ttfn by lauren myracle - three best friends, all juniors, all enjoying life and friendship, have everything under control. But then life throws them curve balls. Angela gets tragic family news; Maddie decides to let her wild side loose; Zoe struggles to keep a secret from Maddie. Told completely via IM, it's a tale that will keep you intrigued, amused, and entertained to the very last smiley. 20 circs for a fun one!
Dave at Night by Gail Carson Levine - 1926 is a hard time to be an orphan in NYC. And the Hebrew Home for Boys is even harder. Dave's story is one of loss, tragedy, hard work, joy, and triumph. He meets cruel relatives, kindly strangers, and hard-won gains. Also 20 circs for this moving story.
Faultline by Janet Tashjian - Becky Martin at 17 knows what she wants from life, and is starting to get there - she is going to be a comedian; when she meets Kip, he seems like the perfect guy for her - a rising star on the San Francisco comedy stage. And he adores her. But gradually, Becky discovers that all is not perfect. Kip becomes demanding, then verbally abusive, and worse... How is it possible for one guy to make a girl feel both wonderful, and worthless? And what should she do about it? What CAN she do about it? Only 3 circs for this too terrifyingly real story.
Sand Chronicles volume 1 by Hinako Ashihara - when her parents divorce, Ann Uekusa and her mother move from the big city to rural Shimane. Ann finds it hard to adjust - the kindness of her new neighbors seems overwhelming and intrusive. But when personal tragedy strikes, Ann finds that she needs every ounce of kindness she can find. 14 circs.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Winter Books
I thought today I'd put together a short list of Winter-themed books, to go with the chilly weather we've been having.
Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson - the winter in this story is as much thematic as real, but this is a gut-wrenching novel about self-destruction that everyone and anyone should read!
The Devouring by Simon Holt - Vours, supernatural creatures who feast on fear and devour souls on the night of the Winter Solstice, become terrifyingly real for Reggie, when she begins to fear they're victimizing her timid younger brother.
The Diamond of Darkhold (Book of Ember Vol 2) by Jeanne duPrau - Lina and Doon return to Ember to seek the device which the Book seems to promise will help their new community through the Winter.
Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr - Aislinn, who can see fairies, is reluctantly dragged into a war between the Summer King and the Winter Queen, with her life, her love, and the fate of Summer all hanging in the balance.
The Winter Road by Terry Hokenson - Willa, still grieving after the death of her brother, flies her small plane solo into norther Ontario to pick up her mother, but crashes in the wintery wilderness. Thus begins her 18 day survival struggle.
Blackthorn Winter - Juliana is spending the winter away from California, in a bleak and colorless village in England. She has two problems - the memories she cannot find, all from before her adoption at age 5, and the village busybody who is murdered next door. The two elements of this story conspire to create a suspenseful and atmospheric mystery.
Wintersmith by Terry Pratchett - When Tiffany Aching, witch-in-training, interrupts the Dance of the Seasons, and attracts the interest of the Winter spirit, she needs the help of sword-weilding, sheep-stealing Wee Free Men to set the seasons aright.
There's a little of everything in these novels - survival, fear, comedy, mystery and the fey. I hope you'll all find something worth reading!
Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson - the winter in this story is as much thematic as real, but this is a gut-wrenching novel about self-destruction that everyone and anyone should read!
The Devouring by Simon Holt - Vours, supernatural creatures who feast on fear and devour souls on the night of the Winter Solstice, become terrifyingly real for Reggie, when she begins to fear they're victimizing her timid younger brother.
The Diamond of Darkhold (Book of Ember Vol 2) by Jeanne duPrau - Lina and Doon return to Ember to seek the device which the Book seems to promise will help their new community through the Winter.
Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr - Aislinn, who can see fairies, is reluctantly dragged into a war between the Summer King and the Winter Queen, with her life, her love, and the fate of Summer all hanging in the balance.
The Winter Road by Terry Hokenson - Willa, still grieving after the death of her brother, flies her small plane solo into norther Ontario to pick up her mother, but crashes in the wintery wilderness. Thus begins her 18 day survival struggle.
Blackthorn Winter - Juliana is spending the winter away from California, in a bleak and colorless village in England. She has two problems - the memories she cannot find, all from before her adoption at age 5, and the village busybody who is murdered next door. The two elements of this story conspire to create a suspenseful and atmospheric mystery.
Wintersmith by Terry Pratchett - When Tiffany Aching, witch-in-training, interrupts the Dance of the Seasons, and attracts the interest of the Winter spirit, she needs the help of sword-weilding, sheep-stealing Wee Free Men to set the seasons aright.
There's a little of everything in these novels - survival, fear, comedy, mystery and the fey. I hope you'll all find something worth reading!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Recent Returns and Feature Review
These three graphic novels were returned just today - have you read them yet?
St. Dragon Girl, vol 1. by Natsumi Matsumoto - Momoka, an extraordinary martial artist, and Ryuga, a sorcerer, are friends from childhood. When Ryuga summons a dragon spirit to help him in his work banishing demons, it enters Momoka's body instead. Together they must fight demons and try to rescue Momoka's dearest friend Shunran, who has been kidnapped by a serpent demon to become his bride. This romantic, lively and well-written manga is sure to please! 16 circs, and I promise to buy more, soon!
X-Men Misfits, Vol 1. by Raina Telgemeier and Dave Roman - This X-men remix is a perfect mix of teen angst, first love, and what it's like to be on the outside, looking in. Follow Kitty Pride's first year at Professor Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters - as the only girl in attendance! Only 2 circs as yet for this brand-new novel...
Batman, Year 100 by Paul Pope - in 2039 in Gotham City, a federal agent is killed, and the city is invaded by the Feds, out for the Killer's blood. Detective Gordon, grandson of the former Commissioner of the GCPD, launches his own investigation, and discovers that the man they are chasing is a man who shouldn't exist at all... a legend called BATMAN! 13 circs for this fascinating peek into Batman's future.
And now for a FEATURE REVIEW. Last week I mentioned F. E. Higgins' new book The Eyeball Collector. Then I took it home and read it. This is a great book! Hector is a young man bent on revenging his father's death, who plans and begins to carry out a meticulous crime. But along the way he has adventures that are fascinating, creepy, and amazing. Higgins' stories have been compared to Dickens in their complexity, with their odd names (like Lady Mandible and Baron Bovrik de Vandolin) and the dark, gritty, world she creates. When Hector leaves Urbs Umidas for Withypitts Hall in pursuit of his villain, he enters a world more bizarre and far more frightening than he can imagine...
I don't want to reveal too much, but if you've read his other books, The Black Book of Secrets and The Bone Magician, you'll find that together they form a trio of tales that is greater than the sum of their parts. Any fantasy or historical fiction lover will thrill to Hector's tale, and you'll find yourself very intrigued by Peggy and Ludlow as well. A superb book.
St. Dragon Girl, vol 1. by Natsumi Matsumoto - Momoka, an extraordinary martial artist, and Ryuga, a sorcerer, are friends from childhood. When Ryuga summons a dragon spirit to help him in his work banishing demons, it enters Momoka's body instead. Together they must fight demons and try to rescue Momoka's dearest friend Shunran, who has been kidnapped by a serpent demon to become his bride. This romantic, lively and well-written manga is sure to please! 16 circs, and I promise to buy more, soon!
X-Men Misfits, Vol 1. by Raina Telgemeier and Dave Roman - This X-men remix is a perfect mix of teen angst, first love, and what it's like to be on the outside, looking in. Follow Kitty Pride's first year at Professor Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters - as the only girl in attendance! Only 2 circs as yet for this brand-new novel...
Batman, Year 100 by Paul Pope - in 2039 in Gotham City, a federal agent is killed, and the city is invaded by the Feds, out for the Killer's blood. Detective Gordon, grandson of the former Commissioner of the GCPD, launches his own investigation, and discovers that the man they are chasing is a man who shouldn't exist at all... a legend called BATMAN! 13 circs for this fascinating peek into Batman's future.
And now for a FEATURE REVIEW. Last week I mentioned F. E. Higgins' new book The Eyeball Collector. Then I took it home and read it. This is a great book! Hector is a young man bent on revenging his father's death, who plans and begins to carry out a meticulous crime. But along the way he has adventures that are fascinating, creepy, and amazing. Higgins' stories have been compared to Dickens in their complexity, with their odd names (like Lady Mandible and Baron Bovrik de Vandolin) and the dark, gritty, world she creates. When Hector leaves Urbs Umidas for Withypitts Hall in pursuit of his villain, he enters a world more bizarre and far more frightening than he can imagine...
I don't want to reveal too much, but if you've read his other books, The Black Book of Secrets and The Bone Magician, you'll find that together they form a trio of tales that is greater than the sum of their parts. Any fantasy or historical fiction lover will thrill to Hector's tale, and you'll find yourself very intrigued by Peggy and Ludlow as well. A superb book.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
New Books!
Eyeball Collector by F. E. Higgins -- After his father is blackmailed, Hector Fitzbaudly sets out to find the man responsible, who had been a gentleman, a swindler, and an Eyeball Collector--stealing jewels from the wealthy to make false eyes to replace his missing one.
Lost Conspiracy by Francis Hardinge -- Two young sisters who live on a beautiful island soon become caught in a deadly web of deceit. Neither girl is exactly what she pretends to be, and when they are drawn into a sinister conspiracy, one discovers that the only thing more dangerous than the secret she hides is the truth she must uncover.
Fire: Tales of Elemental Spirits by Robin McKinley -- Master storytellers Robin McKinley and Peter Dickinson, the team behind Water: Tales of Elemental Spirits, collaborate again to create five captivating tales incorporating the element of fire.With time periods ranging from prehistoric to present day, and settings as varied as a graveyard, a medieval marketplace and a dragon academy, these stories are sure to intrigue and delight the authors’ longtime fans and newcomers alike
Graphic Novels:
Amazing Spider-Man. Death and Dating -- Random earthquakes don't happen in New York - trust us, we live here. So how did one trap Spidey and a subway car full of New Yorkers underground? But there's more to these passengers than meets the eye as a high powered mob trial's verdict is in their hands.
Wonder Woman. The Circle -- An army of foes called the Olympians have risen to begin their all-out assault on war across the globe and only Wonder Woman can stop them!
Superman. The Adventures of Nightwing and Flamebird -- Explore the world of Krypton through the legendary adventures of Flamebird and Nightwing, two heroes who hail from Superman's doomed planet! These reprints from the SUPERMAN FAMILY series in the late 1970s shed a light on the heroes Superman looked up to as a child. And with a new Flamebird and Nightwing currently running through the DC Universe, there's no time like the present to catch up on the exploits of their namesakes!
Batman Chronicles vols 7-8
Kitchen Princess vols. 2 and 5
Fullmetal Alchemist vols. 20-21
Naturto vol. 46
InuYasha vols 41-42
Lost Conspiracy by Francis Hardinge -- Two young sisters who live on a beautiful island soon become caught in a deadly web of deceit. Neither girl is exactly what she pretends to be, and when they are drawn into a sinister conspiracy, one discovers that the only thing more dangerous than the secret she hides is the truth she must uncover.
Fire: Tales of Elemental Spirits by Robin McKinley -- Master storytellers Robin McKinley and Peter Dickinson, the team behind Water: Tales of Elemental Spirits, collaborate again to create five captivating tales incorporating the element of fire.With time periods ranging from prehistoric to present day, and settings as varied as a graveyard, a medieval marketplace and a dragon academy, these stories are sure to intrigue and delight the authors’ longtime fans and newcomers alike
Graphic Novels:
Amazing Spider-Man. Death and Dating -- Random earthquakes don't happen in New York - trust us, we live here. So how did one trap Spidey and a subway car full of New Yorkers underground? But there's more to these passengers than meets the eye as a high powered mob trial's verdict is in their hands.
Wonder Woman. The Circle -- An army of foes called the Olympians have risen to begin their all-out assault on war across the globe and only Wonder Woman can stop them!
Superman. The Adventures of Nightwing and Flamebird -- Explore the world of Krypton through the legendary adventures of Flamebird and Nightwing, two heroes who hail from Superman's doomed planet! These reprints from the SUPERMAN FAMILY series in the late 1970s shed a light on the heroes Superman looked up to as a child. And with a new Flamebird and Nightwing currently running through the DC Universe, there's no time like the present to catch up on the exploits of their namesakes!
Batman Chronicles vols 7-8
Kitchen Princess vols. 2 and 5
Fullmetal Alchemist vols. 20-21
Naturto vol. 46
InuYasha vols 41-42
Spy Adventure Books
Do you love to read about spies, secret agents, and danger?
Then try some of these titles!
Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover - by Ally Carter. Cammie Morgan arrives in Boston, where Macey's father is about to receive the vice presidential nomination. The girls soon find themselves trapped in a kidnapping plot, in the third installment of the Gallagher Girls series.
Dear Ellen Bee - by Mary Lyons. "...I've put all the papers in order by date, so you'll have a story. Not just an ordinary tale about the Civil War which freed our people from slavery. Most folks think rifles and cannons put down the Southern rebellion. No, this scrapbook tells of Ellen Bee, two spies who won the war with softer weapons..."
Crocodile Tears - by Anthony Horowitz. A charity broker/con artist raises millions of dollars in donations and invests them in a form of genetically modified corn that has the power to release an airborne strain of a virus so powerful it can knock out an entire country on one windy day. The antidote? Alex Rider.
Spy Goddess Vol 1: Chase for the Chalice by Michael Spradin. Spy Goddess Rachel Buchanan is kicking butt, manga-style. Blackthorn Academy is sending her and her friends on their next mission-to Japan. But can Rachel handle her spy assignments: 1) taking down Blankenship's band of ninja assassins and 2) surviving as a brassy, sassy American girl in the middle of Tokyo? And is that "tension" between Rachel and Alex something Pilar should start worrying about? Heck, is it something Rachel should start worrying about? Better make time for assignment 3) repeating the phrase: "I do not have a crush on my best friend's boyfriend!" Don't miss the Rising Sun, Tokyo fun, and Rachel-kun . . . all in Spy Goddess manga!
Dangerous Times (Nathan Fox #1) by L. Brittney. Fourteen-year-old Nathan Fox is an actor in the same company as a young Will Shakespeare. But nothing can prepare him for the world he's about to enter at the request of England's spymaster general.
Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson. Isabel and her sister Ruth were promised freedom. But when that promise is broken, she finds herself caught up in a struggle between those seeking freedom from British rule, and those whose allegiance lies with the English. Isabel learns that the freedom she is spying to preserve does not apply to her kind, and must make her own decisions who and what to struggle for. A really really great read!
The Lab by Jack Heath. This fantastic new adventure series introduces 16-year-old superhuman Six of Hearts, the strongest and most effective agent in The Deck, a team of special agents fighting to uphold justice in a completely corrupt world.
Then try some of these titles!
Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover - by Ally Carter. Cammie Morgan arrives in Boston, where Macey's father is about to receive the vice presidential nomination. The girls soon find themselves trapped in a kidnapping plot, in the third installment of the Gallagher Girls series.
Dear Ellen Bee - by Mary Lyons. "...I've put all the papers in order by date, so you'll have a story. Not just an ordinary tale about the Civil War which freed our people from slavery. Most folks think rifles and cannons put down the Southern rebellion. No, this scrapbook tells of Ellen Bee, two spies who won the war with softer weapons..."
Crocodile Tears - by Anthony Horowitz. A charity broker/con artist raises millions of dollars in donations and invests them in a form of genetically modified corn that has the power to release an airborne strain of a virus so powerful it can knock out an entire country on one windy day. The antidote? Alex Rider.
Spy Goddess Vol 1: Chase for the Chalice by Michael Spradin. Spy Goddess Rachel Buchanan is kicking butt, manga-style. Blackthorn Academy is sending her and her friends on their next mission-to Japan. But can Rachel handle her spy assignments: 1) taking down Blankenship's band of ninja assassins and 2) surviving as a brassy, sassy American girl in the middle of Tokyo? And is that "tension" between Rachel and Alex something Pilar should start worrying about? Heck, is it something Rachel should start worrying about? Better make time for assignment 3) repeating the phrase: "I do not have a crush on my best friend's boyfriend!" Don't miss the Rising Sun, Tokyo fun, and Rachel-kun . . . all in Spy Goddess manga!
Dangerous Times (Nathan Fox #1) by L. Brittney. Fourteen-year-old Nathan Fox is an actor in the same company as a young Will Shakespeare. But nothing can prepare him for the world he's about to enter at the request of England's spymaster general.
Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson. Isabel and her sister Ruth were promised freedom. But when that promise is broken, she finds herself caught up in a struggle between those seeking freedom from British rule, and those whose allegiance lies with the English. Isabel learns that the freedom she is spying to preserve does not apply to her kind, and must make her own decisions who and what to struggle for. A really really great read!
The Lab by Jack Heath. This fantastic new adventure series introduces 16-year-old superhuman Six of Hearts, the strongest and most effective agent in The Deck, a team of special agents fighting to uphold justice in a completely corrupt world.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Game day is fast approaching
In just over two weeks (Dec 30) we will be having TEEN GAME DAY!
This is our first-ever ALL DAY LONG gaming event, so let's make it a fun and busy one...
From 2:00 til 8:30 at Central Library - we'll have games, games and more games! There will be snacks, too. And it is all FREE!
So bring a friend and come race Mario Kart, Brawl with the Supersmash Brothers, and join in the Rock Band, among other things...
I look forward to seeing you there!
This is our first-ever ALL DAY LONG gaming event, so let's make it a fun and busy one...
From 2:00 til 8:30 at Central Library - we'll have games, games and more games! There will be snacks, too. And it is all FREE!
So bring a friend and come race Mario Kart, Brawl with the Supersmash Brothers, and join in the Rock Band, among other things...
I look forward to seeing you there!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Just Arrived
New books will be coming upstairs any day -
Pop by Gordon Korman - After moving to a new town, HS Quarterback Marcus Jordan befriends a retired linebacker who teaches him a lot about football, but whose childish behavior lands Marcus in hot water, repeatedly.
Alibi Junior High by Greg Logsted - Cody has traveled the world with his secret agent father, but he's never before attended Junior High School. When he meets an Iraq War veteran next door, he finally begins to adjust. But then mysterious things happen, and Cody begins to fear that his father's work has followed him...
All-In by Pete Hautman - Den is a pro gambler at 17, winning nearly a quarter-million dollars, but then he falls for Cattie Hart, and trouble follows. Can he win back his losses, avoid defeat at the table by his arch-rival, and walk away with the girl?
Love the One You're With, written by Annabelle Vestry, created by Cecily Von Ziegesar --- newest Gossip Girl: The Carslyles - How can a Caribbean vacation go wrong? The Carlyle triplets receive news that throws their vacation into a shambles of adventure. The last and best of the series!
Graphic Novels:
YuYu Hakusho vol. 18 - the next-to-last book! - The Demon Plane Unification Tournament - who will rule?
Point Blank by Anthony Horowitz - Alex Rider infiltrates the notorious Point Blank Academy armed only with a false ID and some gadgets. Can he find out what is going on before they catch him?
InuYasha vol. 40 - InuYasha faces the loss of his sword, Tetsusaiga, in a showdown battle with corrupt swordmaker Toshu, who created the weapon Dakki, the only blade capable of defeating Tetsusaiga in battle.
Batman. Gotham after midnight by Steve Niles - Trick or Treating in Gotham can be terrifying - and tragic. Two people have been invited to a party where they will be challenged to survive the most horrifying haunted house ever!
Pop by Gordon Korman - After moving to a new town, HS Quarterback Marcus Jordan befriends a retired linebacker who teaches him a lot about football, but whose childish behavior lands Marcus in hot water, repeatedly.
Alibi Junior High by Greg Logsted - Cody has traveled the world with his secret agent father, but he's never before attended Junior High School. When he meets an Iraq War veteran next door, he finally begins to adjust. But then mysterious things happen, and Cody begins to fear that his father's work has followed him...
All-In by Pete Hautman - Den is a pro gambler at 17, winning nearly a quarter-million dollars, but then he falls for Cattie Hart, and trouble follows. Can he win back his losses, avoid defeat at the table by his arch-rival, and walk away with the girl?
Love the One You're With, written by Annabelle Vestry, created by Cecily Von Ziegesar --- newest Gossip Girl: The Carslyles - How can a Caribbean vacation go wrong? The Carlyle triplets receive news that throws their vacation into a shambles of adventure. The last and best of the series!
Graphic Novels:
YuYu Hakusho vol. 18 - the next-to-last book! - The Demon Plane Unification Tournament - who will rule?
Point Blank by Anthony Horowitz - Alex Rider infiltrates the notorious Point Blank Academy armed only with a false ID and some gadgets. Can he find out what is going on before they catch him?
InuYasha vol. 40 - InuYasha faces the loss of his sword, Tetsusaiga, in a showdown battle with corrupt swordmaker Toshu, who created the weapon Dakki, the only blade capable of defeating Tetsusaiga in battle.
Batman. Gotham after midnight by Steve Niles - Trick or Treating in Gotham can be terrifying - and tragic. Two people have been invited to a party where they will be challenged to survive the most horrifying haunted house ever!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Recent returns
Beyond the Grave (39 clues, book 4) by Jude Watson -- Can Amy and Dan find the next clue before their rivals do? Abandoned by their uncle, the Cahills rush off to Egypt in their quest. The Ekaterina and Tomas branches of the family are feuding, and a clue has been stolen. 6 circs for this audio, and 4 for the playaway.
The Black Circle (39 clues, book 5) by Patrick Carman -- whisked away to Russia, Amy and Dan have lost contact with the only trustworthy adult they knew. But a mysterious telegram sends them on a search for treasures stolen by the Nazis, and the truth behind the murder of the last Russian Royal family. Will Amy and Dan avoid a deadly Lucian trap, and can they discover what really happend the night their parents died? 6 circs for this title in audio.
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens -- an absolute classic, set in Victorian England, the story of David's life is an ongoing trial, from the death of his father before his birth, his youth with his Aunt Betsey, and his adult struggles with betrayal, loss and the meaning of loyalty. Everyone should read a Dickens novel once in their lives, and David Copperfield is perhaps the best one (certainly my favorite!). 4 circs for this copy with the special introduction by Philip Reeve.
Lioness Rampant (Song of the Lioness book 5) by Tamora Pierce -- Having achieved her dream of becoming the first ever female Knight Errant, Alanna is not sure what to do next. In this final novel of the series, Alanna discovers a worthy future, both as a woman and a warrior... 66 circs!
Diplomacy of Wolves (book 1 of the Secret Texts) by Holly Lisle - Kait Galweigh is a young diplomat, trapped and hunted by her family's enemies, the House of Sabir. She dares not use her own innate wizardly powers, for fear that she will be slain out of hand - even by her own family! But unless she finds a way to unleash it, her enemies will crush Calimekka in a reign of terror... 4 circs.
The Black Circle (39 clues, book 5) by Patrick Carman -- whisked away to Russia, Amy and Dan have lost contact with the only trustworthy adult they knew. But a mysterious telegram sends them on a search for treasures stolen by the Nazis, and the truth behind the murder of the last Russian Royal family. Will Amy and Dan avoid a deadly Lucian trap, and can they discover what really happend the night their parents died? 6 circs for this title in audio.
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens -- an absolute classic, set in Victorian England, the story of David's life is an ongoing trial, from the death of his father before his birth, his youth with his Aunt Betsey, and his adult struggles with betrayal, loss and the meaning of loyalty. Everyone should read a Dickens novel once in their lives, and David Copperfield is perhaps the best one (certainly my favorite!). 4 circs for this copy with the special introduction by Philip Reeve.
Lioness Rampant (Song of the Lioness book 5) by Tamora Pierce -- Having achieved her dream of becoming the first ever female Knight Errant, Alanna is not sure what to do next. In this final novel of the series, Alanna discovers a worthy future, both as a woman and a warrior... 66 circs!
Diplomacy of Wolves (book 1 of the Secret Texts) by Holly Lisle - Kait Galweigh is a young diplomat, trapped and hunted by her family's enemies, the House of Sabir. She dares not use her own innate wizardly powers, for fear that she will be slain out of hand - even by her own family! But unless she finds a way to unleash it, her enemies will crush Calimekka in a reign of terror... 4 circs.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Recent returns
Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen - 71 circs for 4 copies of this book by an incredibly popular author - Ruby is alone; come to live with a wealthy sister she hasn't seen in ten years. Everything seems to be going just great, but Ruby finds she can't open up, can't relax and accept her good fortune. Only Nate, the boy next door, seems to understand, maybe because of the secrets he's keeping...
The Giver by Lois Lowry - 9 copies with over 150 circs! This is one of my all-time favorite books. Jonas lives in a seemingly ideal world, but when he becomes the Giver's apprentice, he begins to understand too much about his society's deeper secrets. Can he break free of society's expectations and do what he knows is right? And will it lead to good, or evil, if he does so?
Challenge of the Gods (Wonder Woman) by George Perez - The amazon princess Diana (known as Wonder Woman to the media) has decided to stay in "Man's world" and face down both Cheetah, who seeks to steal her magic rope of truth, and Zeus himself! 11 circs for this 2nd volume of Wonder Woman tales.
JLA: American Dreams by Grant Morrison - the JLA become the protectors of our world and team up with Superman, among others. Features the first appearance of Zauriel. 55 circs!!!
Girls by Lori Lansens - 16 circs. Conjoined twins Ruby and Rose Darlen are known as "the girls". Raised by their Aunt Lovey, abandoned by their mother, living in a country farmhouse, they are now nearly 30. It is time to tell the story of their lives, as they have lived it, wrapped in each other's arms. A powerful story of love and connection.
The Giver by Lois Lowry - 9 copies with over 150 circs! This is one of my all-time favorite books. Jonas lives in a seemingly ideal world, but when he becomes the Giver's apprentice, he begins to understand too much about his society's deeper secrets. Can he break free of society's expectations and do what he knows is right? And will it lead to good, or evil, if he does so?
Challenge of the Gods (Wonder Woman) by George Perez - The amazon princess Diana (known as Wonder Woman to the media) has decided to stay in "Man's world" and face down both Cheetah, who seeks to steal her magic rope of truth, and Zeus himself! 11 circs for this 2nd volume of Wonder Woman tales.
JLA: American Dreams by Grant Morrison - the JLA become the protectors of our world and team up with Superman, among others. Features the first appearance of Zauriel. 55 circs!!!
Girls by Lori Lansens - 16 circs. Conjoined twins Ruby and Rose Darlen are known as "the girls". Raised by their Aunt Lovey, abandoned by their mother, living in a country farmhouse, they are now nearly 30. It is time to tell the story of their lives, as they have lived it, wrapped in each other's arms. A powerful story of love and connection.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
New Anime will be available SOON
The following titles are coming upstairs in a few days, but you should be able to place requests on them today.
Sasami Magical Girl's Club, volumes 1&2 - Sasami has an amazing secret; magic courses through her veins - but the spunky fifth grader is not alone, because all over the world boys and girls are waking up to their new powers. Under the guise of the Cooking Club, she and her friends are learning to control these powers, and depend on each other through thick and thin, from highest mountain to furthest magical realms.
Grave of the Fireflies - this powerful antiwar classic is set near the end of WWII, and follows teenage Seita and his little sister Setsuko, who are left alone when their mother is killed. It is a tragic tale, beautifully told, which transcends time and national boundaries.
Last Exile Complete Series (26 episodes). Follow the adventures of Claus Valca and his sidekick Lavie as they attempt to bring peace to their world in this retro-futuristic tale.
Sasami Magical Girl's Club, volumes 1&2 - Sasami has an amazing secret; magic courses through her veins - but the spunky fifth grader is not alone, because all over the world boys and girls are waking up to their new powers. Under the guise of the Cooking Club, she and her friends are learning to control these powers, and depend on each other through thick and thin, from highest mountain to furthest magical realms.
Grave of the Fireflies - this powerful antiwar classic is set near the end of WWII, and follows teenage Seita and his little sister Setsuko, who are left alone when their mother is killed. It is a tragic tale, beautifully told, which transcends time and national boundaries.
Last Exile Complete Series (26 episodes). Follow the adventures of Claus Valca and his sidekick Lavie as they attempt to bring peace to their world in this retro-futuristic tale.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
New Books
These have just been dispatched and are now available for checkout!
Wolf Island by Darren Shan -- bk. 8 of the Demonata - As the mysterious Shadow builds an army of demons, Grubbs Grady and his team search desperately for answers. But when they follow up a new lead, it takes them to an old, unexpected foe - the Lambs.
Shonen Jump January 2010 -- need I say more about the most popular manga magazine in the world?
Maximum Ride vol 2 -- having recovered Angel, Max and the flock head to New York to follow up a lead regarding their true identities. Trouble follows...
Cirque du Freak vol 3 -- accompanying his master, Mr. Crepsley, on a trip to the city, half-vampire Darren Shan is ready for a peaceful holiday with Eva. But when he learns of a string of grisley murders, he suspects his mentor may be involved.
Batman. Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader? -- a man doesn't live forever- but legends do. As those closest to the Bat gather for his memorial service, each has a tale to tell.
Green Lantern. Sinestro Corps Wars vol. 2 -- Sinestro, Hal Jordan's mentor turned nemesis, has gathered an army and is marching across the Universe. Former Green Lantern Kyle Rainer has been possessed by the evil entity Parallax
Green Lantern. Tales of the Sinestro Corps -- chronicles the tragic fall of one of the Universe's greatest heroes and the unpredictable rise of the man chosen to continue his legacy.
Booster Gold vol. 1. 52 Pick-Up -- Booster Gold longs to join the Justice League, but they are skeptical of his sincerity. Can he win his place?
Booster Gold vol. 2. Blue and Gold -- Booster's best friend Blue Beetle has been killed, but Booster may be able to use time travel to save him - if he doesn't destroy the universe doing so!
Booster Gold vol. 3. Reality Lost -- After a timetraveling villain from Batman's past tries to destroy Gotham city, Booster discovers all kinds of anomalies in the timestream, which only he can set right. He's truly the greatest hero nobody will ever know.
Hulk volume two. Red & Green -- Bruce Banner sets out to find the Red Hulk, and ends up in Sin City, Nevada. Things go from bad to worse when a pack of wendigo show up...
Amazing Spider-Man. Kraven's First Hunt -- She's spiderman's greatest nemesis, and she has just discovered his secret identity!
Wolf Island by Darren Shan -- bk. 8 of the Demonata - As the mysterious Shadow builds an army of demons, Grubbs Grady and his team search desperately for answers. But when they follow up a new lead, it takes them to an old, unexpected foe - the Lambs.
Shonen Jump January 2010 -- need I say more about the most popular manga magazine in the world?
Maximum Ride vol 2 -- having recovered Angel, Max and the flock head to New York to follow up a lead regarding their true identities. Trouble follows...
Cirque du Freak vol 3 -- accompanying his master, Mr. Crepsley, on a trip to the city, half-vampire Darren Shan is ready for a peaceful holiday with Eva. But when he learns of a string of grisley murders, he suspects his mentor may be involved.
Batman. Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader? -- a man doesn't live forever- but legends do. As those closest to the Bat gather for his memorial service, each has a tale to tell.
Green Lantern. Sinestro Corps Wars vol. 2 -- Sinestro, Hal Jordan's mentor turned nemesis, has gathered an army and is marching across the Universe. Former Green Lantern Kyle Rainer has been possessed by the evil entity Parallax
Green Lantern. Tales of the Sinestro Corps -- chronicles the tragic fall of one of the Universe's greatest heroes and the unpredictable rise of the man chosen to continue his legacy.
Booster Gold vol. 1. 52 Pick-Up -- Booster Gold longs to join the Justice League, but they are skeptical of his sincerity. Can he win his place?
Booster Gold vol. 2. Blue and Gold -- Booster's best friend Blue Beetle has been killed, but Booster may be able to use time travel to save him - if he doesn't destroy the universe doing so!
Booster Gold vol. 3. Reality Lost -- After a timetraveling villain from Batman's past tries to destroy Gotham city, Booster discovers all kinds of anomalies in the timestream, which only he can set right. He's truly the greatest hero nobody will ever know.
Hulk volume two. Red & Green -- Bruce Banner sets out to find the Red Hulk, and ends up in Sin City, Nevada. Things go from bad to worse when a pack of wendigo show up...
Amazing Spider-Man. Kraven's First Hunt -- She's spiderman's greatest nemesis, and she has just discovered his secret identity!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Dragon fiction
I love dragons. I love stories about them, whether they're good or evil. So today I thought I'd share a list of my favorite stories that involve these magical beasts.
Slathbog's Gold by M. L. Forman - Alex sees an odd sign in a shop window; little does he know when he goes inside to investigate that he will soon be on a quest to defeat an evil dragon!
The Dragon of Trelian by Michelle Knudsen - a mage's apprentice, a princess, and a dragon combine their strengths and magic to bring downa traitor and restore peace to the kingdom of Trelian.
The Pit Dragon chronicles by Jane Yolen - Jakkin steals a hatchling dragon and tries to raise it to fight in the arena, hoping to win enough money to win his freedom. But will they win freedom or destroy their world?
The Adventures of Young Det (vol 1) by Gyojeong Kwon - two adventure-loving boys from the country set out on a quest to defeat an evil dragon that threatens to destroy their world. The first volume tells of the prophecy they will fulfill.
Dragonhaven by Robin McKinley - everyone knows that dragons are a rare endangered species, but that they're not intelligent. But when Jake goes on his first solo overnight in Smokehill Park, the baby dragon he finds sets all his expectations awry.
The Hero and the Crown - Princess Aerin struggles to prove that she has a right to her birth position by slaying dragons, until she meets a monster she cannot easily conquer.
Dragonback Series by Timothy Zahn - Jack Morgan is an orphan, dependent only on his "uncle" until he accidentally becomes the sybiotic companion of the dragon warrior Draycos, and sets out on a journey to rescue the K'da from genocide, and find his parents' killers.
Dragonsong and Dragonsinger by Anne McCaffrey - Menolly hates her life in Half-Circle Seahold, and strives to win her freedom even as she discovers Firelizards, in this pair of novels.
The Prophecy by Hilari Bell - Guided by the words of a prophecy, Prince Peryyndon, who loves books more than swords, sets out to slay the dragon that is destroying his kingdom.
The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien - the classic tale of a small and simple hobbit who goes on a quest to steal a dragon's treasure, and what happens because of it.
Slathbog's Gold by M. L. Forman - Alex sees an odd sign in a shop window; little does he know when he goes inside to investigate that he will soon be on a quest to defeat an evil dragon!
The Dragon of Trelian by Michelle Knudsen - a mage's apprentice, a princess, and a dragon combine their strengths and magic to bring downa traitor and restore peace to the kingdom of Trelian.
The Pit Dragon chronicles by Jane Yolen - Jakkin steals a hatchling dragon and tries to raise it to fight in the arena, hoping to win enough money to win his freedom. But will they win freedom or destroy their world?
The Adventures of Young Det (vol 1) by Gyojeong Kwon - two adventure-loving boys from the country set out on a quest to defeat an evil dragon that threatens to destroy their world. The first volume tells of the prophecy they will fulfill.
Dragonhaven by Robin McKinley - everyone knows that dragons are a rare endangered species, but that they're not intelligent. But when Jake goes on his first solo overnight in Smokehill Park, the baby dragon he finds sets all his expectations awry.
The Hero and the Crown - Princess Aerin struggles to prove that she has a right to her birth position by slaying dragons, until she meets a monster she cannot easily conquer.
Dragonback Series by Timothy Zahn - Jack Morgan is an orphan, dependent only on his "uncle" until he accidentally becomes the sybiotic companion of the dragon warrior Draycos, and sets out on a journey to rescue the K'da from genocide, and find his parents' killers.
Dragonsong and Dragonsinger by Anne McCaffrey - Menolly hates her life in Half-Circle Seahold, and strives to win her freedom even as she discovers Firelizards, in this pair of novels.
The Prophecy by Hilari Bell - Guided by the words of a prophecy, Prince Peryyndon, who loves books more than swords, sets out to slay the dragon that is destroying his kingdom.
The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien - the classic tale of a small and simple hobbit who goes on a quest to steal a dragon's treasure, and what happens because of it.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Recent Returns
Dragon's Blood by Jane Yolen - Jakkin is a bond servant, little better than a slave. Desperate for his freedom, he resolves to steal a dragon hatchling, train it to fight, and win enough gold to pay his way out of bondage. But does he know enough to train a true champion? (Pit Dragon Chronicles Vol 1). 122 checkouts for all copies of this VERY popular title!
Flight of the Raven by Stephanie Tolan - nine year old Elijah has strange mental powers; when he stumbles into the hands of an environmental terrorist group, he enters a world of violence. Can he survive the cruelty he finds, and free himself, and others? 13 circs.
Acceleration by Graham McNamee - stuck working in the Lost and Found of the Transit Authority one summer, seventeen year old Duncan finds a strange little journal that leads him on a quest to discover a serial killer. 29 circs.
Brisingr by Christopher Paolini - third in the Inheritance series - Eragon and his dragon, Saphira have survived war against the Emperor's warriors, but Eragon now finds himself entangled within a network of promises that he may not be able to keep. 54 circs for the Audiobook alone!
Flight of the Raven by Stephanie Tolan - nine year old Elijah has strange mental powers; when he stumbles into the hands of an environmental terrorist group, he enters a world of violence. Can he survive the cruelty he finds, and free himself, and others? 13 circs.
Acceleration by Graham McNamee - stuck working in the Lost and Found of the Transit Authority one summer, seventeen year old Duncan finds a strange little journal that leads him on a quest to discover a serial killer. 29 circs.
Brisingr by Christopher Paolini - third in the Inheritance series - Eragon and his dragon, Saphira have survived war against the Emperor's warriors, but Eragon now finds himself entangled within a network of promises that he may not be able to keep. 54 circs for the Audiobook alone!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Recent Returns
Before We Were Free by Julia Alvarez - during the early 1960's in the Dominican Republic, 12 year old Anita discovers that her family are part of the underground movement to end the bloody rule of the dictator, General Trujillo - 24 circs
The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan - book 5 of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. Who is the last Olympian? Is he or she friend or foe? Will Percy finally understand the prophecy he fears This audio has only checked out 4 times, but the book has 28 circs.
First Thunder (Superman/Shazam) - Witness the first meeting of Captain Marvel and Superman, and the formation of a mighty friendship! 21 circs!
Crowned by Julie Linker - Presley loves the pageant world, but her archrival Megan threatens her ability to win both titles and scholarships. How low will these girls go to be crowned queen? 5 circs for this NEW book!
The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan - book 5 of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. Who is the last Olympian? Is he or she friend or foe? Will Percy finally understand the prophecy he fears This audio has only checked out 4 times, but the book has 28 circs.
First Thunder (Superman/Shazam) - Witness the first meeting of Captain Marvel and Superman, and the formation of a mighty friendship! 21 circs!
Crowned by Julie Linker - Presley loves the pageant world, but her archrival Megan threatens her ability to win both titles and scholarships. How low will these girls go to be crowned queen? 5 circs for this NEW book!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Recent Returns
The Castle of Llyr by Lloyd Alexander - third in the "Chronicles of Prydain", an award-winning classic fantasy series set in a world similar to ancient Whales. Princess Eilonwy is sad when she must leave her friends and begin training to become a proper Princess, at the Isle of Mona. But when evil befalls the red-headed princess, her loyal friends Taran, Flewddur Fflam, and Gurgi as well as Prince Rhun, set out to rescue her, in this action packed and very fun tale. 151 checkouts between the books and the audio.
Loving Will Shakespeare by Carolyn Meyer - Anne's life wasn't happy, everyone expected her to marry - and then that charming boy, Will, whom she'd always admired, returns home; but he's no longer just a cute boy, instead he's a handsome young man - too young for Anne, but she can't seem to get him out of her mind. Can she possibly break the rules and seize a chance for happiness?
Bloodhound by Tamora Pierce - Book 2 of the Beka Cooper series - Beka Cooper is a "dog" in the Provost's Guard now; a full-fledged officer of the law. But when counterfeit coins begin turning up everywhere in Tortall, Beka and her mentor must travel to Port Cayne, source of the counterfeiting - and discover that all is not well in the ranks of the law there. An action-packed addition to a fantastic series! 30 circs between the audio and the books.
Incredible Hulk: Planet Hulk - Bruce Banner joined S.H.I.E.L.D to ensure that his alternate self, the Incredible Hulk, would use his powerful strength only for good. But when he returns he discovers a plan by a group of Marvel Heroes to banish him to an empty, idyllic planet where he is promised "there will be no one there to hurt you. And no one you can hurt." 36 circs!
Loving Will Shakespeare by Carolyn Meyer - Anne's life wasn't happy, everyone expected her to marry - and then that charming boy, Will, whom she'd always admired, returns home; but he's no longer just a cute boy, instead he's a handsome young man - too young for Anne, but she can't seem to get him out of her mind. Can she possibly break the rules and seize a chance for happiness?
Bloodhound by Tamora Pierce - Book 2 of the Beka Cooper series - Beka Cooper is a "dog" in the Provost's Guard now; a full-fledged officer of the law. But when counterfeit coins begin turning up everywhere in Tortall, Beka and her mentor must travel to Port Cayne, source of the counterfeiting - and discover that all is not well in the ranks of the law there. An action-packed addition to a fantastic series! 30 circs between the audio and the books.
Incredible Hulk: Planet Hulk - Bruce Banner joined S.H.I.E.L.D to ensure that his alternate self, the Incredible Hulk, would use his powerful strength only for good. But when he returns he discovers a plan by a group of Marvel Heroes to banish him to an empty, idyllic planet where he is promised "there will be no one there to hurt you. And no one you can hurt." 36 circs!
Friday, October 30, 2009
New Books, Donations and the Booksale
Just a few new titles are coming up soon:
The Struggle by L. J. Smith - Two vampire brothers struggle for the love of one beautiful young high school girl, who craves excitement. Vampire Diaries vol 2.
Blue Moon by Alyson Noel - Ever depends on Damien to guide her in the use of her newly discovered powers; when she discovers that as her powers are growing, his are fading, she is forced to make a wrenching choice. Immortals vol 2.
Alphas by Lisi Harrison - select teen girls are invited to join the exclusive and futuristic Alpha club, where they are forced to compete to maintain their standing.
Shonen Jump - both the December issue should be up very soon, and following in the next week or so, we've added a large number of gift copies of older issues, either filling in gaps in our collection or replacing worn and torn issues. Thank you to whoever gave them to us! We appreciate it.
Which reminds me - if you have graphic novels, manga, anime or other teen books that you are "done with" - that have been cared for and are only gently worn - I would be THRILLED to take a look at them, and decide if they can be added to our collection. Every year the library adds thousands of titles to the collection which are donated, but I get VERY few teen titles, let alone anime or manga.
Remember, even if I cannot add them to the collection for various reasons (they are duplicates, they're too worn, they're too old, etc...) they still go to the booksale, where we raise money for the Library. The Annual Friend's Booksale is THE reason we have Teen Game Night every summer - they bought the equipment we use.
And then the last thing I want to remind you about is the BOOKSALE itself - coming up very soon, November 12-15 at the HOT Fairgrounds. Read more about it here.
The Struggle by L. J. Smith - Two vampire brothers struggle for the love of one beautiful young high school girl, who craves excitement. Vampire Diaries vol 2.
Blue Moon by Alyson Noel - Ever depends on Damien to guide her in the use of her newly discovered powers; when she discovers that as her powers are growing, his are fading, she is forced to make a wrenching choice. Immortals vol 2.
Alphas by Lisi Harrison - select teen girls are invited to join the exclusive and futuristic Alpha club, where they are forced to compete to maintain their standing.
Shonen Jump - both the December issue should be up very soon, and following in the next week or so, we've added a large number of gift copies of older issues, either filling in gaps in our collection or replacing worn and torn issues. Thank you to whoever gave them to us! We appreciate it.
Which reminds me - if you have graphic novels, manga, anime or other teen books that you are "done with" - that have been cared for and are only gently worn - I would be THRILLED to take a look at them, and decide if they can be added to our collection. Every year the library adds thousands of titles to the collection which are donated, but I get VERY few teen titles, let alone anime or manga.
Remember, even if I cannot add them to the collection for various reasons (they are duplicates, they're too worn, they're too old, etc...) they still go to the booksale, where we raise money for the Library. The Annual Friend's Booksale is THE reason we have Teen Game Night every summer - they bought the equipment we use.
And then the last thing I want to remind you about is the BOOKSALE itself - coming up very soon, November 12-15 at the HOT Fairgrounds. Read more about it here.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Recent Returns
A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb - Helen has haunted people for over 130 years - but no one has ever seen her before - until one special teenage boy looks straight at her. As they build a relationship, they seek to understand the secrets of their former lives... 29 circs; I'm anxious to read this one myself!
Dawn: Warriors, the New Prophecy by Erin Hunter - the cats return to a forest devastated by twolegs, and must try to convince their clan to abandon their home for a new one, even though they don't know where, or if, they will find it. 68 circs at all 4 libraries - one of the most popular series going!
End of Greys (X-Men: the New Age) by Chris Claremont - Rachel Grey and her entire family are placed on the Interagalactic Wanted list, and only the X-men stand in the way of their executioners. 28 circs for this key tale in the X-men saga.
Shadow Spinner by Susan Fletcher - you may have heard of Shahrazad, who told tales to the emperor for a thousand and one nights to save her life, but did you ever hear of Marjan, her faithful servant, who gathers new tales for the lady, at risk to her own life? 49 circs from all libraries. A great variation on a classic story.
The Final Warning (Maximum Ride) by James Patterson - Max and her friends, teens who can fly because of genetic engineering, take a great risk to save the world, and escape their pursuers. 76 circs!!!!
Dawn: Warriors, the New Prophecy by Erin Hunter - the cats return to a forest devastated by twolegs, and must try to convince their clan to abandon their home for a new one, even though they don't know where, or if, they will find it. 68 circs at all 4 libraries - one of the most popular series going!
End of Greys (X-Men: the New Age) by Chris Claremont - Rachel Grey and her entire family are placed on the Interagalactic Wanted list, and only the X-men stand in the way of their executioners. 28 circs for this key tale in the X-men saga.
Shadow Spinner by Susan Fletcher - you may have heard of Shahrazad, who told tales to the emperor for a thousand and one nights to save her life, but did you ever hear of Marjan, her faithful servant, who gathers new tales for the lady, at risk to her own life? 49 circs from all libraries. A great variation on a classic story.
The Final Warning (Maximum Ride) by James Patterson - Max and her friends, teens who can fly because of genetic engineering, take a great risk to save the world, and escape their pursuers. 76 circs!!!!
Friday, October 23, 2009
Writing contest
Are you a budding novelist?
Have a great idea for a book, but you're not sure how to get an agent to take a look?
Here's a writing contest that could help.
Have a great idea for a book, but you're not sure how to get an agent to take a look?
Here's a writing contest that could help.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Teen Top Ten Winners have been announced
Whee! They've been announced! Finally!!
1. Paper Towns by John Green (Penguin/Dutton)
2. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers)
3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Scholastic)
4. City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare (Simon & Schuster/Margaret K. McElderry)
5. Identical by Ellen Hopkins (Simon & Schuster/Margaret K. McElderry)
6. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (HarperCollins)
7. Wake by Lisa McMann (Simon & Schuster/Simon Pulse)
8. Untamed by P.C. and Kristin Cast (St. Martin's Griffin)
9. The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart (Disney-Hyperion)
10. Graceling by Kristin Cashore (Harcourt/Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)
Which is your favorite? Mine was The Graveyard Book... but I have to admit I've only read 5 of the titles on this list, so please, if you liked something else better, please tell me, and your fellow readers, why!
1. Paper Towns by John Green (Penguin/Dutton)
2. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers)
3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Scholastic)
4. City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare (Simon & Schuster/Margaret K. McElderry)
5. Identical by Ellen Hopkins (Simon & Schuster/Margaret K. McElderry)
6. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman (HarperCollins)
7. Wake by Lisa McMann (Simon & Schuster/Simon Pulse)
8. Untamed by P.C. and Kristin Cast (St. Martin's Griffin)
9. The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart (Disney-Hyperion)
10. Graceling by Kristin Cashore (Harcourt/Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)
Which is your favorite? Mine was The Graveyard Book... but I have to admit I've only read 5 of the titles on this list, so please, if you liked something else better, please tell me, and your fellow readers, why!
Science Fiction books
I love Sci Fi, but I'm not always certain I know what to read next. Here is a list of some of my favorite titles and authors (leaning towards NEW, TRULY CLASSIC, and VERY GOOD).
Classic Titles:
From the Earth to the Moon and 20,000 Leagues under the Sea by Jules Verne. If you love Scifi, and want to know how the genre got started, you can't go wrong with these. They're fun, wacky, and every scifi writer has read them and drawn from them as they learned their craft.
The Time Machine by H. G. Wells. Good enough that they're still making it into a movie every few years. Classic and timeless, and very fun, even if you know the ending.
Have Spacesuit, Will Travel by Robert Heinlein. Heinlein, Clarke, and Asimov are the Grandmasters of SciFi. If you have not read at least a couple of titles by each, you don't know science fiction. This is one of his best for teens (he wrote one teen scifi book a year for over a decade); others include Between Planets, Podkayne of Mars, Starbeast, Starman Jones, etc...
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle. The adventures of Meg and Charles Murray are timeless (and not only because they travel in time). If you like your scifi on the philosophical side, this is just what you'll enjoy.
When the Tripods Came by John Christopher. This series is one that many of us who read when it was new will tell you started us reading science fiction. Invasion of the world, collapse of society, struggle for survival, and seeming hopelessness are the themes of this trilogy.
Very Good Science Fiction Titles:
Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams. An adult title that older teens should LOVE. Hilarity and world destruction in the style of Monte Python. Many sequels.
Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card. Military SF at its most brutal and realistic. First in a series.
Interstellar Pig by William Sleator. A game gone wrong provokes an interstellar incident that nearly destroys our world. A great farce.
The Giver by Lois Lowry. A boy on the edge of adulthood discovers that his perfect world is not as utopian as it seemed; will he be able to fit in, or will he have to make a frightening decision? One of my all-time favorite books. I think everyone should read it.
Warrior's Apprentice by Lois Bujold. Another adult novel, but the hero, Miles, is only 16. His adventures through space are madcap, delightful, terrifying and utterly real. You'll cheer for Miles as he struggles to find his place in a universe that seems determined to slap him down. First in a multivolume series.
New Science Fiction (from the last few years):
Feed by M. T. Anderson. A seriously dystopian world in which people are wirelessly hooked directly to their television feeds. A young man meets a very strange girl and begins to question his lifelong assumptions. Political satire of the very best kind.
Little Brother by Cory Doctorow. The protagonist in this novel about government control and personal freedom lives in a world just beyond our own time; when Marcus' city is attacked by terrorists, he finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, and things go horribly bad, very quickly. Almost too true to believe, this is another one everyone needs to read.
Saga by Conor Costick. Sequel to Epic, but readable by itself. Erik finds a new game world, but to his shock, he discovers that the people who live there are not computer programs, but free-willed beings. And a dark power is set upon destroying him, them, and the whole world in which they exist. Exciting and action-packed, but thought provoking, too, like the very best Sci Fi.
Classic Titles:
From the Earth to the Moon and 20,000 Leagues under the Sea by Jules Verne. If you love Scifi, and want to know how the genre got started, you can't go wrong with these. They're fun, wacky, and every scifi writer has read them and drawn from them as they learned their craft.
The Time Machine by H. G. Wells. Good enough that they're still making it into a movie every few years. Classic and timeless, and very fun, even if you know the ending.
Have Spacesuit, Will Travel by Robert Heinlein. Heinlein, Clarke, and Asimov are the Grandmasters of SciFi. If you have not read at least a couple of titles by each, you don't know science fiction. This is one of his best for teens (he wrote one teen scifi book a year for over a decade); others include Between Planets, Podkayne of Mars, Starbeast, Starman Jones, etc...
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle. The adventures of Meg and Charles Murray are timeless (and not only because they travel in time). If you like your scifi on the philosophical side, this is just what you'll enjoy.
When the Tripods Came by John Christopher. This series is one that many of us who read when it was new will tell you started us reading science fiction. Invasion of the world, collapse of society, struggle for survival, and seeming hopelessness are the themes of this trilogy.
Very Good Science Fiction Titles:
Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams. An adult title that older teens should LOVE. Hilarity and world destruction in the style of Monte Python. Many sequels.
Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card. Military SF at its most brutal and realistic. First in a series.
Interstellar Pig by William Sleator. A game gone wrong provokes an interstellar incident that nearly destroys our world. A great farce.
The Giver by Lois Lowry. A boy on the edge of adulthood discovers that his perfect world is not as utopian as it seemed; will he be able to fit in, or will he have to make a frightening decision? One of my all-time favorite books. I think everyone should read it.
Warrior's Apprentice by Lois Bujold. Another adult novel, but the hero, Miles, is only 16. His adventures through space are madcap, delightful, terrifying and utterly real. You'll cheer for Miles as he struggles to find his place in a universe that seems determined to slap him down. First in a multivolume series.
New Science Fiction (from the last few years):
Feed by M. T. Anderson. A seriously dystopian world in which people are wirelessly hooked directly to their television feeds. A young man meets a very strange girl and begins to question his lifelong assumptions. Political satire of the very best kind.
Little Brother by Cory Doctorow. The protagonist in this novel about government control and personal freedom lives in a world just beyond our own time; when Marcus' city is attacked by terrorists, he finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, and things go horribly bad, very quickly. Almost too true to believe, this is another one everyone needs to read.
Saga by Conor Costick. Sequel to Epic, but readable by itself. Erik finds a new game world, but to his shock, he discovers that the people who live there are not computer programs, but free-willed beings. And a dark power is set upon destroying him, them, and the whole world in which they exist. Exciting and action-packed, but thought provoking, too, like the very best Sci Fi.
Monday, October 19, 2009
New Playaways
Are you an audiobook fan? Love to listen to those long books you have to read for school?
Try the new Playaways we've gotten in lately: these are books on their own cute little MP3 player that you can carry around and listen to at your convenience. They're smaller and lighter than a deck of playing cards - you supply your headphones and we supply the battery.
The Secret Life of Prince Charming by Deb Caletti -- Quinn has heard nothing but cautionary tales about men and love; when her boyfriend suddenly and unceremoniously dumps her, she begins to think her family's tales are all too true - there's no trusting a man. And then she begins to take life into her own hands, trying to protect her sisters, prevent her father from continuing to ruin lives, and live life to the fullest.
Spy High, Episode 2: The Chaos Connection by A. J. Butcher -- Bond team is back, competing for the prestigious Sherlock Shield at Devereaux College - but Solo Team is competing, too, and they'll do anything, by the rules or not, to win.
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne -- the science fiction classic - follow the adventures of a French professor and his two companions above and below the sea as the prisoners of deranged Captain Nemo.
Soul Enchilada by David MacInnis Gill -- 18 year old Eunice "Bug" Smoot is about to wreck her car, beat the devil, fall in love, lose her soul, and more, in this hilarious romatic farce, set in a San Antonio you've never met before!
Try the new Playaways we've gotten in lately: these are books on their own cute little MP3 player that you can carry around and listen to at your convenience. They're smaller and lighter than a deck of playing cards - you supply your headphones and we supply the battery.
The Secret Life of Prince Charming by Deb Caletti -- Quinn has heard nothing but cautionary tales about men and love; when her boyfriend suddenly and unceremoniously dumps her, she begins to think her family's tales are all too true - there's no trusting a man. And then she begins to take life into her own hands, trying to protect her sisters, prevent her father from continuing to ruin lives, and live life to the fullest.
Spy High, Episode 2: The Chaos Connection by A. J. Butcher -- Bond team is back, competing for the prestigious Sherlock Shield at Devereaux College - but Solo Team is competing, too, and they'll do anything, by the rules or not, to win.
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne -- the science fiction classic - follow the adventures of a French professor and his two companions above and below the sea as the prisoners of deranged Captain Nemo.
Soul Enchilada by David MacInnis Gill -- 18 year old Eunice "Bug" Smoot is about to wreck her car, beat the devil, fall in love, lose her soul, and more, in this hilarious romatic farce, set in a San Antonio you've never met before!
Friday, October 16, 2009
New Books coming up!
Novels:
After by Amy Efaw -- in complete denial of her pregnancy, straight A student athlete Devon leaves her baby in the trash to die; afterward, when she is accused of murder, she must try to understand what caused her to behave as she did.
Hate List by Jennifer Brown -- last year, her boyfriend Nick committed the unthinkable - a school shooting - and now Valerie is trying to reintegrate herself into high school life, and decide whether or not she was a hero or a villain.
Intertwined by Gena Showalter -- Most people have friends - Aden has four people living inside him. Until he meets a girl who can quiet their voices, he's never known peace. But what will the price be?
Violet Wings by Victoria Hanley -- Zaria Tourmaline is a powerful fey, so when she uses her newly discovered abilities to find out what happened to her family three years ago, she unintentionally puts all of Feyland at risk...
Tempo Change by Barbara Hall -- When Blanche forms a band, all she really wants to do is reconnect with her famous musician father, who left when she was just a child; instead she begins to realize other things about life and growing up.
Hollywood Royalty by Zoe Dean -- first novel in the new A-list spinoff series - Jojo discovers her birth parents are famous Hollywood figures and enters a new world familiar to her until now only as the gossip pages.
Sunset Boulevard by Zoe Dean -- A-list Hollywood Royalty - Jojo and Myla work on their relationship as sisters, while Jake is cast in a film and must deal with the pressure of possibly becoming the "next hot thing".
Heart of Glass by Zoe Dean -- A-list - High School is officially over, but when Cammie and Anna are caught trespassing on a Celeb's private estate, the celebrations are cut short.
Beautiful Stranger by Zoe Dean - A-list - Anna and Sam, taking a break from their respective relationship problems, visit New York City after graduation. But not all is well in Hollywood...
California Dreaming by Zoe Dean - A-list - There are only a few precious days left of summer in LA before the A-list all head off to college. Or will they?
Step to this by Nikki Carter -- Gia wants to be popular, and a new makeover wins her a spot on the dance team, but then things go all wrong...
It is what it is by Nikki Carter -- Gia is all ready for a great year at school, but when Ricky becomes the hottest thing at school, all the girls beg Gia to help them score a date. AND, she's navigating having a new stepdad and stepsister.
Sorceress by Celia Rees -- as a descendant of the Mohawk Indians, Agnes has the powers of a healer, but she learns that they came not from her indian ancestors, but from a Colonial girl who was accused of witchcraft and fled to the Indians.
Gatekeepers by Robert Liparulo -- Xander, David and their sister, as well as an old relative who has shown up unexpectedly, keep searching for their lost mother, while their father sits in jail, accused of a crime he didn't commit.
Ruined by Paula Morris -- forced to stay with her grandmother in New Orleans, while her father travels, Rebecca is ignored by the rich girls at her fancy prep school. Finally, Rebecca makes a friend; but Lisette is a ghost, with an agenda of her own...
Day of the Pelican by Katherine Paterson -- In 1998, being an ethnic Albanian in Kosovo is not safe; when Meli's brother escapes from Serbian captors, the family flees from one refugee camp to another, in a desperate bid to emigrate to America.
Quaking by Kathryn Erskine -- Matt has come to live with a Quaker family in a town that despises their anti-war position; Matt must deal with this prejudice as well as her own troubled background as she learns to trust again.
The Ask and the Answer by Patrick Ness -- alternate chapters follow Todd and Viola, who are separated as the Mayor's oppressive new regime takes power in Prentisstown, where residents can hear each other's thoughts.
Eyes like Stars by Lisa Mantchev -- Bertie strives to save the Theater Illuminata, the only home she has ever known, but the spirits of the Players who live there are not always eager to help.
Dance with a Vampire (Vampire Kisses #4) -- When eleven year old Valentine, younger brother of Jagger and Luna, arrives in Dullsville, nothing will be the same...
Riot by Walter Dean Myers -- Fifteen year old Claire learns how dangerous it can be to be different when the Irish immigrants in New York City lash out against the blacks and the "swells" whom they blame for their troubles, in Civil War era New York City.
Evidence of Angels by Suza Scalora with Francesca Lia Block -- after a woman's beloved dies, she begins to see angels everywhere. A beautifully illustrated book of poetic emotion.
Willa by Heart by Coleen Paratore -- Willa finds herself with an overwhelming amount of things on her plate as her freshman year draws to an end. Can she handle all life throws at her?
Total Knockout: the tale of an ex-class president by Taylor Morris -- elected class president for the third time, Lucia thinks her life is on track; until, that is, she gets impeached.
Graphic Novels:
Hulk. Red Hulk.
Formerly Known as the Justice League
Cat Burglar Black by Richard Sala - the school K. has been transferred to is distinctly odd, and K. sets out to find out why.
Essential. Peter Parker and the Spectacular Spider-Man volume 4
Essential. Marvel Team-up volume 3
Vietnam War - a Graphic History by Dwight Zimmerman - nonfiction follows the war from its inception through the anti-war movement, assassinations, to Watergate, and the resignation of a President.
Shonen Jump volume 7 # 11 (November)
After by Amy Efaw -- in complete denial of her pregnancy, straight A student athlete Devon leaves her baby in the trash to die; afterward, when she is accused of murder, she must try to understand what caused her to behave as she did.
Hate List by Jennifer Brown -- last year, her boyfriend Nick committed the unthinkable - a school shooting - and now Valerie is trying to reintegrate herself into high school life, and decide whether or not she was a hero or a villain.
Intertwined by Gena Showalter -- Most people have friends - Aden has four people living inside him. Until he meets a girl who can quiet their voices, he's never known peace. But what will the price be?
Violet Wings by Victoria Hanley -- Zaria Tourmaline is a powerful fey, so when she uses her newly discovered abilities to find out what happened to her family three years ago, she unintentionally puts all of Feyland at risk...
Tempo Change by Barbara Hall -- When Blanche forms a band, all she really wants to do is reconnect with her famous musician father, who left when she was just a child; instead she begins to realize other things about life and growing up.
Hollywood Royalty by Zoe Dean -- first novel in the new A-list spinoff series - Jojo discovers her birth parents are famous Hollywood figures and enters a new world familiar to her until now only as the gossip pages.
Sunset Boulevard by Zoe Dean -- A-list Hollywood Royalty - Jojo and Myla work on their relationship as sisters, while Jake is cast in a film and must deal with the pressure of possibly becoming the "next hot thing".
Heart of Glass by Zoe Dean -- A-list - High School is officially over, but when Cammie and Anna are caught trespassing on a Celeb's private estate, the celebrations are cut short.
Beautiful Stranger by Zoe Dean - A-list - Anna and Sam, taking a break from their respective relationship problems, visit New York City after graduation. But not all is well in Hollywood...
California Dreaming by Zoe Dean - A-list - There are only a few precious days left of summer in LA before the A-list all head off to college. Or will they?
Step to this by Nikki Carter -- Gia wants to be popular, and a new makeover wins her a spot on the dance team, but then things go all wrong...
It is what it is by Nikki Carter -- Gia is all ready for a great year at school, but when Ricky becomes the hottest thing at school, all the girls beg Gia to help them score a date. AND, she's navigating having a new stepdad and stepsister.
Sorceress by Celia Rees -- as a descendant of the Mohawk Indians, Agnes has the powers of a healer, but she learns that they came not from her indian ancestors, but from a Colonial girl who was accused of witchcraft and fled to the Indians.
Gatekeepers by Robert Liparulo -- Xander, David and their sister, as well as an old relative who has shown up unexpectedly, keep searching for their lost mother, while their father sits in jail, accused of a crime he didn't commit.
Ruined by Paula Morris -- forced to stay with her grandmother in New Orleans, while her father travels, Rebecca is ignored by the rich girls at her fancy prep school. Finally, Rebecca makes a friend; but Lisette is a ghost, with an agenda of her own...
Day of the Pelican by Katherine Paterson -- In 1998, being an ethnic Albanian in Kosovo is not safe; when Meli's brother escapes from Serbian captors, the family flees from one refugee camp to another, in a desperate bid to emigrate to America.
Quaking by Kathryn Erskine -- Matt has come to live with a Quaker family in a town that despises their anti-war position; Matt must deal with this prejudice as well as her own troubled background as she learns to trust again.
The Ask and the Answer by Patrick Ness -- alternate chapters follow Todd and Viola, who are separated as the Mayor's oppressive new regime takes power in Prentisstown, where residents can hear each other's thoughts.
Eyes like Stars by Lisa Mantchev -- Bertie strives to save the Theater Illuminata, the only home she has ever known, but the spirits of the Players who live there are not always eager to help.
Dance with a Vampire (Vampire Kisses #4) -- When eleven year old Valentine, younger brother of Jagger and Luna, arrives in Dullsville, nothing will be the same...
Riot by Walter Dean Myers -- Fifteen year old Claire learns how dangerous it can be to be different when the Irish immigrants in New York City lash out against the blacks and the "swells" whom they blame for their troubles, in Civil War era New York City.
Evidence of Angels by Suza Scalora with Francesca Lia Block -- after a woman's beloved dies, she begins to see angels everywhere. A beautifully illustrated book of poetic emotion.
Willa by Heart by Coleen Paratore -- Willa finds herself with an overwhelming amount of things on her plate as her freshman year draws to an end. Can she handle all life throws at her?
Total Knockout: the tale of an ex-class president by Taylor Morris -- elected class president for the third time, Lucia thinks her life is on track; until, that is, she gets impeached.
Graphic Novels:
Hulk. Red Hulk.
Formerly Known as the Justice League
Cat Burglar Black by Richard Sala - the school K. has been transferred to is distinctly odd, and K. sets out to find out why.
Essential. Peter Parker and the Spectacular Spider-Man volume 4
Essential. Marvel Team-up volume 3
Vietnam War - a Graphic History by Dwight Zimmerman - nonfiction follows the war from its inception through the anti-war movement, assassinations, to Watergate, and the resignation of a President.
Shonen Jump volume 7 # 11 (November)
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Recent Returns
Recent Returns:
Code Geass: Suzaku of the Counterattack (Vol 1) by Yomino, Atsuro. Suzaku and Lelouch were best friends until their nations went to war. Now Japan has been conquered, and as the son of the Prime Minister, Suzaku is fighting for his own brand of Justice.
This first volume of the series has checked out 11 times, and the rest of Suzaku and Lelouch's adventures are on order!
Green Lantern Corps (Vol 3): Ring Quest by Tomasi, Peter J. In the wake of the Sinestro War, Mongul is amassing new power, and only the Green Lantern Corps can stand against him! 2 copies have 9 checkouts. Green Lantern is one of my favorite Supers!
Uncanny X-Men: Rise and Fall of the Shi'ar Empire by Ed Brubaker. This tale promises to rock not just Earth but the whole Galaxy, as Vulcan sets out to take revenge! He's set his sights on the Shi'Ar empire this time. 24 circs.
The Sweet Far Thing by Libba Bray. Book 3 of the Gemma Doyle series. Gemma is tested yet again as she comes closer to her destiny. Will she be able to grasp her own fate and survive the coming turmoil? Or will she set chaos loose on both the Realms and Victorian England? 28 circs (and we also own the audio).
Art Geeks and Prom Queens by Alyson Noel. Being the new girl is tough, as Rio Jones knows well; she's trying to fit in at her new private school in California, but she doesn't know the rules...12 circs
Code Geass: Suzaku of the Counterattack (Vol 1) by Yomino, Atsuro. Suzaku and Lelouch were best friends until their nations went to war. Now Japan has been conquered, and as the son of the Prime Minister, Suzaku is fighting for his own brand of Justice.
This first volume of the series has checked out 11 times, and the rest of Suzaku and Lelouch's adventures are on order!
Green Lantern Corps (Vol 3): Ring Quest by Tomasi, Peter J. In the wake of the Sinestro War, Mongul is amassing new power, and only the Green Lantern Corps can stand against him! 2 copies have 9 checkouts. Green Lantern is one of my favorite Supers!
Uncanny X-Men: Rise and Fall of the Shi'ar Empire by Ed Brubaker. This tale promises to rock not just Earth but the whole Galaxy, as Vulcan sets out to take revenge! He's set his sights on the Shi'Ar empire this time. 24 circs.
The Sweet Far Thing by Libba Bray. Book 3 of the Gemma Doyle series. Gemma is tested yet again as she comes closer to her destiny. Will she be able to grasp her own fate and survive the coming turmoil? Or will she set chaos loose on both the Realms and Victorian England? 28 circs (and we also own the audio).
Art Geeks and Prom Queens by Alyson Noel. Being the new girl is tough, as Rio Jones knows well; she's trying to fit in at her new private school in California, but she doesn't know the rules...12 circs
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Historical Novels
Another Genre I love is good historical fiction. Here's a list of some of my favorites, mostly from the last two years, but a few older ones that are too good to pass by.
The Season by Sarah McLean - a murder mystery and possibly also a romance, set in the Regency era in England, in the upper-crust lifestyle of the haute ton. I haven't read this one, but I really really want to! A sequel will be out soon.
The Diamond of Drury Lane by Julia Golding - Cat Royal grows up in the Drury Lane Theater, in late 18th Century England. A tale of intrigue and adventure, with a rollicking good sequel.
Guardian by Julius Lester - in the deep south of the 1940's, a white man and his son witness an act of unspeakable racism and hatred.
Uprising by Margaret Peterson Haddix - in 1927 the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire was a terrible tragedy, but this is the story behind that story; the working conditions, the strike, the lives of those who were affected by it forever, including Harriet, the boss' daughter.
Falconer's Knot by Mary Hoffman - in Renaissance Italy a pair of teenagers, one in a nunnery, and the other in a friary, dream of a life together. But then a horrific murder intervenes, and they must solve it or be forever separated.
The Letter Writer by Ann Rinaldi - Ann Rinaldi writes fantastic historical fiction about real people. In this case, a young girl is shocked to discover that the letters she has written for her blind stepmother have involved her in Nat Turner's Revolt, one of the bloodiest slave uprisings in America's history.
Goddess of Yesterday by Caroline Cooney - Anaxandra, a greek princess, is present during some of the most infamous events in Greek History, including the fall of Troy.
What's your favorite historical fiction? Do you prefer a particular time or place? Tell me and the other readers of this blog all about it!
The Season by Sarah McLean - a murder mystery and possibly also a romance, set in the Regency era in England, in the upper-crust lifestyle of the haute ton. I haven't read this one, but I really really want to! A sequel will be out soon.
The Diamond of Drury Lane by Julia Golding - Cat Royal grows up in the Drury Lane Theater, in late 18th Century England. A tale of intrigue and adventure, with a rollicking good sequel.
Guardian by Julius Lester - in the deep south of the 1940's, a white man and his son witness an act of unspeakable racism and hatred.
Uprising by Margaret Peterson Haddix - in 1927 the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire was a terrible tragedy, but this is the story behind that story; the working conditions, the strike, the lives of those who were affected by it forever, including Harriet, the boss' daughter.
Falconer's Knot by Mary Hoffman - in Renaissance Italy a pair of teenagers, one in a nunnery, and the other in a friary, dream of a life together. But then a horrific murder intervenes, and they must solve it or be forever separated.
The Letter Writer by Ann Rinaldi - Ann Rinaldi writes fantastic historical fiction about real people. In this case, a young girl is shocked to discover that the letters she has written for her blind stepmother have involved her in Nat Turner's Revolt, one of the bloodiest slave uprisings in America's history.
Goddess of Yesterday by Caroline Cooney - Anaxandra, a greek princess, is present during some of the most infamous events in Greek History, including the fall of Troy.
What's your favorite historical fiction? Do you prefer a particular time or place? Tell me and the other readers of this blog all about it!
Saturday, October 3, 2009
New Books
I've got a nice list of new stuff that has just come upstairs... come in and get it while the "getting is good".
Tricks by Ellen Hopkins - Five teens,all from different backgrounds and with different challenges, all want freedom, life and love. Can they find what they're seeking, and survive life on the streets at the same time?
Envy by Anna Godbersen - a Lux novel - Continues the story of Elizabeth's homecoming. But is all well behind the doors of #17, Grammercy Park South? The watchers begin to speculate as Elizabeth refuses to rejoin her sister Diana at the head of Manhattan's social pinnacle.
Tenth Grade Bleeds by Heather Brewer - vol. 3 of Vladimir Tod - evil vampire D'Ablo continues stealing Vlad's powers, and Vlad struggles to contain his desire to feed. Can he ever just have a normal life?
Andromeda Klein by Frank Portman - Andromeda is an outcast, partly due to her hearing impairment, partly from her love of the occult. But when she throws herself into saving library books, she enlists the help of others. Can she find a kindred spirit among them?
Destroy all Cars by Blake Nelson - James uses the venue of his English assignments to write rants about consumerism, his girlfriend troubles, his classmates' apathy, and his emotionally distant parents, in this novel about growing up an idealist in modern America.
Into the Wildewood by Gillian Summers --- bk. 2 of the Faire Folk trilogy - Kylee and her father join forces to defend their Ren Faire from dark fey who are poisoning the forest.
Secret of the Dread Forest by Gillian Summers - bk. 3 of Faire Folk trilogy - after reluctantly joining her fearsome elf grandmother in the Dread Forest, Keelie meets a mysterious boy and learns that the elven realm is being encroached upon by both human and fey.
Mare's War by Tanita Davis - Teens Otavia and Tali learn about strength, independence and courage on a long car trip with their grandmother, who shares stories of her growing up days in Alabama and WWII.
War Games by Jacqueline Guest - in the SideStreet Series - Ryan loves playing Cybernight because it helps him forget that his father is being deployed in Afghanistan, but then the game becomes far more complex, and real, than he ever bargained for...
Graphic Novels:
Cirque du Freak vols. 1-2 - follow Darren and Mr. Crespley on their adventures in full-blown Graphic style.
X-Men. Misfits (the manga series) - Kitty Pride tries to fit in with the Hellfire Club boys at her new school. An alternate version of the X-Men universe, manga-style.
X-Men. Magneto Testament - discover the origins of the X-men's most challenging opponent - Magneto - in the era before WWII in Europe.
Great Expectations the graphic novel by Charles Dickens, retold by Jen Green - follow the classic story of rags-to-riches Pip, as he tries to fulfill his own Great Expectations and learns what is truly important in life.
InuYasha vol, 39 - Can Inuyasha and her friends finally defeat the evil Midoriko and Naraku with a new, powerful magic sword? Will Koga and Kohaku be able to hang on to the shards of the Shikon Jewel they possess?
X-Men First Class. Finals - The first class of X-Men is ready to graduate from the School for Gifted Youngsters, but are they ready for what they'll face afterwards? All-ages appropriate.
Marvel Masterworks Presents the X-Men vol. 2 - early tales of the X-Men... meet the Sentinels and Magneto in their first appearances.
X-Men. Original Sin - Dr. Xavier probes the origins of his greatest failure - Logan... but his timing couldn't be worse!
Amazing Spider-Man. Family Ties - this collection of assorted Spidey-stories brings various characters and adventures to life; a great introduction or refresher for Spidey-lovers everywhere.
Tricks by Ellen Hopkins - Five teens,all from different backgrounds and with different challenges, all want freedom, life and love. Can they find what they're seeking, and survive life on the streets at the same time?
Envy by Anna Godbersen - a Lux novel - Continues the story of Elizabeth's homecoming. But is all well behind the doors of #17, Grammercy Park South? The watchers begin to speculate as Elizabeth refuses to rejoin her sister Diana at the head of Manhattan's social pinnacle.
Tenth Grade Bleeds by Heather Brewer - vol. 3 of Vladimir Tod - evil vampire D'Ablo continues stealing Vlad's powers, and Vlad struggles to contain his desire to feed. Can he ever just have a normal life?
Andromeda Klein by Frank Portman - Andromeda is an outcast, partly due to her hearing impairment, partly from her love of the occult. But when she throws herself into saving library books, she enlists the help of others. Can she find a kindred spirit among them?
Destroy all Cars by Blake Nelson - James uses the venue of his English assignments to write rants about consumerism, his girlfriend troubles, his classmates' apathy, and his emotionally distant parents, in this novel about growing up an idealist in modern America.
Into the Wildewood by Gillian Summers --- bk. 2 of the Faire Folk trilogy - Kylee and her father join forces to defend their Ren Faire from dark fey who are poisoning the forest.
Secret of the Dread Forest by Gillian Summers - bk. 3 of Faire Folk trilogy - after reluctantly joining her fearsome elf grandmother in the Dread Forest, Keelie meets a mysterious boy and learns that the elven realm is being encroached upon by both human and fey.
Mare's War by Tanita Davis - Teens Otavia and Tali learn about strength, independence and courage on a long car trip with their grandmother, who shares stories of her growing up days in Alabama and WWII.
War Games by Jacqueline Guest - in the SideStreet Series - Ryan loves playing Cybernight because it helps him forget that his father is being deployed in Afghanistan, but then the game becomes far more complex, and real, than he ever bargained for...
Graphic Novels:
Cirque du Freak vols. 1-2 - follow Darren and Mr. Crespley on their adventures in full-blown Graphic style.
X-Men. Misfits (the manga series) - Kitty Pride tries to fit in with the Hellfire Club boys at her new school. An alternate version of the X-Men universe, manga-style.
X-Men. Magneto Testament - discover the origins of the X-men's most challenging opponent - Magneto - in the era before WWII in Europe.
Great Expectations the graphic novel by Charles Dickens, retold by Jen Green - follow the classic story of rags-to-riches Pip, as he tries to fulfill his own Great Expectations and learns what is truly important in life.
InuYasha vol, 39 - Can Inuyasha and her friends finally defeat the evil Midoriko and Naraku with a new, powerful magic sword? Will Koga and Kohaku be able to hang on to the shards of the Shikon Jewel they possess?
X-Men First Class. Finals - The first class of X-Men is ready to graduate from the School for Gifted Youngsters, but are they ready for what they'll face afterwards? All-ages appropriate.
Marvel Masterworks Presents the X-Men vol. 2 - early tales of the X-Men... meet the Sentinels and Magneto in their first appearances.
X-Men. Original Sin - Dr. Xavier probes the origins of his greatest failure - Logan... but his timing couldn't be worse!
Amazing Spider-Man. Family Ties - this collection of assorted Spidey-stories brings various characters and adventures to life; a great introduction or refresher for Spidey-lovers everywhere.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Fairy books
Do you love books about the "little people?" I do! I thought I'd share with you a list of a few of the more recent books and their authors who touch on fairy themes. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. If you'd like me to cover a different theme, please, make a suggestion or two!
The Waters and the Wild by Francesca Lia Block - Bee has always known she's not quite normal, but after she sees "herself" in her own bedroom, she begins to realize she might be a fairy changeling. A short novel that will linger in your mind
Wings by Aprilynne Pike - Laurel doesn't know why she's so different from all the kids she has just started going to school with (except she's a strict vegan) until a lump on her back bursts into a flower! She must discover who and what she is... and what life holds in store for her.
Wicked Lovely, Ink Exchange and Fragile Eternity by Melissa Marr. These three interconnected novels follow the lives of Aislinn, Leslie and Seth, who are unwillingly drawn into the world of the Dark Fey. Will they survive their brushes with the wickedly immortal?
Faeries Landing by You Hyon - this graphic novel series is about a young man who, by accident, stumbles into the world of the fey and ends up with his own personal faery; and a curse to have 108 doomed relationships before he finds his true love.
Last of the High Kings by Kate Thompson - based on Irish mythology (and what better for fairy tales?), this story involves a changeling, a ghost and a mysterious magical object that may spell the end of the world.
Good Neighbors: Kin, book 1 by Holly Black - after her mother's disappearance, Rue Silver finds out that her mother was a fairy, her father is suspected of murder, and her whole world may be nothing like she believed it was. First in a graphic novel series.
The Waters and the Wild by Francesca Lia Block - Bee has always known she's not quite normal, but after she sees "herself" in her own bedroom, she begins to realize she might be a fairy changeling. A short novel that will linger in your mind
Wings by Aprilynne Pike - Laurel doesn't know why she's so different from all the kids she has just started going to school with (except she's a strict vegan) until a lump on her back bursts into a flower! She must discover who and what she is... and what life holds in store for her.
Wicked Lovely, Ink Exchange and Fragile Eternity by Melissa Marr. These three interconnected novels follow the lives of Aislinn, Leslie and Seth, who are unwillingly drawn into the world of the Dark Fey. Will they survive their brushes with the wickedly immortal?
Faeries Landing by You Hyon - this graphic novel series is about a young man who, by accident, stumbles into the world of the fey and ends up with his own personal faery; and a curse to have 108 doomed relationships before he finds his true love.
Last of the High Kings by Kate Thompson - based on Irish mythology (and what better for fairy tales?), this story involves a changeling, a ghost and a mysterious magical object that may spell the end of the world.
Good Neighbors: Kin, book 1 by Holly Black - after her mother's disappearance, Rue Silver finds out that her mother was a fairy, her father is suspected of murder, and her whole world may be nothing like she believed it was. First in a graphic novel series.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Recent Returns
Well, it's been a week since I posted! Bad me! Blame it on a terrible cold and a wonderful weekend trip...
But today I'm going to share some recently returned titles with you.
Who isn't familiar with PC Cast's House of Night series? Betrayed is the second book, after Marked. In it, young vampire Zoey is settling in, getting used to her powers, but then a wave of human teen murder victims implicate the House of Night, and Zoey must prove that neither she nor her fellow students are responsible. Our 11 copies of this have checked out 112 times, total!!!!
And another hot, hot, series title: Kitty Kitty by Michelle Jaffe, is the sequel to Bad Kitty. Follow Jasmine and her Evil Henchcousin Alyson to Venice, Italy. Once again, she is soon deeply involved in a mystery involving a dangerous kitty, a runaway heiress, a smoldering gondolier, and more trouble than she can bury with footnotes. Purrfectly hilarious! 1 copy, 13 circs...
Jock and Jill, by Robert Lipsyte, is a great book about a baseball-playing young athlete, with a future career in the minor leagues just waiting for him, if only he doesn't mess it up by meeting the wrong girl and giving in to an impulse... 17 circs for this one.
Patricia McCormick's book My Brother's Keeper, is a story of a young teen boy, Toby, trying to keep his older brother Jake's secret from their mother, and to protect their little brother, Eli, from missing their father too much. But how long can he keep going on, himself? Just 6 circs for this sweet, slightly sad story about growing up with your family.
But today I'm going to share some recently returned titles with you.
Who isn't familiar with PC Cast's House of Night series? Betrayed is the second book, after Marked. In it, young vampire Zoey is settling in, getting used to her powers, but then a wave of human teen murder victims implicate the House of Night, and Zoey must prove that neither she nor her fellow students are responsible. Our 11 copies of this have checked out 112 times, total!!!!
And another hot, hot, series title: Kitty Kitty by Michelle Jaffe, is the sequel to Bad Kitty. Follow Jasmine and her Evil Henchcousin Alyson to Venice, Italy. Once again, she is soon deeply involved in a mystery involving a dangerous kitty, a runaway heiress, a smoldering gondolier, and more trouble than she can bury with footnotes. Purrfectly hilarious! 1 copy, 13 circs...
Jock and Jill, by Robert Lipsyte, is a great book about a baseball-playing young athlete, with a future career in the minor leagues just waiting for him, if only he doesn't mess it up by meeting the wrong girl and giving in to an impulse... 17 circs for this one.
Patricia McCormick's book My Brother's Keeper, is a story of a young teen boy, Toby, trying to keep his older brother Jake's secret from their mother, and to protect their little brother, Eli, from missing their father too much. But how long can he keep going on, himself? Just 6 circs for this sweet, slightly sad story about growing up with your family.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Readergirlz supports Teen Read Week
Read all about their wonderful live chats and other planned web activities!
If you haven't already checked them out, don't miss this opportunity to discover what Readergirlz has to offer. They're a great community of authors, readers, and community activists. They offer great chats, discussions of the books you love, and a whole lot more...
If you haven't already checked them out, don't miss this opportunity to discover what Readergirlz has to offer. They're a great community of authors, readers, and community activists. They offer great chats, discussions of the books you love, and a whole lot more...
compare and contrast review
Two books, Nation by Terry Pratchett, and The Lost Island of Tamarind by Nadia Aguilar, deal with young people left alone after terrible storms.
In the case of Nation, Mau is the only islander left alive after a tsunami. Gradually, he finds other survivors, including a mysterious outsider girl, Daphne. Together, they struggle to survive, and as they do so discover mysteries about Mau's island that even he had no idea existed.
In Tamarind, Maya, who lives on a boat with her parents and siblings, survives a terrible storm at sea, only to watch her parents be swept overboard. She and her brother, with their baby sister, struggle to survive, and end up on Tamarind, a mysterious island.
Both stories involve tropical islands, survival, mysterious adventures, and stirring characters who struggle with grief, loss, loneliness, fear, and love. Mau and Daphne make decisions that affect both their peoples's future. Maya and Simon, too, find that their very presence changes Tamarind, and they are forced to take sides in a war they don't understand. In one case duty and responsibility win out over personal happiness, while in the other, the adventure has not yet concluded, and the eventual fate of the island is unclear...
Two great adventure stories, each wonderful on its own, make for even better reading together.
In the case of Nation, Mau is the only islander left alive after a tsunami. Gradually, he finds other survivors, including a mysterious outsider girl, Daphne. Together, they struggle to survive, and as they do so discover mysteries about Mau's island that even he had no idea existed.
In Tamarind, Maya, who lives on a boat with her parents and siblings, survives a terrible storm at sea, only to watch her parents be swept overboard. She and her brother, with their baby sister, struggle to survive, and end up on Tamarind, a mysterious island.
Both stories involve tropical islands, survival, mysterious adventures, and stirring characters who struggle with grief, loss, loneliness, fear, and love. Mau and Daphne make decisions that affect both their peoples's future. Maya and Simon, too, find that their very presence changes Tamarind, and they are forced to take sides in a war they don't understand. In one case duty and responsibility win out over personal happiness, while in the other, the adventure has not yet concluded, and the eventual fate of the island is unclear...
Two great adventure stories, each wonderful on its own, make for even better reading together.
Friday, September 18, 2009
New Books
A great list of newly arrived titles;
Sliding on the Edge by C. Lee McKenzie - Shawna Stone, 16, can handle anything from a Las Vegas hustle to skipping out on the rent. Scarred inside and out, she's survived with a tough, hardened attitude. Yet she's thrown when her mother abandons her in Vegas with only a bus ticket and the name and number of a stranger to call.
Night World no. 2 by L. J. Smith - contains "Dark Angel", "Soul Mate" and "The Chosen".
Night World no. 3 by L. J. Smith - contains "Huntress", "Black Dawn" and "Witchlight".
Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George - A tale of twelve princesses doomed to dance until dawn... Galen is a young soldier returning from war; Rose is one of twelve princesses condemned to dance each night for the King Under Stone. Together Galen and Rose will search for a way to break the curse that forces the princesses to dance at the midnight balls. All they need is one invisibility cloak, a black wool chain knit with enchanted silver needles, and that most critical ingredient of all--true love--to conquer their foes in the dark halls below. But even if they succeed below ground, will evil fate doom them above?
Frenemies by Alexa Young - The first novel of a hilarious and delicious new series marks the debut of an exciting new voice in teen fiction, who tells the story of two seventh-grade BFFs who learn to keep their friends close and their frenemies closer.
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead - "Four mysterious letters change Miranda's world forever." By sixth grade, Miranda and her best friend, Sal, know how to navigate their New York City neighborhood. They know where it's safe to go, like the local grocery store, and they know whom to avoid, like the crazy guy on the corner. But things start to unravel. Sal gets punched by a new kid for what seems like no reason, and he shuts Miranda out of his life. The apartment key that Miranda's mom keeps hidden for emergencies is stolen. And then Miranda finds a mysterious note scrawled on a tiny slip of paper. The notes keep coming, and Miranda slowly realizes that whoever is leaving them knows all about her, including things that have not even happened yet. Each message brings her closer to believing that only she can prevent a tragic death. Until the final note makes her think she's too late.
Project Sweet Life by Brent Hartinger - When Dave's dad announces that this summer, Dave needs to get a job, the 15 year old is stunned - this was to be his last free summer - but then he and his friends get an idea...
Sacred Scars by Kathleen Duey - The second installment in the Resurrection of Magic series richly fulfills the promise of the first book, the National Book Award finalist "Skin Hunger." Hahp and Gerrard's tenuous pact, forged for survival, falters as they plot to destroy the academy . . . and to set the magic free.
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater - For Grace, one yellow-eyed wolf is a chilling presence in the woods behind her house. During winter, Sam lives in the frozen woods and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, he lives a few precious months as a human. Soon, Grace and Sam find themselves risking everything to remain together.
Poison Ivy by Amy Koss - a mock trial in a high school civics class is described through the voices of eight participants; Ivy, the girl who has been bullied, Amy and her "evil" sidekicks, shy Daria, even-handed Marco and others.
Willow by Julia Hoban - Seven months ago, on a rainy March night, sixteen year- old Willow's parents died in a horrible car accident. Willow was driving. Now her older brother barely speaks to her, her new classmates know her as the killer orphan girl, and Willow is blocking the pain by secretly cutting herself. But when one boy aone sensitive, soulful boy discovers Willow's secret, it sparks an intense relationship that turns the safe world Willow has created for herself upside down.
Cathy's Ring by Jean Stewart -- the last Cathy book - Cathy cannot manage to find more than a few days to relax in her hectic (and mortal) life--she barely has time to put the mystery surrounding her father to rest before she finds herself targeted by a group of Ancestor Lu's professional killers.
The Roar by Emma Clayton - Mika and Ellie live in a future behind a wall: Solid concrete topped with high-voltage razor wire and guarded by a battalion of Ghengis Borgs, it was built to keep out the animals, because animals carry the plague. At least that's what Ellie, who was kidnapped as a child, has always been taught. But when she comes to suspect the truth behind her captivity, she's ready to risk exposure to the elements and answer the call of the wild. Listen. Can you hear it? She's strapping on her headset, jumpstarting her Pod Fighter, and--with her capuchin monkey at her back--she's breaking out!
Jake Ransom and the Skull King's Shadow by James Rollins - When a mysterious envelope arrives for Jake Ransom, he and his older sister, Kady, are plunged into a gripping chain of events. An artifact found by their parents--on the expedition from which they never returned--leads Jake and Kady to a strange world inhabited by a peculiar mix of long-lost civilizations, a world that may hold the key to their parents' disappearance.
Chess Rumble by Greg Neri - A story in free verse about a troubled boy who learns to use his mind insteadof his fists through the guidance of an unconventional mentor and the game of chess. Illustrated.
Deal with It by Monica McKayhan - Indigo and her best friend Jade are at the top of their game as the most popular girls in school and the best dancers on the squad. But when Jade is chosen as squad captain, Indigo becomes jealous. And they're not the only ones on the squad dealing with major drama.
Dust of 100 Dogs by A. S. King - Famed pirate Emer Morrisey was cursed at her death to be reborn 100 times - as a dog! She must live, remembering who she was, until she is finally reborn as a human - and sets out to recover the buried treasure she left behind.
Blood Promise by Mead -- Vampire Academy 4 - The recent Strigoi attack at St. Vladimir's has claimed the lives of Moroi students, teachers, and guardians alike. Now Rose must abandon her best friend Lissa and keep the promise Dimitri begged her to make long ago.
Return to Groosham Grange: The Unholy Grail by Anthony Horowitz - David Eliot is on track to win the Unholy Grail, a cup of magical power rewarded to the star pupil at the Grange. But it seems that someone--or something--is trying to stop him.
Dreamquest by Brent Hartinger - Twelve-year-old Julie Fray is living a nightmare. Her parents are fighting so much she can't even escape when she goes to sleep. One night she wakes up "inside" her dream, and the actress who plays Julie in the dreams escapes to the waking world--and plans to stay there.
Sliding on the Edge by C. Lee McKenzie - Shawna Stone, 16, can handle anything from a Las Vegas hustle to skipping out on the rent. Scarred inside and out, she's survived with a tough, hardened attitude. Yet she's thrown when her mother abandons her in Vegas with only a bus ticket and the name and number of a stranger to call.
Night World no. 2 by L. J. Smith - contains "Dark Angel", "Soul Mate" and "The Chosen".
Night World no. 3 by L. J. Smith - contains "Huntress", "Black Dawn" and "Witchlight".
Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George - A tale of twelve princesses doomed to dance until dawn... Galen is a young soldier returning from war; Rose is one of twelve princesses condemned to dance each night for the King Under Stone. Together Galen and Rose will search for a way to break the curse that forces the princesses to dance at the midnight balls. All they need is one invisibility cloak, a black wool chain knit with enchanted silver needles, and that most critical ingredient of all--true love--to conquer their foes in the dark halls below. But even if they succeed below ground, will evil fate doom them above?
Frenemies by Alexa Young - The first novel of a hilarious and delicious new series marks the debut of an exciting new voice in teen fiction, who tells the story of two seventh-grade BFFs who learn to keep their friends close and their frenemies closer.
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead - "Four mysterious letters change Miranda's world forever." By sixth grade, Miranda and her best friend, Sal, know how to navigate their New York City neighborhood. They know where it's safe to go, like the local grocery store, and they know whom to avoid, like the crazy guy on the corner. But things start to unravel. Sal gets punched by a new kid for what seems like no reason, and he shuts Miranda out of his life. The apartment key that Miranda's mom keeps hidden for emergencies is stolen. And then Miranda finds a mysterious note scrawled on a tiny slip of paper. The notes keep coming, and Miranda slowly realizes that whoever is leaving them knows all about her, including things that have not even happened yet. Each message brings her closer to believing that only she can prevent a tragic death. Until the final note makes her think she's too late.
Project Sweet Life by Brent Hartinger - When Dave's dad announces that this summer, Dave needs to get a job, the 15 year old is stunned - this was to be his last free summer - but then he and his friends get an idea...
Sacred Scars by Kathleen Duey - The second installment in the Resurrection of Magic series richly fulfills the promise of the first book, the National Book Award finalist "Skin Hunger." Hahp and Gerrard's tenuous pact, forged for survival, falters as they plot to destroy the academy . . . and to set the magic free.
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater - For Grace, one yellow-eyed wolf is a chilling presence in the woods behind her house. During winter, Sam lives in the frozen woods and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, he lives a few precious months as a human. Soon, Grace and Sam find themselves risking everything to remain together.
Poison Ivy by Amy Koss - a mock trial in a high school civics class is described through the voices of eight participants; Ivy, the girl who has been bullied, Amy and her "evil" sidekicks, shy Daria, even-handed Marco and others.
Willow by Julia Hoban - Seven months ago, on a rainy March night, sixteen year- old Willow's parents died in a horrible car accident. Willow was driving. Now her older brother barely speaks to her, her new classmates know her as the killer orphan girl, and Willow is blocking the pain by secretly cutting herself. But when one boy aone sensitive, soulful boy discovers Willow's secret, it sparks an intense relationship that turns the safe world Willow has created for herself upside down.
Cathy's Ring by Jean Stewart -- the last Cathy book - Cathy cannot manage to find more than a few days to relax in her hectic (and mortal) life--she barely has time to put the mystery surrounding her father to rest before she finds herself targeted by a group of Ancestor Lu's professional killers.
The Roar by Emma Clayton - Mika and Ellie live in a future behind a wall: Solid concrete topped with high-voltage razor wire and guarded by a battalion of Ghengis Borgs, it was built to keep out the animals, because animals carry the plague. At least that's what Ellie, who was kidnapped as a child, has always been taught. But when she comes to suspect the truth behind her captivity, she's ready to risk exposure to the elements and answer the call of the wild. Listen. Can you hear it? She's strapping on her headset, jumpstarting her Pod Fighter, and--with her capuchin monkey at her back--she's breaking out!
Jake Ransom and the Skull King's Shadow by James Rollins - When a mysterious envelope arrives for Jake Ransom, he and his older sister, Kady, are plunged into a gripping chain of events. An artifact found by their parents--on the expedition from which they never returned--leads Jake and Kady to a strange world inhabited by a peculiar mix of long-lost civilizations, a world that may hold the key to their parents' disappearance.
Chess Rumble by Greg Neri - A story in free verse about a troubled boy who learns to use his mind insteadof his fists through the guidance of an unconventional mentor and the game of chess. Illustrated.
Deal with It by Monica McKayhan - Indigo and her best friend Jade are at the top of their game as the most popular girls in school and the best dancers on the squad. But when Jade is chosen as squad captain, Indigo becomes jealous. And they're not the only ones on the squad dealing with major drama.
Dust of 100 Dogs by A. S. King - Famed pirate Emer Morrisey was cursed at her death to be reborn 100 times - as a dog! She must live, remembering who she was, until she is finally reborn as a human - and sets out to recover the buried treasure she left behind.
Blood Promise by Mead -- Vampire Academy 4 - The recent Strigoi attack at St. Vladimir's has claimed the lives of Moroi students, teachers, and guardians alike. Now Rose must abandon her best friend Lissa and keep the promise Dimitri begged her to make long ago.
Return to Groosham Grange: The Unholy Grail by Anthony Horowitz - David Eliot is on track to win the Unholy Grail, a cup of magical power rewarded to the star pupil at the Grange. But it seems that someone--or something--is trying to stop him.
Dreamquest by Brent Hartinger - Twelve-year-old Julie Fray is living a nightmare. Her parents are fighting so much she can't even escape when she goes to sleep. One night she wakes up "inside" her dream, and the actress who plays Julie in the dreams escapes to the waking world--and plans to stay there.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Recent Returns
Last Fantasy by Creative Hon - a fun, adventuresome and sometimes comic Manga about two unlikely young heroes, Drei and Tien. We own all five volumes of this series. Volume 1 has checked out 38 times.
The Door of No Return by Sarah Mussi - Zac never believed his grandfather's stories of their descent from the kidnapped heir to an African King. But when his grandfather is murdered, and he barely escapes the killers, Zac heads to Ghana to discover a lost treasure before anyone else can. 3 circs for this wonderful NEW adventure
The Quillan Games (Pendragon book seven) by D. J. MacHale - Bobby still has more questions than answers about his family, his future, and about Saint Dane. But will he find the answers if he plays the Quillan Games? Can he save a whole territory from the clutches of evil game-masters Veego and LaBerge? 27 circs for this very popular book!
The Door of No Return by Sarah Mussi - Zac never believed his grandfather's stories of their descent from the kidnapped heir to an African King. But when his grandfather is murdered, and he barely escapes the killers, Zac heads to Ghana to discover a lost treasure before anyone else can. 3 circs for this wonderful NEW adventure
The Quillan Games (Pendragon book seven) by D. J. MacHale - Bobby still has more questions than answers about his family, his future, and about Saint Dane. But will he find the answers if he plays the Quillan Games? Can he save a whole territory from the clutches of evil game-masters Veego and LaBerge? 27 circs for this very popular book!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
A great read
I just took "Fly Girl" by Sherri Smith home with me and devoured it. It was a beautiful read; in certain ways it reminded me of Anne of Avonlea, in others of Dragonsinger.
This is the story of a girl, Ida Mae, who loves flying. She learned it at her father's knee; she adored him, and now that he's gone, flying is her only connection to him. But Ida Mae is a black girl in 1940's Louisiana. Getting her pilot's license proves an impossible dream, especially when WWII breaks out. But after her younger brother shows her an article about the WASP (Women's Air Service Pilots) program, she dares to dream again.
After faking herself a pilot's license (which she doesn't have because a white man refused to issue one to her), she interviews to join the WASP - as a white woman. Ida Mae's subsequent adventures are vivid, realistic, and historically accurate. Her life as a black woman passing as white is not easy, and she has realistic fears, troubles and hopes. She succeeds in doing things that even men were afraid to try, and she learns that she can handle most everything life offers her.
The book ends on a hopeful but inconclusive note; her life as a WASP is ending, but the future holds further dreams. Read Ida Mae's story and don't be afraid to reach out for all that life can offer!
This is the story of a girl, Ida Mae, who loves flying. She learned it at her father's knee; she adored him, and now that he's gone, flying is her only connection to him. But Ida Mae is a black girl in 1940's Louisiana. Getting her pilot's license proves an impossible dream, especially when WWII breaks out. But after her younger brother shows her an article about the WASP (Women's Air Service Pilots) program, she dares to dream again.
After faking herself a pilot's license (which she doesn't have because a white man refused to issue one to her), she interviews to join the WASP - as a white woman. Ida Mae's subsequent adventures are vivid, realistic, and historically accurate. Her life as a black woman passing as white is not easy, and she has realistic fears, troubles and hopes. She succeeds in doing things that even men were afraid to try, and she learns that she can handle most everything life offers her.
The book ends on a hopeful but inconclusive note; her life as a WASP is ending, but the future holds further dreams. Read Ida Mae's story and don't be afraid to reach out for all that life can offer!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Recent Returns
Wow, it's been wayyyy too long since I posted.
Here's a quick update of a few recent returns, with a bit of a scifi theme. If I get the chance, I'll do a list of new books later today or Monday.
Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith: IdaMae is a girl with a dream; she wants to be a pilot. But in 1940's Louisiana, a black girl has no chance at such a thing - so when she gets the opportunity to hide her race and join the Women's Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) at thebeginning of WWII, she jumps at the chance. And of course, she discovers that life isn't always as easy as it seems... 4 circs for this new title.
Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott: When Alice was 10, Ray took her away from her family, and made her his toy. Now she's 15, and her life has become even more difficult, as she's growing too old to please her captor. And then he decides it is time for her to find him a new little girl. Alice views herself as "living dead". Will she allow another child to undergo her experience? Even if it offers her a chance to escape? 9 circs for this intense thriller.
House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer: Matteo Alacran is a clone, raised as the pet and eventual body-replacement for El Patron, a wealthy, corrupt drug-lord in a world where clones are despised as animals. Can he escape his eventual fate, and find his own life? 32 circs.
The Awakening by Michael Carroll: Ten years ago all the Superheroes disappeared. After a final battle with one ultimate villain, they all vanished. Were they killed? Were they kidnapped? And now, ten years later, a new generation of superheroes is emerging, and discovering that old mysteries still linger...7 circs for this first in the Quantum Prophecy series.
Here's a quick update of a few recent returns, with a bit of a scifi theme. If I get the chance, I'll do a list of new books later today or Monday.
Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith: IdaMae is a girl with a dream; she wants to be a pilot. But in 1940's Louisiana, a black girl has no chance at such a thing - so when she gets the opportunity to hide her race and join the Women's Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) at thebeginning of WWII, she jumps at the chance. And of course, she discovers that life isn't always as easy as it seems... 4 circs for this new title.
Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott: When Alice was 10, Ray took her away from her family, and made her his toy. Now she's 15, and her life has become even more difficult, as she's growing too old to please her captor. And then he decides it is time for her to find him a new little girl. Alice views herself as "living dead". Will she allow another child to undergo her experience? Even if it offers her a chance to escape? 9 circs for this intense thriller.
House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer: Matteo Alacran is a clone, raised as the pet and eventual body-replacement for El Patron, a wealthy, corrupt drug-lord in a world where clones are despised as animals. Can he escape his eventual fate, and find his own life? 32 circs.
The Awakening by Michael Carroll: Ten years ago all the Superheroes disappeared. After a final battle with one ultimate villain, they all vanished. Were they killed? Were they kidnapped? And now, ten years later, a new generation of superheroes is emerging, and discovering that old mysteries still linger...7 circs for this first in the Quantum Prophecy series.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Recent Returns
The Juvie Three by Gordon Korman - one of my favorite "guy writers", Korman is always funny, real, and enjoyable. This story follows three guys who just always seem to do the wrong thing - they've ended up in Juvie, but for once luck is breaking their way. They get put into a halfway house, and things are doing pretty good, until Mr. Healy gets knocked out, and the boys panic... Their attempts to make good are both painful and funny. Find out if Arjay, Gecko and Terence can manage to succeed... just once! (only 2 circs, but it has only been in the library 5 months).
Warriors: a Dangerous Path by Erin Hunter - book 5 of the original Warriors series - Fireheart fears that the rise of Tigerstar and the terrible dreams that haunt his nights are related. Will he discover the danger before it means the end of Shadowclan? A marvelous continuation of a very popular series (56 circs at Central alone!).
Vampire Mountain: Cirque du Freak #4 by Darren Shan - Darren and Mr. Crepsley embark on a trek to the very heart of the Vampire World. Will a meeting with the Vampire Princes restore Darren's humanity, or send him plunging over the edge into the dark? (58 circs!!!)
Gothic Classics: Graphic Classics #14 by assorted authors - some cool horror stories by famous authors, including Poe, Le Fanu, and Radcliffe. Spooky! (9 circs)
Eyeshield 21 volume 4 by Riichiro Inagaki - The Devil Bats face off a gainst a team of ruthless delinquents - the Chameleons - but Sena may be able to show them a thing or two about intimidation... (27 circs).
Warriors: a Dangerous Path by Erin Hunter - book 5 of the original Warriors series - Fireheart fears that the rise of Tigerstar and the terrible dreams that haunt his nights are related. Will he discover the danger before it means the end of Shadowclan? A marvelous continuation of a very popular series (56 circs at Central alone!).
Vampire Mountain: Cirque du Freak #4 by Darren Shan - Darren and Mr. Crepsley embark on a trek to the very heart of the Vampire World. Will a meeting with the Vampire Princes restore Darren's humanity, or send him plunging over the edge into the dark? (58 circs!!!)
Gothic Classics: Graphic Classics #14 by assorted authors - some cool horror stories by famous authors, including Poe, Le Fanu, and Radcliffe. Spooky! (9 circs)
Eyeshield 21 volume 4 by Riichiro Inagaki - The Devil Bats face off a gainst a team of ruthless delinquents - the Chameleons - but Sena may be able to show them a thing or two about intimidation... (27 circs).
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Popular Playaways
The five most popular Young Adult Playaways at the Library:
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - what would you do if you were told your little sister was going to have to represent your town - in a game that would end only when every other contestant was dead? And if she wins, the town will win, too, with better food, medicine and other benefits? Would you have the courage to take her place, to use your hard-won skills, risk death, just for the people who have always shunned and resented you? (8 circs in less than 0ne year)
Shadow of the North by Phillip Pullman. Sally Lockhart has struggled for personal freedom and success all her life. Now that she's got her own business, can she survive? And what's up with Northstar, Inc? (7 circs)
Science Fair by Dave Barry. Comedy is golden in this spy-adventure -science-experiment-gone-wrong tale. When Toby sets out to win the science fair, the last thing he expects to do is save the U.S. government from terrorists... (5 circs)
One False Note by Gordon Korman. Book 2 of 39 Clues. Amy and Dan Cahill continue their quest to solve the mystery of their wide-ranging and powerful extended family (a tree that branches from Mozart to Picasso to Snoop Dogg). The siblings’ bickering increases as they hunt down the next clue, but so do their successes as they manage to be always one step ahead of their various cutthroat cousins. (5 circs)
Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson. Lia is trying to come to terms with both her own eating disorder, and the death of her "best friend" Cassie, who had her own eating problems. Lia narrates a chilling tale of denial, depression and suicidal delusion; this isn't for the faint of heart, nor for the immature reader, but it is a superb representation of the teen age.
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - what would you do if you were told your little sister was going to have to represent your town - in a game that would end only when every other contestant was dead? And if she wins, the town will win, too, with better food, medicine and other benefits? Would you have the courage to take her place, to use your hard-won skills, risk death, just for the people who have always shunned and resented you? (8 circs in less than 0ne year)
Shadow of the North by Phillip Pullman. Sally Lockhart has struggled for personal freedom and success all her life. Now that she's got her own business, can she survive? And what's up with Northstar, Inc? (7 circs)
Science Fair by Dave Barry. Comedy is golden in this spy-adventure -science-experiment-gone-wrong tale. When Toby sets out to win the science fair, the last thing he expects to do is save the U.S. government from terrorists... (5 circs)
One False Note by Gordon Korman. Book 2 of 39 Clues. Amy and Dan Cahill continue their quest to solve the mystery of their wide-ranging and powerful extended family (a tree that branches from Mozart to Picasso to Snoop Dogg). The siblings’ bickering increases as they hunt down the next clue, but so do their successes as they manage to be always one step ahead of their various cutthroat cousins. (5 circs)
Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson. Lia is trying to come to terms with both her own eating disorder, and the death of her "best friend" Cassie, who had her own eating problems. Lia narrates a chilling tale of denial, depression and suicidal delusion; this isn't for the faint of heart, nor for the immature reader, but it is a superb representation of the teen age.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Vote!
It is time to Vote for your TEEN TOP TEN favorite books!
Select your favorite three titles from the list, answer a few brief survey questions, and you're done! You even have a chance to win a free book...
Recent Returns
Some books that have recently come back to the Library:
Turnabout by Margaret Peterson Haddix - Melly and Anny Beth were 100 when they received shots that reversed the aging process; now they're only teens, again. The problem is that the second shot, to stop the aging process, instead kills the recipeints. So Melly and Anny Beth are looking for someone whom they can trust, to care for them backwards into infancy. Can they find anyone except The Agency? Can they trust anyone, even The Agency? 22 circs just here at Central. One of my favorite authors!
Kiki Strike Inside the Shadow City by Kirsten Miller. Ananka Fishbein didn't realize that looking out the window and paying attention could lead to a life-changing event. But when she discovers a sinkhole near her New York City apartment, and ventures to explore, she meets Kiki Strike, and adventures abound! Very exciting, and there is a sequel. 29 circs
Cardcaptor Sakura: Master of the Clow by CLAMP. Unfortunately, we only have volume 5 remaining in our collection, but it is still a great adventure. 57 circs!
Laika by Nick Abadzis. Laika was an abandoned puppy who was fated to become Earth's first space traveler. An exciting true story with a heartbreaking ending. 4 circs for this graphic novel. Only 4 circs.
The Mammoth Book of Best New Manga 2, edited by ILYA. 23 self-contained new color and black and white manga in all genres by many authors; a great way to find a new favorite! 25 circs.
Turnabout by Margaret Peterson Haddix - Melly and Anny Beth were 100 when they received shots that reversed the aging process; now they're only teens, again. The problem is that the second shot, to stop the aging process, instead kills the recipeints. So Melly and Anny Beth are looking for someone whom they can trust, to care for them backwards into infancy. Can they find anyone except The Agency? Can they trust anyone, even The Agency? 22 circs just here at Central. One of my favorite authors!
Kiki Strike Inside the Shadow City by Kirsten Miller. Ananka Fishbein didn't realize that looking out the window and paying attention could lead to a life-changing event. But when she discovers a sinkhole near her New York City apartment, and ventures to explore, she meets Kiki Strike, and adventures abound! Very exciting, and there is a sequel. 29 circs
Cardcaptor Sakura: Master of the Clow by CLAMP. Unfortunately, we only have volume 5 remaining in our collection, but it is still a great adventure. 57 circs!
Laika by Nick Abadzis. Laika was an abandoned puppy who was fated to become Earth's first space traveler. An exciting true story with a heartbreaking ending. 4 circs for this graphic novel. Only 4 circs.
The Mammoth Book of Best New Manga 2, edited by ILYA. 23 self-contained new color and black and white manga in all genres by many authors; a great way to find a new favorite! 25 circs.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Classic Book Reviews
Today, I'm going to discuss three books, all fantasy novels, about 3 young women. Each is a favorite of mine, and is also a classic - either it has won an award, or great praise, or has simply stood the test of time. Each of these three books is similar in some ways, yet each is an individual and distinctive story that can and should be read for itself.
Beauty - by Robin McKinley - winner of the 1998 Phoenix Award Honor book. A retelling of the story of Beauty and the Beast, it was her first published novel. The eponymous main character is the youngest of three sisters who find themselves forced to leave their home in the city and move to a small cottage in a village on the edge of a mysterious forest. Follow Beauty's story as she learns to cope with change, fear, loss and eventually love. Romantic yet realistic, this story captures the essence of a fairy tale, and yet you will forget you know the ending as you wonder what Beauty will discover next.
Dragonsong - by Anne McCaffrey - recipient of the 1999 Margaret A. Edwards award - Menolly is the lonely, misunderstood, music-loving daughter of parents who are too worried about their own lives to take time for their youngest child. When a tragic accident and a wonderful discovery force Menolly to take responsibility for her own life and future, marvelous things happen. But not without risk, luck and talent... Menolly's life is one that every teen will feel a kinship with; and who wouldn't like their own fire lizard, or nine...
Howl's Moving Castle - by Diana Wynne Jones - an ALA Notable Book, and winner of the Boston Globe-Horn Award - you may have seen the wonderful anime based on this book, but do yourself a favor - meet Sophie, Howl and Calcifer in their original setting. Funny, serious, sad, delightful; this book is all that and more. Growing old never happened so easily! And Sophie handles it with style, if not with pleasure...
Share a few hours with Beauty, Sophie and Menolly - you won't regret it.
Beauty - by Robin McKinley - winner of the 1998 Phoenix Award Honor book. A retelling of the story of Beauty and the Beast, it was her first published novel. The eponymous main character is the youngest of three sisters who find themselves forced to leave their home in the city and move to a small cottage in a village on the edge of a mysterious forest. Follow Beauty's story as she learns to cope with change, fear, loss and eventually love. Romantic yet realistic, this story captures the essence of a fairy tale, and yet you will forget you know the ending as you wonder what Beauty will discover next.
Dragonsong - by Anne McCaffrey - recipient of the 1999 Margaret A. Edwards award - Menolly is the lonely, misunderstood, music-loving daughter of parents who are too worried about their own lives to take time for their youngest child. When a tragic accident and a wonderful discovery force Menolly to take responsibility for her own life and future, marvelous things happen. But not without risk, luck and talent... Menolly's life is one that every teen will feel a kinship with; and who wouldn't like their own fire lizard, or nine...
Howl's Moving Castle - by Diana Wynne Jones - an ALA Notable Book, and winner of the Boston Globe-Horn Award - you may have seen the wonderful anime based on this book, but do yourself a favor - meet Sophie, Howl and Calcifer in their original setting. Funny, serious, sad, delightful; this book is all that and more. Growing old never happened so easily! And Sophie handles it with style, if not with pleasure...
Share a few hours with Beauty, Sophie and Menolly - you won't regret it.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Recent Returns
These three titles are ones that readers have recently returned.
Babylonne by Catherine Jinks - Pagan's daughter runs away in this final book of a medieval series. Disguised as a boy, the orphan 16 year old is fleeing an arranged marriage. Pursued by a mysterious and possibly dangerous Catholic priest, she sets out on a quest to discover what happened to her father. An action-packed and very realistic medieval adventure. It has 7 checkouts.
Box Out by John Coy - Sophomore Liam endangers his position on the Basketball Team when he decides to take a stand against the coach, who is leading prayers before games, and enforcing teamwide participation. Will he be able to stand up for his beliefs, or will he knuckle under for a chance to play? Great basketball action and real-life questions make this a quick, engrossing read. 3 checkouts is all this book has! Give it a try...
The Key to the Golden Firebird by Maureen Johnson - Mayzie, Brooks and Palmer are the Gold sisters - each different but closely linked. Then their lives are shattered by their father's death; a year passes, and nothing is the same. Can May find a way to pick up the pieces, bring her sisters back together, and find a new life? With the key to her father's beloved Pontiac Firebird, perhaps she can...61 circs for 3 copies. A great book about growing up, growing apart and growing together.
Babylonne by Catherine Jinks - Pagan's daughter runs away in this final book of a medieval series. Disguised as a boy, the orphan 16 year old is fleeing an arranged marriage. Pursued by a mysterious and possibly dangerous Catholic priest, she sets out on a quest to discover what happened to her father. An action-packed and very realistic medieval adventure. It has 7 checkouts.
Box Out by John Coy - Sophomore Liam endangers his position on the Basketball Team when he decides to take a stand against the coach, who is leading prayers before games, and enforcing teamwide participation. Will he be able to stand up for his beliefs, or will he knuckle under for a chance to play? Great basketball action and real-life questions make this a quick, engrossing read. 3 checkouts is all this book has! Give it a try...
The Key to the Golden Firebird by Maureen Johnson - Mayzie, Brooks and Palmer are the Gold sisters - each different but closely linked. Then their lives are shattered by their father's death; a year passes, and nothing is the same. Can May find a way to pick up the pieces, bring her sisters back together, and find a new life? With the key to her father's beloved Pontiac Firebird, perhaps she can...61 circs for 3 copies. A great book about growing up, growing apart and growing together.
Monday, August 17, 2009
It's Almost Time to Vote!
For your favorite TEEN TOP TEN books!
Voting will begin August 24 and end Sept 18. Read all about it here.
Winners will be announced during Teen Read Week, Sept 18-24.
Voting will begin August 24 and end Sept 18. Read all about it here.
Winners will be announced during Teen Read Week, Sept 18-24.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Last Chance to Claim your Prizes!
SATURDAY
AUGUST 15TH
turn in your reading logs for great coupons from Pizza Hut, Chick-Fil-A, Subway and more.
Best of all your choice of your very own brand new book. Lots of good choices left!
AUGUST 15TH
turn in your reading logs for great coupons from Pizza Hut, Chick-Fil-A, Subway and more.
Best of all your choice of your very own brand new book. Lots of good choices left!
Exciting News!
Hope you all saw the flyers for The Great Scavenger Hunt Contest at the Library. Teens and Tweens could read books from a list, answer a ten question quiz, turn in it at the library, get 8 or more right and get a chance to win a $50.00 gift certificate to Barnes & Noble.
Huge congrats go to this month's national winner: ** Tirzah R. ** from Waco, TX!
The Library got to choose 5 teen books for the library!
Check out the web site or come by and get a list of books that the library owns and try your hand at the "Great Scavenger Hunt Contest"
Sponsored by Kay Cassidy
Author of Energizing Fiction for Teens
Saturday, August 8, 2009
GET YOUR PRIZES NOW
This is the final week that Summer Reading Club Prizes can be collected! August 15 is the deadline...
Bring your reading log in and select your FREE BOOK prize. The books are just absolutely fabulous. Choose from these titles, among others:
Templar’s Apprentice by Kat Black
Step to This by Nikki Carter
Gym Candy by Carl Deuker
Sorcerer of the North (Ranger’s Apprentice book 5) by John Flanagan
Slam Dunk, vol 4 by Takehiko Inoue
There are still over 20 titles to choose from, but get here early if you want something particular, as they're gonna go fast...
Bring your reading log in and select your FREE BOOK prize. The books are just absolutely fabulous. Choose from these titles, among others:
Templar’s Apprentice by Kat Black
Step to This by Nikki Carter
Gym Candy by Carl Deuker
Sorcerer of the North (Ranger’s Apprentice book 5) by John Flanagan
Slam Dunk, vol 4 by Takehiko Inoue
There are still over 20 titles to choose from, but get here early if you want something particular, as they're gonna go fast...
Thursday, August 6, 2009
We Won!
The Waco Library and Tirzah R. have both won! Tirzah is the Lucky Winner of a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card, and the Library wins a "Tote Bag of Books"
Why? Because Tirzah's name was drawn in the Monthly "Great Scavenger Hunt Trivia Quiz" Contest. You can enter to win, too. Just look at the booklists on the right, read a book, answer the quiz, and bring it in to the Library. If you get at least 8 answers correct, you'll be entered in the monthly drawing... it's that easy!
Maybe we can both win, again!
Why? Because Tirzah's name was drawn in the Monthly "Great Scavenger Hunt Trivia Quiz" Contest. You can enter to win, too. Just look at the booklists on the right, read a book, answer the quiz, and bring it in to the Library. If you get at least 8 answers correct, you'll be entered in the monthly drawing... it's that easy!
Maybe we can both win, again!
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Recent Returns
The Terrorist by Caroline Cooney -- Laura, an American teen, has had a lot of trouble adapting to life in London; she and her brother attend an international school, filled with students from around the world. At first, Laura doesn't care about politics. But then a horrible fate overtakes her little brother, ending his life. And Laura finds herself obsessed; by politics, by terrorists, and by revenge... At 70 checkouts, this title remains quite popular.
Dracula by Bram Stoker -- the classic vampire novel that has fueled over 100 years of imaginations. Van Helsing, the vampire hunter; Harker, the young solicitor who travels to Transylvania, and Wilhelmina, his young and beautiful fiancee, are no match for the cunning, powerful Count Vlad Dracula. Or are they? We own many copies, so circulation is hard to judge, but at least 50 checkouts...
+Anima by Natsumi Mukai -- four outcasts with animal-like characteristics set out to find others of their kind in this long-running manga series. Each of the ten volumes has checked out between 10 and 12 times.
Then He Ate My Boy Entrancers by Louise Rennison -- more mad, marvy confessions of Georgia Nicolson, in hot pursuit of Masimo, the Italian dreamboat, in Hamburger-a-go-go-land (aka the US of A). Hilariously fun, slang-filled, and giddily delightful. A great beach read! 2 copies, 27 circs...
The Dark Knight: featuring production art and full shooting script by Craig Burne -- nonfiction - reveals the full plot, art, and direction of this fabulous sequel to "Batman Begins". A beautiful movie-art book. 4 circs.
Dracula by Bram Stoker -- the classic vampire novel that has fueled over 100 years of imaginations. Van Helsing, the vampire hunter; Harker, the young solicitor who travels to Transylvania, and Wilhelmina, his young and beautiful fiancee, are no match for the cunning, powerful Count Vlad Dracula. Or are they? We own many copies, so circulation is hard to judge, but at least 50 checkouts...
+Anima by Natsumi Mukai -- four outcasts with animal-like characteristics set out to find others of their kind in this long-running manga series. Each of the ten volumes has checked out between 10 and 12 times.
Then He Ate My Boy Entrancers by Louise Rennison -- more mad, marvy confessions of Georgia Nicolson, in hot pursuit of Masimo, the Italian dreamboat, in Hamburger-a-go-go-land (aka the US of A). Hilariously fun, slang-filled, and giddily delightful. A great beach read! 2 copies, 27 circs...
The Dark Knight: featuring production art and full shooting script by Craig Burne -- nonfiction - reveals the full plot, art, and direction of this fabulous sequel to "Batman Begins". A beautiful movie-art book. 4 circs.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Summer is winding down...
Well, it is getting close to being time for (don't look) SCHOOL to start again...
But if you're still looking for that one last great summer read, I have a few things to suggest. I just finished reading a fantasy by Mercedes Lackey and James Mallory called "Phoenix Unchained". It's in the adult Sci-fi section, but it really could be a YA novel. Tiercel and Harrier set out on a blind journey to find someone who can help Tiercel master his newly-discovered and uncontrolled High Magery. Unfortunately, High Magic vanished from the world over 2000 years ago, so their only hope is to reach the almost mythical elven lands far to the north. Their quest leads them further than they ever imagined, and deep into danger.
One of the most fun things about this novel was seeing the changes that have come over the world Tiercel lives in since the previous series of novels (the Obsidian Trilogy), set 2000 years earlier. But even if you have not read those, Harrier and Tiercel are really great characters, whose story will interest and excite you.
I also just finished reading "Switch" by Anthony Horowitz. A much shorter story, it involves Tad and Bob, boys who wake up to discover that they have swapped places. Tad finds himself torn from the embrace of his loving, and very wealthy family, only to discover that life is not what he thinks it is... this is a fast-paced but very fun adventure. You'll like it!
But if you're still looking for that one last great summer read, I have a few things to suggest. I just finished reading a fantasy by Mercedes Lackey and James Mallory called "Phoenix Unchained". It's in the adult Sci-fi section, but it really could be a YA novel. Tiercel and Harrier set out on a blind journey to find someone who can help Tiercel master his newly-discovered and uncontrolled High Magery. Unfortunately, High Magic vanished from the world over 2000 years ago, so their only hope is to reach the almost mythical elven lands far to the north. Their quest leads them further than they ever imagined, and deep into danger.
One of the most fun things about this novel was seeing the changes that have come over the world Tiercel lives in since the previous series of novels (the Obsidian Trilogy), set 2000 years earlier. But even if you have not read those, Harrier and Tiercel are really great characters, whose story will interest and excite you.
I also just finished reading "Switch" by Anthony Horowitz. A much shorter story, it involves Tad and Bob, boys who wake up to discover that they have swapped places. Tad finds himself torn from the embrace of his loving, and very wealthy family, only to discover that life is not what he thinks it is... this is a fast-paced but very fun adventure. You'll like it!
Monday, July 27, 2009
Whee! New colors!
Barbara updated the look of the Blog again! I like this! Much livelier than the blue and yellow, which I was getting bored with already...
This upcoming Thursday is the Final Game Night. Are you prepared to battle for your place as Game Night Champion of 2009? I hope so, because competition is gonna be fierce!
Remember, you can comment here if you want to challenge your friends!
This upcoming Thursday is the Final Game Night. Are you prepared to battle for your place as Game Night Champion of 2009? I hope so, because competition is gonna be fierce!
Remember, you can comment here if you want to challenge your friends!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Don't Miss This!
End of Summer Sci-Fi Fantasy Party
Saturday August 1
Central Library
2-4 pm
Pizza Nachos Games Music Contests Prizes
Dress in costume* Bring or wear a prop (like a Star Wars Laser or a pair of Men in Black sunglasses)* Or Come-as-You-Are
If you think you can come, please give us a call at 750-5944
or email us at referencewaco@ci.waco.tx.us.
That will help us plan for the party!
Friday, July 24, 2009
R U Game Update, plus New Fiction
Hey, the next to last Game Night was splendid fun!
We had a really close competition - but the final winner of the night was Austin! So that means next week we have Mr. T, Robert, Tumor, Austin, Master P, and Sergio plus one more lucky challenger to compete against each other for the position of 3rd Annual Grand Champion of the Library Game Night!
And, for those who prefer BOOKS, we have a whole list of new fiction:
Sprout, or My Salad Days When I was Green in Judgement by Dale Peck -- After his mother dies, green-haired Sprout moves to Kansas, where he is surprised to find new friends, a fascinating landscape, and a love interest.
Spellspam by Alma Alexander -- Worldweavers Vol. 2. -- at the Wandless Academy, magic works; but when students begin receiving e-mails that cause serious trouble, Thea and her friends are the only ones who seem to realize the source of the trouble... can they stop it before someone is seriously hurt?
Waters and the Wild by Francesca Lia Block -- thirteen year old Bee discovers that she is a changeling, a fairy who was swapped at birth with a human girl, who now wants her life back. Is Bee really a "hideous elf" and should she give up her life? A short, ethereal novel with spooky overtones.
Mystery of the Third Lucretia by Susan Runholt -- when Kari and her best girlfriend Lucas see an artist painting a copy of a Rembrant at the museum, they don't think much, but later, when they hear of the discovery of a brand-new Rembrant, they recognize the artist... can they prove the new painting is a fake? Or will they find themselves in serious danger? A wonderful mystery-adventure!
Deep in the Heart of High School by Veronica Goldbach -- Fatimah and her friends in High School Band are the misfits of the freshman class - a "slice of life" novel, set in a San Antonio High School.
Gentlemen by Michael Northrup -- three boys in High School suspect their English teacher in the disappearance of another friend; can they prove it, or will there be more disappearances?
Peace, Love, and Baby Ducks by Lauren Myracle -- Carly is devastated when she returns from camp and discovers that her younger sister has blossomed into a "hottie" over the summer; can sibling love overcome sibling rivalry? And will her crush ever notice her? And can she keep her newfound bohemian outlook on life surrounded by her family's wealth?
Kisses and Lies by Lauren Henderson -- sequel to Kiss Me, Kill Me -- After Scarlett kissed Dan, he was soon found dead; in this book Scarlett and Taylor must go to Scotland in pursuit of clues, leaving her new boyfriend and their relationship behind... perhaps forever.
Carbon Diaries 2015 by Saci Lloyd -- in England of 2015, Carbon Dioxide rationing has just been implemented, in a drastic attempt to curb global warming; 16 year-old Laura keeps a diary that documents her family's fractured response to rationing, travel limitations, job loss and other stresses, including her band and her crush on the boy next door.
Fairy Tale by Cyn Balog -- Morgan and Cam have been friends all their lives, but she's shocked when he reveals that he's really a fairy, exchanged at birth for a real human child.
Awakening by Kelley Armstrong -- Darkest Powers, book 2 -- Chloe, a youthful necromancer, has escaped from Lyle House with her friends, only to find herself imprisoned in a sinister laboratory run by an organization determined to control her and her friends.
Cathy's Key: if found call 650-266-8202 by Sean Stewart -- It's just a simple story, really: girl loves boy, boy disappears, girl discovers secret that will alter the course of humanity...
Starfinder: a Skylords Novel by John Marco -- Moth and Fiona are about to breach the magical barrier between the human world and that of the skylords in their quest for flight; but the skylords have always been jealous guardians of their realm.
Prism by Faye Kellerman -- three teens fall into a world almost identical to our own, but the total lack of health care may be fatal to one of their number, injured as they accidentally arrived there.
House of Dark Shadow by Robert Liparulo -- Dreamhouse Kings Book 1 -- Xander's family moves into a new house in a dark, mysterious woods, and they discover that not only are there many portals to other places to be found there, but also a great, dangerous mystery.
Watcher in the Woods by Robert Liparulo -- Dreamhouse Kings Book 2 -- David and his family quest for their missing mother in the many portals in their home, but a mysterious stranger appears, who is determined to make them sell the house.
Moribito II: Guardian of the Darkness by Uesashi Nahoko -- Wandering Bodyguard Balsa returns to her native homeland of Kanbal, where she discovers a conspiracy to frame her mentor, and thus herself.
The Deep by Helen Dunmore -- sequel to The Tide Knot -- When the ferocious shapeshifting Kraken awakes after thousands of years, and threatens her kingdom, Sapphire agrees to go with her brother and their friend to lull the monster back to sleep.
Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover by Ally Carter -- Gallagher Girls Book 3 -- Cammie Morgan arrives in Boston, where Macey's father is about to receive the vice presidential nomination. The girls soon find themselves trapped in a kidnapping plot, in true Gallagher Girl style.
Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen -- Auden is an insomniac, and even while spending a carefree summer with her father, she finds herself exploring the night, and meets Eli, with whom she learns to explore far more than the streets and beaches of a small town. Pitch-perfect Sarah Dessen.
We had a really close competition - but the final winner of the night was Austin! So that means next week we have Mr. T, Robert, Tumor, Austin, Master P, and Sergio plus one more lucky challenger to compete against each other for the position of 3rd Annual Grand Champion of the Library Game Night!
And, for those who prefer BOOKS, we have a whole list of new fiction:
Sprout, or My Salad Days When I was Green in Judgement by Dale Peck -- After his mother dies, green-haired Sprout moves to Kansas, where he is surprised to find new friends, a fascinating landscape, and a love interest.
Spellspam by Alma Alexander -- Worldweavers Vol. 2. -- at the Wandless Academy, magic works; but when students begin receiving e-mails that cause serious trouble, Thea and her friends are the only ones who seem to realize the source of the trouble... can they stop it before someone is seriously hurt?
Waters and the Wild by Francesca Lia Block -- thirteen year old Bee discovers that she is a changeling, a fairy who was swapped at birth with a human girl, who now wants her life back. Is Bee really a "hideous elf" and should she give up her life? A short, ethereal novel with spooky overtones.
Mystery of the Third Lucretia by Susan Runholt -- when Kari and her best girlfriend Lucas see an artist painting a copy of a Rembrant at the museum, they don't think much, but later, when they hear of the discovery of a brand-new Rembrant, they recognize the artist... can they prove the new painting is a fake? Or will they find themselves in serious danger? A wonderful mystery-adventure!
Deep in the Heart of High School by Veronica Goldbach -- Fatimah and her friends in High School Band are the misfits of the freshman class - a "slice of life" novel, set in a San Antonio High School.
Gentlemen by Michael Northrup -- three boys in High School suspect their English teacher in the disappearance of another friend; can they prove it, or will there be more disappearances?
Peace, Love, and Baby Ducks by Lauren Myracle -- Carly is devastated when she returns from camp and discovers that her younger sister has blossomed into a "hottie" over the summer; can sibling love overcome sibling rivalry? And will her crush ever notice her? And can she keep her newfound bohemian outlook on life surrounded by her family's wealth?
Kisses and Lies by Lauren Henderson -- sequel to Kiss Me, Kill Me -- After Scarlett kissed Dan, he was soon found dead; in this book Scarlett and Taylor must go to Scotland in pursuit of clues, leaving her new boyfriend and their relationship behind... perhaps forever.
Carbon Diaries 2015 by Saci Lloyd -- in England of 2015, Carbon Dioxide rationing has just been implemented, in a drastic attempt to curb global warming; 16 year-old Laura keeps a diary that documents her family's fractured response to rationing, travel limitations, job loss and other stresses, including her band and her crush on the boy next door.
Fairy Tale by Cyn Balog -- Morgan and Cam have been friends all their lives, but she's shocked when he reveals that he's really a fairy, exchanged at birth for a real human child.
Awakening by Kelley Armstrong -- Darkest Powers, book 2 -- Chloe, a youthful necromancer, has escaped from Lyle House with her friends, only to find herself imprisoned in a sinister laboratory run by an organization determined to control her and her friends.
Cathy's Key: if found call 650-266-8202 by Sean Stewart -- It's just a simple story, really: girl loves boy, boy disappears, girl discovers secret that will alter the course of humanity...
Starfinder: a Skylords Novel by John Marco -- Moth and Fiona are about to breach the magical barrier between the human world and that of the skylords in their quest for flight; but the skylords have always been jealous guardians of their realm.
Prism by Faye Kellerman -- three teens fall into a world almost identical to our own, but the total lack of health care may be fatal to one of their number, injured as they accidentally arrived there.
House of Dark Shadow by Robert Liparulo -- Dreamhouse Kings Book 1 -- Xander's family moves into a new house in a dark, mysterious woods, and they discover that not only are there many portals to other places to be found there, but also a great, dangerous mystery.
Watcher in the Woods by Robert Liparulo -- Dreamhouse Kings Book 2 -- David and his family quest for their missing mother in the many portals in their home, but a mysterious stranger appears, who is determined to make them sell the house.
Moribito II: Guardian of the Darkness by Uesashi Nahoko -- Wandering Bodyguard Balsa returns to her native homeland of Kanbal, where she discovers a conspiracy to frame her mentor, and thus herself.
The Deep by Helen Dunmore -- sequel to The Tide Knot -- When the ferocious shapeshifting Kraken awakes after thousands of years, and threatens her kingdom, Sapphire agrees to go with her brother and their friend to lull the monster back to sleep.
Don't Judge a Girl by Her Cover by Ally Carter -- Gallagher Girls Book 3 -- Cammie Morgan arrives in Boston, where Macey's father is about to receive the vice presidential nomination. The girls soon find themselves trapped in a kidnapping plot, in true Gallagher Girl style.
Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen -- Auden is an insomniac, and even while spending a carefree summer with her father, she finds herself exploring the night, and meets Eli, with whom she learns to explore far more than the streets and beaches of a small town. Pitch-perfect Sarah Dessen.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
R-U-Game?
Tonight is the next to final GAME NIGHT and TOURNAMENT!
We'll be playing from 6:30 to 8:30 as usual. Remember, this is your last week to get your name on the wall before our GRAND FINALE CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYOFF next week.
And, I'm finally ready to announce the PRIZE! A SANSA EXPRESS USB MP3 PLAYER!!!!
This nice little player has a built-in 1 gig harddrive that will hold up to 250 songs. Very handy for those on-the-go!
We'll be playing from 6:30 to 8:30 as usual. Remember, this is your last week to get your name on the wall before our GRAND FINALE CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYOFF next week.
And, I'm finally ready to announce the PRIZE! A SANSA EXPRESS USB MP3 PLAYER!!!!
This nice little player has a built-in 1 gig harddrive that will hold up to 250 songs. Very handy for those on-the-go!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Recent Returns
In the Forests of the Night by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes: this first novel by a 14 year-old writer has become a classic in the vampire genre. It also involves time-travel, shapeshifting and a healthy dose of romanticism. It's a great summer read, as the fact that it has checked out 54 times (3 copies) demonstrates!
The Light of the Oracle by Victoria Hanley: A companion novel to The Seer and the Sword, and The Healer's Keep, it follows Bryn, the daughter of a stonemason, chosen to become a priestess. It seems to be a great blessing, but very soon Bryn realizes that she will have to fight to prove herself in this new, troubling place. 28 circs.
Ready or Not: An All-American Girl Novel by Meg Cabot: Samantha's boyfriend just happens to be the President's son, but now that she's turned sixteen, she's wondering if it is time to take their relationship "to the next level"... 62 circs for this great book by a very popular author.
Fruits Basket Ultimate Edition, vol 2: contains the original volumes 3 and 4 of this very popular comedic romance manga. 9 circs in less than a year!
The Eternal Smile: Three Stories by Gene Luen Yang and Derek Kirk Kim. Three graphic short stories of very different styles will amuse and entertain you. Just one lonely circ for this great book!
That's it for today, folks!
The Light of the Oracle by Victoria Hanley: A companion novel to The Seer and the Sword, and The Healer's Keep, it follows Bryn, the daughter of a stonemason, chosen to become a priestess. It seems to be a great blessing, but very soon Bryn realizes that she will have to fight to prove herself in this new, troubling place. 28 circs.
Ready or Not: An All-American Girl Novel by Meg Cabot: Samantha's boyfriend just happens to be the President's son, but now that she's turned sixteen, she's wondering if it is time to take their relationship "to the next level"... 62 circs for this great book by a very popular author.
Fruits Basket Ultimate Edition, vol 2: contains the original volumes 3 and 4 of this very popular comedic romance manga. 9 circs in less than a year!
The Eternal Smile: Three Stories by Gene Luen Yang and Derek Kirk Kim. Three graphic short stories of very different styles will amuse and entertain you. Just one lonely circ for this great book!
That's it for today, folks!
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