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September 03, 2008

Mayor's Book Club

Mayor Heartwell read the first book of his Mayor's Book Club choices to the children at Westminster Child Development Center this morning. Sheep in a Jeep by Michigan author, Nancy Shaw, is the story of the misadventures of a group of sheep that go riding in a jeep. There are many more stories about the sheep too - try Sheep in a Shop, Sheep Take a Hike, and Sheep Out to Eat.

Want to know more about the Mayor's Book Club and find out what next month's book choice is? Check out the website at Mayor's Book Club.

Click on "download" to get your own reading list brochure to print. The October selection is For the Love of Autumn, the newest title by another Michigan author, Patricia Polacco. Read along with the Mayor!

August 29, 2008

Michigan Author Art Display

The Youth Services Department at the Main Library is currently exhibiting the original art of children's author/illustrator, Patricia Polacco. My Ol' Man is the story of her father, who according to Polacco, "was a traveling salesman, a flimflam man, a dream saver, a wish keeper."

Polacco's preparatory drawings and watercolors will be on display on the second floor at the Main Library through September 29.




July 28, 2008

Summer Reading Week 7

During our last week of special programs, the library hosted various performers throughout the week.

Professor Anson Pantz from the Kalamazoo Nature Center wowed the audiences at the Main, West Side, Seymour, and Van Belkum branches with his interesting fun facts about insects!

Dynamic School Assemblies brought an African Millipede, Madigascar Cockroaches, scorpions, and a hedgehog for the children to see at the West Leonard Branch in his Bugs, Books, and Beyond Presentation. What a great program, especially for those upper elementary kids!

Finally, Acting Up Theatre Company performed a 2 man play about becoming what you've always wanted to be-e!

The audiences at Yankee Clipper, Ottawa Hills, and Madison branches were kept entertained and humored! It's been a great summer for programs, and don't forget that you still have until August 2nd, just a few days away, to sign up and turn in your reading records or teen raffle tickets. Thanks to everyone for another fun filled summer reading program!

July 23, 2008

Musical Entertainment

Musician Rick Kelley entertained crowds around the city last week!

With some original songs and some "borrowed," Rick had kids and adults alike dancing in the aisles. He taught us how to do the shovel, the hand jive, and even had his very own posse to help with one of his songs. It was overheard by some that this may have been the best program yet this summer!

July 16, 2008

Summer Reading with Ed Venture

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Hundreds of kids from around the city came to hear about adventures in reading with Ed Venture. During the magic filled program, Ed Venture had to continuously empty his water jug (which kept getting filled from the magic rain forest), helped kids to spell, used volunteers to help demonstrate how to use punctuation, and more! Rooms were filled with laughter and awe watching and listening to Ed Venture. Remember, there is still time to sign up for the summer reading program, and there are two weeks left of special programs like this.

July 01, 2008

It's Magic -- a Look Back

Jeff Wawrzaszek's It's Magic program ran branch wide during June 17th through 20th and was a huge success. A total of over 1,000 people attended. Whether it was being wowed by the appearing and disappearing handkerchiefs, dazzled by the rope tricks, or mystified by the several thousand-year-old "Linking Rings" illusion, fun and laughter was experienced by all during this very professional and highly energetic performance!

Jeff has been performing magic professionally since his high school (30+) years, winning numerous awards and honors and performing on several different continents! As a performance artist, pantomime, and magician rolled up into one, Jeff had the adults smiling and applauding and children screaming for more as coiled-up snakes sprung into action. He also taught "airhead" Billy the value of the Summer Reading Program!

June 30, 2008

Catch the Reading Bug!

Over 3500 kids and teens have registered for the Summer Reading Program at the Grand Rapids Public Libraries so far. You'll see their names on a bee or a butterfly at all our locations. Stop in today to sign up.

We have weekly programs, too, with magicians, puppeteers, and more!

June 04, 2008

Summer Reading

School is almost out and summer is almost here. That means the library's summer reading program is about to begin. For those of you entering grades seven through 12, you can join the summer reading program at any GRPL library. Sign-up begins June 9. It's that simple!

This year's prizes include a USB/MP3 player, a gaming chair, a lava lamp, or cool gift cards. And all you have to do to qualify is read four books, fill out a raffle ticket, turn in the ticket, and read some more. The more you read, the more chances you have to win.

Check out our calendar for the "So Long To Summer" party in August, too!

May 30, 2008

R.I.D.E. Reading Program

Do you know a child who is struggling with reading? Are you looking for a quality summer literacy program in the Grand Rapids area that would strengthen literacy skills and foster a love of reading? *R*eaders *I*n *D*etermined *E*ducation
-- R.I.D.E. -- will help your child increase their reading scores and improve their attitude towards reading.

Check out the R.I.D.E. program brochure here to find the what, when, where, why and who!

Grand Rapids Public Library can also help keep your child reading over the summer months through, Catch The Reading Bug!, our summer reading program. Join the fun and register here.

May 24, 2008

Children's Book Week

Last week beloved book character Corduroy and the Grandville Avenue Academy for the Arts helped us celebrate Children's Book Week!. After hearing the story, Ms. Kim from the academy came in to demonstrate how author/illustrator Don Freeman created one of the most recognized books, Corduroy.

Using a type of film-like scratchboard, kids were able to scratch out their own look alike Corduroy and make him into a puppet to take home. At the end of each program, Corduroy himself came to greet, hug, and high-five any kids who were anxious to meet him. Some kids even came to more than one program just to see the lovable bear!

Continue reading "Children's Book Week" »

April 28, 2008

Hand in Hand

It's stories like this that the Child and Family Resource Council are working to prevent.

This past Wednesday, several of my co-workers and myself were invited to the Child and Family Resource Council to participate in their Hand in Hand tour. I highly recommend this tour, which is open to the public. On the tour we learned some staggering statistics. According to the Council, an amazing 85% of abuse and neglect cases are preventable. Also, for every $1 spent on child abuse prevention, $34 will be saved on, “...publicly-funded, crisis-oriented programming such as protective services, foster care, special education, counseling, etc.” Also, the Council publishes the wonderful Family Resource Guide, which can be found here at the library.

Education is an important component of preventing neglect and abuse. Check out the resources we have on parenting and child development. Please be sure to pass the word along about our resources and the excellent work the Child and Family Resource Council is doing in our community.


April 16, 2008

New Books for Children

Wild Ride: A Graphic Guide Adventure
Written by Liam O'Donnell and illustrated by Mike Deas

On a flight to visit their environmentalist parents who are working to stop a logging company from clear-cutting a remote valley, A plane crash strands Devin, Nadia, and Marcus. Soon the trio discover that they are stranded with the enemy and must rely on their survival skills.

Available now: NEW jGraphic Novel O'Donnell


The Willoughbys
Written by Lois Lowry

Abandoned by their parents, Tim, the twins, Barnaby A and Barnaby B, and their sister, Jane, attempt to fulfill their roles as good old-fashioned children. Then an unquestionably ruthless act sets in motion the transformations that lead to their salvation and to happy endings. This hilarious parody pays homage to classic works of children's literature.

Available now NEW jFiction Lowry


The Tooth Book: A Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums
Written and illustrated by Edward Miller

Taking good care of your teeth and gums is an important part of maintaining overall health. After all, you need your pearly whites to eat, smile, and talk. But what should you expect when you go to the dentist? What should you do if you lose a tooth? Full of straightforward advice and animated, colorful art, as well as some bite-sized bits of history and lore, this guide provides accessible information about taking care of your teeth.

Available now: j617.601 M613t


Canned
Written by Alex Shearer

Fergal Bamfield is an oddball and his tin can collection is as strange as everything else about him. One day he finds a can without a label. What could be in it? Peaches, soup, perhaps spam? But instead it's something gruesome: a human finger. Then Fergal finds another can, this time containing a one-word message, HELP! Now Fergal and his friend Charlotte are knee-deep in an adventure, and they're about to learn something horrible: Everybody has an expiration date.

Available now: NEW jFiction Shearer



Arabella Miller's Tiny Caterpillar
Written and illustrated by Clare Jarrett

Arabella Miller finds a tiny caterpillar, brings him home and feeds till the caterpillar sheds his skin and disappears inside his chrysalis. Arabella misses her friend until he emerges and she is filled with wonder at the beautiful creature he has become. Clare Jarrett’s sweet story and vibrant illustrations weave details about a caterpillar’s transformation into this elaboration on the song Little Arabella Miller.

Available now: NEW Picture Book Jarrett

Continue reading "New Books for Children" »

April 09, 2008

Drummer Man

Bill Vits, the principal percussionist from the Grand Rapids symphony, entertained a crowd of all ages at the Main Library with his Spring Sound Bits program. He brought a variety of instruments and had the crowd dancing and drumming right along with him!

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February 27, 2008

New eAudiobooks Added

Great news! We now have access to nearly 500 children and young adult titles on NetLibrary's eAudiobooks. You'll find a list of titles by clicking here and browsing the subjects on the right side of the screen (Children's Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, etc.). Happy searching!


January 23, 2008

2008 Children's Book Awards

Every year I wait excitedly for the announcements of the winners of the big awards in children and teen literature. Some years I am surprised, others a bit disappointed, only because MY favorite may not have won. This year, there were a couple of surprises.

The Caldecott Medal, awarded for the best book illustrations, went to The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick, a novel for children. Granted, it is a novel in pictures and words, and it isn't always picture books that win, but this surprised me. I actually liked the illustrations more than the story, so it was a pleasant surprise.

The Newbery Medal, given for the best writing in children's literature, was for a non-fiction title this year, Good Masters! Sweet Ladies! Voices from a Medieval Village by Laura Amy Schlitz. I have to admit, this one ran under my radar, and of course now there is a waiting list for it!

The Michael L. Printz Award, given for the best teen book, went to White Darkness by Geraldine McCaughrean. I've seen this book and read about it; however, I haven't read it yet. Time to order that one, too!

Since I had no clear favorites this year, I'll have to wait to read the winners I haven't yet read to form my opinion.

November 17, 2007

The Golden Compass

So, one of the more popular series of books for quite a few years has been The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman. I loved listening to this book. Not only was the production a BIG production (full cast), it is one of the best written books around.

Well, Hollywood has, of course, made a movie of this first title in the trilogy. And before it is even RATED, there is controversy surrounding it. In this article, people are being encouraged not to take their children based on some misconceptions about the book. It IS heavy material with controversial subject matter, but I wish that those concerned would read the book and/or see the movie before encouraging others to boycott. I realize not every book or movie is for every person, but every person has the right to decide for themselves. If the children are too young, their parents do have every right to forbid them, THEIR OWN CHILDREN, to read or see it. And they should as the books or the movie, I would assume, are for children under 12. (I would even argue the books are for older readers than that) So, it's easy for book lovers to feel passionate about possible censorship. We are extremely interested to hear what YOU all have to say. Also, does someone telling you NOT to read a book or watch a movie make you do as they say or does it peak your curiosity more?

October 27, 2007

Wii Tennis Tournament

This month teens competed in Wii Tennis Tournaments at all GRPL branches. On Thursday, October 18, the Double Deuces just beat the All Stars and Team Shrug. These tournaments are a way to present content to patrons in the same way that the library adds value by presenting picture books at story time. The tournament format helps promote and build community connections, social competence, and peaceful conflict resolution.

The Wii Tennis Tournaments have been great fun -- better than it looks on the Wii TV commercial. Teens are bobbing and weaving. Don't get in their way or you'll get hit!

Caption: Bryce tries his hand at the Wii Tennis Tournament at the Main Library October 24 against Seymour Branch Manager, Asante Cain.

Continue reading "Wii Tennis Tournament" »

October 19, 2007

Early Literacy Station Fun

More patrons are finding the Early Literacy Station is a fun place to share time with a child. After waiting for mom to do her Internet work on the lower level, Rahkim, age 3, was rewarded with fun learning activities at the special station in the Youth Services area on the second floor.

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October 05, 2007

Early Literacy Station in YS

Amanda Brown and her daughter, Zoe (age 3) and niece, Emma Walker (age 4), are having fun with the new Early Literacy Station in the Youth Services Department at the Main Library.

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For ages 2 - 8, the station contains 26 different programs with some in Spanish. Included are titles such as Green Eggs and Ham, SpongeBob Typing, Stellaluna, Reader Rabbit Math, Kidspiration, Jumpstart Advanced Kindergarten, Krazy ArtRoom, and much more!

September 25, 2007

What's New in Kid's books

Here are some great additions to the Children's books area!

Leaves
Written and illustrated by David Ezra Stein

Bear's first year is full of new things, and he enjoys every part of his tiny island home. Then a leaf falls, and he wonders, “Are you okay?” More and more leaves fall, and Bear tries to put them back, but it's just not the same. Eventually, Bear uses the leaves to make a bed in a small cave, because he's suddenly so sleepy. Waking in the spring brings new joy, as he welcomes the tiny new leaves unfolding on the trees. A wonderfully simple and innocent tale to share.

Available now in the New Picture Book area.
Picture Book Stein

Darkwing
Written by Kenneth Oppel and illustrated by Keith Thompson

The author of the Silverwing series takes a 65 million year leap backward in time to tell the story of Dusk, the world's first bat. Dusk's colony are a group of 'chiropters,' tree-dwelling flightless creatures who regard him as a mutant. Only his father, the colony's leader, sees Dusk's talents of flight and echo vision as gifts and trusts him with relocating the colony when they suddenly find themselves in danger. The whole world is poised on the brink of change, and below them stalks a brand new carnivore.

Available now in the New Juvenile Fiction area.
jFiction Oppel


Nothing But Trouble: The Story of Althea Gibson
Written by Sue Stauffacher and illustrated by Greg Couch

“It took time, a good long time, but slowly Althea learned that wanting to slug her opponent as soon as she started losing her match made her a worse tennis player than if she kept her cool.” Local author Stauffacher takes the first African American tennis player to win at Wimbledon from her wild child street life in Harlem to a champion who can “dress up in white and act like a lady.” Also appearing are her many supporters, including Buddy Walker, who first put a tennis racket in Althea's hand.

Available now in the New Juvenile Nonfiction area.
jBiography Gibson, Althea


Numero Uno
Written by Alex and Arthur Dorros and illustrated by Susan Guevara

Hercules believes that his strength makes him the most needed person in the village. Socrates knows that his intelligence makes him the most needed. When a young boy suggests a sort of competition, and sends both men away to see who will be more missed, the stubborn men return to find that neither of them is 'Numero Uno.' This humorous and bilingual tale of brains versus brawn proves that neither quality is more important than the other, and that constant squabbling only makes one annoying.

Available now in the New Picture Book area.
Picture Book Dorros

Nightmare Academy
Written by Dean Lorey and illustrated by Brandon Dorman

Thirteen-year-old Charlie lives a sheltered lonely life, at least during the daytime. At night, however, Charlie's gift for connecting to the netherworld puts himself and the rest of the world in grave danger from the nasty beasties and monsters striving to escape into the real world. Charlie must learn to face his nightmares and control his powers, so he becomes a student at the wildly eccentric and strange Nightmare Academy, an organization dedicated to fighting the forces of Hell.

Available now in the New Juvenile Fiction area.
jFiction Lorey

Pssst!
Written and illustrated by Adam Rex

A quiet whisper grabs the attention of a little girl visiting the zoo. She's quite surprised to find it's the gorilla, who casually requests she bring him a new tire to swing on. As she continues, she soon discovers that all the animals are in need of something. The pig wants trash cans, the sloths demand bicycle helmets. What's going on here? Are the animals sprucing up their cages, or plotting something more intricate? Rex's unusual comic-like graphics and eccentric characters create a very funny story.

Available now in the New Picture Book area.
Picture Book Rex

Piper Reed, Navy Brat
Written by Kimberly Willis Holt and illustrated by Christine Davenier

Fourth-grader Piper Reed is used to moving around. But when her father, a Navy aircraft mechanic, announces their next move right after school starts, Piper is distressed. Starting over is hard, especially for Piper, who struggles with dyslexia and as the middle child. Florida, however, holds some pleasant surprises as Piper finds some new friends, gets a puppy, discovers the Blue Angels flight team (which she can watch practice during recess), and makes a connection with her very different sisters.

Available now in the New Juvenile Fiction area.
jFiction Holt

Keep Your Cool
Written by Kelly Doudna

Controlling your emotions can be difficult, especially for children, and it can be hard to understand the importance of self-control. This easy reader provides examples of situations kids can relate to, and gives realistic suggestions about behavior. For instance, "Paige doesn't yell when she finds a toy she likes; she asks for it calmly." The second part of the book tells a longer story illustrating the trait. Full color photographs and large print text are attractive, and the message will generate discussion.

Available now in the New Easy Readers area.
Easy Reader Doudna

Page last updated: 09/08/08