Every January the American Library Association announces award-winning children’s books for the previous year in various categories. I will highlight a few of the 2016 award books in this edition and continue with this focus in a further edition. THEODOR SEUSS GEISEL AWARD – Given to the author and illustrator of the most distinguished book for...Continue Reading
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein Suggested Ages: 8 – 12 years There’s nothing more enticing for children than a mystery coupled with fantasy and puzzles. Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library provides all three in this light-hearted read. The new library in Alexandriaville is about to have its grand opening. Based on an essay...Continue Reading
March 2016 Check out these additions to our collection and many others displayed atop the lower children’s bookshelves. Firefly Hollow by Alison McGhee Suggested ages: 7 – 11 years Firefly Hollow is a lovely tale of dreams and aspirations, which propel one to take risks while believing in one’s own possibilities. Within its pages are also...Continue Reading
The Liberation of Gabriel King by K. L. Going Suggested ages: 9–12 years Gabe and Frita, of 1976 rural Georgia, are best of friends. As Gabe tells it, before Frita there was “a Frita-sized hole right next to me.” They have completed fourth grade and with summer upon them, spunky Frita declares that Gabe needs to...Continue Reading
Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt Suggested ages: 9–12 years Fish in a Tree tells the story of Ally, a sixth grader who is trying to fit in and be accepted by her classmates, especially the “popular” girls. She has exceptional talent in art and math but is challenged by reading and writing. Ally...Continue Reading
The Day the Crayons Came Home by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers Suggested Ages: 5-8 years If your child (and you!) absolutely loved The Day the Crayons Quit, then The Day the Crayons Came Home is a must read. Several of Duncan’s crayons are quite disgruntled as they have been left stranded by Duncan in...Continue Reading
This month we have new picture books that inspire as well as appeal to a child’s world of imagination. Special Delivery written by Philip C. Stead, illustrated by Matthew Cordell Suggested ages: 3-7 years Sadie is on a mission. Her Great-Aunt Josephine lives almost completely alone and Sadie is determined to provide her company. The book...Continue Reading
We have over 70 new books that have recently arrived and have been cataloged! They are on display in various areas of the children’s section of the library. They include picture books (Easy), juvenile fiction, nonfiction, and biographies. I have only highlighted three below. Make sure to stop by with your children and browse through...Continue Reading
Contemporary alphabet books are no longer in the mundane “A is for Apple, B is for Ball” format. They now encompass non-fiction books with topics as far ranging as science, dinosaurs, Mexico and “amazing American women”. Our ABCs have also inspired delightful picture books, which radiate humor and creativity. Z is for Moose by Kelly...Continue Reading
August is here and with it comes the beginning of a new school year. Fresh experiences and first-time discoveries lie ahead for children. Below are highlighted a few books from our collection which not only encompass school settings but extend far beyond, touching on relationships, self-discovery or just plain fun. Dancing Home by Alma Flor Ada...Continue Reading
