy Puppets will perform JACK AND THE BEANSTALK:  THE PUPPET MUSICAL. You've never heard of singing puppets, you say?!  Well, then you must come and see this live performance yourself.  You all know the story, now come hear the songs.    

Central Library - auditorium 
2 pm. 
818-548-2038

A CRAYON'S STORY

Red crayon can’t seem to do anything right. Despite his bright red factory-applied label and very determined efforts, his artistic attempts are all decisively blue: blue strawberries, blue firetrucks, blue traffic lights, blue ants, etc. And, though well-meaning, his family’s suggestions fail to engender either change or satisfaction. Soon everyone is chiming in with commentary, critiques, and counsel: tape thinks he might be broken inside; scissors wonders if his label is too tight; amber questions whether he’s really red; fuchsia suggests that he might not be very bright… Ever keen to conform to expectations, red crayon diligently follows the advice of fellow art supplies, though it’s clear to readers from the start that mislabeling is the true source of the problem. The solution, which shouldn’t come as a surprise to longtime fans of the genre, is a celebration that comes from defying labels and embracing one’s true identity. Deceptively simple, Michael Hall’s Red: A Crayon’s Story is a fantastic picture book addition to the ever popular genre of identity and self-acceptance.

For more picture books exploring identity try The Crocodile Who Didn't Like Water by Gemma Merino, Zero by Kathryn Otoshi, and A Color of His Own by Leo Lionni. Or, for another imaginative crayon story that colors outside the lines, check out Drew Daywalt’s The Day the Crayons Quit.

For ages 4+

MUSICAL MAGIC

From Theresa, Children’s Librarian, Central Library: 

In her multilayered novel Echo, Pam Munoz Ryan, author of Esperanza Rising, takes us on a journey across time and geographical boundaries following a very unique harmonica, one that not only changes owners but lives as well. The first owner Otto is given the instrument when he was lost in the forest.  He is rescued by three sisters who were trapped there by a witches spell until they saved a life, coincidentally the girls were also characters in a book Otto bought from a gypsy. He promises to help them escape and carries their spirits out of the woods in the enchanted mouth harp. From there the harmonica travels to three different children, an aspiring Jewish conductor in pre-World War II Germany, two very poor orphaned brothers in Pennsylvania and the daughter of migrant workers in California. This special mouth harp works its magic on those it comes into contact with and they discover not only a love but an exceptional talent for music.  Each child’s story gives the reader a good picture of their time, circumstances and location and while the stories seem to end badly, please keep reading. 

For grades 5-8

LET'S PARTY WITH THE WIMPY KID!

COME TO THE DIARY OF A WIMPY KID PARTY.

TUESDAY, JUNE 2^ND AT 2PM. 

PLAY PARTY GAMES, MAKE SOME CRAFTS AND TEST YOUR DWK TRIVIA.

HANG OUT WITH OTHER DWK FANS FOR SOME FUN. 

CHILDREN'S ROOM 
CENTRAL LIBRARY 
818-548-2035

SUMMER READING IS HERE!

  

Pick up your summer reading logs at any of the Glendale Library Arts and Culture branch beginning tomorrow, Thursday, May 28.

This Saturday, May 30, at 2 p.m. Dan Crow will have you singing along with him in the Children's Room.  It's musical fun for the whole family.  

A VIOLIN FOR ELVA

When Elva was a young girl, she heard beautiful music. Unfortunately, her parents couldn't hear what she had heard, so they are quick to deny her request for a violin.  Although downhearted, this doesn't stop Elva from listening to the music that played in her heart and soul.  As she gets older, she continues to listen to music on the radio to fill that special something that is missing her life. Elva finally decides that it's never too late to enjoy music, so she gives herself the gift that will last her a lifetime.

A lighthearted story about a young girl who grows into adulthood, and never lets go of something that meant most to her.  A story to warm the heart. A Violin for Elva by Mary Lyn Ray is for adults and children, K-3rd grade, to enjoy together.

WHAT IF YOU SUDDENLY HAD THE POWER TO DO THE IMPOSSIBLE?

From Theresa, Children’s Librarian / Central Library

Right from the start you need to know that this is a very unusual tale. It has all the elements of a family story, two kids living with their father on a farm in Montana. There is a missing mom who has moved to New York to pursue her career as a writer but that is not what even comes close to making this a very odd book. What happened that very stormy day in Fiona and Fenton’s yard was, as they say, “a big game changer.” When that bolt of lightning hit the maple tree in the front yard and left behind what looked like a ball of lightning everything changed.  The twins managed to capture it and accidentally discovered that it was capable of bringing dead things back to life. 

Starting small they experimented with dead bugs, small rodents, a favorite dog and ultimately their grandfather who had been killed in a car accident. While the ball brought the dead back to life, no one was quite the same. The maple tree suddenly started bearing apples and the dog was not so friendly. Though to be honest does anyone really want to be friendly with a skeleton dog? Even their grandpa Wade was a different man, much nicer than the cranky guy they remembered. But as we find out in Evan Kuhlman’s book, Great Ball of Light, bringing the dead back can get complicated particularly when they stick around. Not always a dark tale of death and zombies, this one has some very funny and warm moments. 

For grades 4-7.

ROSARIO'S FIG TREE

Rosario is a gardening magician according to his young neighbor next door.  Rosario knows exactly when to plant the vegetable seeds and she loves helping Rosario care for the garden. One day, Rosario decides to dig a hole for a potted fig tree he recently bought.  He takes the tree out of the pot and places it in the ground and watches it grow.  He gives figs to his friends and neighbors but when winter rolls around his young neighbor could not understand why Rosario would bury the tree.  

In Rosario’s Fig Tree, author Charis Wahl has written a simple story about the young neighbors' experience with gardening.

For ages K-2nd grade

MUSIC, WORDS AND NAIL POLISH

In Sarah Weeks' new novel, instead of a cat, she writes about a dog plus the usual friendship between a girl and a boy set in a small town with seemingly random characters and unrelated stories. 

There are 100 colors of nail polish created by BB, the new beauty shop owner in Royal, Indiana.  Melody and her friend Nick are off to the new beauty parlor to find out who her father is calling "Honey" over the phone.  Her mother died when she was born and life has just been about Melody and her father since then.  

Has he found a wife finally?  Who could it be? She desperately wants her father to be happy and has been making the same wish on her birthday for as long as she could remember but is her dream about to burst when she hears that her awful math teacher is also getting married?!  Could her father be marrying her?!!

Honey is a magical tale of loss, love and the search for a happy ending for everyone.  A solid and lovely story as good as Pie that's perfect for a summer read. 

For readers in 4th - 6th grades.  

THE MYSTERY OF THE MOSAIC

In trouble? Ask Ethan and Ella for help. These twins have a keen eye for clues. When their mother, Josephine Brair, was to start her new job as a travel writer, the entire family had to travel with her.  Their father, Andrew Brair, a history professor was to homeschool his twins.  While exploring Venice, Italy, the twins receive a clue from their grandfather that will take them on an adventure searching for a missing mosaic and a stolen gondola.  

Read the story by Harper Paris to find out if the characters ever uncover the mysteries. The Mystery of the Mosaic is part of the Greetings from Somewhere series. This is a very short chapter book that covers different genres: mystery and adventure.  The illustrations are wonderfully presented in black and white drawing.  The story also covers interesting facts about Italy.

For grades 1-3

FRIENDSHIP IS LIKE A SEESAW

Friendship has its highs and lows.  Sometimes friends can be inseparable, and other times friends need some space or 'quiet time' to sort out their feelings.  In Friendship is Like a Seesaw, author Shona Innes tenderly brings to light the changes friends might experience.  Sometimes, with time, friends can be even better friends especially when 'space' is respected.

An important book to share before a child starts school or as friends struggle with hurt feelings.

THE ANIMALS BEHIND THE STORIES

Winnie-the-Pooh and, much more recently, Ivan the gorilla have become beloved children's book characters. But both characters were also based on real-life animals, and the books Winnie: The True Story of the Bear Who Inspired Winnie-the-Pooh by Sally M. Walker and Ivan: the Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla by Katherine Applegate tell the little-known stories behind the celebrated ones.

The story of Winnie (originally named Winnipeg) begins with an army veterinarian in Canada who finds her at a train station and buys him from a man for $20. The bear shadows the vet as he works in army camps, endearing herself to all the soldiers, but after war breaks out, Winnie must begin her life at the London Zoo. It is there where a young boy named Christopher Robin and his author father meet Winnie, and so begins idea for one of the most beloved children's book characters of all time. Walker's story is engaging and gently told, and historic photographs of the real Winnie and her life in the army on the endpapers supplement the sweetly charming watercolor illustrations by Jonathan D. Voss throughout the story.

Though the story of Ivan the gorilla's time spent as a spectacle in a shopping-mall display is much newer to young readers, it has also captured their imaginations in a big way, and the children's novel The One and Only Ivan won Applegate the Newbery Award in 2013. Now she has turned to the non-fiction picture book to tell Ivan's story for children too young for the award-winning novel and provide extra background for those who loved it and want to know more. The warm and delightful artwork by G. Brian Karas pairs nicely with Applegate's simple but evocative words, and will pull young readers as they learn all about the esteemed gorilla's life from wild to shopping mall to zoo.

Both animal biographies are ideal for first graders and up.  

THE FARMER'S AWAY!

When the farmer is away, the farm animals are set to have some fun!  From enjoying a casual ride down the river to having picnics and dances, the animals are elated to roam about and be free.  But when the farmer heads back to the barn at sunset, the animals must act quickly and get back to doing the things farm animals usually do. 

In her colored pencil and acrylic ink, Anne Vittur Kennedy masterfully paints rollicking scenes.  One can't miss the sheer joy the animals feel.  Although the text is sparse and colored with animals sounds, the story conveys joy, and the illustrations quickly fill this book with the kind of fun readers will want to enjoy over and over again and find new things to laugh about.

CHRONICAL OF A SIXTH GRADE YEAR

From Theresa, Central Library / Children’s Librarian

In The Meaning of Maggie, author Megan Jean Sovern introduces a remarkable character, Magnolia Jane Mayfield. The year is 1988 and Magnolia or Maggie as she prefers to be called is getting ready for a big change in her life—sixth grade and middle school. For some kids that starting the new school year, particularly middle school is something to be dreaded but not for Maggie. She is one of those kids who loves school and is anxious for it to start again. 

This year she has decided to start writing her memoir because as an aspiring president of the United States it will come in handy. It is here that Maggie shares her story with the reader and lets us know about her love of school, reading, the big changes in her family, dad gets sick and mom goes back to work, and their love of music. Her observations are wide ranging from her dad’s multiple sclerosis, butterscotch to the unbreakable Law of Mom are sometimes serious but always entertaining. Follow along as this unforgettable character negotiates her way through a challenging year. 

For readers in grades 4-7

LATEST eBOOKS- THE EARTH KINGDOM CHRONICLES SERIES

Earth, Fire, Water, and Air are the four nations that live in Aang's world.  When Aang was twelve years old, the leader of the Fire Nation became power hungry and wanted to take control of all four nations.  Aang was the last known survivor of the Air Nation, so he had to encapsulate himself and his trusted pet Apa in ice in order to survive.  For one hundred years, no one knew he had survived until two people form the Water Nation discovered his ice tomb and rescued him.  Now that he's free, it is up to him to learn the ancient fighting techniques from all four nations.  Who will teach him?

Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko are the creators of this incredibly exciting adventure filled with humor, suspense, love, and friendship.  Readers in the 4th grade and up can now enjoy The Earth Kingdom Chronicles as an eBook in OverDrive.  Other books in the Avatar: the Last Airbender series are also available to checkout or reserve a copy today.

GOODNIGHT ALREADY!

Bear is exhausted and he's ready to cuddle up in his cozy bed and hug his stuffed bunny until he falls into a peaceful slumber. (Bear is so adorable I just want to tuck him into bed myself!)  Duck, Bear's neighbor, on the other hand, is wide awake and wants to STAY awake.  He thinks up a number of activities that they can do together.  Bear kindly refuses, but, as he grows more tired, his impatience grows.  Eventually he chooses words that get Duck to listen.  Will Bear now enjoy a long slumber or will he actually try out some of Duck's ideas?  

Along with Jory John's humorous dialog, Benji Davies' illustrations adds the right touch to this bedtime story. From the start, readers will just want to tuck Bear into bed.  For adults and children, Pre-K to 2nd, to enjoy together.

LAST WEEK OF PROGRAMS

Last week of storytimes.  
We will have one scavenger hunt May 4-10.  
Lego times, Train Time will continue all through May.  

Summer Reading Program will begin May 28th!  
Get ready for Read to the Rhythm.  
Look for our flyer with all our musical events and special performers.  

TAKE A WALK IN THE WOODS... IF YOU DARE!

This retelling of the Brothers Grimm folktale Hansel & Gretel from Newbery-winner Neil Gaiman and illustrator Lorenzo Mattotti is not for the faint of heart, but should prove a spine-tingling treat to readers who crave spooky stories or like their folktales to maintain some of the original grit. The tone of the tale is as masterfully dark as the black-and-white artwork, appearing every few pages in a breathtaking spread. 

The bleakness of the setting and the desperation of the woodcutter are made palpable through story and pictures, and even readers already familiar with this tale of the siblings lost in the woods and their subsequent encounter with the old woman in the gingerbread house will be newly surprised by the details in this spare but affecting version. However, as grave as this telling can be, it also offers some hope and levity in its conclusion. Gaiman has also included an author's note on the origin and history of the Grimm folktale, which can make for some fascinating reading and may inspire further comparisons with other versions.


Best enjoyed by intrepid readers in grade 3 and up.

CLICK, CLACK, PEEP!

The animals on Farmer Brown's farm eagerly wait for the new addition to the family.  After all, it's been much too quiet on the farm lately.  With an egg cracking here and an egg cracking there, a new baby duck finally arrives!  The animals are elated to have such a cute duckling on the farm.  But they quickly learn how energetic and vivacious a little duck can be, especially when they try to help it settle down for some quiet time. The cows and sheep think of ways to lull this baby duck to sleep, but their efforts fall short.  The one and only Duck thinks of a plan that will leave Farmer Brown speechless and many readers of this feathery tale wanting more.

Doreen Cronin & Betsy Lewin team up again for another humorous adventure that will leave readers wanted more of their stories.  Click, Clack, Peep! will surely be a fun read for children K-2nd grade.

GRAPHIC NOVEL: HIDDEN

Late one night a young girl coaxes a long silenced memory from her grandmother’s childhood. Thus unravels the tale of Dounia, a young Jewish girl living in France, in a Holocaust story set amid the German occupation and French Resistance. Suddenly and inexplicably ostracized from her peers, Dounia endures ridicule at school, separation from her family and home, the rejection of her identity, and the uncertainty of ever again seeing her parents. 

Loic Dauvillier’s graphic novel Hidden: A Child's Story of the Holocaust is a story of injustice, fear, bewilderment, and cruelty. And yet it is also one of compassion, bravery, perseverance, and hope; through the determined efforts of French Resistance groups, many Jewish children like Dounia were clandestinely transported to relative safety. 

As a Holocaust story told to child from a child’s limited perspective the narrative is surprisingly gentle for its subject matter. The illustrations are appealing, if slightly cartoonish, and the text never overwhelms the page. 

An illuminating and worthwhile read for grades 3-6.

AUTHOR VISIT TODAY

Local author Frans Vischer will be visiting the Children's Room Thursday, May 16th at 4 p.m. Join us for a read aloud of Fuddles the Cat's fun adventures.  

Children's Room 
Central Library on Harvard 

FRANS & FUDDLES ON THURSDAY

Frans Vischer will be in the Children's Room tomorrow to read his book Fuddles to help us celebrate National Library Week. 

Join us Thursday, 4/16 at 4-5 p.m. for this author program.  

His books will for be available for purchase through Once Upon a Time Bookstore. 

For more information contact us at: 818-548-2035
Central Library - Children's Room 
222 E. Harvard St. 
Glendale, CA 91205

* This event will be in place of our weekly Art Cart.  

IT'S NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK

Join the Children's Room for a WEEK OF WALDO fun during National Library Week.

WHERE'S WALDO SCAVENGER HUNTS - Find the Waldo eggs hidden in our Children's Room.  Find Live Waldo in the afternoons. 

WALDO BINGO - Tuesday, 4/14/15 at 3-4p.m.

FRANS VISCHER READS FUDDLES & DRAWS - Thursday, 4/16 at 4-5p.m. His books will for be available for purchase through Once Upon a Time Bookstore. 

Check out the other Waldo scavenger hunts at the branches. 

For more information contact us at: 818-548-2035
Central Library - Children's Room 
222 E. Harvard St. 
Glendale, CA 91205

EVA'S TREETOP FESTIVAL

Hoot Hoot! Eva’s Treetop Festival is a cute and quirky early chapter book about an owl named Eva.  Eva’s adorable; she is in Owlementary and decides she wants to organize the Bloomtastic Festival in one week.  Well, what’s an owl to do with such little time? Eva turns to her classmates for help but there’s one girl she dreads asking for help, Sue Clawson (a.k.a. Meany McMeanerson). However, Eva knows she must ask everyone, including Sue for assistance in order for the festival to go on.  Find out if Sue was willing to help out and will the Spring Festival go on? 

This book is the first book in the Owl Diaries Series by Rebecca Elliot.  The book uses a diary-approach to tell a story and it is aimed at newly independent readers.  The pages are filled with easy to read text and illustrations that complement each other.  Elliot covers topics such as friendship and helpfulness.

For grades 2-3 

CAN YOU TALK TO THE ANIMALS?

Meet Ellis Coffey. He's in 4th grade. He makes most of the other kids in class laugh. He's a hard worker. Oh, and he can communicate with animals...sort of. At least that's what he thinks is happening when he finds a "woolly worm" (also know as a caterpillar) that seems to understand everything Ellis says. With such a talent, Ellis thinks he can win the woolly worm race and pay for his dad's much needed back surgery. Will his woolly worm win? THE WORM WHISPERER by Betty Hicks is a cute, simple story with a bit of Christianity thrown in. 

For 3rd through 5th grades.

MARCH 2015

MR. FRANK'S CRAFT

Mr. Frank is a tailor whose career spans over sixty years.  People have worn his pieces during war torn years. Others have enjoyed his craftsmanship during the most exciting eras, when fashion trends were bright and eccentric.  He certainly has made the most exciting pieces!  When Mr. Frank is about to close his shop permanently, he receives a request and is determined to make this last piece the best one ever.

Mr. Frank by author/illustrator Irene Luxbacher is portrayed with such sweetness and shows that he is a master of his craft.  Mr. Frank is a piece of work that resonates with love.  

For families and teachers to enjoy with children ages 5 and up.