Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
SUMMARY: Intense is the word for Ender's Game. Aliens have attacked Earth twice and almost destroyed the human species. To make sure humans win the next encounter, the world government has taken to breeding military geniuses--and then training them in the arts of war. The early training, not surprisingly, takes the form of war games. Ender Wiggin is a genius among geniuses; he wins all the games. He is smart enough to know that time is running out. But is he smart enough to save the planet? (adapted from the New York Times)
OPINION: This is a YA classic that I have never been interested in, until Megan declared it a "must read" to me a few weeks ago. It totally involved me in a way I did not expect from a science fiction book. (I keep saying I don't read sci-fi, and then I end up liking the books, so maybe I should just accept that I like to read it!) Sci-fi can always get to the big questions of life because it puts distance between us and our problems through time and technology. This book really deals with issues like globalization, war, race relations, media, and schooling but the sci-fi plot is what kept me reading. Going to Ender's school and playing the war games would be pretty cool, except for the fact that graduation lands you in the middle of a real interstellar war...
4.25.2006
4.18.2006
Book Review: The Wings of Merlin
The Wings of Merlin by T. A. Barron
SUMMARY: Although Merlin's mastery of his powers continues to grow, he now faces a particularly daunting challenge: Fincayra and the Otherworld will soon come together and Rhita Gawr, warlord of the spirit world, and his evil forces will invade. Merlin's only hope is to get Fincayran creatures and races to put aside their distrust of one another and do battle together. As the fast-paced story winds to a conclusion, Merlin faces his most difficult decision yet. A love of the natural world and sense of spirituality infuse the saga as a whole, and we see Merlin, who has come to understand his dark side as well as his strengths and ideals, finally ready to become the legendary magician and mentor to King Arthur. (excerpted from the Booklist review)
OPINION: This is book 5 in the Lost Years of Merlin series. Megan G. recommended these to me a while ago, and I finally finished the entire series! Even though our discussion of the first book didn't go over too well in book group last month, the series is great independent reading. Some good books just aren't good for discussion! This last book is a wonderful ending, and the whole series does a great job of developing how Merlin could indeed have become the great magician of legend.
SUMMARY: Although Merlin's mastery of his powers continues to grow, he now faces a particularly daunting challenge: Fincayra and the Otherworld will soon come together and Rhita Gawr, warlord of the spirit world, and his evil forces will invade. Merlin's only hope is to get Fincayran creatures and races to put aside their distrust of one another and do battle together. As the fast-paced story winds to a conclusion, Merlin faces his most difficult decision yet. A love of the natural world and sense of spirituality infuse the saga as a whole, and we see Merlin, who has come to understand his dark side as well as his strengths and ideals, finally ready to become the legendary magician and mentor to King Arthur. (excerpted from the Booklist review)
OPINION: This is book 5 in the Lost Years of Merlin series. Megan G. recommended these to me a while ago, and I finally finished the entire series! Even though our discussion of the first book didn't go over too well in book group last month, the series is great independent reading. Some good books just aren't good for discussion! This last book is a wonderful ending, and the whole series does a great job of developing how Merlin could indeed have become the great magician of legend.
4.15.2006
Book Review: Shade's Children
Shade's Children by Garth Nix
SUMMARY: In the brutal world of Shade's Children, your 14th birthday is your last. Malevolent Overlords rule the earth, directing hideous, humanoid creatures to harvest the brains and muscles of teens for use in engineering foul beasts to fight senseless wars. Young Gold-Eye escapes this horrific fate, fleeing the dormitories before his Sad Birthday. He is rescued from certain doom by other refugees who live in an abandoned submarine and work for Shade, a strange, computer-generated adult. Shade provides food and shelter in exchange for information that the children gather on dangerous forays into Overlord territory. But what does Shade really want? (from the Amazon.com review)
OPINION: Someone in book group recommended this book to me (sorry, can't remember who), and I was totally into it. I think I might even put it on a future book group voting list. I am not usually a science fiction reader, but this book surprised me. It has a lot of dystopian fantasy elements and tons of action and adventure that kept me reading. We don't have it in our YA section, so make sure to request it from another library and fill out at request slip for our library to buy it!
SUMMARY: In the brutal world of Shade's Children, your 14th birthday is your last. Malevolent Overlords rule the earth, directing hideous, humanoid creatures to harvest the brains and muscles of teens for use in engineering foul beasts to fight senseless wars. Young Gold-Eye escapes this horrific fate, fleeing the dormitories before his Sad Birthday. He is rescued from certain doom by other refugees who live in an abandoned submarine and work for Shade, a strange, computer-generated adult. Shade provides food and shelter in exchange for information that the children gather on dangerous forays into Overlord territory. But what does Shade really want? (from the Amazon.com review)
OPINION: Someone in book group recommended this book to me (sorry, can't remember who), and I was totally into it. I think I might even put it on a future book group voting list. I am not usually a science fiction reader, but this book surprised me. It has a lot of dystopian fantasy elements and tons of action and adventure that kept me reading. We don't have it in our YA section, so make sure to request it from another library and fill out at request slip for our library to buy it!
4.08.2006
Book Review: Wrecked
Wrecked by E. R. Frank (NEW!)
SUMMARY: Dear anyone who cared about Cameron, I was the driver of the "other" car. The police and my mother and father and plenty of people are saying that I didn't kill her. But I know I did. That's what her parents must believe. And my brother, Jack. He always sees what's true. I want to tell him how sorry I am about the accident. I want to say a lot of things to him and to everybody. Like how Cameron was smart and beautiful and kind in a way that isn't all that common in high school. Like how much Jack loved her and how sometimes I can hear him crying through the wall at night. I want to say how bad everything can get. In one split second. Upside down and shattered. Just like that. Wrecked. (from the inside flap)
OPINION: By the time you graduate, at least one person in your school will have died in a car accident. But what if you were the driver of the other car? And you still had to go to that high school? And, to compound it all, it was your brother's girlfriend who died? That's the essence of this tragic and painful story about the aftermath of a late night accident. It was hard to read at times because of the heavy feelings it brought out in me, but ultimately I was proud of the characters and pleased with the realistic ending. This book is serious, but definitely worth your time.
SUMMARY: Dear anyone who cared about Cameron, I was the driver of the "other" car. The police and my mother and father and plenty of people are saying that I didn't kill her. But I know I did. That's what her parents must believe. And my brother, Jack. He always sees what's true. I want to tell him how sorry I am about the accident. I want to say a lot of things to him and to everybody. Like how Cameron was smart and beautiful and kind in a way that isn't all that common in high school. Like how much Jack loved her and how sometimes I can hear him crying through the wall at night. I want to say how bad everything can get. In one split second. Upside down and shattered. Just like that. Wrecked. (from the inside flap)
OPINION: By the time you graduate, at least one person in your school will have died in a car accident. But what if you were the driver of the other car? And you still had to go to that high school? And, to compound it all, it was your brother's girlfriend who died? That's the essence of this tragic and painful story about the aftermath of a late night accident. It was hard to read at times because of the heavy feelings it brought out in me, but ultimately I was proud of the characters and pleased with the realistic ending. This book is serious, but definitely worth your time.
4.03.2006
Book Review: Gregor the Overlander
Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins
SUMMARY: When Gregor falls through a grate in the laundry room of his apartment building, he hurtles into the dark Underland, where spiders, rats, cockroaches coexist uneasily with humans. This world is on the brink of war, and Gregor's arrival is no accident. A prophecy foretells that Gregor has a role to play in the Underland's uncertain future. Gregor wants no part of it--until he realizes it's the only way to solve the mystery of his father's disappearance. Reluctantly, Gregor embarks on a dangerous adventure that will change both him and the Underland forever.
OPINION: This tale of underground adventure is part City of Ember, part Alice in Wonderland, and part Kafka. Trying to keep an eye on his toddler sister, Gregor falls down a vent into a mysterious world under New York City populated by giant rats, huge bugs, and a pale race of humans. It is a really creepy place, from which he cannot escape. This is an epic adventure, with a quest, betrayal, and plenty of battles. And it is only the first in a series called the Underland Chronicles. The fourth book is coming out at the beginning of May, so you have time to read the first three books now! I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
SUMMARY: When Gregor falls through a grate in the laundry room of his apartment building, he hurtles into the dark Underland, where spiders, rats, cockroaches coexist uneasily with humans. This world is on the brink of war, and Gregor's arrival is no accident. A prophecy foretells that Gregor has a role to play in the Underland's uncertain future. Gregor wants no part of it--until he realizes it's the only way to solve the mystery of his father's disappearance. Reluctantly, Gregor embarks on a dangerous adventure that will change both him and the Underland forever.
OPINION: This tale of underground adventure is part City of Ember, part Alice in Wonderland, and part Kafka. Trying to keep an eye on his toddler sister, Gregor falls down a vent into a mysterious world under New York City populated by giant rats, huge bugs, and a pale race of humans. It is a really creepy place, from which he cannot escape. This is an epic adventure, with a quest, betrayal, and plenty of battles. And it is only the first in a series called the Underland Chronicles. The fourth book is coming out at the beginning of May, so you have time to read the first three books now! I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
3.29.2006
Book Review: Birdwing
Birdwing by Rafe Martin
SUMMARY: Once upon a time, a girl rescued her six brothers from a spell that had turned them into swans. But one boy, Ardwin, was left with the scar of the spell's last gasp: one arm remained a wing. And while Ardwin yearned to find a place in his father's kingdom, the wing whispered to him of open sky and rushing wind. Marked by difference, Ardwin sets out to discover who he is: bird or boy, crippled or sound, cursed or blessed. But followed by the cold eye of a sorceress and with war rumbling at his kingdom's borders, Ardwin's path may lead him not to enlightenment, but into unimaginable danger.
OPINION: You might remember the author of this book, Rafe Martin, from your younger days. He wrote The Rough Face Girl, which is often used by elementary school teachers. You might also remember the fairy tale this story is based on, called The Six Swans. That fairy tale ends when all the boys are rescued with shirts that break the swan spell. Unfortunately, one shirt isn't completely finished, and the youngest boy is left with a wing. This story takes up where the other leaves off. Sure, he was rescued, but did he really want to be? Why did he get the unfinished shirt? How is he supposed to fit in when he only has one arm and his wing won't behave? Is there a place for him in his father's kingdom? If you have read other fairy tale books (like those by Donna Jo Napoli), you will be captivated by this beautifully written story.
SUMMARY: Once upon a time, a girl rescued her six brothers from a spell that had turned them into swans. But one boy, Ardwin, was left with the scar of the spell's last gasp: one arm remained a wing. And while Ardwin yearned to find a place in his father's kingdom, the wing whispered to him of open sky and rushing wind. Marked by difference, Ardwin sets out to discover who he is: bird or boy, crippled or sound, cursed or blessed. But followed by the cold eye of a sorceress and with war rumbling at his kingdom's borders, Ardwin's path may lead him not to enlightenment, but into unimaginable danger.
OPINION: You might remember the author of this book, Rafe Martin, from your younger days. He wrote The Rough Face Girl, which is often used by elementary school teachers. You might also remember the fairy tale this story is based on, called The Six Swans. That fairy tale ends when all the boys are rescued with shirts that break the swan spell. Unfortunately, one shirt isn't completely finished, and the youngest boy is left with a wing. This story takes up where the other leaves off. Sure, he was rescued, but did he really want to be? Why did he get the unfinished shirt? How is he supposed to fit in when he only has one arm and his wing won't behave? Is there a place for him in his father's kingdom? If you have read other fairy tale books (like those by Donna Jo Napoli), you will be captivated by this beautifully written story.
3.19.2006
Book Review: Avalon High
Avalon High by Meg Cabot (NEW!)
SUMMARY: Avalon High seems like a typical high school, attended by typical students: There's Lance, the jock. Jennifer, the cheerleader. And Will, senior class president, quarterback, and all-around good guy. But not everybody at Avalon High is who they appear to be ... not even, as new student Ellie is about to discover, herself. What part does she play in the drama that is unfolding? What if the bizarre chain of events and coincidences she has pieced together means -- as with the court of King Arthur -- tragedy is fast approaching Avalon High? Worst of all, what if there's nothing she can do about it? (from the inside flap)
OPINION: Last summer's reading theme was JOUST READ, and it was all about medieval times. We even had Camelot Night (a bit late, but we had it)! This book takes the legend of King Arthur and brings it into the present day. Ellie's parents are medieval scholars, and she starts to see parallels between the people at her school and the stories she has heard all her life. Is it possible that the legends about King Arthur's return could be true? This book is part romance, part English lesson, and part mystery. I am not a Princess Diaries fan, but I really liked this book by Meg Cabot!
WEBSITE: Read an excerpt of the book and do a crossword puzzle on the Avalon High page of Meg Cabot's website.
SUMMARY: Avalon High seems like a typical high school, attended by typical students: There's Lance, the jock. Jennifer, the cheerleader. And Will, senior class president, quarterback, and all-around good guy. But not everybody at Avalon High is who they appear to be ... not even, as new student Ellie is about to discover, herself. What part does she play in the drama that is unfolding? What if the bizarre chain of events and coincidences she has pieced together means -- as with the court of King Arthur -- tragedy is fast approaching Avalon High? Worst of all, what if there's nothing she can do about it? (from the inside flap)
OPINION: Last summer's reading theme was JOUST READ, and it was all about medieval times. We even had Camelot Night (a bit late, but we had it)! This book takes the legend of King Arthur and brings it into the present day. Ellie's parents are medieval scholars, and she starts to see parallels between the people at her school and the stories she has heard all her life. Is it possible that the legends about King Arthur's return could be true? This book is part romance, part English lesson, and part mystery. I am not a Princess Diaries fan, but I really liked this book by Meg Cabot!
WEBSITE: Read an excerpt of the book and do a crossword puzzle on the Avalon High page of Meg Cabot's website.
3.16.2006
Book Review: Jason & Kyra
Jason & Kyra by Dana Davidson
SUMMARY: Jason is a basketball star and one of the most popular guys in school. Brainy Kyra isn't popular, but she doesn't much care what other people think. Under normal circumstances, Jason and Kyra would live in their separate worlds until graduation. But fate intervenes, and the unlikely duo is paired up for a class project. Although preconceived notions abound on both sides, Kyra soon realizes that Jason is not the dumb jock she anticipated. And Jason finds himself telling Kyra things he can't even tell his best friend. As the two become close and eventually start to fall in love, no one in school can believe it, especially Jason's ex-girlfriend, who is determined to get him back. Being together means navigating the obstacles that are coming their way, but staying apart may be impossible. (from the inside flap)
OPINION: In some ways, this book is typical chic-lit teen romance. Do two unlikely people fall in love? Yes. Do others try to keep them apart? Naturally. Is there a happy ending? Of course. But in other ways, this book couldn't be more different. For one thing, the characters are wealthy African-Americans in suburban Detroit. There is not too much chic-lit featuring minority characters, let alone ones that live in unromantic places like Detroit. The characters are also all talented magnet school students, with abilities in areas both athletic and academic. The plot is dramatic and really captures the angst of true love and high-school. The author knows what she is talking about...she's a teacher! (The writing style reminds me a lot of Sharon Draper, who is also a teacher.) Look for this book if you need a romantic read with some substance.
SUMMARY: Jason is a basketball star and one of the most popular guys in school. Brainy Kyra isn't popular, but she doesn't much care what other people think. Under normal circumstances, Jason and Kyra would live in their separate worlds until graduation. But fate intervenes, and the unlikely duo is paired up for a class project. Although preconceived notions abound on both sides, Kyra soon realizes that Jason is not the dumb jock she anticipated. And Jason finds himself telling Kyra things he can't even tell his best friend. As the two become close and eventually start to fall in love, no one in school can believe it, especially Jason's ex-girlfriend, who is determined to get him back. Being together means navigating the obstacles that are coming their way, but staying apart may be impossible. (from the inside flap)
OPINION: In some ways, this book is typical chic-lit teen romance. Do two unlikely people fall in love? Yes. Do others try to keep them apart? Naturally. Is there a happy ending? Of course. But in other ways, this book couldn't be more different. For one thing, the characters are wealthy African-Americans in suburban Detroit. There is not too much chic-lit featuring minority characters, let alone ones that live in unromantic places like Detroit. The characters are also all talented magnet school students, with abilities in areas both athletic and academic. The plot is dramatic and really captures the angst of true love and high-school. The author knows what she is talking about...she's a teacher! (The writing style reminds me a lot of Sharon Draper, who is also a teacher.) Look for this book if you need a romantic read with some substance.
3.12.2006
Anagrams
To form an anagram, just rearrange the letters in a word or phrase to spell another word or phrase. For example, an anagram of SPOT is POTS. For harder anagrams, check out this online anagram server. Just type in your words, and it will give you all the possible combinations.
One funny anagram of SELLERS LIBRARY is SLY LIBERALS ERR. I wonder what that says about us?? An anagram of GRETCHEN IPOCK is CROCHET PEKING. I don't think that has any real meaning, but it's funny!! Go to the website and try some phrases like your name, your school, your town, etc.
One funny anagram of SELLERS LIBRARY is SLY LIBERALS ERR. I wonder what that says about us?? An anagram of GRETCHEN IPOCK is CROCHET PEKING. I don't think that has any real meaning, but it's funny!! Go to the website and try some phrases like your name, your school, your town, etc.
3.11.2006
Book Review: The Perfect Shot
The Perfect Shot by Elaine Marie Alphin
SUMMARY: This engrossing thriller weaves issues of civil rights, racial prejudice, the judicial system, and the lessons of history into a suspenseful tale of a high-school senior who wants to do the right thing. Brian's girlfriend, Amanda; her brother; and their mother are shot to death in their garage. The husband and father of the family is put on trial for the crime. On the day of the murders, however, Brian saw something that he thinks might affect the case. What might have been a straightforward mystery grows richer as Brian compares Amanda's father's situation to the 1913 Leo Frank murder case he is researching for class. Another thread follows the arrest of Brian's friend and basketball teammate Julius, one of the few African Americans in their small Indiana town. Brian's personal dilemma--should he speak out and make waves or keep his doubts to himself--will keep readers' attention until the very last page. (adapted from the SLJ review)
OPINION: Brian, captain of the high school basketball team, is under a lot of pressure to do well in school, to lead the team to the championships, and to deal with his grief over the death of Amanda. When a history teacher assigns a major project right in the middle of basketball season, it seems like nothing can possibly go right. But Brian gets assigned to research a court case that seems to have a lot of parallels to Amanda's father's situation. And he starts to wonder if what he saw that day could be the key to proving her father's innocence. This book blends basketball, murder, and history into a gripping mystery that I couldn't put down. I stayed up way past my bedtime to finish it!
SUMMARY: This engrossing thriller weaves issues of civil rights, racial prejudice, the judicial system, and the lessons of history into a suspenseful tale of a high-school senior who wants to do the right thing. Brian's girlfriend, Amanda; her brother; and their mother are shot to death in their garage. The husband and father of the family is put on trial for the crime. On the day of the murders, however, Brian saw something that he thinks might affect the case. What might have been a straightforward mystery grows richer as Brian compares Amanda's father's situation to the 1913 Leo Frank murder case he is researching for class. Another thread follows the arrest of Brian's friend and basketball teammate Julius, one of the few African Americans in their small Indiana town. Brian's personal dilemma--should he speak out and make waves or keep his doubts to himself--will keep readers' attention until the very last page. (adapted from the SLJ review)
OPINION: Brian, captain of the high school basketball team, is under a lot of pressure to do well in school, to lead the team to the championships, and to deal with his grief over the death of Amanda. When a history teacher assigns a major project right in the middle of basketball season, it seems like nothing can possibly go right. But Brian gets assigned to research a court case that seems to have a lot of parallels to Amanda's father's situation. And he starts to wonder if what he saw that day could be the key to proving her father's innocence. This book blends basketball, murder, and history into a gripping mystery that I couldn't put down. I stayed up way past my bedtime to finish it!
3.10.2006
Karaoke and Donkey Konga Report
We had a small but dedicated group of 8 teens show up for Karaoke and Donkey Konga tonight. And they got a bonus...Rachel not only brought Donkey Konga, but also provided Super Smash Brothers Melee. We projected the video games onto the wall, which was excellent. And we sang a variety of karaoke songs, including Walk Like an Egyptian, Louie Louie, Dancing Queen, and Flashdance! It was great to hang out with everyone at our last special teen event (until June).
It might be fun to do a combination DDR/Karaoke event this summer with my XBox. What do you think?
It might be fun to do a combination DDR/Karaoke event this summer with my XBox. What do you think?
3.08.2006
BBYA Display
I took down the Printz Award display this week, but in its place I put up titles from this year's Best Books for Young Adults (BBYA) list. BBYA titles are selected every year to show that YA books cover a range of interesting topics and excellent writing styles. This year's list has 91 great fiction and nonfiction books on it. You can find some of the titles on two display shelves in the Teen Corner.
Here are the BBYA 2006 Top Ten:
(The italicized titles are ones our library owns.)
Here are the BBYA 2006 Top Ten:
(The italicized titles are ones our library owns.)
- Akbar, Said Hyder and Burton, Susan. Come Back to Afghanistan: A California Teenager's Story.
- Bartoletti, Susan Campbell. Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow.
- Buckhanon, Kalisha. Upstate.
- Green, John. Looking for Alaska.
- Lynch, Chris. Inexcusable.
- Meyer, Stephanie. Twilight: A Novel.
- Vaughan, Brian K. Runaways: Volume 1 HC. Illus. by Adrian Alphona.
- Westerfeld, Scott. Peeps.
- Wooding, Chris. Poison.
- Zusak, Markus. I Am the Messenger.
3.06.2006
Book Review: Elsewhere
Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin
SUMMARY: Elsewhere is where fifteen-year-old Liz Hall ends up, after she has died. It is a place so like Earth, yet completely different. Here Liz will age backward from the day of her death until she becomes a baby again and returns to Earth. But Liz wants to turn sixteen, not fourteen again. She wants to get her driver’s license. She wants to graduate from high school and go to college. And now that she’s dead, Liz is being forced to live a life she doesn’t want with a grandmother she has only just met. And it is not going well. How can Liz let go of the only life she has ever known and embrace a new one? Is it possible that a life lived in reverse is no different from a life lived forward? (from the inside flap)
OPINION: This book may sound kind of strange, but it is gorgeously written and very moving. (Yes, it made me cry.) Elsewhere is told from the point of view of a dead main character, much like The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold or The Sledding Hill by Chris Crutcher. A main difference, however, is the story's focus on living the afterlife. This book creates a unique perspective on death by remaking heaven into a place where new decisions can be made. In Elsewhere, you age in reverse, but can still find satisfaction in family, friendship, work, and recreation. It is a very cool imagining of life after death, and it is suprisingly uplifting. We have the book and the book on CD, so you have no excuse for not reading it!
SUMMARY: Elsewhere is where fifteen-year-old Liz Hall ends up, after she has died. It is a place so like Earth, yet completely different. Here Liz will age backward from the day of her death until she becomes a baby again and returns to Earth. But Liz wants to turn sixteen, not fourteen again. She wants to get her driver’s license. She wants to graduate from high school and go to college. And now that she’s dead, Liz is being forced to live a life she doesn’t want with a grandmother she has only just met. And it is not going well. How can Liz let go of the only life she has ever known and embrace a new one? Is it possible that a life lived in reverse is no different from a life lived forward? (from the inside flap)
OPINION: This book may sound kind of strange, but it is gorgeously written and very moving. (Yes, it made me cry.) Elsewhere is told from the point of view of a dead main character, much like The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold or The Sledding Hill by Chris Crutcher. A main difference, however, is the story's focus on living the afterlife. This book creates a unique perspective on death by remaking heaven into a place where new decisions can be made. In Elsewhere, you age in reverse, but can still find satisfaction in family, friendship, work, and recreation. It is a very cool imagining of life after death, and it is suprisingly uplifting. We have the book and the book on CD, so you have no excuse for not reading it!
3.04.2006
Book Review: Played
Played by Dana Davidson
SUMMARY: When one of Ian's boys dares him to get plain-faced Kylie Winship to sleep with him in just three weeks, he thinks it'll be a breeze. Tall and fine, with honey-colored skin and eyes, Ian is used to getting what he wants from girls. And if he succeeds in playing Kylie, he'll be down with the most popular crew in his high school. But this girl, who everyone considers a nobody, is turning out to be more surprising than he ever could have imagined. Kylie has a gut feeling that something's up when Ian Striver starts pursuing her. But how often does one of the hottest guys in school ask you out? Even though she's cautious at first, their relationship heats up quickly, and soon Kylie will have to decide whether to listen to her heart, or her head. (from the inside flap)
OPINION: This book is a romance, but it is devistatingly realistic. It's not all sweetness and light, like some fluffy dime novel. Ian starts talking to Kylie because of a dare, but soon finds out that he actually likes her. Of course, this doesn't mean that he can be with her in front of his friends or even acknowledge her at school. Despite his behavior, Kylie keeps giving him chances because of the way he acts when they are together. He even respects her mom and hangs out with her little siblings. Both Kylie and Ian have to face some harsh realities about themselves and some tough choices about each other. Their decisions aren't always right, but they are authentic. Look for this new book on the shelves!
SUMMARY: When one of Ian's boys dares him to get plain-faced Kylie Winship to sleep with him in just three weeks, he thinks it'll be a breeze. Tall and fine, with honey-colored skin and eyes, Ian is used to getting what he wants from girls. And if he succeeds in playing Kylie, he'll be down with the most popular crew in his high school. But this girl, who everyone considers a nobody, is turning out to be more surprising than he ever could have imagined. Kylie has a gut feeling that something's up when Ian Striver starts pursuing her. But how often does one of the hottest guys in school ask you out? Even though she's cautious at first, their relationship heats up quickly, and soon Kylie will have to decide whether to listen to her heart, or her head. (from the inside flap)
OPINION: This book is a romance, but it is devistatingly realistic. It's not all sweetness and light, like some fluffy dime novel. Ian starts talking to Kylie because of a dare, but soon finds out that he actually likes her. Of course, this doesn't mean that he can be with her in front of his friends or even acknowledge her at school. Despite his behavior, Kylie keeps giving him chances because of the way he acts when they are together. He even respects her mom and hangs out with her little siblings. Both Kylie and Ian have to face some harsh realities about themselves and some tough choices about each other. Their decisions aren't always right, but they are authentic. Look for this new book on the shelves!
3.03.2006
Dr. Seuss Day Success!
Yesterday, the TAB did our first ever program for younger kids. We coordinated activities to celebrate Read Across America Day, which is always March 2 in honor of Dr. Seuss's birthday. Alexa, Arwa, Kara, Laura, Marissa, Megan, and Sara came to run the different stations. Kids and families dropped in after school, despite yucky weather, to enjoy our event. We made hats, painted faces, read stories, and played Pin the Eggs on the Plate. Our most popular station, though, was the macaroni pictures. There were some real Seussian creations there! (And the TAB rocks at dyeing macaroni...all of the library employees were really impressed with the bright colors.) We had about 25 kids come by during a 2-hour time period, which was great! Thanks, TAB, for all the hard work!
3.02.2006
Book Review: Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie
Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick
SUMMARY: Steven Alper is a typical eighth-grader--smarter than some, a better drummer than most, but with the usual girl problems and family trials. Then, on October 7, his five-year-old brother, Jeffrey, falls, has a nosebleed that doesn't stop, and is diagnosed with leukemia. All hell breaks loose. Mrs. Alper's days and nights revolve around getting Jeffrey to his chemotherapy treatments, and Mr. Alper retreats into a shell, coming out only occasionally to weep over the mounting medical bills. Steven becomes the forgotten son, who throws himself into drumming, even as he quits doing his homework and tries to keep his friends from finding out about Jeffrey's illness. Sonneblick shows that even in the midst of tragedy, life goes on, love can flower, and the one thing you can always change is yourself. (adapted from the Booklist review)
OPINION: The main character of the story is an 8th-grade boy, and there aren't too many 8th grade boys who don't love drums and girls! I guess that explains the first two words in the title. (Actually, as a drummer, that was a highlight of the book for me.) However, the seemingly fluffy title of this book belies the depth of emotion that it contains. This book actually becomes very serious as Steve's family falls apart while dealing with his brother's illness. But, despite the content, the story is optimistic, humorous, and not totally depressing. It made me cry, but I loved it. This is a great realistic fiction read.
SUMMARY: Steven Alper is a typical eighth-grader--smarter than some, a better drummer than most, but with the usual girl problems and family trials. Then, on October 7, his five-year-old brother, Jeffrey, falls, has a nosebleed that doesn't stop, and is diagnosed with leukemia. All hell breaks loose. Mrs. Alper's days and nights revolve around getting Jeffrey to his chemotherapy treatments, and Mr. Alper retreats into a shell, coming out only occasionally to weep over the mounting medical bills. Steven becomes the forgotten son, who throws himself into drumming, even as he quits doing his homework and tries to keep his friends from finding out about Jeffrey's illness. Sonneblick shows that even in the midst of tragedy, life goes on, love can flower, and the one thing you can always change is yourself. (adapted from the Booklist review)
OPINION: The main character of the story is an 8th-grade boy, and there aren't too many 8th grade boys who don't love drums and girls! I guess that explains the first two words in the title. (Actually, as a drummer, that was a highlight of the book for me.) However, the seemingly fluffy title of this book belies the depth of emotion that it contains. This book actually becomes very serious as Steve's family falls apart while dealing with his brother's illness. But, despite the content, the story is optimistic, humorous, and not totally depressing. It made me cry, but I loved it. This is a great realistic fiction read.
2.26.2006
Book Review: 47
47 by Walter Mosley
SUMMARY: In his first YA book, acclaimed mystery writer Mosley tells a stirring story of escape from slavery in which science fiction and African American myth blend with the realism of plantation brutality and the courage of resistance. A boy today remembers himself as a 14-year-old slave named 47, living in Georgia in 1832. He recalls being chained, branded, and whipped until the runaway Tall John inspires him to fulfill his destiny and lead his people to freedom. Like the mythical figure High John the Conqueror, the runaway comes from "beyond Africa," and he shows the boy the secrets of the universe. Above all, 47 takes in Tall John's repeated lesson ("Neither master nor n----- be"), which is finally what sets him free. Mosley brings the harsh facts and anguish very close, and the first-person narrative shows and tells how "slavery is the most unbelievable part of this whole story." (adapted from the Booklist review)
OPINION: I have read a lot of books, both fiction and nonfiction, about slavery. Toni Morrison's Beloved is an amazing example, dealing with the emotional impact of slavery on one mother. But 47 is the most unique book about slavery that I have ever come across. It combines historical fiction and science fiction into a magical realism that brings a whole new light to this dark part of American history. Sometimes, it feels like you always learn about the same people and events during Black History Month. The nontraditional style of this book goes beyond the facts that you learn in school. Get a fresh perspective by reading 47!
SUMMARY: In his first YA book, acclaimed mystery writer Mosley tells a stirring story of escape from slavery in which science fiction and African American myth blend with the realism of plantation brutality and the courage of resistance. A boy today remembers himself as a 14-year-old slave named 47, living in Georgia in 1832. He recalls being chained, branded, and whipped until the runaway Tall John inspires him to fulfill his destiny and lead his people to freedom. Like the mythical figure High John the Conqueror, the runaway comes from "beyond Africa," and he shows the boy the secrets of the universe. Above all, 47 takes in Tall John's repeated lesson ("Neither master nor n----- be"), which is finally what sets him free. Mosley brings the harsh facts and anguish very close, and the first-person narrative shows and tells how "slavery is the most unbelievable part of this whole story." (adapted from the Booklist review)
OPINION: I have read a lot of books, both fiction and nonfiction, about slavery. Toni Morrison's Beloved is an amazing example, dealing with the emotional impact of slavery on one mother. But 47 is the most unique book about slavery that I have ever come across. It combines historical fiction and science fiction into a magical realism that brings a whole new light to this dark part of American history. Sometimes, it feels like you always learn about the same people and events during Black History Month. The nontraditional style of this book goes beyond the facts that you learn in school. Get a fresh perspective by reading 47!
2.25.2006
Bringing Down the House
Today, 12 teens attended our first Saturday afternoon DDR event. Surprisingly, there were 9 boys and only 3 girls. One of the girls was Rachel G., who we are glad to have back with us again!
Anyway, the dance pads were always full and everyone seemed to have a good time. In our tournament, Vincent walked away with the prize for best dancer, although Chris was a very close second. We will do another DDR event this summer, so look for the calendar!
FYI: We are signing up now for Donkey Konga and Karaoke Night on Friday, March 10, from 6:30 to 8:30. This is our last special teen event until the summer!
Anyway, the dance pads were always full and everyone seemed to have a good time. In our tournament, Vincent walked away with the prize for best dancer, although Chris was a very close second. We will do another DDR event this summer, so look for the calendar!
FYI: We are signing up now for Donkey Konga and Karaoke Night on Friday, March 10, from 6:30 to 8:30. This is our last special teen event until the summer!
2.24.2006
Break Up Letters
Some people have been asking me if I put the break-up letters from the Anti-Valentine's Day Party up on the blog. The answer is yes, but they are no longer on the front page. Look on the right side of your screen for the archives, and click on February 2006. When that page loads, scroll down to the entries for February 11 and 12. The break-up letters are there, along with some of the lists we made. Also, check out February 10 for photos of the Anti-Valentine's Day Party!
2.23.2006
Book Reveiw: Maximum Ride
Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment by James Patterson
SUMMARY: A group of genetically enhanced kids who can fly and have other unique talents are on the run from part-human, part-wolf predators called Erasers in this exciting science fiction thriller. Max, 14, and her adopted family–Fang and Iggy, both 13, Nudge, 11, Gazzy, 8, and Angel, 6–were all created as experiments in a lab called the School. Jeb, a sympathetic scientist, helped them escape and, since then, they've been living on their own. The Erasers have orders to kill them so the world will never find out they exist. Max's old childhood friend, Ari, now an Eraser leader, tracks them down, kidnaps Angel, and transports her back to the School to live like a lab rat again. The kids are forced to use their special talents to rescue her as they attempt to learn about their pasts and their destinies. (adapted from the School Library Journal review)
OPINION: I have been hearing good things about this book for a while, but I just got around to reading it! This is adult author James Patterson's first YA book. It is science fiction that is light on the science and heavy on the fiction. There is action and adventure galore, and even some humorous moments. I couldn't put this book down because I wanted to find out what happened to the characters. It ended with one of those really evil cliffhangers, but there is a sequel coming very soon, so I think I can live. Definitely read this book!
NOTE: The sequel to this book, Maximum Ride: School's Out Forever, will be released on May 23. 2006
SUMMARY: A group of genetically enhanced kids who can fly and have other unique talents are on the run from part-human, part-wolf predators called Erasers in this exciting science fiction thriller. Max, 14, and her adopted family–Fang and Iggy, both 13, Nudge, 11, Gazzy, 8, and Angel, 6–were all created as experiments in a lab called the School. Jeb, a sympathetic scientist, helped them escape and, since then, they've been living on their own. The Erasers have orders to kill them so the world will never find out they exist. Max's old childhood friend, Ari, now an Eraser leader, tracks them down, kidnaps Angel, and transports her back to the School to live like a lab rat again. The kids are forced to use their special talents to rescue her as they attempt to learn about their pasts and their destinies. (adapted from the School Library Journal review)
OPINION: I have been hearing good things about this book for a while, but I just got around to reading it! This is adult author James Patterson's first YA book. It is science fiction that is light on the science and heavy on the fiction. There is action and adventure galore, and even some humorous moments. I couldn't put this book down because I wanted to find out what happened to the characters. It ended with one of those really evil cliffhangers, but there is a sequel coming very soon, so I think I can live. Definitely read this book!
NOTE: The sequel to this book, Maximum Ride: School's Out Forever, will be released on May 23. 2006
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