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.  

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.  

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

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.  

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.  

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. 

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. 

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.

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.  

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.  

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.  

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.

NELLY GNU AND DADDY TOO

Anna Dewdney has done it again with Nelly Gnu and Daddy Too. This is a charming book that parents can enjoy reading with their children, especially on Father’s Day.  The story is written with rhymes and has beautiful colorful illustrations. Children are introduced to creativity and can learn about measurements, picking colors, painting, decorating and much more.

Nelly is excited to spend some quality time with her father. Nelly loves her father very much and both of them decide to make a playhouse for her from a large box. Both draw out the measurements and paint some bright flowers on the front of the house.

For Ages 4-6 

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.