SECRET ORIGIN STORIES

By age 15 Jimmy Gownley had already written, illustrated, and self-published his first comic book. The Dumbest Idea Ever is the memoir and secret origin story of a real-life comic book artist who grew up in a small Pennsylvania town. It’s the tale of a lost championship game, chickenpox, pneumonia, friendships, first love, a sudden shift from straight-A student and star athlete to “the kid who used to be special,” and the “dumbest idea ever” that ultimately changed his life. 

Focusing on the author’s life between the ages of 13-15, the graphic novel captures the often difficult transition from middle to high school. The book is dedicated in part to Jimmy’s late friend Tony, who played a significant role in encouraging and inspiring him to write from personal experience. 

Jimmy Gownley’s heartwarming story is a welcome addition to the middle grade graphic novel memoir genre, lately popularized by Raina Telgemeier’s bestseller Smile. For another read alike, try Cece Bell’s El Deafo, which chronicles the author’s early to tween years after a childhood disease leaves her profoundly deaf. 

For grades 4 and up.

THE MAGNIFICENT LIZZIE BROWN AND THE MYSTERIOUS PHANTOM

Lizzie Brown definitely did not see this coming. Lizzie’s life at the Rat’s Castle slums had become unbearable, especially after the passing of her mother and brother.  Lizzie needed to escape her no-good father and leave her stealing ways behind.  Well she finally gets the chance to escape, though not too far, as she finds herself amused by Fitzy’s Traveling Circus in Victorian London and joins the circus and befriending their children.

Lizzie’s excitement was great since she was able to find a job assisting the various performers and it was not until her last job that she stumbled upon her powerful gift.  In the midst of all the changes, London was faced with the recent robberies committed by the Phantom.  It was now up to Lizzie to unveil the true Phantom and help the London citizens.

Read The Magnificent Lizzie Brown and the Mysterious Phantom by Vicki Lockwood and help the Penny Gaff Gang uncover the true identity of the culprit. This book is filled with spirited and strong characters and shrouded in Victorian history and mystery.

For grades 5 and up

A FAMILY OF MALES

The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher by Dana Alison Levy

2 dads, 4 brothers (different ages, different cultures), 1 grumpy new neighbor, 1 imaginary friend (maybe), many pets, a new school, a broken body part, etc .  You get the idea.  

This is a year in the life of the Family Fletcher.  

Sam - 12 years old athlete loves soccer and musical theater. 
Eli - 10 years old intellectual who thinks he's made the wrong choice. 
Jax - 12 years old with a project he keeps putting off.  
Frog - kindergartener with an imaginary friend or two?  

You'll laugh.  
You'll cry.  
You'll cheer. 
You'll empathize.  

For 6th grades and up.  

  

NO PLAY DAY THIS MORNING

THERE WILL BE NO PLAY DAY PROGRAM THIS MORNING, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 DUE TO THE HIGH TEMPERATURE IN THE BUILDING.   WE ARE SORRY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE.  PLEASE CALL US REGARDING TUESDAY'S CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS AT 818-548-2035 TOMORROW MORNING.

OUR OTHER BRANCHES, CASA VERDUGO AND LIBRARY CONNECTION @ ADAMS SQUARE WILL BE OPEN AT 10AM TODAY FOR YOUR LIBRARY NEEDS. 

WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE, 
THE CHILDREN'S ROOM 

WE ARE CLOSED TODAY

The Library will be closed today, Sunday, September 13, 2015 due to the high temperature in the building.  We are sorry for the inconvenience.  Please check back with us tomorrow morning. 

A NEW FAR OUT GRAPHIC SERIES...UMMM... NEW COMIC BOOKS

A new contender to enter the chaotic foray of graphic novels is a series of amazing fractured fairy tales by many different authors and illustrators.  

Red Riding Hood, Superhero:  a Graphic Novel by Otis Frampton

When Red Riding Hood (RRH) visited Area 54 some years ago, a very frightened alien threw his magical red cape at her giving the young girl extraordinary powers such as laser-ray vision and super strength. In this action-packed version, Grandma is no helpless elderly lady but the president of the United States, RRH is empowered, her mom is still clueless and our canine villain, Professor Grimm,built himself a giant wolf robot in order to kidnap the president while trying to also rid himself of the awesome superhero. This fractured tale is has a great layout and fantastic illustrations.  

Reviewed by Cecile 

In Ninja-rella by Joey Comeau and illustrated by Omar Lozano, the expected path for the trod-upon title orphan gets turned on its head. Her stepmother and stepsisters are still evil and self-serving, but instead of having starry-eyed aspirations of marrying the prince, Ninja-rella dreams of protecting him with her fierce ninja skills. And when her fairy godninja sends her to the royal ball with a special glass katana sword, she finally gets her chance. But when she must flee at midnight, she leaves the glass sword behind--the only clue by which the prince might find his new royal bodyguard. This twist on the classic fairy tale Cinderella, is a empowering and action-packed story, sure to make readers cheer for the katana-wielding heroine.

Reviewed by Meghan

Super Billy Goats Gruff: a Graphic Novel by Sean Tulien; illustrated by Fernando Cano

In a retelling of The Three Billy Goats Gruff by Sean Tulien, two squabbling billy goats and their mediating brother embark on an unexpected journey when they consume three mysterious mushrooms en route to their favorite grassy hillside. Unbeknownst to the hungry goats, these curiously pixelated, Minecraft-styled mushrooms endow super powers, transforming them into the Ninja-Goat, Wizard-Goat, and Warrior-Goat. Transported to a grim landscape where a dark castle awaits them, the new Super Billy Goats Gruff must battle their way through a trove of video gaming references, including giant directional arrows, diverging paths, mysterious doors, magical monsters, boss fights, and power ups. It’s a wacky, action-packed, fractured fairy tale, graphic novel, multiplayer video game kind of adventure, where the winner is crowned the fattest goat of all time.
Reviewed by Sherry

Also check out Snow White and the Seven Robots where everyone in Techworld is green skinned except for Snow White, who with her white skin, red lips, black hair and seven additional virtues is the smartest of of them all for which she has been exiled to another world far from the ruling queen.

Each entry in the Far Out Fairy Tales graphic novel series include some excellent backmatter to communicate information in a highly entertaining way, including an explanation of the origins of the tale, a quick rundown of the twists seen in this version, a glossary, and a set of “visual questions” meant to show story comprehension and analysis in the graphic format.

Any one of these tales will make lively and engaging reads for kids in 3rd grade and up.

INTRODUCING BUNJITSU BUNNY

In a series of thirteen vignettes, Isabel, nicknamed Bunjitsu Bunny, proves her mastery. The animated young rabbit, though expertly trained and admirably skilled, accomplishes this not by kicking higher, hitting harder, or throwing further than others, but rather by exploring alternatives to expected solutions. Whether she is confronting monsters in her dreams, helping a friend redefine his abilities and self-perception, or schooling pirates, Isabel approaches each challenge with indomitable spirit.

Though there’s a lesson to be learned with every tale, the tone strikes a perfect balance to avoid seeming overly moralistic. Bold black and white illustrations on every page lend themselves well, deftly capturing the movement and spirit of each character. John Himmelman’s Tales of a Bunjitsu Bunny is a celebration of humor, wisdom, kindness, and creative thinking. A second book, Bunjitsu Bunny's Best Move, is set to be published October 2015.

For grades 1 and up.

FAMILY TIES

Eleven-year-old Jaden lives with his loving adoptive parents and has everything he needs, but he is still not very happy. He feels betrayed by his biological parents who gave him up, and constantly feels like his adoptive parents are disappointed in him. The only thing he really cares about is electricity, which he did not have in the Romanian orphanage where he was raised. Now, his adoptive parents are taking him to Kazakhstan to adopt a baby brother for him, and Jaden is as usual not very happy. When they get to Kazakhstan, Jaden and his parents encounter many challenges, but there are also surprising silver linings. And what Jaden does not expect to find is a friend, and a kid he won't mind calling his brother.

Half a World Away is a book that deals with international adoption, which is a tough but fascinating topic. It is a realistic fiction novel that's smart and easy to read, and provides great insight about what it is to be a family.


For grades 5 and up.

PROGRAMS STARTS TODAY

Storytimes and all our programs will begin Tuesday, September 8, 2015.  

MONDAYS, 10-12- PLAY DAY: A PLAYTIME FOR KIDS 5 AND YOUNGER.  
TUESDAYS, 10-12- TODDLER CRAFT: AN INDEPENDENT GLUE & COLOR TIME
WEDSNEDSAYS, 10:30- PUPPY TALES AND PLAYTIME UNTIL 12
THURSDAYS, 10:30 - MOTHERGOOSE AND ME: A BABY STORYTIME
FRIDAYS, CLOSED 

WE WILL BE CLOSED...

FRIDAY,  SEPTEMBER 4 - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2015. 

SEE YOU TUESDAY.  

HAPPY LABOR DAY WEEKEND! 

MURDER IN SPACE

Imagine being one of the first humans to live on the moon. Pretty cool, right?  When Dashiell Gibson and his family were invited to live on Moon Base Alpha, they were promised a once in a  lifetime experience. Upon his arrival, Dash realized that the place was not at all what they were promised. He wished he and his family had stayed in Hawaii instead. His parents, both scientists, spent most of their days working, which left all the kids to find things to do on their own. With limited space, activities, and terrible food, Dash became very bored with his new living situation. 

One night, Dash heard the top scientist, Dr. Holtz, talking to someone about making a big announcement the next day. However, by morning he was discovered dead. They announced his death as an accident but Dash, having heard Dr. Holtz the previous night, believed it was a murder and he wasn't the only person to believe this. Will Dash find the murderer amongst them? 

Space Case by Stuart Gibbs is the first book of the Moon Base Alpha series is especially good for readers interested in learning about space and space travel. This book is recommended for grades 4-8.  

A DOG'S BREAKFAST

It’s always a good idea to be nice.  Here’s why: Sometimes there are consequences for our bad behavior.  Here’s a story about a boy named Glen who loves to complain and lie.  One day Glen strays away from his classmates on a class trip in the woods. He encounters a tiny creature who helps him find his way back to his classmates.  But Glen does what he does best…complains. The tiny creature warns him that if he continues with his awful behavior, he will turn into something more useful. Of course Glen ignores the warning. After he returns to his class he realizes something has changed. He refrains from his usual meanness until he comes across a stray dog and kicks it when he thinks no one’s looking, which triggers the final change. 

Read A Dog's Breakfast and find out what happened to mean Glen. This is a quick read by Annie Graves with black and white illustrations by Glenn McElhinney.

For grades 3+

RESCUES IN TIME

Ranger always knew he was destined to be a search-and-rescue dog. He’s had all the proper training, and with his powerful nose he’s never failed to find his mark. Sure the spirited golden retriever has a tendency to be distracted by squirrels, but really, what dog could possibly resist the allure of a bushy tail racing past? 

It’s during one of these exuberant squirrel chases that Ranger uncovers a mysterious metal box in his backyard and suddenly finds himself traveling back in time to Independence, Missouri, circa 1850. Though Ranger longs to be reunited with his own family in his own time, it’s soon clear to him that he’s been sent to watch over the Abbott family as they embark on the historic Oregon Trail and that he won’t return home until this mission is complete. 

Fans of Mary Pope Osborne’s The Magic Treehouse Series will enjoy this well-researched historical (with a hint of magic) tale. Ranger in Time: Rescue on the Oregon Trail by Kate Messner is the first of a series, followed by Danger in Ancient Rome (June 2015) and Long Road to Freedom (December 2015). The book includes an author’s note with historical background and references. 

For grades 2-4.

"FIRST COMES LOVE, THEN COMES MARRIAGE"

...So begins The Case for Loving, a moving nonfiction picture book centered on the Loving v. Virginia supreme court case and the fight for interracial marriage. Only the year is 1958 and Richard Loving, a white man, and Mildred Jeter, part black and part Cherokee, live in the state of Virginia, where it was against the law for people of different races to marry. Though they must relocate to Washington, DC, in order to live together and raise their family, they keep fighting a lengthy legal battle to make sure families like theirs may be allowed to live in all fifty states by 1967.

Accompanied by the gentle yet evocotive paint-and-collage art by Sean Qualls and the book's author Selina Alko, Alko's text is powerful in its simplicity. It might be hard for young readers to imagine a time in America where interracial marriage could land people in jail, and this nonfiction picture book manages to deftly examine the historical injustice through the experience of one family in a straightforward, age-appropriate, and relatably poignant way.

An author's note, words about the art, sources, and suggestions for further reading are included so that parents or teachers might expand on the discussion, but this story of love, family, and standing up for what's right will resonate with young readers in its own right.

Recommend for 3rd grade and up.

WORDS ARE WAITING TO BE READ---NEW IDEAS TO FILL MY HEAD

Young Hippo is very excited to visit the library with her father.  She explores the different subject books in hopes of finding great books for herself.  As she discovers the different sections, her imagination takes her into each story. 

Books for Me! by Sue Fliess, gives children an understanding of the different kinds of books that are available at the library with many references to classic children’s literature.  Illustrator, Mike Laughead's  wonderful artwork brings the book titles to life in each page.  The amazing illustrations and rhyming words in this book emphasize the joy of reading and libraries.  A must-read for all children!

WHEN YOU NEED A FRIEND

Watch out the storm is coming. What should we do? Read When You Need a Friend by Suzanne Chiew.

Rabbit, Hedgehog, Bird and Mouse hurried straight to Badger’s house.  Worried that the storm would destroy their homes, they turned to the Badger for help.  Badger, a true friend, did not let his friends down; he helped each one sturdy up their home.  When it was time for him to go he was caught in the storm, so Rabbit asked Badger to stay with them until morning. When they woke up the next morning they found the old oak tree, where Badger lived, destroyed.  So, the four friends helped Badger rebuild his home.

This is a heart-warming story about friendship, with bright and colorful illustrations by Caroline Pedler.

For Ages 4 -6

DINOSAUR PARTY!

Imagine receiving an invitation to a dinosaur's party. How exciting, right? A young boy attends a dinosaur party and for the most part he has a great time, with the exception of one dinosaur who tries to grill him and a T-Rex who chases him. Luckily he makes it home safely only to find out he accidentally took the wrong party bag.  

The Dinosaurs Are Having a Party by Gareth P. Jones, illustrations by Garry Parsons, is a wonderfully written picture book.  With beautiful, bright illustrations and rhyming story, this would be a great read aloud for a preschool audience.

THE FANCIEST CAR IN THE UNIVERSE

LOWRIDERS IN SPACE by Cathy Camper is a unique graphic novel because the illustrator Raul the Third did all the art work with three colors of ball point pen! He does a fantastic job of helping to tell the story of Lupe Impala, a female mechanic, El Chavo Flapjack, a car detailing octopus, and Elirio Malario, a Zoot Suit wearing mosquito who does amazing car paint jobs! Why do they do all of this? Because they love cars. All they need to do now is win the Universal Car Competition so they can open their very own garage instead of working for "el jefe". Their lowrider turns out being out of this world! Many car lovers and those that appreciate great drawing will be drawn to this book, but it's especially good for 4th - 8th grades.

CLANK, BLUB, BUZZ, SPLASH

“The Wimbledons were sleeping. It was very, very late, when Wilma heard a spooky sound, which made her sit up straight.”


If you’ve ever had a dog (or lived next door to one) you might not be surprised to hear late-night barking. For the sleeping Wimbledon family, however, their pet’s soulful howling is only the first of a series of increasingly bizarre circumstances that continue to disrupt their sleep. As clanking, blubbing, buzzing, and splashy noises echo through the night, the Wimbledon children file into their parents’ bedroom one by one. Little Wendy is followed by Willie, who is even later followed by Wanda and Wylie in turn. 
As the book title suggests, Mr. Wimbledon dismisses his family’s escalating concerns after each investigation with a blithe “It’s only Stanley…” Meanwhile, Stanley is revealed to be a dog of many talents as he switches from allegedly “fixing the oil tank” to “making catfish stew.” Walter’s interpretations predictably miss the mark. As for Stanley’s true intent, let’s say it rhymes with “KABOOM.”
In It’s Only Stanley, Jon Agee has created a humorous, noisy picture book mystery. With even rhythm and rhyming, it’s a lovely book to share with a group or one-on-one. Best appreciated by preschoolers and older.

SECRET AGENT

Darren Dirkowitz, an adventurous and spy-obsessed fifth grader, lives a double life as Dirk Daring Secret Agent. His opportunity to take on a real mission comes when his stepbrother gets a hold of his top-secret spy journal. For fear of it getting leaked to the students of Preston Middle School, Darren and his best friend “T-bone” set out to complete some spy work at the school for his evil brother. However, an unexpected turn of events occurs as Darren gets further into his mission. 


Read to find out what happens when friendships are tested and secrets are revealed in this amusing narrative filled with appealing illustrations.  Dirk Daring, Secret Agent by Helaine Becker is a perfect read for students who enjoy spy adventures. This book is for grades 4-6. 

REFORMED FAIRY TALE VILLAINS?

OUR MISSION:  TO TURN WICKED DELINQUENTS AND FORMER VILLAINS INTO FUTURE HEROES.  

Can "baddies" really be reformed?
All is not as it seems at Fairy Tale Reform School just outside of Enchantasia where the teachers are former fairy tale villains and the new student, Gillian, knows something strange is happening.
Flunked is new a fast-paced fantasy adventure for 4th-6th grader readers by Jen Calonita.  

LAST CALL FOR SUMMER LOGS!

Your family was on vacation?  
You just got your log last week? 
You forgot all about your summer reading log? 
Well, bring it in if you still have it.  You worked hard reading those eight books so come and turn it in so you can get your book prize and a few other goodies at the Central library.
We're open seven days a week.  

TWO GIRLS AND THE MYSTERY OF THE PREGNANT DOG

In The Disappearance at Hangman's Bluff, J.E. Thompson writes another suspenseful mystery set on the Reward Planation in South Carolina. Abbey and Bee are back and this time they can't figure out why someone would steal Yemassee, their neighbor, the judge's pregnant dog.  While searching for Yemassee they encounter the mean girl from school and her family, who blames Abbey's dad, who had just come out of a long coma, for their recent misfortunes and vows revenge. 


Set against the backdrop of a summer storm, this complex mystery adventure weaves in the history of slavery, black and white relationships and human compassion. Check out the other book as well, The Girl From Felony Bay.  
For readers in 6th - 8th grades. 

GOBLINS, GHOULS, ROYALTY AND CHEFS OF THE UINDERWORLD

Yup, apparently there are chefs in the underworld, in the form of vampires that like to bake. At least that is what Andi Watson implies in her graphic novel called PRINCESS DECOMPOSIA AND COUNT SPATULA. Decomposia, or Dee for short, is a little overwhelmed with the duties of her father the king. He is much too unwell to handle his normal duties, which might be because all he eats are kippers and carrot water! You will have to read it for yourself and tell me what you think because I think this book is just SILLY!!! Definitely for 4th-8th grades.


JUNE 2015

HAVE YOU READ THE MOCKINGBIRD BOOK?

When Lucy, Elena, and Michael receive their summer reading list, they are excited to see To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee included, but not everyone in their class share their enthusiasm so they hatch a plot to get the entire town talking about the this Harper Lee classic. They plan controversial ways to get people to read the book, including re-shelving copies of the book in bookstores so that people think they are missing and starting a website devoted to targeting "the mockingbird." At first their efforts have the intended buzz and people are hungry for the book, but soon things spin out of control and they unwittingly start a mini revolution in the name of book. 

In this slim novel, I Kill the Mockingbird by Paul Acompora will inspire middle grade readers to want to read this  American classic.  This is not a story for everyone, but for mature readers from 6th grade and up.  

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.