And now the conclusion:

Steffanie’s Picks:

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan J RIO

Percy Jackson’s algebra teacher just turned into a monster and tried to kill him! When his mom finds out, she knows its time that he goes to the one place he’ll be safe at, Camp Half Blood, where Percy learns that his father is Poseidon, the God of the Sea.

A Day With No Crayons by Elizabeth Rusch E RUS

Liza’s mother takes away her crayons and suddenly her world goes gray. Through acts of anger, like squirting her toothpaste into the sink, Liza inadvertently creates art and discovers color in the world around her.

Poppy Pickle by Emma Yarlett E YAR

Anything Poppy imagines literally comes alive. Suddenly, a mammoth puts his foot through her bedroom floor and a hungry crocodile thinks Poppy would make a tasty snack. How can poppy get rid of all of these creatures before her parents find out?

Peanut Butter and Brains by Joe McGee J MCG

Reginald isn’t like the other zombies who scare townspeople and moan for brains! The only thing Reginald wants to eat is sticky peanut butter and sweet jelly. Can Reginald bring peace to Quirkville and convince the other zombies that peanut butter and jelly is tastier than brains?

Disenchanted: The Trials of Cinderella by Megan Morrison J MOR

In this addition to the series of Tyme: Ella Coach, Prince Dash Charming, and Serge the wish granting fairy all feel stuck in their everyday lives. These three unlikely friends work together to find the faith to change their individual worlds whilst changing the lives of the people around them. Its “Cinderella,” reimagined with the characteristics of the wonderful world of Tyme.

Cloud and Wallfish by Anne Nesbet J NES

Noah Keller’s parents tell him that his name isn’t really Noah and he didn’t really just turn eleven in March. As Noah – now “Jonah Brown” – and his parents head to the Iron Curtain into East Berlin, the rules and secrets pile up so quickly that he can’t keep track. When did his mother become fluent in several languages and why do his parents keep telling him that someone is listening to their conversations.

Leslie’s Picks:

The Man Who Walked Between the Towers by Mordicai Gerstein

E READALONG GER

Take a trip on the high-wire between the two tallest buildings of New York City, the World Trade Center towers. A young french high-wire walker dared to scale the almost complete structures in 1974 to challenge himself on a high-wire adventure. Phillippe snuck to the top, with his friends, and strung a cable only 7/8 inches thick between the buildings. How will he survive the crossing without a safety net?

Lego: The Adventures of Clutch Powers     J DVD LEG

Clutch Powers heads off on a mission to take control of the three most wanted criminals in the galaxy. What will Clutch and his team do in a crisis? Will they defeat evil or will Clutch find himself trapped in the castle of doom?

The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester by Barbara O’Connor J OCO

Owen is a shy boy who just moved to a small town in the middle of nowhere. One night a mysterious package smashes into the woods near the railroad tracks. Owen is determined to find out the package’s secrets and makes some new friends in the process.

Ninja Bunny by Jennifer Gray Olson E OLS

Ninja Bunny has 10 rules to follow to be a  Super Ninja Bunny. The most important rule is to ALWAYS WORK _ _ _ _ E. Can you guess the word? Read Ninja Bunny to find the ultimate rule.

Choose Your Own Adventure: Princess Island by Shannon Gilligan J CHO

Royal Princess Peregrine Yvette is off to summer camp for 6 weeks. Actually… you are off to camp for 6 weeks! In this high stakes adventure book, you will choose your own fate. Do you go to the Trillium cabin where the ear piercing scream of terror is coming? Do You look for the fabled Princess Island ghost? There are so many adventure choices to choose! What will you, Princess Peregrine Yvette do?

The Mazes of Bones by Rick Riordan J M THI

Who is Grace Cahill and why would she change her will just seconds before she passed? In this adventure series, two young siblings accept a challenge that is beyond their imagination. Being part of the Cahill family means danger, deceit, and foul cousins from another country. Where will the quest lead them?

Sandy’s Picks:

Mustaches for Maddie by Chad Morris J MOR

Maddie is your average 12-year-old with a quirky sense of humor. She likes to make people laugh by wearing a variety of fake mustaches. Her world is turned upside down when she is diagnosed with a brain tumor. This inspirational book is based on a true story.

Interrupting Chicken by David Ezra Stein E STE

Papa is trying to get the Little Red Chicken to go to bed. Every time Papa reads a story, the Little Red Chicken interrupts to give a safer, less scary version of the story. The more they read, the more excited the Little Red Chicken gets. Will the Little Red Chicken ever go to sleep?

Meditate With Me: A Step-by-Step Mindfulness Journey by Mariam Gates E 158.1 GAT

This is a beginner’s book to meditation. It is written like a picture book with step-by-step instructions on how to meditate. This book is a great resource to help kids who are struggling with not being able to calm themselves down.

Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics by Chris Grabenstein  J GRA

This is the sequel to Escape From Mr. Lemoncello’s Library. Kyle and his friends are invited to compete in Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics. Their team will compete in 12 different library games and will compete against other teams of kids from all over the country. The winners will receive their college education paid for. Kyle’s team not only feels the pressure to win but they are also trying to figure out who is sabotaging the game and trying to ruin Mr. Lemoncello’s Library.

The One and Only Ivan  by Katherine Applegate  JP APP

Ivan is a gorilla who lives in a glass enclosure located in a shopping mall. He spends his days watching television and spending time with his friends. He doesn’t think about the jungle until one day when Ruby, a baby elephant who was captured in the jungle is brought to the enclosure. The story is told by Ivan and is based on a true story.

The Fab Five: Jordyn Wieber, Gabby Douglas and the U.S. Women’s Gymnastics Team by Christine Dzidrums  J 796.44 DZI

 

This book is about the “Fab Five” Women’s gymnastic team from the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. Each gymnast has a chapter dedicated to themselves and tells about the journey as they began as young gymnasts with big dreams to becoming Olympic champions.

 

Jen’s Picks:

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier  J GN TEL

Catrina’s family moved to northern California because the air will help her sister breathe easier and make her strong. She is trying to be happy with the change, but their neighbor is obsessed with ghosts and Catrina fears the supernatural. Can she overcome the fear for her sister?

The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes   J EST

Wanda wears the same faded dress to school every day and is teased by the other girls. She tells the girls that she has 100 dresses, but this makes the other girls even meaner. When the girls realize the truth about the 100 dresses, they learn a lesson about the importance of being kind.

The Sixty-Eight Rooms by Marianne Malone J MAL

This magical tale takes place inside the sixty-eight miniature Thorne Rooms that exist deep within the Art Institute of Chicago. What if you discovered a key that allowed you to shrink so that you were small enough to explore those rooms? What if you discovered that you weren’t the first one to have visited them?

Cowboy Playground by Putumayo World Music  J CD WORLD COW

Giddy up and journey back to the Wild West with fun songs for little buckaroos. Yee Haw!

Yoga for Kids by Lorena V. Pajalunga  J E 613.7046 PAJ

A little boy begins taking yoga lessons at the zoo, where he learns that he can imitate the animals there with simple yoga poses.

Anne Frank: Her Life in Words and Pictures by Menno Metselaar and Ruud van der Rol  J B FRA

Anne Frank’s diary was one of the most moving books I ever read as a young girl and solidified my love of books at age 10. Discover more about Anne’s life in this scrapbook style book through photographs and a timeline that shows what life was like in her world.

Alissa’s Picks:

Pokemon Cookbook by Maki Kudo  J 641.5 KID

This book is full of so many awesome Pokemon inspired recipes, you’re going to want to catch ’em all! Some require adult help so this book is great for getting the family working together in the kitchen.

The Book of Gardening Projects for Kids by Whitney Cohen and John Fisher  J 635 COH

It’s the time of year to start thinking green, and this awesome collection gives great ideas for garden enthusiasts of all ages.

The Daring Miss Quimby by Suzanne George Whitaker  E B QUI

Harriet Quimby, the first american woman to get her pilot’s license, still serves as an awesome inspiration for girls and women to stay bold and stay daring!

Girl’s Best Friend by Leslie Margolis  J M MAR

Dogs all over the neighborhood are starting to go missing, so it’s up to Maggie Brooklyn to solve the case and find the lost pups

The Friendship Code by Stacia Deutsch  AUDIO CD J F DEU

A new coding club at school offers Lucy to learn something she’s always wanted to, and to make friends while doing it. Can she balance working with new friends to create a brand-new app?

Louise Loves Art by Kelly Light  E LIG

Louise loves making art… and her little brother, Art. But when her projects and her brother combine, Louise has to figure out how to keep them BOTH happy!

Sheena’s Picks:

The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau  J DUP

The City of Ember is falling apart, so friends Lina and Doon race around the city collecting clues left by their founders and solving mysteries that bring shocking truths to the surface of both the past and present. You don’t have to be a sci-fi fan to appreciate this exciting and thrilling novel.

Rocket and Groot: Stranded on Planet Strip Mall: by Tom Angelberger

J ANG

Rocket and Groot crash-land on a stranded strip mall. They quickly find out that this isn’t your average strip mall. With Crazy robotic store attendants and hungry killer toilets, Rocket and Groot find themselves having to save the planet.

Prince Ribbit by Jonathan Emmett  E EMM

When Princess Martha overhears her sisters talk about a fairy tale they just read about, a frog turning into a handsome prince, she doesn’t believe them. Weirdly, Lucinda and Arabella come across a frog and start treating him like royalty, and Martha is determined to prove her sisters wrong.

Bloom by Doreen Cronin  E CRO

Bloom is the name of a mud fairy, whose magic can turn weeds into flowers and spin sand into glass, but she was just too messy and muddy for the people in the kingdom and they forced her to move far away. However, when the glass castle starts to crack and crumble, the king and queen ash for the fairy’s help. With a little bit of mud and magic, together they can do extraordinary things!

 

Planting the Trees of Kenya by Claire A. Nivola J B MAA

Wangari Maathai, the first woman from Africa to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004, grew up in Kenya. She noticed her home that was once “dressed in green” was now bare and suffering. She urged the women of Kenya to take matters into their own hands and restore the land to the way it used to be.

Feathers: Not Just for Flying by Melissa Stewart E 598.147 STE

Springtime is here and that means more bird spotting! Did you know that the feathers on a bird serve a purpose other than for flying? With simple text and beautiful illustrations, this book explains why birds have the feathers they do and how it helps them thrive in their habitat.

 

Dana’s Picks:

Cork & Fuzz: Spring Cleaning by Dori Chaconas  ER CHA

Cork loves to clean, and his friend, Fuzz, would rather play. When Cork tries to boss Fuzz into helping with the Spring Cleaning, it creates some problems they must work out.

When Spring Comes by Kevin Henkes  E HEN

Henkes describes how the dark world of winter develops into the bright and blooming world of spring.

How Do You Know It’s Spring? by Ruth Owen  J 508.2 OWE

In this non-fiction title, the author describes the various ways spring makes itself known to us, from budding flowers, to longer days, and to the birth of baby animals.

Spring: An Alphabet Acrostic by Steven Schnur  E SCH

Schnur uses acrostic poetry, a poetry form in which the first letter of each line spells out a word, to describe spring.

The Tree Lady by H. Joseph Hopkins  E B SES

In this picture book biography, we learn about Katherine Olivia Sessions, who brought trees to San Diego, California and is credited with developing what eventually became Balboa Park.

The Gardener by Sarah Stewart  E STE

Told through letters, Lydia Grace goes to live with her uncle after her father loses his job. Lydia Grace is a gardener and brings that with her, always hoping to bring a smile to her uncle’s face.

Liz’s Picks:

The Night Gardener by Eric Fan and Terry Fan  E FAN

Awesome illustrations! This is an excellent book about a man who works at night to transform trees into beautiful topiaries. One night, young William follows the Night Gardener to the park and is invited to help him.

 

My Wiggle Makes Me Giggle by Scott Simons  J CD MYWI

Fun Songs that encourage healthy habits.

The Littlest Bigfoot by Jennifer Weiner  AUDIO CD J F WEI

Alice struggles with being comfortable in her own skin and does not fit in anywhere. Shipped off to a new school each year. Alice saves Millie, who is a Bigfoot, from drowning in a lake. A friendship blossoms. Elsewhere, Jeremy, a lonely boy, believes there are Bigfoot in the forest and tries to expose them. This is a wonderful story about friendship, acceptance, and standing up for others.

If you Plant a Seed  by Kadir Nelson  E NEL

A story about kindness and reaping what you sow. The illustrations are wonderful!

Stormstruck by John MacFarlane  J MAC

A fast paced read about a boy who tries to protect his dog from being euthanized. They embark on a sailing trip, only to find themselves caught up in some very dangerous situations.

Martina the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folktale by Carmen Agra Deedy

J 398.2 DEE

Martina Josefina Catalina Cucaracha was a beautiful cockroach. When she was old enough to marry, her Abuela (grandmother) gave her some shocking advice. She should spill coffee on her suitor’s shoes to see how they react. Read this humorous story to find out if the coffee test works.

Carolyn’s Picks:

A Long Way from Chicago by Richard Peck J P PEC

Joey and Mary-Alice go to visit their grandmother every summer in rural Illinois. The kids think it will be boring, but things don’t always turn out the way you expect. Each summer has its own chapter and is a fun and touching read.

The Night World by Mordecai Gerstein  E GER

A little boy and his cat discover the world of shadows at night. It is dark, but soon “something” is coming!

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen  JP PAU

Brian’s plane crashed, and he has to learn to survive in the wilderness by himself. He has a hatchet and not much else. What dangers will he have to face? Will he be rescued or is this his new life?

Rain Reign by Ann M. Martin  J MAR

Rose has a dog named Rain. Rain is a homonym for Reign, and Rose loves both Rain and homonyms. Her love of homonyms makes her different. The other kids don’t understand her and even her father has a hard time accepting her. One stormy night, Rain goes missing and Rose has to overcome her own challenges to find her.

Hidden by Helen Frost  J FRO

This novel in verse tells the story of two girls who share a secret from their past. One summer they meet at camp and must learn to deal with the secret that they have kept for so long.

Ah Ha by Jeff Mack  E MAC

How many ways can our frog friend combine the letters A and H? What do the words mean? This is a fun, colorful book with a lot of action.

 

Carolyn’s Picks:

This Book Just Ate My Dog by Richard Byrne  E BYR

A great interactive book. What happens when Bella’s dog disappears into the book? Will she be able to get him back? Read and watch each page to find out!

The Legend of Rock, Paper, Scissors  by Drew Daywalt  E DEW

Each of our heroes is superior in their own domain. Will any of them find a worthy opponent to battle? This book tells the funny story of how this game will never end.

The Julian Chapter by R.J. Palacio  Audio CD J F PAL

Julian is a bully when it comes to Auggie Pullman, but what makes him that way and will he change? If you’re a fan of the book Wonder, you will enjoy listening to Julian’s version of what happened.

The Ice Dragon by George R.R. Martin  J MAR

Discover this short Game of Thrones style story about a young girl who is not affected by the cold, and her special relationship with an ice dragon during the battles in her ancient world.

Get into Art by Susie Brooks  J 704.9432 BRO

Colorful, animal art from various artists will inspire you to make your own animal art. In this book, you get to learn about the artist, their art, and how to create your own art!

Around the World Cookbook by Abigail Johnson Dodge  J 641.59 DOD

This cookbook is full of food you’ve heard about, and maybe even tasted, but now you can make it yourself! Start out by learning your way around the kitchen, the tools you’ll need, and the terms that are used in cooking. Next, find a recipe you want to try. You might try making Tandoori Chicken Legs from India or Vanilla Panna Cotta from Italy. There are step-by-step instructions, colorful pictures, and fun facts about the food. Remember to always ask a grown-up for help before starting!

Dana’s Picks:

The Story of Snow by Mark Cassino  J 551.784 CAS

A snow photographer and a snow scientist explain how snowflakes develop and the different shapes that snowflakes take. Enjoy the photographs of enlarged snowflakes and learn the best way to catch your own snow crystals.

Elvis: The Story of the Rock and Roll King by Bonnie Christensen  J B PRE

In this beginning biography, Christensen shares information about the very early years of Elvis Presley. From his birth to his first recording for Sun Records; learn how this legendary talent first developed.

Eight Dolphins of Katrina: A True Tale of Survival

by Janet Wyman Coleman  J 599.53 COL

Marine Life Oceanarium in Gulfport, Mississippi was destroyed by a forty foot storm surge during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Eight dolphins housed there were discovered missing after the hurricane. This is the story of their rescue. Also included is additional information about dolphins.

Two for One by Kate DiCamillo & Alison McGhee  J DIC

In this second Bink & Gollie story, the two best friends have adventures at their local state fair.

Year Comes Round: Haiku Through the Seasons by Sid Farrar  J 811.6 FAR

If you enjoy haiku poetry, try these poems that simply describe what the seasons mean to us.

My First Day by Steven Jenkins & Robin Page  J 591.392 PIN

What do newborn baby mammals, insects, and amphibians experience on the first day they are born? Read this non-fiction title by Jenkins and Page to find out.

Martin & Mahalia: His Words, Her Song

by Andrea Davis Pinkney  J 323 PIN

Through words and music, Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahalia Jackson were forces of change during the Civil Rights era of the 1960’s. In Martin & Mahalia, Pinkney eloquently shares their stories.

Alissa’s Picks:

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier  J GN TEL

Raina Telgemeier is fantastic at telling stories about sisters, and this is book is no exception! The story of two sisters who move from their home to Northern California- the sea air is good for younger sister Maya’s cystic fibrosis- where everyone is obsessed with ghosts. As the Day of the Dead celebrations draw near, the sisters learn more about their Hispanic heritage, and older sister Cat tries to make peace with her sister’s illness.

The Danger Box by Blue Balliett  J M BAL

Zoomy is a kid who sees the world a little differently. Abandoned to his grandparents as a baby, mystery abounds when his father shows up with an odd box, which sets in motion a strange series of events. Readers who loved Chasing Vermeer by Balliett are sure to enjoy this mystery, too!

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly

PLAYAWAY J F KEL

Callie is a girl growing up in 1899, but she isn’t interested in things she “should” be. Instead of learning to be the lady of a well-to-do household, she would much rather run around the woods with her grandfather, seeking out the science in nature. Narrated by Natalie Ross, this great story will be an inspiration to kids everywhere who want to nurture a passion, even if it’s not the popular thing to do.

Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade by Melissa Sweet J B SAR

Everyone loves a parade, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the most famous, beloved parade of all! But who was the first person to create the iconic balloons? And how did they become such a key part of American culture? Meet Tony Sarg, a puppeteer who designed the first balloon marionette for Macy’s Parade in 1928. His unique story proves that a little ingenuity can go a long way.

Tales Our Abuelitas Told by F. Isabel Campoy

J 398.2 CAM

Folktales from around the world always make for interesting reads, and this collection of Latino stories is no exception! Witty, funny, and heartfelt, these tales will introduce readers to a whole new slate of characters and may inspire them to learn more about the Latino cultures they come from.

Kids’ Embroidery by Kristin Nicholas J 746.44 NIC

Winter is a  great time to learn a new skill and cross stitch embroidery is coming back into popularity! This great book walks readers step-by-step through different stitches and techniques, and is great for beginners of all ages! From scarves to coasters, the variety of projects makes for fun crafting.

Steffanie’s Picks:

Grounded: the Adventures of Rapunzel

by Megan Morrison  J MOR

In the country of Tyme, no one is luckier than Rapunzel. She lives in a magic tower, reads books that she stars in, and has a loving Witch who protects her from evil princes and unhappy thoughts. Then a stranger named Jack breaks into her tower to steal an enchanted rose! Jack is the first person, besides Witch, that Rapunzel has ever met. He infuriates Rapunzel by implying that Witch is lying to her. Driven by anger, Rapunzel descends to the ground for the first time, and finds a world filled with beauty and adventure.

The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Perez  J PER

Twelve-year-old Maria Luisa (though you better call her Malu) likes zines, Chuck Taylors, and punk music. She’s an outcast at her new school where she annoys the most popular girl in school, forms a band with other outcasts, and stands up to an anti-punk school administrator to fight for her right to express herself.

Worm Loves Worm by J.J. Austrian  E AUS

Worm and Worm fall in love with each other and want to get married. Their friends want to know, who will wear the dress and who will wear the tux? The answer is : it doesn’t matter who wears what because Worm loves Worm.

Escargot by Dashka Slater  E SLA

Escargot is a cute little French snail who only wants two things in life. He wants to be your favorite animal and he needs to get to the delicious salad at the end of the book. When he finally gets to the salad he finds there’s a carrot in it. Escargot hates carrots. With a little help from the reader, he tries one and discovers that carrots aren’t so bad after all.

Tell Me a Tattoo Story by Allison McGhee  E MCG

A father tells his son the story behind each of his tattoos and together they go on a journey through family history. There is a tattoo from his favorite book that his mother used to read him, and one from the longest trip he ever took. The best tattoo of them all is a little heart with numbers inside.

Ruby on the Outside by Nora Raleigh Baskin  J BAS

Eleven-year-old Ruby Danes is starting middle school and only her aunt knows her deep dark secret: her mother is in prison. Ruby is desperate for friendship but doesn’t get too close to anyone due to her secret. Until Margalit Tipps moves into Ruby’s condo complex and Ruby thinks Margalit could be her first true friend. Can she let her in on the big secret? Maybe not. It turns out that Margalit’s family seems closely connected to the very event that put her mother in prison.

 

 

 

 

The weather outside is getting colder. It is a great time to curl up with an awesome book. If you are struggling with ideas about what to read we have some great suggestions from our amazing Youth Services Department.

Leslie’s Picks:

Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner  E BUE

Have you ever wondered what your snowman does after you go to bed? Pick up this book and discover their nighttime secrets.

The Bravest Dog Ever: the True Story of Balto              by Natalie Standiford  ER STA

In 1925, the town of Nome, Alaska was taken over by a deadly illness called diphtheria. The only way to cure people was to get medicine from over 650 miles away. Teams of sled dogs began to help carry the medicine until a storm made it impossible to get through. How did the dogs and owners survive?  What made Balto the bravest dog of all? Enjoy different medias to experience this story: chapter book, audiobook, or dvd.

Bad Kitty Does Not Like Snow by Nick Bruel E BRU

Kitty is curious about snow and goes outside to explore the winter white. Will Kitty like the snow? This book is great for early readers.

The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner

J M WAR

If you are looking for a young reader series, this one’s for you. Four young children, left to fend for themselves after parents’ death, find an abandoned train boxcar. They begin their new life in the boxcar and uncover a fabulous secret.

Paddington Bear by Michael Bond E BON

Take a wild journey with a talking bear named Paddington. He has many curious adventures with the Brown family, from eating on the table to flooding the house. Step into the pages of this beautiful book and enjoy your adventure with Paddington the Bear.

Ghosts: Truth and Rumors by Lori Shores J 133.1 SHO

Are ghosts real? Do they haunt graveyards, old mansions, and objects? Learn how to hunt for ghosts and find evidence of their existence.

The Marvels by Brian Selznick  J SEL

Don’t let the size of this book scare you. Open it up to find a fantastic story in pictures. This imaginative story takes you on an adventure about a famous acting family. As you begin your journey, another story will unfold that will leave you speechless.

Liz’s Picks: 

The Three Ninja Pigs by Corey Rosen Schwartz E SCH

What do you get when you cross martial arts and the three pigs? This awesome fractured fairy tale!

Snowman Magic by Katherine Tegen E TEG

After a heavy snowfall, George builds a snowman who comes to life!

Where Do Fairies Go When It Snows?

By Liza Gardner Walsh E WAL

This fanciful tale questions what fairies do during the winter months.

Baking Day at Grandma’s by Anika Denise E DEN

A sweet rhyming story about three bear cubs who tromp through the snow to grandma’s for a day of baking.

Harriet the Invincible by Ursula Vernon J VER

Cursed soon after she is born, Harriet will prick herself on a hamster wheel when she turns 12. At 10, she learns of her fate but thinks it’s great and takes off across the country to experience adventures. Why not? Nothing can happen to her until she is 12. Upon returning home, she meets the evil fairy that cursed her and something unexpected happens. Harriet is a strong female role model that you will enjoy in any of her books.

No Passengers Beyond This Point 

By Gennifer Choldenko J CHO

This is a strange story of three siblings who are on their way to Colorado to stay with an uncle who they do not very well. On the way, their plane ends up in a place called Falling Bird, where the kids are treated like celebrities, but quickly turn into fugitives.

Sheena’s Picks:

The Wish Tree by Kyo Maclear  E MAC

Charles believes there is such a thing as a wish tree and he’s determined to find it, despite what his brother and sister say. Along with his trusty sled, they brave the wintry wonderland and search high and low. They meet some furry friends on their journey, but does Charles ever find his wish tree? This is a sweet story about kindness and how wishes come true in the most unexpected ways.

Little Red Gliding Hood by Tara Lazar  E LAZ

Little Red Gliding Hood’s ice skates are worn-in and worn-out. As she skates her way to grandma’s house, she sees an ad for a skating competition to win a new pair of skates, but there’s just one problem- she has no partner. Goldilocks, the Gingerbread Man, and Humpty Dumpty, among others were all taken. Turns out Big Bad Wolf wants to enter the competition and is need of a partner, too. In this fun, humorous tale, we see that maybe Big Bad Wolf isn’t so bad after all.

Child of Wonder: Nurturing Creative and Naturally Curious Children by Ginger Carlson PC 153.35 CAR

Kids are naturally curious and creative beings, but in today’s fast-paced, technology driven world, sometimes curiosity and creativity can be stifled. This book will give you the tools to provide an environment that encourages your child to play, imagine, create, and explore. In doing so, it will help their creativity bloom, and at the same time, help your child develop cognitively and emotionally.

Solving the Puzzle Under the Sea: Marie Tharp Maps the Ocean Floor by Robert Burleigh J B THA

Even as a little girl, one of the most important female scientists, Marie Tharp, loved maps. Not only did she think they were beautiful, but she felt as though they called out to her- “have an adventure!” What an adventure she had! In this gorgeous illustrated biography, we learn about the first person to ever successfully map the ocean floor and her journey was not easy, but inspirational.

Breadcrumbs by Anne Ursu  J URS

An equal mix of magical and realistic elements, this retelling of a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, “The Snow Queen, ” is about the friendship between Jack and Hazel. When Jack disappeared into the woods one day, Hazel feels it is up to her to rescue him. Despite her insecurities, will she survive the journey and save Jack from the witch dressed in white.

A Mother’s Journey by Sandra Markle  E 598.47 MAR

In this beautifully written text, we follow the daunting journey of an emperor penguin as she goes on a quest to find food miles and miles away from her newborn chick and her mate. She faces some major obstacles, from the harsh wintry landscape to dodging sneaky predators. Will the mother make it back to her baby?

Jen’s Picks:

Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick  J SEL

Brimming with gorgeous black and white artwork, this book tells two stories told 50 years apart. One story is told in words. The other story in pictures. Ben is a 12 year old in 1977 Minnesota and Rose is the same age, living in 1927. Both kids are feeling lost and looking for something to feel connected to and both end up finding their way to New York. The kids discover along the way that we are all a cabinet of wonders. This illuminating book also offers a very insightful look into the world of the deaf.

Kringle by Tony Abbott  J ABB

No one ever thinks about Santa ever being a boy but long, long ago there was a young orphan boy named Kringle who fought for good at a time when things seemed to be at their darkest. Fantasy lovers and Narnia fans will eat this up as Kringle encounters elves, pirates, goblins, and flying reindeer.

Who Were the Brothers Grimm? by Avery Reed J B GRI

Discover the world of the brothers who are considered to be the fathers of fairy tales. Where would “Once Upon a Time” be without them? Explore all of the “Who Was?” series of books to read all about some of your favorite famous people throughout history.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland by Richard B. Smith

E SMI

The classic song about exploring the winter world around you comes to life in this whimsically illustrated book that celebrates the joy of snow.

Where is Stonehenge? by True Kelley  J 936.2 KEL

Uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge. Did you know Stonehenge is as old as the Great Pyramids in Egypt? Who made it? Did aliens build it? What was it used for? If your inquiring mind is curious, try to solve the mystery yourself by reading all about it in this book.

Manga Claus: The Blade of Kringle 

by Nathaniel Marunas  J G MAR

When Fritz, the angry, disgruntled elf creates an army of evil ninja teddy bears. Santa must break out his ancient samurai sword to save Christmas.

COMING SOON: YOUTH SERVICES STAFF PICKS 

PART TWO!

     

Here are the rest of the Youth Service Staff Picks!

Liz’s Picks…

Bear Has a Story to Tell by Philip C. Stead        E STE                                                                  It is autumn and Bear has a story to tell, but all his friends are getting ready for winter. Spring arrives and the friends gather together. Just as Bear is going to tell his story, he forgets it! Together the friends make up a new story.

Lullaby Renditions of Adele, 25                             by Baby Rockstar     J CD BABY                                  Enjoy this unique music that is relaxing for babies as well as adults. I love to listen to any Baby Rockstar music CD while I am working!

 

Took: A Ghost Story by Mary Downing Hahn    J HAH    If you like a good ghost story, this one is for you. A family moves into a new house where, 50 years ago, a young girl about the same age as the daughter was taken and never seen again. Muwahaha!!!!!!

 

 

Jen’s Picks…

Edmond, The Moonlit Party by Astrid Desbordes      J DES                                                                            They say you can’t judge a book by its cover, but with this one, you can and it’s adorable, as is the whole book! Edmond is a scardey squirrel who creates colorful pompom hats and Mr. Owl makes beautiful animal costumes, but they’re both so shy that they may miss out on the lovely moonlit party. Follow along with them on their night of adventure.

Emily and the Mighty Om by Sarah Lolley   E LOL       Someone new moved next door to Emily. His name was Albert and he liked to twist into all kinds of yoga poses on his front lawn and then chant “omm” to relax. One day Albert gets stuck in a very pretzel-like pose. Everyone from the lifeguard to the librarian tries to help him, but only Emily knows the real way to help him.

Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan   J SLO                            It’s not easy being short and Julia is quite small for her age. Julia and her brother join the town’s production of The Wizard of Oz, and she is cast as a munchkin. Ugh! Overflowing with a fun cast of characters and perfect for kids who love the theater life, you’ll love watching how Julia grows, not on the outside, but on the inside.

Alissa’s Picks…

Haunted Histories by J.H. Everett and Marilyn Scott-Waters    J 133.122 EVE                                      A perfect read for this spooky time of year. Join “ghostorian” Virgil on a tour through some of the darkest and coolest historical facts. Castles, torture chambers, and ghosts galore make up this fun book for readers with an interest in history, the macabre-or both!

The Happiest Book Ever! by Bob Shea   E SHE            Our author wants to write the happiest book ever, full of dancing cakes, candy parades, whales with good news, and turtles made out of waffles…but a cranky frog keeps grumping up the story. Will getting rid of the frog make the author happy? This is a great story about appreciating kindness, and lots of bonus awesomeness in the illustrations.

Snow White by Matt Phelan      J GN PHE                 This unique take on a well-known fairy tale sets Samantha “Snow” White in New York during the 1920s. Snow gets sent off to boarding school, and when she comes home following her father’s death, her stepmother tries to have her killed, forcing her to flee to an impoverished area where she befriends the Seven. Great artwork and a compelling story make this an excellent find!

Leslie’s Picks…

Ghosts: Truth and Rumors by Lori Shores                 J 133.1 SHO                                                                    Are ghosts real? Do they haunt graveyards, old mansions, and objects? Learn how to hunt for ghosts and find evidence of their existence.

 

 

 Diamond Willow by Helen Frost     J FRO                       Diamond Willow is a must-read for independent young girls and dog lovers. Willow lives in a remote Alaskan town and is determined to mush her sled dogs 13 miles to her grandparents’ home. Each page is written in the shape of a diamond and tells the terrifying experience Willow undergoes.

 

Three Times Lucky by Sheila Turnage   J M TUR            Mo LoBeau is a spunky soon-to-be sixth grader who loves to solve mysteries. As she works to find her “upstream” mother, she also comes across a mysterious man, a murder, and a hidden treasure. A page-turner of a book!

 

It may be time to pick apples….   

And soon it will be time to pick pumpkins… 

But it’s always time to pick a book from the Staff Picks section! 

Each staff member recommends 6-8 books to highlight for you, and the list is printed for you to take along as you look for something new to read.  Only 3 picks from each staff member are listed here, so look for the brochure on the shelf where the picks are located near the computers.

Dana’s Picks…

The Hive Detectives: Chronicle of a Honey Bee Catastrophe by Loralee Griffin Burns                 J 638.13 BUR                                                    In the mid 2000’s, it was discovered that bees across the country were mysteriously disappearing from their hives. What was happening? Where were they going? Since bees are critical to our ecosystem, a group of beehive detectives decided to investigate. This is the story about that investigation as well as information about bees, beekeepers, and apiary farms.

A Small Thing…but Big by Tony Johnston      E JOH  In this sweet story, Lizzie goes to the park with her mom and meets an elderly man with a dog that Lizzie fears. The elderly man helps Lizzie overcome her fears one step at a time.

 

 

 The Scourge by Jennifer A. Nielsen    J NIE                     A lethal plague known as the Scourge has spread across Keldan and its victims are being sent away. One of those victims, Ani of the River People, doesn’t feel sick. She and her best friend, Weevil, decide to find out the truth- what is really happening to those getting sick and why the people of Keldan are being lied to.

Carolyn’s Picks….

Bon Appetit! by Jessie Child     J GN CHI                        Discover the life of Julia Child in a fun, colorful graphic novel format. Did you know she had size 12 shoes or that she was a spy during WWII? Learn some interesting facts about one of America’s favorite cooks.

 

Boo! Haiku by Deanna Caswell and Bob Shea   E CAS

This fun Halloween-inspired haiku poetry is sure to get you into the spirit of the season.

 

 

The Nest by Kenneth Oppel   J OPP                               Steve wants to help his baby brother and the wasp queen says she can “fix” the baby. What does she mean and what will Steve do? This is a suspenseful tale that floats between dreams and reality.

 

 

Sheena’s Picks…

 Awesome Autumn by Bruce Goldstone                         J 508.2 GOL                                                                   When thinking of fall, the first things that come to mind are often pumpkins, football, sweaters, and Halloween; however, autumn offers so much more than that. From how and why the colors of fall come about, what animals do when fall comes around, and even fun fall crafts- this book really showcases exactly why autumn truly is awesome!

I am Drums by Mike Grosso   J GRO                            Sam dreams of making a name for herself as a drummer. However, finances become a challenge when budget cuts are made to her school’s music program, not to mention tight finances at home that are already making for tension at her house. Putting that all aside, she’s determined to not let that stop her from chasing her dreams, even if some people think she’s gone too far.

Kate Middleton by Emily Mahoney  J B MAH    Being a princess is more than just tiaras and fancy gowns. With the glitz and glamour comes a great deal of responsibility, and Kate Middleton has handled it all with grace and class. This book gives good insight into her life before becoming a duchess, the charities that are near and dear to her, and a glimpse into her family life. In a time when it’s hard to find good role models for girls, she fits the bill.

 

 

Our Summer Reading Program has ended, but we hope you continue to visit us for the remainder of summer break.  Sitting under a shady tree on a breezy summer day or hanging out in a hammock with a good book are wonderful ways to pass the time until school starts again. Here are suggestions from the rest of the Youth Staff’s picks:

Jen’s Picks:

 

Carnivores by Aaron Reynolds  E REY

Who knew carnivores could be so sensitive? They don’t like it when other animals talk about their eating habits behind their backs. They don’t like being accused of sneaking up behind the bunny rabbits to eat them. So when lion, shark, and timber wolf decide to form a self-help group and try to become vegetarians, things don’t go as planned.

A Wrinkle in Time adapted by Hope Larson  J GN LAR

See Madeleine L’Engle’s classic, Newbery Medal-winning book brought to life in graphic novel form. Rediscover Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, Mrs. Which, Aunt Beast, and your favorite siblings: Meg, Sandy, Dennys, and Charles Wallace.

Tinkering: Kids Learn by Making Stuff by Curt Gabrielson  J 649.51 GAB

Discover fun projects you can do at home with items just sitting around the house. Tinker around and make a drum set, hovercraft, a catapult, and even concoct something with a science experiment or two! Fantastic ideas to keep you busy all summer!

Dana’s Picks:

What Floats in a Moat? by Lynne Berry  E BER

In this funny tale, Archimedes the Goat and Skinny the Hen learn why objects float while attempting to cross a moat in a boat.

 

Ungifted by Gordon Korman    J KOR 

Due to an administrative mix-up and after a major prank gone wrong, troublemaker Donovan is sent to the Academy of Scholastic Distinction, a school for gifted and talented students. Donovan thinks it’s a perfect hideout for him, assuming he can fool all the people with the high IQs. But as students and teachers begin to realize Donovan isn’t so good at math or science, Donovan begins to realize his hiding days may be over.

Marvelous Mattie by Emily Arnold McCully    J B KNI     Have you ever wondered why most paper bags sit flat to the ground? A woman named Mattie Knight invented a machine that cut and glued together square-bottomed paper bags. Mattie was a professional inventor living during the Industrial Revolution. Learn about her life as an inventor at a time when it wasn’t considered possible for a woman to understand mechanical complexities.

Carolyn’s Picks:  

The Most Magnificent Thing                                 by Ashley Spires     E SPI                                           A little girl wants to make the most magnificent thing but has trouble getting it just right. This story is about invention and perseverance.

 

 

I Survived the Eruption of Mount St. Helens. 1980   by Lauren Tarshis   JP TAR                                              Another book in the I Survived series, this one takes us on a dangerous adventure as Mount St. Helens explodes. What will Jessie and her friends do when they are caught in the middle of the event? The book is filled with details on what happens before, during and after a volcano erupts.

The Solar System, Meteors, and Comets by Clive Gifford    J 523.222 GIF                                                       Are you looking for fun facts about our solar system? Did you know the sun rises on Mercury only once every 176 days? Want to see some cool pictures of the planets and what meteors can do? Then this book is for you!

Sheena’s Picks: 

Awesome Dawson by Chris Gall   E GAL                       Dawson loves to turn junk into masterful creations, but one of his inventions goes terribly wrong. Can Dawson save his town from destruction?

 

 

Dorothea’s Eyes: Dorothea Lange Photographs the Truth by Barb Rosenstock   J B LAN                                  Even though polio has left Dorothea Lane with a slight physical disability as a child, it doesn’t stop her from pursuing her dream to be a photographer. Her focus to capture the stories of the homeless jobless, and the poor has allowed her art to show the truth of the world.

Earth-Friendly Crafts: Clever Ways to Reuse Everyday Items by Kathy Ross   J 745.5 ROS  

This creative book shows you how to make fun, age appropriate crafts using old toys, clothes, and other everyday stuff lying around the house. With step-by-step instructions, even a beginner can make cute, earth-friendly creations.

 

We certainly hope you’ve been enjoying your summer so far, and we are excited to see you when you visit the library!  Our Summer Reading Program is off to a wonderful start with over 1660 readers registered and more than 1000 levels completed already.  If you haven’t signed up yet, the good news is….you still can! Just stop by the volunteer table to register.  There are loads of fun prizes waiting for you when you complete each level.  To help you get started, here are some staff picks revolving around our Reading by Design STEAM theme for this summer. For a complete list, pick up a brochure or a few books in the Staff Picks Area.

Alissa’s Picks:

Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beatty E BEA

Rosie Revere collects trash to make zany creations, but afraid of failure, she hides them away- until one day, she shows her great-aunt a fantastic flying machine that is a bit of a flop.  Can Rosie learn the value of a first attempt? This great story shows that science and engineering are just as much about failing as they are about trying again.

Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett  J BAL

Petra and Calder, two Chicago kids both in need of a friend, team up to solve a mystery involving a missing painting, an eccentric old woman, and a strange letter.  Can they figure out who is behind the heist before another valuable piece of art goes missing?

Mad Scientists by Sally Lee J 509.2 LEE

Science isn’t always fun–in fact, it can be downright scary! From drinking vomit to breathing in poisonous gasses, these scientists put themselves in harm’s way for the sake of discovery.

Erin’s Picks:

Art’s Supplies by Chris Tougas  E TOU

All of Art’s creative supplies–crayons, markers, pencils, and pastels, to name a few–have a big party, causing lots of messy, artistic fun.

Crayons from Start to Finish
by Samuel G. Wood E 741.23 WOO    

How are crayons made? Find out with this informative book, which takes you inside the step-by-step process of crayon-making. You’ll also discover some fun facts about crayons and learn the history of Crayola.

23 Things to Do Before You Are 11 1/2
by Mike Warren J 745.522 WAR  

You won’t be bored this summer if you have this book on hand.  Crack it open to learn how to build a toolbox, a stomp rocket, and a go-kart. And you can also learn to make stilts, a simple motor, and a compost bin. Best of all, there are instructions for making a solar-viewer…just in time for the solar eclipse on August 21!

Leslie’s Picks:

Doug Unplugged by Dan Yaccarino
E YAC and J DVD DOU   

Doug is a curious robot.  Each day his parents plug him in and begin his information download to become the smartest robot around. One day, Doug wonders what it could be like to UNPLUG for a day. After bravely unplugging, Doug sets off on a thrilling day of outrageous adventures.

Aliens on Vacation by Clete Barrett Smith  J SMI

This story is filled with suspense, action, and adventure! One summer Scrub goes to work for his grandmother’s bed and breakfast. At first Scrub thinks it’s going to be boring, but he soon learns the inn is actually a secret operation that aliens use to vacation on Earth.  Also available as a Playaway.

Liz’s Picks:

Have Fun, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell  E LOV

Molly Lou doesn’t need fancy toys or electronic gadgets. She has learned how to play the Grandma Melon way. Be amazed as Molly Lou uses hands-on learning and creativity to invent all sorts of things to play with. When a new girl moves in next door, Molly teaches her the Grandma Melon way, and she is amazed.

Who Was Sally Ride? by Megan Stine  J B STI

For those who like to learn about people, this is a wonderful biography about the first woman astronaut in space. You will learn that Sally Ride was not just an astronaut!

The Toothpaste Millionaire by Jean Merrill  JP MER

Kate helps her friend Rufus as he creates his own brand of toothpaste. This is a wonderful historical fiction novel that addresses racism, friendship, entrepreneurship, math, and even stockholdership.

More staff picks will follow soon, and as always, we are glad to help you find something when you visit us. As the sign says at our main desk…PLEASE INTERRUPT US! 

 

Even though the days are getting longer it’s still chilly outside, so why not snuggle up with a staff pick?  Some of these suggestions would also be a great choice for a book club selection as mentioned in the last blog. Here are a few of our choices:

Scott’s picks…

 Shadow on the Mountain by Margi Preus  J PRE                          When the Nazis invade Norway, teenage Espen becomes a young spy for the resistance movement.  Living in constant danger, he and his family seek a way to escape the war.

Explorer: The Hidden Doors edited by Kazu Kibuishi   J GN EXP               The next in a series of graphic novels brings together seven great comic artists to tell seven stories of strange doors.

 

 Wildwood by Colin Meloy  J MEL                                                          
When Prue McKeel’s little brother is kidnapped by crows, she must go into the Impassable Wilderness, a strange and fantastic realm, to save him.

Carolyn’s picks…

Baking by Laura and Jess Tilli   J 641.815 TIL                                    Winter is the perfect time to make some delicious baked goods! Try the sweet Strawberry Jam Shortbread Cookies or the savory Mini Sausage Batter Bites.  The recipes have simple step-by-step instructions and beautiful photographs.  Tips, techniques, and symbols on when to ask for an adult’s help are included.

The Wild Robot by Peter Brown  J BRO and Audio CD J F BRO         Roz is a robot who is shipwrecked on a wild island with no idea who she is or what to do.  She must figure out how to survive in this hostile environment.  She adopts a gosling, and the island animals start to welcome her into their community.  Then one day, everything changes, and Roz must fight to survive again.   

The Hundred Dresses by Eleanore Estes  J EST                                    A young girl moves to a new school and is picked on because she wears the same dress every day.  She tells her classmates that she has a hundred dresses at home, but they don’t believe her.  Her classmates pick on her but later regret their behavior.  It’s a touching, timeless story about being kind to others.

Alissa’s picks…

Katie Woo: Who Needs Glasses? by Fran Manushkin     ER MAN          Katie’s friend Pedro gets new glasses, but he doesn’t want to wear them.  When he tells his class that he loses them, can Katie figure out what really happened?

The Familiars by Adam Jay Epstein & Andrew Jacobson  J EPS         Magic isn’t just for humans!  Aldwyn, an orphan cat, wanders into a pet shop and is adopted by a wizard.  But when his wizard and new friends are kidnapped, Aldwyn needs to use his own kind of magic to save them.

 How to Survive in the Wilderness by Samantha Bell  J 796.5 BEL      Wilderness survival shows are all the rage, but could you make it out in the woods alone?  This handy book preps readers with things like daily tasks, types of wood to burn, and how to avoid dangerous bacteria in drinking water.

Dana’s picks…

Dog vs. Cat by Chris Gall    E GAL                                                      A dog and a cat, both newly adopted, are forced to share a room.  They don’t really get along, finding fun ways to torture each other, until a howling, smelly, terrifying newcomer unites them in a common cause!

 The Forbidden Stone (Copernicus Legacy #1) by Tony Abbott  J ABB  It begins when four friends receive a strange and coded email from Uncle Henry just before he dies.  The four set off for Germany to attend the funeral and discover that Uncle Henry has left them another confusing message that they must figure out.  They end up on a dangerous quest to unlock an ancient and guarded secret that could destroy the world.

 Accidental Keyhand  by Jen Swann Downey    J DOW                        In the Ninja Librarians series Book #1, Dorrie and her brother Marcus accidentally open a portal to Petrarch’s Library, where they discover a secret society of warrior librarians who travel in time protecting the world’s greatest thinkers from torture and death for sharing knowledge and ideas.

Check back soon for the rest of the staff’s picks, and be sure to visit this area in the library to see all of our choices and pick up a list…happy reading!