I am a Genius of Unspeakable Evil and I want to be your Class President by Josh Lieb
This book keeps you laughing. It is about a boy named Oliver Watson who is one of the smartest and richest people on Earth. He is comparable to Dexter from Dexter's Labratory except he hides his genius from the public and his family. Everyone thinks that he is a complete and hopeless idiot, but really he is full of smart comments that will have you rolling on the floor with alughter. Oliver decides that he will run for class president in order to prove that he is equal to his father. Or is it to get his approval and pride? That is for you to decide.
This book is a fast and enjoyable read. There is some language, but other than that it is very mild.
Book Review by Rhea B.
Keep up with all things Teen @ Bossier Parish Libraries! Have any question, give us a call, 318-746-1693.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
The Weapon - Book Review by Mitch W.
The Weapon by Michael Z. Williamson
Michael Z. Williamson is an underdog author from a little known publisher. Despite this, he writes in-depth and realistic sci-fi. The Weapon is the best example of his ability. The book follows Kenneth Chinran through his entire military career serving Freehold, one of a few star nations that have broken away from the majority of humanity. Chinran joins as an angry youth looking to get away from home but is soon picked up for an elite deep cover team sent on a suicide mission to destroy Freehold's greatest enemy, Earth.
A must read for sci-fi fans.
Book review by Mitch W.
Michael Z. Williamson is an underdog author from a little known publisher. Despite this, he writes in-depth and realistic sci-fi. The Weapon is the best example of his ability. The book follows Kenneth Chinran through his entire military career serving Freehold, one of a few star nations that have broken away from the majority of humanity. Chinran joins as an angry youth looking to get away from home but is soon picked up for an elite deep cover team sent on a suicide mission to destroy Freehold's greatest enemy, Earth.
A must read for sci-fi fans.
Book review by Mitch W.
Uncle John's Book of the Dumb - Book Review by Joe W.
Uncle John's Book of the Dumb by John Michael Scalzi
This book is a random collection of true stories about stupid people doing stupid things. There's a lot of variety in the stories, from police forcing a kid to shut down his lemonade stand due to a lack of a permit, to the 8-track, to a woman using a cigarette lighter to peer into a fuel tank. Reading this book, you'll learn one thing: stupidity knows no bounds (or anything else for that matter). I liked this book because I'm one of those people who laugh at this kinda dumb stuff. There's a sequel as well, if you crave more stupidity.
Book Review by Joe W.
This book is a random collection of true stories about stupid people doing stupid things. There's a lot of variety in the stories, from police forcing a kid to shut down his lemonade stand due to a lack of a permit, to the 8-track, to a woman using a cigarette lighter to peer into a fuel tank. Reading this book, you'll learn one thing: stupidity knows no bounds (or anything else for that matter). I liked this book because I'm one of those people who laugh at this kinda dumb stuff. There's a sequel as well, if you crave more stupidity.
Book Review by Joe W.
Coffeehouse Angel - Book Review by Rhea B.
Coffeehouse Angel by Suzanne Selfors
Katrina lives with her grandmother where she helps run their Scandinavian coffeehouse. Life was good till her parents died and a "modern" coffeehouse was put in. Katrina feels like she isn't special and that life is horrible till she meets Malcom, an angel. No really, he is. Katrina is kind to him, so he keeps trying to reward her for her good deed. In the process, they fall in love with each other, but how can a human and an angel live together?
I loves this book. It is absolutely adorable. Katrina is a character that anyone can relate to personality wise. Malcolm is absolutely adorable. Great book to read if you want a few laughs and a warm fuzzy feeling inside at the end.
Book review by Rhea B.
Katrina lives with her grandmother where she helps run their Scandinavian coffeehouse. Life was good till her parents died and a "modern" coffeehouse was put in. Katrina feels like she isn't special and that life is horrible till she meets Malcom, an angel. No really, he is. Katrina is kind to him, so he keeps trying to reward her for her good deed. In the process, they fall in love with each other, but how can a human and an angel live together?
I loves this book. It is absolutely adorable. Katrina is a character that anyone can relate to personality wise. Malcolm is absolutely adorable. Great book to read if you want a few laughs and a warm fuzzy feeling inside at the end.
Book review by Rhea B.
Monday, December 14, 2009
The Monstrumologist - Book Review by Callie T.
The Monstrumologist by Rick Yancy
Monstrumologist is an awesome book full of violence and gore. Everyone should read this well written tale of a boy and his life-threatening adventure fighting monsters. I love it and suggest everyone who loves horror should read it, too. I, myself, don't get nauseous often, but with this one, I had to set it down for a moment because it was described so well.
An awesome read, for sure!
Review by Callie T.
Monstrumologist is an awesome book full of violence and gore. Everyone should read this well written tale of a boy and his life-threatening adventure fighting monsters. I love it and suggest everyone who loves horror should read it, too. I, myself, don't get nauseous often, but with this one, I had to set it down for a moment because it was described so well.
An awesome read, for sure!
Review by Callie T.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Fear Factor Food Challenge!
On October 16, the Bossier Central Library had a lock-in at the library! One of the activities that night was a Fear Factor Food Challenge!
Watch the video below to see pictures from the Challenge:
Watch the video below to see pictures from the Challenge:
Monday, November 16, 2009
Write a Letter to an Author - Win Cash Prizes!
Have you ever read a book that really spoke to you?
Ever thought about writing a letter to an author to tell them how their book impacted you?
In the Letters About Literature Competition, students are asked to do just that for the chance to win cash prizes!
Students in grades 4-12 may write a personal letter to an author, living or dead, from any genre (fiction, nonfiction, poetry, etc.) explaining how that author’s work changed the student’s way of thinking about the world or themselves. The entry should be written as a personal letter – not a book report or a fan letter. It should express how the book has impacted the student’s life or worldview.
Entries should be sent to the national competition, where the top 30-50 letters in each level will be selected. These top letters will be sent back to the Louisiana State Library so that first, second, and third place winners can be chosen for the state. State winners will be announced in March – first place in each level will receive a $50 Target gift card and $100; second place will receive $75, and third place will receive $50.
In mid-April, the national winners will be chosen from the first place winners in each state. Six national winners will be chosen to receive a $500 Target gift card, and will be able to nominate a school or library to receive a grant. Twelve national honor winners will receive a $100 Target gift card.
To get an entry form or more information about the competition, contact Tonya Oswalt at the Bossier Central Library (318) 746-1693.
Ever thought about writing a letter to an author to tell them how their book impacted you?
In the Letters About Literature Competition, students are asked to do just that for the chance to win cash prizes!
Students in grades 4-12 may write a personal letter to an author, living or dead, from any genre (fiction, nonfiction, poetry, etc.) explaining how that author’s work changed the student’s way of thinking about the world or themselves. The entry should be written as a personal letter – not a book report or a fan letter. It should express how the book has impacted the student’s life or worldview.
Entries should be sent to the national competition, where the top 30-50 letters in each level will be selected. These top letters will be sent back to the Louisiana State Library so that first, second, and third place winners can be chosen for the state. State winners will be announced in March – first place in each level will receive a $50 Target gift card and $100; second place will receive $75, and third place will receive $50.
In mid-April, the national winners will be chosen from the first place winners in each state. Six national winners will be chosen to receive a $500 Target gift card, and will be able to nominate a school or library to receive a grant. Twelve national honor winners will receive a $100 Target gift card.
To get an entry form or more information about the competition, contact Tonya Oswalt at the Bossier Central Library (318) 746-1693.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
The Lost Symbol - Book Review by Sarah
The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown
If you're not a fan of Dan Brown, you should be. Fan's of Brown's The DaVinci Code and Angels & Demons will not be disappointed. The novel follows the main character, Robert Langdon (a Harvard symbologist), on his quest to unearth the secrets of the Free Masons. Langdon is essentially kidnapped and manipulated into working for the villain when Langdon's friend, Peter Solomon, pays a gruesome visit. In order to save Peter's life, Langdon must discover the Masonic secrets that will lead to godly power, power which the villain hopes to obtain. With the help of Katherine Solomon, Langdon unearths Masonic mysteries, a field of science known as noetics, and ancient symbols hidden in Washington, D.C.; however, Langdon faces a dangerous fiend. Can Langdon make it out alive?
Book Review by Sarah P.
If you're not a fan of Dan Brown, you should be. Fan's of Brown's The DaVinci Code and Angels & Demons will not be disappointed. The novel follows the main character, Robert Langdon (a Harvard symbologist), on his quest to unearth the secrets of the Free Masons. Langdon is essentially kidnapped and manipulated into working for the villain when Langdon's friend, Peter Solomon, pays a gruesome visit. In order to save Peter's life, Langdon must discover the Masonic secrets that will lead to godly power, power which the villain hopes to obtain. With the help of Katherine Solomon, Langdon unearths Masonic mysteries, a field of science known as noetics, and ancient symbols hidden in Washington, D.C.; however, Langdon faces a dangerous fiend. Can Langdon make it out alive?
Book Review by Sarah P.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Wrestlemania Reading Challnege!
Join the Wrestlemania Reading Challenge!The Wrestlemania Reading Challenge kicks off with Teen Read week on October 19th and continues through January 19th, 2010. Students in grades 5 thru 12 can participate by picking up a reading log at their public library and reading 10 books by January 19th (recording each book on the log). Once participants have finished their reading log, they can turn it in to the library to receive a WWE poster (supplies are limited!).
In addition, all partcipants who complete their reading logs are eligible to enter a bookmart contest. Participants can create a bookmark that encourages reading for a chance to win a trip to see Wrestlemania!
There will be one local winner in each of the three categories of the bookmark contest (grades 5-6, 7-8, 9-12). The winning bookmarks at the local level will be sent on to the regional contest where the winners of the trips to Wrestlmania will be determined.
For additional details, contact Tonya Oswalt at the Bossier Central Library.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Teen Read Week - October 18-24
The Bossier Parish Library kicked off Teen Read Week with a bang! Thirty-two teens from around the parish attended a lock-in at the Bossier Central library on Friday, October 16th. Teens solved a mystery, competed in a Fear Factor Food Challenge, and played various video and board games. This was the library's third lock-in! Look for more lock-ins in the future!
This year's theme for Teen Read Week is "Read Beyond Reality". The library is sponsoring two events for the week. The first is an essay contest - read a book that fits the "beyond Reality" theme and write a short essay (even just a paragraph!) that explains why you think the reality in the book is better or worse than our reality. One winner will be chosen out of the entries to receive a $25 gift certificate to Books a Million! Essays are due by 6 PM on Friday, October 23rd.
The second event is "Read Away Your Fines!" Teens ages 13-18 can come into the library Monday, October 19th, through Friday, October 23rd, between 3-5 PM - check in with Tonya Oswalt at the reference desk, and then go to the back of the library to read. For every 15 minutes you spend reading, you'll earn 25 cents in credits that you can use to pay off overdue fines.
Also, keep a look out for information about the Wrestlemania Reading Challenge!
This year's theme for Teen Read Week is "Read Beyond Reality". The library is sponsoring two events for the week. The first is an essay contest - read a book that fits the "beyond Reality" theme and write a short essay (even just a paragraph!) that explains why you think the reality in the book is better or worse than our reality. One winner will be chosen out of the entries to receive a $25 gift certificate to Books a Million! Essays are due by 6 PM on Friday, October 23rd.
The second event is "Read Away Your Fines!" Teens ages 13-18 can come into the library Monday, October 19th, through Friday, October 23rd, between 3-5 PM - check in with Tonya Oswalt at the reference desk, and then go to the back of the library to read. For every 15 minutes you spend reading, you'll earn 25 cents in credits that you can use to pay off overdue fines.
Also, keep a look out for information about the Wrestlemania Reading Challenge!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Grendel by John Gardner - Book Review by Joshua C.
Grendel by John Gardner
One of the most famous monsters of the Beowulf tales is a monster called Grendel, a beast who terrorized the Kingdom of Hrothgar.
John Gardner, in an often humorous way, shows the story from Grendel's point of view. The Author gives in insightful view to the characteristics of the monster, gives an explanation to the monster's actions and thoughts, and also gives a view of the way things were during the dark times of that setting. The entire story is well thought out and is a good book for those who have read the Beowulf stories.
Grendel is somewhat an inelegant monster. However, he feels burdened by the fact that he is a monster, being that his mother is the only one that excepts him; despite the fact she can never communicate with him. Feeling trapped in the cave he calls home, he goes out and tries to make sense of the realities of the real world and his existence.
During an event in which he is almost killed by an ox, he discovers humans. Grendel observes the humans from a distance, being that he didn't have much else to do. Through a person called a Shaper, Grendel learns that the humans see him as a creature of evil while the humans see themselves as the "good side". This makes Grendel hate the humans, which soon he starts attacking the them. At one point Grendel meets a Dragon, who tries to discuss with Grendel about the "truths" and such about who Grendel is. The Dragon encourages Grendel and puts a enchantment on him that makes is to where he can't be slain by human weapons. Grendel continues to attack the humans in a psychotic manner. At one point, a couple of mysterious strangers appear at the kingdom that Grendel had been attacking for so long. When Grendel attacks that night, he finds out he is outmatched despite the enchantment the Dragon and loses. Slowly dying, Grendel runs off. Watched by the animals Grendel looked down apon, Grendel ends his life at a plunging death.
Book Review by Joshua C.
One of the most famous monsters of the Beowulf tales is a monster called Grendel, a beast who terrorized the Kingdom of Hrothgar.
John Gardner, in an often humorous way, shows the story from Grendel's point of view. The Author gives in insightful view to the characteristics of the monster, gives an explanation to the monster's actions and thoughts, and also gives a view of the way things were during the dark times of that setting. The entire story is well thought out and is a good book for those who have read the Beowulf stories.
Grendel is somewhat an inelegant monster. However, he feels burdened by the fact that he is a monster, being that his mother is the only one that excepts him; despite the fact she can never communicate with him. Feeling trapped in the cave he calls home, he goes out and tries to make sense of the realities of the real world and his existence.
During an event in which he is almost killed by an ox, he discovers humans. Grendel observes the humans from a distance, being that he didn't have much else to do. Through a person called a Shaper, Grendel learns that the humans see him as a creature of evil while the humans see themselves as the "good side". This makes Grendel hate the humans, which soon he starts attacking the them. At one point Grendel meets a Dragon, who tries to discuss with Grendel about the "truths" and such about who Grendel is. The Dragon encourages Grendel and puts a enchantment on him that makes is to where he can't be slain by human weapons. Grendel continues to attack the humans in a psychotic manner. At one point, a couple of mysterious strangers appear at the kingdom that Grendel had been attacking for so long. When Grendel attacks that night, he finds out he is outmatched despite the enchantment the Dragon and loses. Slowly dying, Grendel runs off. Watched by the animals Grendel looked down apon, Grendel ends his life at a plunging death.
Book Review by Joshua C.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
A Farewell to Arms - Book Review by Sarah P.
A Farewell To Arms by Ernest Hemingway
Overall, Hemingway’s novel was spectacular. In this novel, at least in my opinion, Hemingway appeals to both genders. His uninhibited account of WWI combined with the love story of Catherine and Lieutenant Henry has universal appeal. Hemingway’s prose, however, may take readers a while to get used to. Hemingway’s experience in journalism is truly evident in his short, declarative narration. His prose lacks any poetic element, but rather is straightforward and blunt. The conclusion of A Farewell to Arms also leaves something to be desired. Characteristic with the rest of the novel, the conclusion is short and abrupt, leaving the reader grasping for something more. I can’t give away the ending, but some may accredit the seemingly unfeeling ending to Hemingway’s misogynist attitude. Despite having its drawbacks, I would recommend this book to anyone. Not only is it a rewarding read, but also a classic in American literature.
Book Review by Sarah P.
Overall, Hemingway’s novel was spectacular. In this novel, at least in my opinion, Hemingway appeals to both genders. His uninhibited account of WWI combined with the love story of Catherine and Lieutenant Henry has universal appeal. Hemingway’s prose, however, may take readers a while to get used to. Hemingway’s experience in journalism is truly evident in his short, declarative narration. His prose lacks any poetic element, but rather is straightforward and blunt. The conclusion of A Farewell to Arms also leaves something to be desired. Characteristic with the rest of the novel, the conclusion is short and abrupt, leaving the reader grasping for something more. I can’t give away the ending, but some may accredit the seemingly unfeeling ending to Hemingway’s misogynist attitude. Despite having its drawbacks, I would recommend this book to anyone. Not only is it a rewarding read, but also a classic in American literature.
Book Review by Sarah P.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
The Monstumologist by Rick Yancy
“With a roaring sense of adventure and enough viscera to gag the hardiest of gore hounds, Yancey’s series starter might just be the best horror novel of the year.” —Booklist, starred review
Watch the book trailer!
Visit monstrumologist.com!
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Watch the book trailer!
Visit monstrumologist.com!
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Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Night World - Book Review by Mary
Night World by L. J. Smith
(Note: Mary's review is on the first omnibus of the series, which includes books 1-3 of the series.)
Now, normally I would refrain from reviewing a vampire love story. But Night World is one of my favorite books now. It has three stories. All deal with finding your soulmate. Two have some vampires in it. In each story, the main characters deal with the finding of their soulmates differently. These stories are beautiful and they really make you think about what you would do. The book is about the size of a medium sized Harry Potter book. But don't be intimidated by the size. It's a good book that I hope you read.
Review by Mary
(Note: Mary's review is on the first omnibus of the series, which includes books 1-3 of the series.)
Now, normally I would refrain from reviewing a vampire love story. But Night World is one of my favorite books now. It has three stories. All deal with finding your soulmate. Two have some vampires in it. In each story, the main characters deal with the finding of their soulmates differently. These stories are beautiful and they really make you think about what you would do. The book is about the size of a medium sized Harry Potter book. But don't be intimidated by the size. It's a good book that I hope you read.
Review by Mary
The Dark Mirror - Book Review by Chelsea P.
The Dark Mirror by Juliet Marillier
This is the story of two people, Bridei and Tuala. Bridei was sent away from his family at a young age to receive the education of a druid. The purpose of this education is to prepare him for goals in the future. Many seasons have passed when one night young Bridei's life changes forever. He finds an abandoned child in moonlight on his doorstep. It is soon learned that she is not a human child, but a child of the fairy folk.
The two grow up together and as Bridei comes to manhood, he sees the shy girl Tuala blossom into a beautiful woman. Broichan sees the same process and feels only danger...for Tuala could be a key part in Bridei's future...or could spell his doom.
My opinion on the novel is the character plot was a nice process, but the early promise of a great adventure came a bit too late. I believed that was because during most of it, she was trying to develop the two characters, Bridei and Tuala. The author described the imagery in poetic detail and it was easier to imagine.
For anyone whose interested in reading it, you should know beforehand that it's quite a lenghty book; about the length of an Eragon novel. The book is also a historic adult novel, meaning there is some graphic content on certain parts, and a bit of heresy on Chrstianity.
Review by Chelsea P.
This is the story of two people, Bridei and Tuala. Bridei was sent away from his family at a young age to receive the education of a druid. The purpose of this education is to prepare him for goals in the future. Many seasons have passed when one night young Bridei's life changes forever. He finds an abandoned child in moonlight on his doorstep. It is soon learned that she is not a human child, but a child of the fairy folk.
The two grow up together and as Bridei comes to manhood, he sees the shy girl Tuala blossom into a beautiful woman. Broichan sees the same process and feels only danger...for Tuala could be a key part in Bridei's future...or could spell his doom.
My opinion on the novel is the character plot was a nice process, but the early promise of a great adventure came a bit too late. I believed that was because during most of it, she was trying to develop the two characters, Bridei and Tuala. The author described the imagery in poetic detail and it was easier to imagine.
For anyone whose interested in reading it, you should know beforehand that it's quite a lenghty book; about the length of an Eragon novel. The book is also a historic adult novel, meaning there is some graphic content on certain parts, and a bit of heresy on Chrstianity.
Review by Chelsea P.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
Catching Fire, the sequel to The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins has just been released! Click here to check out video interviews with the author!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Book Review Submissions
Love to read? Want to share your opinions on your favorite books? Or maybe you've just read something that you hated and want to tell others not to read it. Consider writing book reviews for us!
If you would like to submit book reviews that can be posted here on the Teen Blog, send me an email at yaservices@bossierlibrary.org.
If you would like to submit book reviews that can be posted here on the Teen Blog, send me an email at yaservices@bossierlibrary.org.
Monday, August 24, 2009
It's time to vote!
If you've been reading the books from the Teen's Top Ten Nomination List over the past few months, then it's time to vote for your favorites! If you haven't quite finished reading the books, you have until September 18th to vote. You can vote for up to three of your favorites! Click below to vote:
Teens Top Ten Nominations - Final 8
Because the voting was moved up this year, I will not have time to finish out the list before voting starts (Voting starts today!). This post will have all of the reminaing books that I have not posted before now.
Geek Charming by Robin PalmerDylan's middle name is "crisis." It seems to follow her wherever she goes. First she catches her boyfriends staring at another girl. Then her beautiful designer bag takes a swim in a fountain. However, along with crisis comes opportunity, and Dylan's Beverly Hills world is about to be turned upside-down.
Metling Stones by Tamora PierceAll life, both plant and animal, on the Battle Islands is mysteriously dying. Stone mage Evvy responds to the islander's call for help. They need her magic to solve the mystery. Accompanied by her friend and mentor, Luvo, she uncovers the deep secret revealed by the stones and the volcano. Will it be in time to rescue the children?
Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth ScottAlice was kidnapped when she was young and is forced to pretend to be a little girl to please Ray. She could never escape and wishes for death. Soon her wish will become true, as she has become too old and now she must find Ray a replacement for her.
Eternal by Cynthia Leitich SmithZachary, a guardian angel, has, against all rules, fallen in love with his charge. When he sees Miranda sleeping in the shadow of death, his attempt to save her hurls her into life as a vampire princess and exiles him from heaven.
Flygirl by Sherri L. SmithBecasue she wants to fly and to support her soldier brother, 18 year old Ida May Jones passes for white amidst obstacles of race and gender and joins the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) during World War II.
Wherever Nina Lies by Lynn WeingartenTwo years after 16 year old Ellie's older sister, Nina, disappeared, Ellie pieces together clues to her whereabouts and heads out on a road trip that leads to murder and mystery with her hot new boyfriend, Sean.
Impossible by Nancy WerlinThis gentle story details young teen Lucy's rape and subsequent pregnancy, with an amazingly supportive cast of a faithful boyfriend and loving parents. A fairy tale set in the present, with flashes of realism and romance.
Absolutely Maybe by Lisa YeeMaybe (short for Maybelline, her mother's favorite mascara) leaves home and heads to California on a mission to find her biological father, and avoid her mother's planned wedding number seven.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Going Bovine by Libba Bray - Book Trailer
Have you read any of Libba Bray's books? She has a great series that starts with the novel A Great and Terrible Beauty. Well, even if you haven't, you might be interested in her newest book that comes out in September!
Check out the book trailer!
Check out the book trailer!
Monday, August 17, 2009
Teens Top Ten Nominations - Evermore by Alyson Noel
This week's book is Evermore by Alyson Noel!
From Booklist
This opening book in a new series, The Immortals, will thrill many teen fantasy-suspense readers, especially fans of Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series. Seventeen-year-old Ever survived the car crash that killed her parents, younger sister, and their dog. Now she lives with an aunt in Southern California, plagued not only by survivor guilt but also by a new ability to hear the thoughts of all around her. She tries to tune out all these distractions by keeping her hoodie up and her iPod cranked loud, until Damen, the cute new boy at school, convinces her to come out of her shell. Damen, however, is frighteningly clever—and has the strange ability to produce tulips from nowhere and disappear himself at critical moments. Noël (Saving Zoë, 2007) creates a cast of recognizably diverse teens in a realistic high-school setting, along with just the right tension to make Ever’s discovery of her own immortality—should she choose it—exciting and credible. Grades 8-10. --Francisca Goldsmith --
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
From BooklistThis opening book in a new series, The Immortals, will thrill many teen fantasy-suspense readers, especially fans of Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series. Seventeen-year-old Ever survived the car crash that killed her parents, younger sister, and their dog. Now she lives with an aunt in Southern California, plagued not only by survivor guilt but also by a new ability to hear the thoughts of all around her. She tries to tune out all these distractions by keeping her hoodie up and her iPod cranked loud, until Damen, the cute new boy at school, convinces her to come out of her shell. Damen, however, is frighteningly clever—and has the strange ability to produce tulips from nowhere and disappear himself at critical moments. Noël (Saving Zoë, 2007) creates a cast of recognizably diverse teens in a realistic high-school setting, along with just the right tension to make Ever’s discovery of her own immortality—should she choose it—exciting and credible. Grades 8-10. --Francisca Goldsmith --
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Teens Top Ten Nominations - The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness
This week's book is The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness!
Dangerous secrets can even be hidden in a world where all men and animals hear each others' thoughts. Becasue all women died shortly after he was born, Todd Hewitt is the last boy left in his town. When he learns a dangerous secret, he runs for his life with his dog and finds something even more suprising: a girl!
From Booklist
*Starred Review* Chased by a madman preacher and possibly the rest of his townsfolk as well, young Todd Hewitt flees his settlement on a planet where war with the natives has killed all the women and infected the men with a germ that broadcasts their thoughts aloud for all to hear. This cacophanous thought-cloud is known as Noise and is rendered with startling effectiveness on the page. The first of many secrets is revealed when Todd discovers an unsettling hole in the Noise, and quickly realizes that he lives in a much different world than the one he thought he did. Some of the central conceits of the drama can be hard to swallow, but the pure inventiveness and excitement of the telling more than make up for it. Narrated in a sort of pidgin English with crack dramatic and comic timing by Todd and featuring one of the finest talking-dog characters anywhere, this troubling, unforgettable opener to the Chaos Walking trilogy is a penetrating look at the ways in which we reveal ourselves to one another, and what it takes to be a man in a society gone horribly wrong. The cliffhanger ending is as effective as a shot to the gut. Grades 8-12. --Ian Chipman
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Dangerous secrets can even be hidden in a world where all men and animals hear each others' thoughts. Becasue all women died shortly after he was born, Todd Hewitt is the last boy left in his town. When he learns a dangerous secret, he runs for his life with his dog and finds something even more suprising: a girl!From Booklist
*Starred Review* Chased by a madman preacher and possibly the rest of his townsfolk as well, young Todd Hewitt flees his settlement on a planet where war with the natives has killed all the women and infected the men with a germ that broadcasts their thoughts aloud for all to hear. This cacophanous thought-cloud is known as Noise and is rendered with startling effectiveness on the page. The first of many secrets is revealed when Todd discovers an unsettling hole in the Noise, and quickly realizes that he lives in a much different world than the one he thought he did. Some of the central conceits of the drama can be hard to swallow, but the pure inventiveness and excitement of the telling more than make up for it. Narrated in a sort of pidgin English with crack dramatic and comic timing by Todd and featuring one of the finest talking-dog characters anywhere, this troubling, unforgettable opener to the Chaos Walking trilogy is a penetrating look at the ways in which we reveal ourselves to one another, and what it takes to be a man in a society gone horribly wrong. The cliffhanger ending is as effective as a shot to the gut. Grades 8-12. --Ian Chipman
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Monday, August 3, 2009
Teens Top Ten Nominations - Bloodline by Katy Moran
This week's book is Bloodline by Katy Moran!
In the brutal world of Dark Age Britian, Essa fights for his life, his identity, and the lives of those he loves. Paolini and Tolkien fans will be drawn in.
From School Library Journal (Taken from Amazon)
Starred Review. Grade 7–10—Essa has traveled the lands of seventh-century Britain with his father, Cai, for many years without incident. In a Wolf Folk settlement, he wakes to find that his father has left without any explanation. Feeling angry and alone, he slowly comes to appreciate the people of the village, but never forgets his father's betrayal. Eventually Essa becomes sworn to a king and is sent out on a small errand. He gets himself deeper and deeper into tribal disputes and finds that the errand has become a full-blown adventure across kingdoms, with Essa taking matters into his own hands to try to influence the outcome of a potential tribal war. Well written and deeply researched, Bloodline moves along at a steady pace with enough intrigue and mystery to keep readers turning pages. It is a wonderful story of emotional and physical discovery that reads with "you are there" immediacy. The historical details are effortlessly woven throughout as the plot develops into a complete picture of the times. A map and an outline of the characters are included. This novel would make an excellent companion to a study of the Early Middle Ages and/or British and European history.—Dylan Thomarie, Johnstown High School, NY
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
In the brutal world of Dark Age Britian, Essa fights for his life, his identity, and the lives of those he loves. Paolini and Tolkien fans will be drawn in.
From School Library Journal (Taken from Amazon)
Starred Review. Grade 7–10—Essa has traveled the lands of seventh-century Britain with his father, Cai, for many years without incident. In a Wolf Folk settlement, he wakes to find that his father has left without any explanation. Feeling angry and alone, he slowly comes to appreciate the people of the village, but never forgets his father's betrayal. Eventually Essa becomes sworn to a king and is sent out on a small errand. He gets himself deeper and deeper into tribal disputes and finds that the errand has become a full-blown adventure across kingdoms, with Essa taking matters into his own hands to try to influence the outcome of a potential tribal war. Well written and deeply researched, Bloodline moves along at a steady pace with enough intrigue and mystery to keep readers turning pages. It is a wonderful story of emotional and physical discovery that reads with "you are there" immediacy. The historical details are effortlessly woven throughout as the plot develops into a complete picture of the times. A map and an outline of the characters are included. This novel would make an excellent companion to a study of the Early Middle Ages and/or British and European history.—Dylan Thomarie, Johnstown High School, NY
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Imagine your world in 2059 and win a new laptop!
You could win a new laptop, other prizes, and a chance to appear on a national television show!
It's all a part of National Inventors Month!
Throughout August, Inventors Digest magazine is accepting essays from young innovators ages 12-17. Essays must tell, in 500 words or less, what technology, tool, product, or service will shape our lives in 2059 and why.
This is a great way to gear up for this year's Teen Read Week. Teen Read Week happens in October, and this year's theme will be "Read Beyond Reality"!
Prizes include:
*Your essay published in Inventors Digest
*A year's subscription to the magazine
*Possible appearance on the Emmy award-winning PBS series "Everyday Edisons"
*A killer T-shirt
*Brainteaser games
*A brand new laptop
*And more!
For official contest forms and rules, visit www.inventorsdigest.com
It's all a part of National Inventors Month!
Throughout August, Inventors Digest magazine is accepting essays from young innovators ages 12-17. Essays must tell, in 500 words or less, what technology, tool, product, or service will shape our lives in 2059 and why.
This is a great way to gear up for this year's Teen Read Week. Teen Read Week happens in October, and this year's theme will be "Read Beyond Reality"!
Prizes include:
*Your essay published in Inventors Digest
*A year's subscription to the magazine
*Possible appearance on the Emmy award-winning PBS series "Everyday Edisons"
*A killer T-shirt
*Brainteaser games
*A brand new laptop
*And more!
For official contest forms and rules, visit www.inventorsdigest.com
During the teen summer reading program, several teens chose a painting to write a poem or short story about. The poem below was written during this program.
Treetop Wings
by Callie Tucker
Dead branches sway against the window sill,
a winged maiden watching through closed eyes
sounds of flowing water came loudly from the mill,
Signs of tell-tale rain come from dark skies.
Feathered wings unfurling from her shoulder blades,
a dark septure perched in front of her
an emotionless face that never fades,
lifetime of memories passes in a blur.
Artwork used with permission of artist, Amy Brown.
Treetop Wings
by Callie Tucker
Dead branches sway against the window sill,
a winged maiden watching through closed eyes
sounds of flowing water came loudly from the mill,
Signs of tell-tale rain come from dark skies.
Feathered wings unfurling from her shoulder blades,
a dark septure perched in front of her
an emotionless face that never fades,
lifetime of memories passes in a blur.
Artwork used with permission of artist, Amy Brown.
The Spirit of Life - Poetry by Rhea Bumpass
During the teen summer reading program, several teens chose a painting to write a poem or short story about. The poem below was written during this program.
The Spirit of Life
by Rhea Bumpass
The Spirit of Life
by Rhea Bumpass
Young musician, play your beautiful song.
Your flowing melody makes nature grow strong.
The breath of life your song does bring,
to every tree, shrub, and flower of the Spring.
Young musician, play on, play on!
For without your song,
the love of life will dim and be gone.
Artwork used with permission of artist, Stephanie Pui-Mun Law.
Old Silou Ray - Poetry by Joshua
During the teen summer reading program, several teens chose a painting to write a poem or short story about. The poem below was written during this program.
Old Silou Ray
by Joshua Crochet
To stand guard, all night and day,
Twas the job assigned to old Silou Ray.
A deal from a man of mystical ways,
let old Silou Ray never run out of days.
As long as the fountain was guarded from whomever,
Old Silou Ray would live forever.
The man gave one rule that had to be met,
"Don't drink from the fountain, or you will regret."
After years passed his curiosity grew;
The secret of the fountain, he never knew.
Going mad to the point where he couldn't think,
Silou knelt down and took a long drink.
His spear and shield fell onto the floor,
for old Silou Ray was forever seen no more.
Artwork used with permission of artist, Stephanie Pui-Mun Law.
Old Silou Ray
by Joshua Crochet
To stand guard, all night and day,
Twas the job assigned to old Silou Ray.
A deal from a man of mystical ways,
let old Silou Ray never run out of days.
As long as the fountain was guarded from whomever,
Old Silou Ray would live forever.
The man gave one rule that had to be met,
"Don't drink from the fountain, or you will regret."
After years passed his curiosity grew;
The secret of the fountain, he never knew.
Going mad to the point where he couldn't think,
Silou knelt down and took a long drink.
His spear and shield fell onto the floor,
for old Silou Ray was forever seen no more.
Artwork used with permission of artist, Stephanie Pui-Mun Law.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Fast Food Nation - Review by Rhea
Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
An eye-opening book!
This book reveals all the evil truths about the fast food industry. Fast food has become a regular part of our lives, but what effects does it have? This book reveals the corruption in the meat industry, injustice in farm pay, and the poor conditions of working in a fast food chain. The book goes back in history to when food laws were first enforced and when slaughter houses were the best places to work. It also covers the mad cow and ecoli scare. After reading this book, you will never be able to look at fast food the same way again.
Review by Rhea
An eye-opening book!
This book reveals all the evil truths about the fast food industry. Fast food has become a regular part of our lives, but what effects does it have? This book reveals the corruption in the meat industry, injustice in farm pay, and the poor conditions of working in a fast food chain. The book goes back in history to when food laws were first enforced and when slaughter houses were the best places to work. It also covers the mad cow and ecoli scare. After reading this book, you will never be able to look at fast food the same way again.
Review by Rhea
Anna of Byzantium - Book Review by Rhea
Anna of Byzantium by Tracy Barrett
Anna is the daughter of the emperor and is heir to the throne. She spends her childhood preparing to rule. Everything seems perfect till her baby brother is born. All focus goes to him and she can now see family fueds. Her grandmother despises Anna's mother and believes that all rulers should do whatever they need to get things done, no matter how horrible or dishonest. Anna's mother, however, believes that a ruler should lead by God's rules. Anna starts to develop thoughts of her own. This leads to her downfall and banishment. Anna learns how to find the good in life. I thought this story was really good. It is almost all true, which helps strengthen the story.
Review by Rhea
Anna is the daughter of the emperor and is heir to the throne. She spends her childhood preparing to rule. Everything seems perfect till her baby brother is born. All focus goes to him and she can now see family fueds. Her grandmother despises Anna's mother and believes that all rulers should do whatever they need to get things done, no matter how horrible or dishonest. Anna's mother, however, believes that a ruler should lead by God's rules. Anna starts to develop thoughts of her own. This leads to her downfall and banishment. Anna learns how to find the good in life. I thought this story was really good. It is almost all true, which helps strengthen the story.
Review by Rhea
Night - Book Review by Rhea
Night by Elie Wiesel
World War II had many dark moments, but none as dark as the Holocaust. In Night, Elie Wiesel tells of his life as a kid in the concentration camps. This book is very graphic and very emotional because he tells you exactly how life was. You see how faith builds and collapses during such a trying time. This book tells you more than any history book will. An amazing, must read book!
Review by Rhea
World War II had many dark moments, but none as dark as the Holocaust. In Night, Elie Wiesel tells of his life as a kid in the concentration camps. This book is very graphic and very emotional because he tells you exactly how life was. You see how faith builds and collapses during such a trying time. This book tells you more than any history book will. An amazing, must read book!
Review by Rhea
Tamar - Book Review by Rhea
Tamar by Mal Peet
The setting is World War II. Tamar is the code name of a resistance fighter. He and Dart are sent to a town and send messages back to London about the work being done. Tamar continues his relationship with a beautiful woman named Marijke. Tamar's partner, Dart, gets jealous of Tamar and Marijke's relationship because he is in love with Marijke. Between the war and envy, tensions get stronger. The book has two different stories. Tamar's granddaugther goes on a journey that Tamar left for her after he died. She learns not only about her grandfather, but also herself.
This book is amazing. I loved it. I didn't really care for the ending, but the story was still amazing. I didn't want to give away too much because it is so much better when you don't know what is coming!
Review by Rhea
The setting is World War II. Tamar is the code name of a resistance fighter. He and Dart are sent to a town and send messages back to London about the work being done. Tamar continues his relationship with a beautiful woman named Marijke. Tamar's partner, Dart, gets jealous of Tamar and Marijke's relationship because he is in love with Marijke. Between the war and envy, tensions get stronger. The book has two different stories. Tamar's granddaugther goes on a journey that Tamar left for her after he died. She learns not only about her grandfather, but also herself.
This book is amazing. I loved it. I didn't really care for the ending, but the story was still amazing. I didn't want to give away too much because it is so much better when you don't know what is coming!
Review by Rhea
Teens Top Ten Nominations - Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
This week's book is Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer!
Have you joined the million of other teens who have read the Twilight series? If not, now's your chance! Start with the first book, Twilight, and work your way through to the last book in the series, which is this week's Teens Top Ten Recommendation! In the final installment of the Twilight Saga, Bella's new life as the wife of vampire Edward Cullen is wrought with unexpected obstacles, difficult decisions, and potentially overwhelming outcomes!
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Have you joined the million of other teens who have read the Twilight series? If not, now's your chance! Start with the first book, Twilight, and work your way through to the last book in the series, which is this week's Teens Top Ten Recommendation! In the final installment of the Twilight Saga, Bella's new life as the wife of vampire Edward Cullen is wrought with unexpected obstacles, difficult decisions, and potentially overwhelming outcomes!Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Teens Top Ten Nominations - Wake by Lisa McMann
This week's book is Wake by Lisa McMann!
Going to sleep isn't a big deal for most of us, but for Janie, falling asleep means getting sucked into other people's dreams. The supernatural ability she's always considered a nuisance quickly becomes a nightmare when she blunders into a dream and witnesses a murder.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Going to sleep isn't a big deal for most of us, but for Janie, falling asleep means getting sucked into other people's dreams. The supernatural ability she's always considered a nuisance quickly becomes a nightmare when she blunders into a dream and witnesses a murder.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Monday, July 6, 2009
Teens Top Ten Nominations - Daughter of the Flames by Zoe Marriott
This week's book is Daughter of the Flames by Zoe Marriott!
From Booklist:
Marriott's second fantasy creates its own world with a complex history of civil war, racial struggles, and religious beliefs. Fifteen-year-old Zira, raised by the Ruan people, bears facial scars and buried memories of her true heritage—she is the hidden heir to the kingdom of Sedorne, ruled by her despotic uncle Abheron. Being half Ruan herself, she represents the possibility of a union between the indigenous Ruan and the occupying Sedorne. When Abheron sends his troops to destroy her home, Zira learns the truth about her identity and sees a glimmer of hope to overthrow Abheron through marriage with a Sedorne lord. Readers of Tamora Pierce will happily immerse themselves in a character not unlike Alanna: a headstrong, feisty teen who glories in physical combat and longs for (and finds) a true soul mate. Marriott’s writing is smooth and compelling; lush descriptions are balanced with plenty of fast-paced battles. A satisfying read for fantasy lovers, with rich backstory, lavish costumes, and a happy ending. Grades 7-11. --Debbie Carton
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
From Booklist:Marriott's second fantasy creates its own world with a complex history of civil war, racial struggles, and religious beliefs. Fifteen-year-old Zira, raised by the Ruan people, bears facial scars and buried memories of her true heritage—she is the hidden heir to the kingdom of Sedorne, ruled by her despotic uncle Abheron. Being half Ruan herself, she represents the possibility of a union between the indigenous Ruan and the occupying Sedorne. When Abheron sends his troops to destroy her home, Zira learns the truth about her identity and sees a glimmer of hope to overthrow Abheron through marriage with a Sedorne lord. Readers of Tamora Pierce will happily immerse themselves in a character not unlike Alanna: a headstrong, feisty teen who glories in physical combat and longs for (and finds) a true soul mate. Marriott’s writing is smooth and compelling; lush descriptions are balanced with plenty of fast-paced battles. A satisfying read for fantasy lovers, with rich backstory, lavish costumes, and a happy ending. Grades 7-11. --Debbie Carton
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Monday, June 29, 2009
Rights of the Reader
The Rights of the Reader
By Daniel Pennac
1. The right to not read.
2. The right to skip pages.
3. The right to not finish.
4. The right to reread.
5. The right to read anything.
6. The right to escapism.
7. The right to read anywhere.
8. The right to browse.
9. The right to read out loud.
10. The right not to defend your tastes.
By Daniel Pennac
1. The right to not read.
2. The right to skip pages.
3. The right to not finish.
4. The right to reread.
5. The right to read anything.
6. The right to escapism.
7. The right to read anywhere.
8. The right to browse.
9. The right to read out loud.
10. The right not to defend your tastes.
Teens Top Ten Nominations - The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart
This week's book is The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart!
When Frankie's boyfriend joins a secret society that she isn't supposed to know anything about, she surprises everyone - including herself - by trying to beat them and become the biggest prankster of them all.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
When Frankie's boyfriend joins a secret society that she isn't supposed to know anything about, she surprises everyone - including herself - by trying to beat them and become the biggest prankster of them all.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Summer Reading Program
Last week we had our first program day of the Teen Summer Reading Program! Thirteen teens participated in the first day, and had fun playing various improv type games. Teens also learned how the program will work.
Each participant chooses a goal for themselves, of at least 10 points. They can then earn those points by reading, attending programs, or writing book reviews. At least five points of your goal must be earned by reading. To get more information about earning points (such as how many points each book is worth), stop by the reference desk at the Bossier Central Library.
Wednesday, June 24th, is the second day of the program. Teens will make group collages and recreate a painting originally done by a famous painter! The painting recreation will be displayed in the teen area of the Bossier Central Library beginning on Thursday, June 25th.
We hope to see you on Wednesday!
Each participant chooses a goal for themselves, of at least 10 points. They can then earn those points by reading, attending programs, or writing book reviews. At least five points of your goal must be earned by reading. To get more information about earning points (such as how many points each book is worth), stop by the reference desk at the Bossier Central Library.
Wednesday, June 24th, is the second day of the program. Teens will make group collages and recreate a painting originally done by a famous painter! The painting recreation will be displayed in the teen area of the Bossier Central Library beginning on Thursday, June 25th.
We hope to see you on Wednesday!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Teens Top Ten Nominations - Identical by Ellen Hopkins
This week's book is Identical by Ellen Hopkins!
Identical teenage twins, Raeanne and Kaeleigh, respond in totally opposite ways to the abuse and abandonment from their parents. One twin finds bulimia and cutting eases the pain and helps her to maintain her passivity, while the other, more rebellious twin sinks into the world of drugs and sex.
"This book was my first introduction to Ellen Hopkins and to novels in verse. I was hooked! I went on to read her other books and enjoyed them all, but this one was my favorite, and I highly recommend it!" - Tonya Oswalt, YA Services Assistant, Bossier Central Library
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Identical teenage twins, Raeanne and Kaeleigh, respond in totally opposite ways to the abuse and abandonment from their parents. One twin finds bulimia and cutting eases the pain and helps her to maintain her passivity, while the other, more rebellious twin sinks into the world of drugs and sex.
"This book was my first introduction to Ellen Hopkins and to novels in verse. I was hooked! I went on to read her other books and enjoyed them all, but this one was my favorite, and I highly recommend it!" - Tonya Oswalt, YA Services Assistant, Bossier Central Library
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Monday, June 15, 2009
Teens' Top Ten Nominations - Runemarks by Joanne Harris
This week's book is Runemarks by Joanne Harris!
Maddie is shunned by the town because of the mysterious rune mark on her hand. This same rune mark will shatter her dull existence as it propels her into the center of a war between the new controlling religious government and the Norse gods of old.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Maddie is shunned by the town because of the mysterious rune mark on her hand. This same rune mark will shatter her dull existence as it propels her into the center of a war between the new controlling religious government and the Norse gods of old.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Monday, June 8, 2009
Teens' Top Ten Nominations - Paper Towns by John Green
This week's book is Paper Towns by John Green!
From Booklist
Quentin—or “Q.” as everyone calls him—has known his neighbor, the fabulous Margo Roth Spiegelman, since they were two. Or has he? Q. can’t help but wonder, when, a month before high-school graduation, she vanishes. At first he worries that she might have committed suicide, but then he begins discovering clues that seem to have been left for him, which might reveal Margo’s whereabouts. Yet the more he and his pals learn, the more Q. realizes he doesn’t know and the more he comes to understand that the real mystery is not Margo’s fate but Margo herself—enigmatic, mysterious, and so very alluring. Yes, there are echoes of Green’s award-winning Looking for Alaska (2006): a lovely, eccentric girl; a mystery that begs to be solved by clever, quirky teens; and telling quotations (from The Leaves of Grass, this time) beautifully integrated into the plot. Yet, if anything, the thematic stakes are higher here, as Green ponders the interconnectedness of imagination and perception, of mirrors and windows, of illusion and reality. That he brings it off is testimony to the fact that he is not only clever and wonderfully witty but also deeply thoughtful and insightful. In addition, he’s a superb stylist, with a voice perfectly matched to his amusing, illuminating material.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
From BooklistQuentin—or “Q.” as everyone calls him—has known his neighbor, the fabulous Margo Roth Spiegelman, since they were two. Or has he? Q. can’t help but wonder, when, a month before high-school graduation, she vanishes. At first he worries that she might have committed suicide, but then he begins discovering clues that seem to have been left for him, which might reveal Margo’s whereabouts. Yet the more he and his pals learn, the more Q. realizes he doesn’t know and the more he comes to understand that the real mystery is not Margo’s fate but Margo herself—enigmatic, mysterious, and so very alluring. Yes, there are echoes of Green’s award-winning Looking for Alaska (2006): a lovely, eccentric girl; a mystery that begs to be solved by clever, quirky teens; and telling quotations (from The Leaves of Grass, this time) beautifully integrated into the plot. Yet, if anything, the thematic stakes are higher here, as Green ponders the interconnectedness of imagination and perception, of mirrors and windows, of illusion and reality. That he brings it off is testimony to the fact that he is not only clever and wonderfully witty but also deeply thoughtful and insightful. In addition, he’s a superb stylist, with a voice perfectly matched to his amusing, illuminating material.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Teens' Top Ten Nominations Update!
There has been a change in the voting schedule for the Teens' Top Ten Nominations! Previously, you had until October to read the books,a nd then vote during Teen Read Week in October. This year you should read the books by August 24th! Voting starts on August 24th and ends on September 18th. (I will post the link during that time)
The Top Ten winning books will be announced during Teen Read Week!
The Top Ten winning books will be announced during Teen Read Week!
Monday, June 1, 2009
Teens' Top Ten Nominations - The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
This week's book is The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman!
When a toddler wanders away from his home just before assassins slay his family, he ends up in a graveyard. The ghosts and other denizens of the cemetery adopt him, name him Nobody Owens, and teach him important skills he will need to survive.
Though this book is found in the children's section at the Bossier Parish Library, it is enjoyed by all ages!
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
When a toddler wanders away from his home just before assassins slay his family, he ends up in a graveyard. The ghosts and other denizens of the cemetery adopt him, name him Nobody Owens, and teach him important skills he will need to survive.Though this book is found in the children's section at the Bossier Parish Library, it is enjoyed by all ages!
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Friday, May 29, 2009
Beastly - Book Review by Mallory
Beastly by Alex Finn
Beastly is basically Walt Disney’s movie Beauty and the Beast put into text with a few changes. For instance the main character is a rich popular kid in private school. The witch who casts a spell on him is also a “student” at this school as is the equivalent of Belle, Linda. After Kyle becomes a beast he secludes himself and becomes a connoisseur of roses by the instruction of his blind tutor Will. As the story progresses Kyle begins watching Linda with his enchanted mirror (as seen in Disney’s version) and sees how awful her living conditions are. Then one night Linda’s father tries to rob Kyle and in exchange for his not being turned over to the cops he trades Linda who is furious with the arrangement. However, she soon becomes attached to Kyle and is deeply torn when she sees her father hurt in the enchanted mirror. Kyle lets her go, and later goes on to save her life and consequently regain his human form. Over all I rather enjoyed the story. I found it to be a light and fun read.
Review by Mallory
Beastly is basically Walt Disney’s movie Beauty and the Beast put into text with a few changes. For instance the main character is a rich popular kid in private school. The witch who casts a spell on him is also a “student” at this school as is the equivalent of Belle, Linda. After Kyle becomes a beast he secludes himself and becomes a connoisseur of roses by the instruction of his blind tutor Will. As the story progresses Kyle begins watching Linda with his enchanted mirror (as seen in Disney’s version) and sees how awful her living conditions are. Then one night Linda’s father tries to rob Kyle and in exchange for his not being turned over to the cops he trades Linda who is furious with the arrangement. However, she soon becomes attached to Kyle and is deeply torn when she sees her father hurt in the enchanted mirror. Kyle lets her go, and later goes on to save her life and consequently regain his human form. Over all I rather enjoyed the story. I found it to be a light and fun read.
Review by Mallory
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Teens' Top Ten Nominations - Truancy: Origins by Isamu Fukui
This week's book is Truancy: Origins by Isamu Fukui!
From Booklist
This prequel to Truancy (last week's book feature) features 15-year-old twins Zen and Umasi, adopted sons of the notorious mayor of Education City, a dystopian metropolis where children are the product of cruel schooling. While Umasi is a model student and obedient son, when Zen discovers his father is responsible for the oppressive educational policy, he runs away to the abandoned districts to recruit homeless kids for his rebellion against city agents. Umasi quickly follows Zen, hoping to stop him from destroying the city, but the rebellion escalates into a war between the brothers. Both Umasi and Zen have inexplicable martial-arts training and talk like college professors, rather than teenagers. Despite its title, this book does little to explore how Education City came to exist or even why the brothers turn against each other. Instead, Fukui, who is a teen himself, focuses primarily on deftly depicted violence and explosive action sequences that will resonate most with reluctant male readers. Grades 8-11. --Kimberly Garnick
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
From BooklistThis prequel to Truancy (last week's book feature) features 15-year-old twins Zen and Umasi, adopted sons of the notorious mayor of Education City, a dystopian metropolis where children are the product of cruel schooling. While Umasi is a model student and obedient son, when Zen discovers his father is responsible for the oppressive educational policy, he runs away to the abandoned districts to recruit homeless kids for his rebellion against city agents. Umasi quickly follows Zen, hoping to stop him from destroying the city, but the rebellion escalates into a war between the brothers. Both Umasi and Zen have inexplicable martial-arts training and talk like college professors, rather than teenagers. Despite its title, this book does little to explore how Education City came to exist or even why the brothers turn against each other. Instead, Fukui, who is a teen himself, focuses primarily on deftly depicted violence and explosive action sequences that will resonate most with reluctant male readers. Grades 8-11. --Kimberly Garnick
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
2009 Top Ten Best Books for Young Adults
The following books have been selected by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) as the Top Ten books of 2009. Don't confuse this with the Teens' Top Ten that I have been posting selections from. Those books will be voted on by teens in October!
It's Complicated: The American Teenager, by Robin Bowman.
Waiting for Normal, by Leslie Conner.
Mexican WhiteBoy, by Matt de la Pena.
Bog Child, by Siobhan Dowd.
The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins.
Ten Cents a Dance, by Christine Fletcher.
Baby, by Joseph Monninger.
Nation, by Terry Pratchett.
Skim, by Mariko Tamaki and Jillian Tamaki.
The Brothers Torres, by Coert Voorhees.
For more books recommended by YALSA, click here.
It's Complicated: The American Teenager, by Robin Bowman.
Waiting for Normal, by Leslie Conner.
Mexican WhiteBoy, by Matt de la Pena.
Bog Child, by Siobhan Dowd.
The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins.
Ten Cents a Dance, by Christine Fletcher.
Baby, by Joseph Monninger.
Nation, by Terry Pratchett.
Skim, by Mariko Tamaki and Jillian Tamaki.
The Brothers Torres, by Coert Voorhees.
For more books recommended by YALSA, click here.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Teens' Top Ten Nominations - Truancy by Isamu Fukui
This week's book is Truancy by Isamu Fukui!
Book Synopsis:
In an alternate world, in a nameless totalitarian city, the autocratic Mayor rules the school system with an iron fist, with the help of his Educators. Fighting against the Mayor and his repressive Educators is a group of former students called the Truancy, whose goal is to take down the system by any means possible-at any cost.
Against this backdrop, fifteen-year-old Tack is just trying to survive. His days are filled with sadistic teachers, unrelenting schoolwork, and indifferent parents. Things start to look up when he meets Umasi, a mysterious boy who runs a lemonade stand in an uninhabited district.
Then someone close to Tack gets killed in the crossfire between the Educators and the Truants, and Tack swears vengeance. To achieve his purpose, he abandons his old life and joins the Truancy. There, he confronts Zyid, an enigmatic leader with his own plans for Tack. But Tack soon finds himself torn between his desire for vengeance and his growing sympathy for the Truants...
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Book Synopsis:In an alternate world, in a nameless totalitarian city, the autocratic Mayor rules the school system with an iron fist, with the help of his Educators. Fighting against the Mayor and his repressive Educators is a group of former students called the Truancy, whose goal is to take down the system by any means possible-at any cost.
Against this backdrop, fifteen-year-old Tack is just trying to survive. His days are filled with sadistic teachers, unrelenting schoolwork, and indifferent parents. Things start to look up when he meets Umasi, a mysterious boy who runs a lemonade stand in an uninhabited district.
Then someone close to Tack gets killed in the crossfire between the Educators and the Truants, and Tack swears vengeance. To achieve his purpose, he abandons his old life and joins the Truancy. There, he confronts Zyid, an enigmatic leader with his own plans for Tack. But Tack soon finds himself torn between his desire for vengeance and his growing sympathy for the Truants...
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Teens' Top Ten Nominations - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
This week's book is The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins!
To save her young sister from competing, Katniss Everdeen takes her place in the annual Hunger GAmes, a televised competition in which only one person, the winner, survives. By turns an adventure, a love story, and a futuristic thriller, this is the first in a planned trilogy.
From Booklist
*Starred Review* This is a grand-opening salvo in a new series by the author of the Underland Chronicles. Sixteen-year-old Katniss poaches food for her widowed mother and little sister from the forest outside the legal perimeter of District 12, the poorest of the dozen districts constituting Panem, the North American dystopic state that has replaced the U.S. in the not-too-distant future. Her hunting and tracking skills serve her well when she is then cast into the nation’s annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death where contestants must battle harsh terrain, artificially concocted weather conditions, and two teenaged contestants from each of Panem’s districts. District 12’s second “tribute” is Peeta, the baker’s son, who has been in love with Katniss since he was five. Each new plot twist ratchets up the tension, moving the story forward and keeping the reader on edge. Although Katniss may be skilled with a bow and arrow and adept at analyzing her opponents’ next moves, she has much to learn about personal sentiments, especially her own. Populated by three-dimensional characters, this is a superb tale of physical adventure, political suspense, and romance. Grades 9-12. --Francisca Goldsmith
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
To save her young sister from competing, Katniss Everdeen takes her place in the annual Hunger GAmes, a televised competition in which only one person, the winner, survives. By turns an adventure, a love story, and a futuristic thriller, this is the first in a planned trilogy.
From Booklist
*Starred Review* This is a grand-opening salvo in a new series by the author of the Underland Chronicles. Sixteen-year-old Katniss poaches food for her widowed mother and little sister from the forest outside the legal perimeter of District 12, the poorest of the dozen districts constituting Panem, the North American dystopic state that has replaced the U.S. in the not-too-distant future. Her hunting and tracking skills serve her well when she is then cast into the nation’s annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death where contestants must battle harsh terrain, artificially concocted weather conditions, and two teenaged contestants from each of Panem’s districts. District 12’s second “tribute” is Peeta, the baker’s son, who has been in love with Katniss since he was five. Each new plot twist ratchets up the tension, moving the story forward and keeping the reader on edge. Although Katniss may be skilled with a bow and arrow and adept at analyzing her opponents’ next moves, she has much to learn about personal sentiments, especially her own. Populated by three-dimensional characters, this is a superb tale of physical adventure, political suspense, and romance. Grades 9-12. --Francisca Goldsmith
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations - City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
This week's book is City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare!
This volume is the second book in the Mortal Instruments trilogy, and it continues the saga of Clary and her best friend Simon as they struggle to find their place in a magical world parallel to their NYC home. Demon-fighting shadowhunters, vampires, warlocks, werewolves, faeries, and a master villain named Valentine provide a heart-pounding backdrop as Clary uncovers secrets about her past.
If you would like to start to at the beginning of the series, the first book is City of Bones. If you like the series, the newest book, City of Glass, just came out!
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
This volume is the second book in the Mortal Instruments trilogy, and it continues the saga of Clary and her best friend Simon as they struggle to find their place in a magical world parallel to their NYC home. Demon-fighting shadowhunters, vampires, warlocks, werewolves, faeries, and a master villain named Valentine provide a heart-pounding backdrop as Clary uncovers secrets about her past.If you would like to start to at the beginning of the series, the first book is City of Bones. If you like the series, the newest book, City of Glass, just came out!
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
Monday, April 27, 2009
2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations - Untamed by Kristin and P.C. Cast
This week's book is Untamed by Kristin and P.C. Cast!
At finishing school for young vampyres, Zoey makes a shocking discovery about the school's leader, but no one will listen to her as her undead friends and three different boyfriends turn against her. Loyalities are strained, truths are revealed, and an ancient evil is awakened in Cast's fourth House of Night novel.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
At finishing school for young vampyres, Zoey makes a shocking discovery about the school's leader, but no one will listen to her as her undead friends and three different boyfriends turn against her. Loyalities are strained, truths are revealed, and an ancient evil is awakened in Cast's fourth House of Night novel.
Check back next week for information about the next book on the 2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations list!
The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson - Book Review by Callie
The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson
The book I read was called, "The Adoration of Jenna Fox" by Mary E. Pearson; a science fiction novel with futuristic qualities. I really enjoyed this book, it was exciting from beginning to end. It's about a seventeen year old girl who wakes up from a coma, but can't remember any of her life before. As she slowly regains her memory, she finds out more and mroe things about herself and uncovers secrets about the accicdent that put her into the coma. Anyways, it's a good read, one that everyone would enjoy.
Book Review by Callie
The Adoration of Jenna Fox - Book Review by Christa
The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson
This fascinating little story starts out with Jenna and her mother just after she awoke from a year long coma. She is scared and struggles with everything around her. It doesn't take long, though, to notice something isn't right. her parents aren't telling her something, and she's determined to find out what. As she begins to make freinds, she can't help but wonder where her friends from before the accident are now - and why they have not come to see her. Will Jenna ever find out the awful truth behind the accident? Well read it for yourself and enjoy a book that surprises you with each turn of a page! The author, Mary E. Pearson, really knows how to write a great book. You'll never guess what happens next, so you'll have to read it yourself.
Book Review by Christa
Monday, April 20, 2009
2009 Teens' Top Ten Nominations - Graceling by Kristin Cashore
This years list for the 2009 Teens' Top Ten has been released. I will be posting a little bit about one of the books on the list each week. Teen are encouraged to read the books over the next few months and then vote for their favorites this October during Teen Read Week. More information on voting will be posted in October!
This week's book is Graceling by Kristin Cashore.
This review is taken from Amazon.com:
If you had the power to kill with your bare hands, what would you do with it?
Graceling takes readers inside the world of Katsa, a warrior-girl in her late teens with one blue eye and one green eye. This gives her haunting beauty, but also marks her as a Graceling. Gracelings are beings with special talents—swimming, storytelling, dancing. Katsa's Grace is considered more useful: her ability to fight (and kill, if she wanted to) is unequaled in the seven kingdoms. Forced to act as a henchman for a manipulative king, Katsa channels her guilt by forming a secret council of like-minded citizens who carry out secret missions to promote justice over cruelty and abuses of power.
Combining elements of fantasy and romance, Cashore skillfully portrays the confusion, discovery, and angst that smart, strong-willed girls experience as they creep toward adulthood. Katsa wrestles with questions of freedom, truth, and knowing when to rely on a friend for help. This is no small task for an angry girl who had eschewed friendships (with the exception of one cousin that she trusts) for her more ready skills of self-reliance, hunting, and fighting. Katsa also comes to know the real power of her Grace and the nature of Graces in general: they are not always what they appear to be.
Graceling is the first book in a series, and Kristin Cashore’s first work of fiction. It sets up a vivid world with engaging characters that readers will certainly look forward to following beyond the last chapter of this book. (Ages 14 and up) --Heidi Broadhead
This week's book is Graceling by Kristin Cashore.
This review is taken from Amazon.com:
If you had the power to kill with your bare hands, what would you do with it?
Graceling takes readers inside the world of Katsa, a warrior-girl in her late teens with one blue eye and one green eye. This gives her haunting beauty, but also marks her as a Graceling. Gracelings are beings with special talents—swimming, storytelling, dancing. Katsa's Grace is considered more useful: her ability to fight (and kill, if she wanted to) is unequaled in the seven kingdoms. Forced to act as a henchman for a manipulative king, Katsa channels her guilt by forming a secret council of like-minded citizens who carry out secret missions to promote justice over cruelty and abuses of power.
Combining elements of fantasy and romance, Cashore skillfully portrays the confusion, discovery, and angst that smart, strong-willed girls experience as they creep toward adulthood. Katsa wrestles with questions of freedom, truth, and knowing when to rely on a friend for help. This is no small task for an angry girl who had eschewed friendships (with the exception of one cousin that she trusts) for her more ready skills of self-reliance, hunting, and fighting. Katsa also comes to know the real power of her Grace and the nature of Graces in general: they are not always what they appear to be.
Graceling is the first book in a series, and Kristin Cashore’s first work of fiction. It sets up a vivid world with engaging characters that readers will certainly look forward to following beyond the last chapter of this book. (Ages 14 and up) --Heidi Broadhead
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Magnetic Poetry Board
Recently seen on the magnetic poetry board:
"Poetry is the language that whispers beneath every happy thought." - Anonymous
"Poetry is the language that whispers beneath every happy thought." - Anonymous
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Classic Books Online
Has your teacher just assigned a classic novel for you to read, but your local library's copy is missing? Perhaps, everyone else got to the library before you and checked every copy out. Or maybe you just enjoy reading the classics...
In any case, check out this website - Classic Books Online
There are tons of classic books available for free, right on the website! Here are just some of the authors available: Jane Austen, Frank L. Baum, Emily Bronte, Lewis Carroll, Kate Chopin, Daniel Defoe, Shakespeare, Jonathan Swift, Oscar Wilde, and many more!
Just go to the site, choose an author, choose a book, and then click on "open book". It will bring up a java window with the entire book. You can also change the background and text color to make it easier to read. And, after closing the book, you can have it email you a bookmark link so you can start back up right where you left off!
This site is definitely worth checking out!
Monday, April 6, 2009
The Surrender Tree - Book Review by Rhea
The Surrender Tree by Margarita Engle
The setting of this story is during several wars in Cuba. Rosa, a healer, and her companions try to heal all who are injured physically in hopes to unite everyone, all races in the country. They have hope that everyone will put aside differences and unite as Cubans. They battle slavery, concentration camps, foreign armies and their control over them, and various diseases that come from war. This story is unique in that it is written in prose and separated as though it were diary entries.
This story brings alive a part of history that is normally overlooked. You get to see the wars from the natives' point of view. Very good story. Never a dull moment.
Review by Rhea
Something Remains - Book Review by Rhea
Something Remains by Inge Barth-Grozinger
Something Remains follows the life of a Jewish family living in Ellwangen, Germany during the 1930's. It follows their lives, mostly of the son, Erich, during the early part of Hitler's regime. The family goes from being upstanding citizens to scum of the earth due to the Nazis. This book is based on a true story. You experience every triumph and heartbreak of the family. It makes history seem like it is playing before your eyes. Erich experiences his first love, loss of friends, bullying, and hardship in every way possible.
Like I said, this book brings history alive and mroe down-to-earth for our generation. This book grips your emotions. A great way to learn more about the Holocaust even though it isn't verbatum of your life.
Review by Rhea
The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail - Book Review by Emily
The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edmund Lee
The play The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail was a little to dramatized for my own personal interest, but if you like a story of a person who goes against what is expected of him then you'll love The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail. Thoreau seems to be a transcendentalist who disagrees with always doing what's expected of you, and going against others wishes to do what you believe in. In my opinion I found that Thoreau thought to highly of his own opinion, and tried to make others understand his beliefs without any consideration of his family or loved ones. There are some thing in this play I agree with and other I disagree with. It proved to be an interesting read, that you definitely learn more about yourself by reading it.
Review by Emily
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
The Last Lecture - Book Review by Alaina
The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
The Last Lecture written by Randy Pausch, a well-respected professor at Carnegie Mellon, is a quick and easy read. Randy Pausch was diagnosed with terminal cancer and asked to give his 'last lecture'. Many professors give speeches called "The Last Lecture", but for Randy, this would be the last lecture he would ever give. The talk is supposed to be about the legacy the person wants to leave behind and what matters most to them. Randy gave his talk about overcoming obstacles and making childhood dreams come true. After Randy was diagnosed with his terminal cancer, he chose to live life to the fullest instead of living as if there was nothing left to live for. He decided to write this book because his children are so young and he wants them to be able to look back and remember him. He compiled many memories and stories that each contain a moral or lesson to be learned. He always chose to have a positive and optimistic outlook on life in order to make the best of everything in every situation. If you are interested in a book that will lead you to become inspired by such an amazing person, this is a great book choice!
Review by Alaina
The Last Lecture written by Randy Pausch, a well-respected professor at Carnegie Mellon, is a quick and easy read. Randy Pausch was diagnosed with terminal cancer and asked to give his 'last lecture'. Many professors give speeches called "The Last Lecture", but for Randy, this would be the last lecture he would ever give. The talk is supposed to be about the legacy the person wants to leave behind and what matters most to them. Randy gave his talk about overcoming obstacles and making childhood dreams come true. After Randy was diagnosed with his terminal cancer, he chose to live life to the fullest instead of living as if there was nothing left to live for. He decided to write this book because his children are so young and he wants them to be able to look back and remember him. He compiled many memories and stories that each contain a moral or lesson to be learned. He always chose to have a positive and optimistic outlook on life in order to make the best of everything in every situation. If you are interested in a book that will lead you to become inspired by such an amazing person, this is a great book choice!
Review by Alaina
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
The Shack - Book Review by Daniel
The Shack by William P. Young
In The Shack, William P. Young explains how a father, handles his daughter being kidnapped and murdered. Mack, the main character and father, becomes very distraught with this accident and labels it as The Great Sadness. He gets a letter in the mail from a mysterious “Papa” (God) telling him to go to the shack. While at the shack, Mack meets God portrayed as a middle-aged African American woman, Jesus portrayed as a carpenter, and the Holy Spirit as an Asian woman named Sarayu. The different depictions of God and the Holy Spirit cause one to consider the different aspects God. These three figures spend quality time with Mack and help him to realize the importance of relationships. This taught me a lot about the correct way my relationship should be with others and God. I was also impacted in another way while reading The Shack. A few weeks before I started reading this book, a friend of mine was killed in a car accident. The Shack taught me many ways to overcome the sadness and grief that comes with tragic accidents. Overall, this book is a good read, although some parts may seem to drag on at times. I would give The Shack four out of five stars because of the impressive structure and message.
Review by Daniel
Monday, March 30, 2009
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close - Book Review by Garret
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer
“It’s a shame that life is so precious.” This quote alone effectively sums up Jonathan Safran Foer’s Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. The second effort by the young man made famous by the 2002 bestseller, Everything is Illuminated, has “written the first great novel about September 11,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Foer’s much anticipated sophomore novel was a huge success, taking chances most would cower at while still sticking to the off-the-wall style that defines him.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is the story of Oskar Schell, a young boy who lost his father in the September 11 attacks. Oskar is no ordinary boy. A self-proclaimed inventor, jeweler, pacifist, vegan, and collector, Oskar is somewhat of a child prodigy. Practical, yet curious, Oskar has a knack for inventing, rattles off more facts than a search engine, and even questions his own existence, a heavy topic for a nine year old. The boy’s greatest struggle however lies in coping with the death of his father. When Oskar finds an envelope containing a mysterious key in his father’s closet, he embarks on a journey to find the corresponding lock. A touching, heartbreaking, coming-of-age adventure ensues, filled with colorful characters and unforgettable moments.
As in Everything is Illuminated, Foer tells a story within a story in his second novel. While the heart of the novel revolves around Oskar and his tireless search for the elusive lock, an alternate story tells of Oskar’s grandparents, their unconventionally tragic romance, and a mysterious connection to the 1945 bombing of Dresden, Germany. Although the two stories seem completely unrelated in the beginning, the two are brought together in an unforgettable climax.
As mentioned before, Foer takes risks in his newest novel. His style is a modern one in which pictures are inserted alongside the text. These are not the illustrations one would regularly find in a picture book, but pictures of places Oskar visits, people he meets, even pictures he takes himself. This new, refreshing medium allows the reader to truly see through Oskar’s eyes.
Though the death of Oskar Schell’s father in the 9/11 attack is an important part of the novel, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is more of a story about death itself and remembrance than one about the attacks. Oskar Schell is the perfect portal for Foer, providing the straight-forward outlook on life and the world shared by most young children. “Humans are the only animal that blushes, laughs, has religion, wages war, and kisses with lips. So in a way, the more you kiss with lips, the more human you are,” says Oskar to an older woman. She replies, “And the more you wage war?” Through the boy Foer examines themes much beyond a nine-year-old’s maturity level, matters of life, death and love.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close has received critical acclaim since its 2005 release. Foer, who is only 31 years old, has already claimed his spot as a great American writer of the 21st century. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is an amazing book, a heartwarming work of a boy coping with the loss of his father, a couple trying to overcome their haunted past together, and a family that learns how precious life truly is.
Review by Garret
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Bleak House - Book Review by Mary
Bleak House by Charles Dickens
Bleak House By Charles Dickinson is not a book for light readers. This book has on average 20 endnotes a chapter, it also uses long words that aren't well known. When I was reading it on the first page I counted 4 words I did not know; so if you are comfortable caring a dictionary around then read on, my friend, this book might just be for you.
Review by Mary
Podcast - Changes to the Upcoming Events
If you've listened to our first podcast, then you heard about the upcoming events that the library is having for our young adult population. There have been a couple of recent changes to these events:
--The April 15th book store trip for the Teen Advisory Board has been postponed. The original date is during Spring Break and many of our teen board members will not be available during that time. We hope to plan this trip for May.
--There will not be an Anti-Prom lock-in in May, due to scheduling conflicts. However, the library may still have a lock-in event on May 29th in celebration of the end of the school year. If you're interested in this lock-in, please comment and let us know!
Thanks!
--The April 15th book store trip for the Teen Advisory Board has been postponed. The original date is during Spring Break and many of our teen board members will not be available during that time. We hope to plan this trip for May.
--There will not be an Anti-Prom lock-in in May, due to scheduling conflicts. However, the library may still have a lock-in event on May 29th in celebration of the end of the school year. If you're interested in this lock-in, please comment and let us know!
Thanks!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Stardust - Book Review by Chelsea
Stardust by Neil Gaiman
In Neil Gaiman’s book, Stardust, readers are taken on an incredible journey. The main character, Tristran Thorne, is willing to go to desperate lengths and do whatever it takes for love. The passion he has for love bounces off of every page. His determination drives him on, and his commitment keeps him on task. He travels great distances through treacherous places and faces intense obstacles to prove his love for Victoria Forester.
From the first line of the story, to the last punctuation mark, readers are captivated and hungry to learn about the strange town of Wall and all of the mysteries that are held on the opposite side of the historical wall of Wall. Tristran’s journey begins from a promise made to him by Victoria. “If you receive that fallen star, I will be yours.” Upon hearing this promise, Tristran begins his grueling journey. He leaves his safe town of Wall knowing that he will encounter incredible difficulties and creatures completely unknown to him. But, none of these thoughts stop him; he escapes the town of Wall and leaves everything he is familiar with on the other side of the large gap in the wall.
Tristran’s journey brings him many hardships. He has to make tough decisions and do everything for himself. The trip to the fallen star is much easier than the trip back home. When Tristran discovers that a fallen star is not just a rock, but a person, he realizes that convincing a person to follow him home will not be easy. Unfortunately, Tristran does not realize that he is not the only one after the fallen star. Though he reaches the fallen star first, different creatures manage to steal the star away from him. The journey home turns into a daunting and grueling process of retrieving the star, protecting the star, and losing the star again.
On his journey, Tristran begins to realize that the star is someone he enjoys being around. He finds her beautiful and loves her company, even if she does frequently argue with him. Through their journey home, they spend a lot of time together, and by the time they return to Wall, Tristran has forgotten his original mission and Victoria Forester. The star reminds him of her purpose, and he sets off to find Victoria. When he finds her he discovers that she is already engaged to be married, and that his journey was nothing but a distraction. Tristran realizes exactly what he wants at this moment, and her name is not Victoria. He returns to his star on the outskirts of Wall and makes a decision to spend the rest of his life with a certain star that goes by the name Yvaine.
This story gives a twist to a typical love story. It takes the readers through the rough details and shows them the happiness that can be found at the end of a long journey. Neil Gaiman’s book, Stardust, is captivating from cover to cover.
Review by Chelsea
Monday, March 23, 2009
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made - Book Review by Sarah P.
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made by Paul Brand and Philip Yancy
In Paul Brand and Philip Yancy's "Fearfully and Wonderfully Made", the concepts of science and religion are intertwined. Each chapter is devoted to one aspect of the literal body, such as the bones or cells, and then related to the figurative body, which in this case is the "Body of Christ". This novel is an extended metaphor in which our actual organs and cells symbolize Christians worldwide and the connection they share. The book emphasizes unity and loyalty among Christians, and implies that, much as our body consists of different components, the "Body of Christ" must consist of diverse people. For those who have a strong religious background, or simply interested in the connection drawn between Christianity and science, I would definitely recommend this book. Overall, I give this book three out of five stars.
Review by Sarah P.
To the Lighthouse - Book Review by Mallory
To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf
To the Lighthouse is an insight into the drama of a family. It shows husband and wife relations, and parent to child relations as well. Also two other points of view, those of Lily and Mr. Bankes show the reader an outside perception of this family drama. The first thing the reader notices is the dissention of the relationship between Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey. They seem to be at odds with each other either because of their conflicting personalities or because there is an additional person in the marriage. Also the relationship between Mr. Ramsey and his youngest son James is shown to be rather strained and uncooperative on both sides. Over all I enjoyed this novel very much, because it broke down the different relationships within a family rather than just the relationship between a mother and a father.
Review by Mallory
Friday, March 20, 2009
Get Connected with Teen Central
Click here to hear the first episode of Get Connected with Teen Central!
This podcast was created by the teens who attended the "Press Play - Get Connected" workshop on March 10, 2009, along with Tonya Oswalt of Bossier Parish Libraries' YA Services, and Jaketha Farmer, the library's IT Specialist.
We hope to make this a quarterly podcast with the help of our Teen Advisory Board and other local teenagers.
Please comment and let us know what you thought of the podcast!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Monday, March 9, 2009
Monday, March 2, 2009
Press Play - Get Connected
Press Play - Get Connected
A Teen Tech Workshop
March 10, 2009
Click on the above link to find out more info!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Art and Poetry Display
Do you draw, paint, or create digital art?
Do you write poetry?
Would you like to see your work displayed at the library so that other area teens can see it?
The Bossier Central Library is interested in providing a space for teens to display their artwork and poetry. If you are interested in having some of your work displayed at the library, please pick up a submission from from the Young Adult area of the library and return it and your original work to the front desk or reference desk.
All submissions must be original in content and not the work of someone else. A copy of your original work will be made for display and your original will be returned to you if you supply a contact number on your submission form.
We look forward to seeing your creativity!
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