Stuff for Teens

All the Broken Pieces by Ann E. Burg

2012-01-28T10:20:00.001-06:00

As it will soon be time for our "Battle of the Books", I decided that I should undertake the challenge of reading some of the books on the Intermediate Sequoyah Masterlist for 2012. I chose this book, All the Broken Pieces by Ann Burg, as my first reading project. Historical Fiction is a genre that I do not typically choose to read; but I was quickly drawn in to this book in such a fashion that I could not put it down until completely finished! I tend to judge a book by it's ability to move me to tears and this one definitely did that. The lucid verse in which it is written makes it an interesting and quick read and one that is heart-wrenching and incredibly hopeful. I adored this unforgettable perspective on the lasting impact of war and the healing power of love.

The main character of this book, Matt Pin, was one of hundreds of children that were air-lifted out of Vietnam at the end of the war. He was a "bui doi"; a child born of an American soldier and a Vietnamese mother. Shortly after witnessing the horrific disabling of his little brother, his mother begged American soldiers to take her son in hopes that he would have a better life. In America, Matt is adopted by a caring and loving couple who do their best to provide a loving home for him.

Throughout the book twelve-year-old Matt struggles with social acceptance and some "bullying" from a boy whose brother was killed in Vietnam. They both come to terms with the horrible consequences of the war through the healing power of music, baseball, and a patient loving coach.

This awesome book gives a glimpse into the horrifying era of the Vietnam war and how it impacted so many lives. I highly recommend this book for not only young teens; but anyone affected by war. I believe this would also be highly therapeutic for disabled veterans.

This book can be found at the BPL near the Young Adult section where all the Intermediate Sequoyah Books on the 2012 Masterlist are located.

Dear Bully - 70 Authors Tell Their Story edited by Megan Kelly Hall and Carrie Jones

2012-01-04T11:10:00.000-06:00

BULLYING

As we travel through the trials and tribulations of adolescent social dynamics, each one of us is one of three. We are either the one bullied, the bystander, or the bully. Therefore everyone will find a story to identify with in this book Dear Bully. This is the brainchild of Carrie Jones and Megan Kelley Hall who started a facebook after the tragic suicide of Phoebe Prince of S. Hadley, Mass. Phoebe was a victim of bullying and all the stories collected through the facebook provide valuable defense strategies for all teens. Some of the proceeds from this book have gone to the organization Stomp Out Bullying which is aimed at helping victims of bullying and stopping bullying altogether.

I highly recommend this book to all teens and all who deal with teens on a regular basis. Along with this book the Bartlesville Public Library has several other resources with great stories and information. The teen display has a variety of both fiction and non-fiction books plus a list of Adult, Juvenile, and Young Adult books available on the subject of bullying. Check these out at the BPL!

A Month of Sundays by Ruth White

2011-12-11T14:46:00.001-06:00

      This book, A Month of Sundays by Ruth White, is one that I couldn't put down until I had read the very last page! It takes place in a quaint rural community during the mid 1950's with strong memorable characters who are faced with difficult decisions.
    The main character, a fourteen-year-old girl named Garnet, was deserted by her Dad before she was born and raised solely by her Mom. Often the two of them have struggled to make ends meet. Things change drastically as her mother decides to move to Florida and leaves her with relatives of her father whom she has never met. At this point Garnet feels abandoned and very alone.
     It doesn't take long for Garnet to realize that life in Black River is not that bad at all. She joins in the search with her Aunt June to find God and in the process meets Silver Shepherd, a fifteen year old youth minister and the cutest boy this side of heaven!
     Suddenly a tragic event occurs that rocks the world of this teen girl and she questions why something like this could possibly happen. This book will make you laugh, cry, and delight in the theme that love conquers all. I absolutely loved this heartwarming story that reminded me that even through there is tragedy and difficulties in this life, miracles still happen.
    Check out this book found in the Young Adult section of Youth Services at the BPL!!

20 WAYS TO SURVIVE THE HOLIDAYS! by Katie Abbondanza and Jessica D'Argenio Waller

2011-11-19T09:55:00.001-06:00

Have you ever spent a little time paging though a magazine at the BPL? One of the teen magazines that we have is Girl's Life Magazine (GL). GL and girlslife.com offers up-to-date advice for tween and teen girls on the latest fashion and beauty, music, TV and celebrity gossip....

A featured article in the December/January issue of GL is, "20 Ways to Survive the Holidays" by Katie Abbondanza and Jessica D'Argenio Waller. Before you say "bah, humbug!", read this article to help you get into the spirit of the season.

A few of my favorites are:

#2. Recognize that your love of holiday songs knows no bounds, and proudly sing along in the department store. (Psst: Everyone else is doing it, too.)

#13. Secretly rearrange all the ornaments on the tree after the 'rents go to bed. It totally looks better your way.

#20. Screen a classic holiday movie with you sibs. Family time (even if it's in front of the tube) is what makes this season special, right?

Happy Holidays!!

Perfect by Ellen Hopkins

2011-11-05T13:54:00.000-05:00

"Everyone has something, someone, somewhere else that they'd rather be. For four high school seniors, their goals of perfections are just as different as the paths they take to get there. A riveting and startling companion to the best-selling Impulse, Ellen Hopkins's Perfect exposes the harsh truths about what it takes to grow up and grow into our own skins--our own selves. Everyone wants to be perfect, but when perfection loses its meaning, how far will you go? What would you give up to be perfect?"

It's been awhile since I've been a teenager; but I would define it as a time when you are trying to get comfortable in your own skin. It is a time when one is tormented by the expectations of others. This book focuses on four characters who are each having a unique struggle with perfection. I love Hopkins verse style of writing and how she delves into sensitive topics with a style that tells things as they really are. She is real and candid.

This is a must read for young adults who are dealing with the frustrating issues of life. And even though this may not be your cup of tea as far as the style of writing, I think you will relate to the characters and understand that you are not the only one out there who is trying to be "perfect" and failing somewhat.

TALES OF HORROR by Jim Pipe

2011-10-23T14:16:00.001-05:00

                                                                             ZOMBIES

Have you ever wondered about zombies? What are zombies? Check out Tales of Horror: Zombies in the Juvenile Non-fiction section of the Bartlesville Public Library.
"Legends and other stories describe zombies as dead people who have been brought back to life. A scratch or bite from one of these fiends, however, can turn a living person into a zombie, too."
Just from past experience of watching movies, I think zombies stumble around with their eyes staring straight ahead and their mouths wide open. They are usually seen in large groups and often attack humans. And what do zombies like to eat? Human brains!!
If you are thinking about being a zombie for Halloween, I suggest reading this book so you are an expert on the subject!!

                                                                                      MONSTERS

When I think of a monster, I think of something big and scary looking! What is a monster?
"Most monsters, and there are many kinds, have certain things in common. Many of them are very big--sometimes big enough to eat a human in one bite. Almost all monsters are scary looking. Many of them are also dangerous because of their huge claws or razor sharp teeth. Some monsters even breathe fire!"
Are you thinking of being a monster for Halloween? You better checkout the book Tales of Horror: Monsters from the Bartlesville Public Library and you will become an expert on monsters! It is found in the Juvenile Non-fiction section of the library.

                                                                               WEREWOLVES

Are werewolves for real? Do they really exist? I just know about them from watching movies and TV; but some people say they are real. Some even say they have been attacked by these scary monsters!
This book about werewolves by Jim Pike presents legends and lore that will help you decide for yourself if werewolves actually do roam the planet.
Are you thinking about being a werewolf for Halloween? Then you need to check this book out by Jim Pike and you will become an expert on werewolves! It can be found in the Juvenile Non-fiction section of the Bartlesville Public Library.

TEEN READ WEEK, OCTOBER 16-22

2011-10-11T10:57:00.000-05:00

CELEBRATE TEEN READ WEEK - GET YOUR FREE BOOK AT THE LIBRARY!

Along with thousands of libraries, schools, and bookstores across the country, the Bartlesville Public Library will celebrate Teen Read Week (October 16-22, 2011) by encouraging area teens to read for the fun of it. With this year’s theme, “Picture It! @ your library,” we hope to inspire teens to read a variety of materials, including graphic novels, movie tie-ins, books about photography and art, and more.

Every teen 13 years and older who visits the Youth Services department of the library during this week will receive a bookmark and a FREE book of their choice from our great selection of giveaway books! We’ve got novels, non-fiction, manga and more!

Teen Read Week is the national adolescent literacy initiative of the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA0, the fastest-growing division of the American Library Association. “Teens have more activities to fill their free time than ever – web videos, social networking sites, video games, afterschool activities, athletics – and increasingly high expectations in the classroom,” says Laura Pryce, youth services librarian. “It’s important that we show them that reading is something that’s fun and relaxing that they can do for free. And that reading for fun can translate into better performance at school.”

“Many families have learned to make do with less as a result of the economy and have flocked to the library,” Pryce says. “Teen Read Week is a great time to make sure teens and their families know about all the free services the library can offer them and to reach out to teens who aren’t regular users and encourage them to come see what they can find here.” Parents are encouraged to celebrate Teen Read Week at home, as well. Here are some ideas:

1. Visit the public or school library to attend a program, take a tour, use the computers, or check out books.

2. Set aside time each night for the family to read.

3. Give books or magazine subscriptions to your teen as a gift or reward.

4. Share your favorite book with your teen.

5. Go online to learn about new books or authors. A good place to start is YALSA’s Booklists and Book Awards page, www.ala.org/yalsa/booklists.

6. Join or start a book discussion group.

Teen Read Week is held annually during the third week of October. An updated list of sponsors and supporting organizations can be found at www.ala.org/teenread.

Take Me to the River by Will Hobbs

2011-10-08T10:03:00.000-05:00

This page-turning adventure is a must read! Take me to the River is an exciting account of a fourteen-year-old boy, Dylan, and his cousin, Rio, who travel to Big Bend National Park, on the Texas-Mexico border, to paddle the Rio Grande.
An element of danger enters the picture as six Black Hawk helicopters appear and race across the river into Mexico. All the army will tell the boys is that there is a hurricane approaching the Gulf of Mexico; but the two are so dead set on making the trip that they can't give it up.
As you read this adventure you will be caught up the survival mode of deadly risks these teens take as they embark on their journey.
This award-winning author of eighteen novels, Will Hobbs, took a week long canoe trip through the remote canyons of the Rio Grande on the Texas-Mexico border before writing this book. This book can be found in the new teen book display at the Bartlesville Public Library. Check it out!!

HALLOWEEN AND COMMEMORATIONS OF THE DEAD by Roseanne Montillo

2011-10-01T13:28:00.001-05:00

For us mere mortals, death is inevitable. Therefore many cultures have special holidays to honor those or remember those people who have passed before us. Originally, Halloween was a day dedicated to the dead; but over the years has turned into a commercial event that is popular with children.

Many countries have a different day in which they remember loved ones that have died such as the holiday Day of the Dead which is celebrated in many countries in Latin America, including Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador. Check out this book Halloween and Commemorations of the Dead by Roseanne Montillo to learn of different customs around the world including Halloween, All Souls' Day, Tomb Sweeping Day, and the Ghost Festival. You will find it in Juvenile Non-fiction books.

HELP!!!

2011-09-22T19:48:00.001-05:00

HELP!!!!

HELP!!!!
It’s mid-September. School is definitely underway. Are you overwhelmed?? Need some homework help??
You know that the Bartlesville Public Library has many resources to help you out in your time of research need; but have you ever checked out the online databases??
Even though your teacher has informed you that you cannot use the internet, when you use information from the databases subscribed to by Bartlesville Public Library you are only using web technology. The content is published by reliable companies, like book, magazine, and journal publishers. You may be able to find full text of many articles that the library no longer has in print format. So, check out the databases!!!
You may ask, “Where are these so-called databases?” Go to the Bartlesville Public Library website: www.bartlesville.lib.ok.us click on online databases and you will find all the information you need.

A couple websites that may be extremely helpful for homework help are the following: http://www.bjpinchbeck.com/ and
http://www.familyfirst.com/schoolwork-ugh.html.
The B.J. Pinchbeck site is a lot of fun besides being very helpful. This site was developed by B.J. Pinchbeck and his Dad when he was only 9 years old. He has since graduated from college and has a lot of good ideas to help learners. His site even has the college experience link which helps high school students prepare for college, provides help in scholarships and financial aid, and helps you find just the right college or university!

Take The "Letters About Literature" National Writing Challenge!

2011-09-09T13:36:00.000-05:00

http://www.lettersaboutliterature.org/

How has an author's work--novel, nonfiction, poetry--changed your view of the world or yourself? What did you learn about yourself that you didn't realize before reading the author's work? Don't write a book report. The author already wrote the book and knows what happened. What the author doesn't know is how you reacted while reading the book. Write about that--your response in a reflective, personal letter to the author! That is the LAL writing challenge.

Each year, LAL awards thousands of dollars through state and national prizes, as well as LAL library grants. Last year, 70,000 young people entered. For more information on how you as a young reader or how your students can enter, browse through this site for sample letters and the how-to-enter guidelines and coupon.

FREE COMIC BOOKS AT THE LIBRARY!!!

2011-08-17T13:47:00.000-05:00

Come in after school this week and get your free comic book, while they last! Choose from Elric, Archie, Locke & Key, Witch & Wizard, Silver Scorpion & much more...

YALSA's Teens' Top Ten

2011-08-12T11:05:00.001-05:00

The 2011 Teens' Top Ten nominations are here! Read on to see the twenty-five nominated titles and download the annotated 2011 Teens' Top Ten Nominations (PDF). Read all twenty-five this summer and get ready to vote for the 2011 list, Aug. 15 through Sept. 15.
Thanks to our sixteen book groups for nominating the titles and the YA Galley/Teens' Top Ten committee for their hard work.

The 2011 Nominees

You can also download an annotated list (PDF) of the 25 nominations.

Bachorz, Pam. Drought. Egmont USA. 2011. (978606840160).

Beam, Cris. I Am J. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. 2011. (9780316053617).

Beaudoin, Sean. You Killed Wesley Payne. 2011. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. (9780316077422).

Black, Holly and Justine Larbalestier. Zombies vs. Unicorns. Simon & Schuster/Margaret K. McElderry Books. 2010. (9781416989530).

Card, Orson Scott. The Lost Gate. Tor Books. 2011. (9780765326577).

Clare, Cassandra. The Clockwork Angel. Simon & Schuster/Margaret K. McElderry. 2010. (9781416975861).

Collins, Suzanne. Mockingjay. Scholastic. 2010. (9780439023511).

Collins, Yvonne. Love, Inc. Disney/Hyperion. 2011. (9781423131151).

Condie, Ally. Matched. 2010. Penguin/Dutton. (9780525423645).

Cremer, Andrea. Nightshade. Penguin/Philomel. 2010. (9780399254826).

Fitzpatrick, Becca. Crescendo. Simon & Schuster Children’s. 2010. (9781416989431).

Grant, Michael. Lies. 2010. HarperCollins/Katherine Tegen Books. (9780061449093).

Hawkins, Rachel. Demonglass. Disney/Hyperion. 2011. (9781423121312).

Hakwins, Rachel. Hex Hall. Disney/Hyperion. 2010. (9781423121305).

Kagawa, Julie. The Iron King. 2010. Harlequin. (9780373210084).

Lore, Pittacus. I Am Number Four. HarperCollins. 2010. (9780061969553).

Moore, Peter. Red Moon Rising. Disney/Hyperion. 2011. (9781423116653).

Nelson, Jandy. The Sky is Everywhere. 2010. Penguin/Dial Books for Young Readers. (9780142417805).

Oliver, Lauren. Before I Fall. HarperCollins/HarperTeen. 2010. (9780061726804).

O’Neal, Ellis. The False Princess. Egmont USA. 2011. (9781606840795).

Patterson, James. Angel: A Maximum Ride Novel. Little, Brown & Company. 2011. (9780316036207).

Pearce, Jackson. Sisters Red. Little, Brown and Company. 2010. (9780316068680).

Smith, Cynthia Leitich. Blessed. Candlewick Press. 2011. (9780763643263).

Westerfeld, Scott. Behemoth. Simon Pulse. 2010. (9781416971757).

White, Kiersten. Paranormalcy. HarperCollins/HarperTeen. 2010. (9780061985843).

About the Teens' Top Ten

Teens' Top Ten is a "teen choice" list, where teens nominate and choose their favorite books of the previous year! Nominators are members of teen book groups in sixteen school and public libraries around the country. Nominations are posted on Support Teen Literature Day during National Library Week, and teens across the country vote on their favorite titles each year. Readers ages twelve to eighteen will vote online between Aug. 15 and Sept. 16; the winners will be announced during Teen Read Week.

Movie Review: Beastly

2011-06-29T18:59:00.004-05:00

Beastly, the movie based on the book by Alex Flinn came out on DVD this week and luckily my handy dandy Netflix sent it to me. Now I'll admit I haven't read the book, yet, but I was pretty excited to get the movie. I'm a sucker for a good romantic twist on a classic. Unfortunately, I was greatly disappointed in this movie.

First, the acting was sub par and the script writing was terrible. I often wonder if script writers dumb it down when writing for "teen flicks". The thought actually makes me sad. In that same respect, there was no conflict either, no sense of urgency for the couple to get together. Of course, that could've been because it was all so terribly predictable that you knew they were going to get together from the beginning. Even when they did get together it was hard to rejoice because there was absolutely no chemistry between the two characters.

I give this movie 2 stars and that's only because Neil Patrick Harris has a few zingers that made me laugh out loud, but they were few and far between. Maybe if you're sitting alone on a Saturday and this movie just so happens to be on for free it would be worth watching. But personally I'd just shut off the TV and go read the book, it has to be better.

The Pocket Lady, Susan Sykes, pictures

2011-06-27T15:50:00.003-05:00

The Pocket Lady, Susan Sykes, came to visit the library on June 27. Are you in the pictures?

Teen Summer Reading Program: Yoga Workshop

2011-06-27T14:05:00.002-05:00

Bartlesville Public Library is having a Yoga Workshop as part of their Teen Summer Reading Program for teens ages 13 through 18 on July 9, 2011 at 2:00 pm in Meeting Room A (upstairs).

Learn different yoga poises to help improve flexibility, increase strength, help with concentration, and improve posture with this ancient Indian form of exercise. Taught by trained yoga instructor, Heather Sheffield.

Please pre-register for this free program by calling 338-4170 or visiting the Youth Services Desk. Limited space is available.

Sonia Gensler in Tulsa!

2011-06-25T14:55:00.003-05:00

Sonia Gensler author of The Revenant will be in Tulsa this Sunday at the Barnes and Noble on 5231 East 41st St from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm for a book signing.

Hope to see you there.

Book Review: Percy Jackson & The Olympians Series

2011-06-23T17:49:00.004-05:00

Looking for a book series to get lost in this summer? I highly recommend the Percy Jackson & The Olympians series by Rick Riordan.

Follow Percy Jackson as he finds out he's not only the son of the sea god, Poseidon, but he holds the key to a very scary and powerful prophecy that could mean the end of not only Olympus, but of mankind.

Already read the Percy Jackson series. Riordan has two additional series started: The Kane Chronicles starting with The Red Pyramid and The Heroes of Olympus starting with The Lost Hero.

Student Travel Workshop with Go Global

2011-06-22T20:08:00.003-05:00

Bartlesville Public Library is hosting a Student Travel Program as part of their Teen Summer Reading Program for teens ages 13 through 18 on June 25, 2011 at 2:00 pm in Meeting Room A (upstairs).

Learn what opportunities you have to travel and study different cultures while being a student. Parents are welcome to attend with their teens. Program taught by Darek Jarmola, owner of Go Global (http://www.authenticeurope.com/).

For more information or to register for this free program please call 338-4170 or visiting the Youth Services Desk.

Storyteller Fran Stallings Pictures

2011-06-20T15:40:00.010-05:00

Pictures from Storyteller Fran Stalling's Japanese Folk tales, taken on June 20, 2011(please note digital time stamp is incorrect).

New Diary of a Wimpy Kid Cover Released

2011-06-16T17:20:00.002-05:00

The highly anticipated cover to the sixth Diary of a Wimpy Kid series was released today. Diary of a Wimpy Kid Cabin Fever by Jeff Kinney will hit the bookstores on November 15, 2011.

Book Trailer: The Revenant by Sonia Gensler

2011-06-15T14:18:00.003-05:00

Though we don't have this book in our collection (yet) I strongly suggest y'all check out this new book The Revenant by Oklahoma author, Sonia Gensler.

Breaking Dawn Part 1 Official Trailer

2011-06-08T17:36:00.001-05:00

Say what you will about the books and movies, they do make an exciting trailer.

SRP - Folk Dancing Photos

2011-06-06T14:57:00.005-05:00

Pictures from our Folk Dancing Celebration on June 6, 2011 (please note digital stamp on pictures is incorrect)

Sally Jenkins and Katherine Hanson demonstrate folk dancing
Katherine Hanson and friends take kids on an Asian dance adventure.
Sally Jenkins, Katherine Hanson and friends folk dancing.
Katherine Hanson and Sally Jenkins show the kids some folk dancing moves.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 61 (Season Finale)

2011-06-04T10:48:00.002-05:00

Grayson stared at Carly. Was she telling the truth? Did he still have time to turn this whole horrible episode around? He glanced at the exacto-knife. It would be so easy just to end it all. How was he going to face his mom? Explain to her what he’d done? Why he felt he had to do it?

“I never meant to hurt anyone,” he whispered. “Especially not Angel. I’ve ruined everything. I can’t even image what people must be thinking about me. I’m a monster.”

“No,” said Carly. “You’re a boy who made a bad decision. Now you can be the man who makes it right.”

The officer’s baritone voice penetrated the car once again. “The car is surrounded. Get out of the car, now!”

“What if it doesn’t change?” Grayson felt his eyes pool with tears. “What if these thoughts never go away?”

Carly laid her hand on Grayson’s knee. “I believe it will change, but you have to give it a shot.”

Grayson started laughing as Carly raised an eyebrow. “Nice choice of words… here I’m surrounded by officers ready to blow my head off and you want me to ‘give it a shot’.”

His eyes watered and he laughed harder as Carly snorted and joined in his hysterics. His gut ached, both from the laughter and nerves. He cleared his throat and regained his composure.

“OK, I’ll ‘give it a shot’.” Grayson made air quotes. “On one condition.”

“Name it,” said Carly.

“You’ll be there for my mom.”Grayson shook his head. “She’s going to be devastated. She doesn’t really have any friends and none of our family live close by. I don’t want her to be alone while I’m…” He rubbed his eyes. “While I’m away.”

Carly nodded. “Of course, I’ll be here for your mom. I’m also going to be here for you. You are not alone in all this.”

Grayson dropped the exacto-knife on the floor board and raised his hands out the window so the officers could see he was unarmed.

“Open the door from the outside!” yelled the officer.

“One more thing,” he said, before complying with the officer’s demand. “Tell Angel I’m sorry. I will not bother her again.”

Carly shook her head yes and he could see she was crying as he exited the car.

As he laid face down on the pavement, an officer’s knee in his back, he felt a weight lift off his shoulders. He choked back a laugh, here he was handcuffed, on his way to jail or some metal hospital, and he never felt so free.

*Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama will be back in September with all new episodes.

Teen Summer Reading Program starts Monday, June 6th!!

2011-05-31T11:16:00.003-05:00

The Teen Summer Reading Program starts next Monday (June 6th)! Come in today to sign up and receive a goody bag, complete with a passport for your reading journey.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 60

2011-05-25T14:27:00.003-05:00

Carly gasped. “Grayson, I don’t want Angel for myself. I just don’t want to see anyone, including you, get hurt.” She looked over his shoulder at the police blockade. “Just put the knife down and let the officers help you.”

“Slowly exit the car, arms raised,” the police demanded again.

Grayson rolled his eyes. “They’re just going to throw me in jail.”

“They will make sure you get the help you need. You’re still a minor, they’ll work with you,” Carly said. She wanted to reach out and pat his hand, rub his shoulder, anything to show him he wasn’t alone, but the exacto-knife was still clutched tightly in his hand.

Grayson stared at the knife. “I should just do everyone a favor and end it right now.” He brought the blade up to his wrist.

Carly held up her hands. “You don’t want to do that. You still have a lot of life ahead of you. Things will get better. There’s college…”

“Do you really think a college is going to let me in after all this?” Grayson yelled.

Carly kept her eye on the knife, looking for an opportunity to grab it or at least knock it away long enough for the police to intervene. She felt the tears building, but steadied herself, forcing them not to drop.

“Yes, I do,” she said calmly. “I think that if you get the help you need now, none of this will matter in the future. A lot of kids have made bad decisions and have gone on to do great things. It’s what you decide to do now, in this moment, that matters.” She held out her hand for the knife. “What’s it going to be, Grayson?”

Teen Summer Reading Programs

2011-05-23T16:52:00.002-05:00

Go Global!
June 25, 2:00 pm
Learn what opportunities you have to travel and study different cultures while being a student. Parents are welcome to attend with their teens. Taught by Darek Jarmola, owner of Go Global.

Yoga
July 9, 2:00 pm
Trained yoga instructor, Heather Sheffield, will teach different poses to help improve flexibility, increase strength, help with concentration, and improve posture.

A Day of Wii Fun!!
July 16, 1:00 - 4:00
Come play the Wii on the big screen! We will have four Wii systems for you to play! Free food and drinks!!

Travel Scrapbooking
July 23, 2:00
Learn a fun and creative way to collect all your travel memories. Program taught by Heather Davis.

Teen Summer Reading Program Sign-up Begins!!

2011-05-16T17:11:00.002-05:00

This summer at the Bartlesville Public Library, we will be celebrating reading and traveling the world with fantasic special events and weekly prize drawings!

Sign-up begins May 16 and can be done at any library public service desk. All teens ages 13 and up are invited to participate. A weekly drawing will be held every Friday. To be eligible for these drawings, participants are asked to contact library staff at least once a week in person, by phone (918-338-4170), through our website (http://www.bartlesville.lib.ok.us/) or by e-mail (srp@bartlesville.lib.ok.us) and let them know about the books you have read. Each time you do, you will receive a prize from the "goodie box" and you will aslo be entered into that week's drawing for even more prizes!

At the end of July, we will draw a Grand Prize Winner from everyone who has participated in the program for all eight weeks!

Come to the Library and pick up your summer reading program package! If you have any questions, please contact the library's Youth Services Department at 918-338-4170.

The Hunger Games movie

2011-05-15T17:00:00.004-05:00

Things are heating up on the set of The Hunger Games movie with Woody Harrelson slotted to play Haymitch. The movie is set to be released March 23, 2012.

Oscar nominated, Jennifer Lawerence, will be our Katniss Everdeen and Josh Hutcherson is in line to play Peeta Mellark. For a full cast list go to: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1392170/

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 59

2011-05-14T16:51:00.000-05:00

Grayson sat up and slammed his head on the back of the seat. Carly had ruined everything. The police would be here any minute. He heard a faint click and grabbed for Angel, but it was too late. She was already out the door, Carly had released the child lock and Angel was gone.

He punched himself in the head.

“Grayson, let me help you,” Carly pleaded.

“You can’t help me!” Grayson cried. “The only person who could is now gone.” He gestured toward Angel, who was running through the front doors of the library.

“Let me try.”

Grayson studied Carly’s face. Her eyes were wide, beads of sweat dripped down her forehead causing her glasses to slip to the end of her nose. He sprung forward, waving the exacto-knife inches from her throat. She closed her eyes, but didn’t move.

“Just go away!” he yelled stabbing the head rest.

“I can’t!” Carly whimpered. She locked her eyes on his. “Grayson, I don’t know why you did what you did tonight, but I know deep down you’re not a bad kid. Please, let me help.”

“I just wanted to show her how much I love her.” Grayson dropped the knife in his lap and buried his head in his hands. “I know she loves me, too. But she’s so wrapped up in the materialistic high school crap that everyone considers cool that she would never admit it.” His tears flowed freely as he looked up at Carly. “As soon as she is away from all that, she’d see what really matters. That we’re soul mates.”

Police cars surrounded Grayson’s car in the parking lot. Opening their doors, they drew their guns. A deep voice penetrated the night air. “We have the car surrounded. Slowly exit the car, arms up.”

“We need to do what they say,” Carly whispered. “They can help you, too.”

“Who says I need help?” Grayson growled.

Carly sighed. “I’m not going to lie to you. It’s going to be hard and there’s a good chance that Angel will not want to see you again.”

Grayson groaned.

“But,” continued Carly, “in the end I think you’ll see that she isn’t what makes the world go ‘round. She isn’t worth dying for.”

Grayson smirked. “Well apparently you thought she was or you wouldn’t have gotten in the car. You want her for yourself, don’t you?”

Back Cover Blurb: Lost For Words by Alice Kuipers

2011-05-09T12:48:00.004-05:00

I tried not to think about anything, tried to empty my mind, but I couldn't help it, and for a moment the memories were too strong. I held out one trembling hand like I was an old woman with Parkinson's and watched it shake. My lungs were filling with smoky clouds; the air was too thick to breathe. I leaned against a neighbor's fence. Took deep breaths. Reminded myself that everything was fine.

Life in the Stack: A Library Drama Part 58

2011-05-04T14:37:00.000-05:00

Angel waited for Grayson’s response. He shrugged and shook his head. Angel sighed and let out a nervous giggle. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to go all crazy on you. I’m just frustrated with life at the moment.” She snapped her purse closed. “I must’ve left my keys inside.” She swung her purse over her shoulder. “I’ll be right back.”

She turned back to the loading dock door, only to find a hand over her mouth and something sharp in pressing against her side.

“I don’t want to hurt you,” whispered Grayson. “But if you scream I will have to. Do you understand?”

Tears flooded Angel’s eyes as she slowly nodded yes. Her mind raced as her eyes scanned the parking lot looking for a patron or co-worker to help her. “Don’t let him take you out of this parking lot” was all she could think.

If she struggled enough she might be able to bite his hand and run away. Before she could make her move, Grayson started dragging her backward toward the open door of his car. His grip was tight, making her struggle virtually impossible. So she went limp.

She heard Grayson grunt as he adjusted for her extra weight, but he continued to drag her with ease. He tossed her into the backseat of the car. She instantly turned and started kicking and screaming. Her heel met Grayson’s eye and he fell back. She fumbled for the door handle; it wouldn’t open. He must’ve set the child locks. She screamed more as she tried to climb over into the front seat.

Grayson recovered and threw himself on top of Angel, bringing her tumbling down onto the backseat. His weight knocked the air out of her, cutting off her cries for help. Covering her mouth he shoved the exacto-knife in her face. “Don’t make me hurt you!”

Before Angel could respond, the driver’s side door flung open and Carly slid in, slamming it behind her. She turned to face Grayson and Angel. She looked into Angel’s eyes and spoke evenly. “Grayson, the police have been called. You have two choices. Let Angel go and take me instead or wait until the police come. If you don’t let Angel go, this will end very bad for you. Let her go and I will help you.”

Looking for a Short Read??

2011-05-03T13:41:00.000-05:00

http://booklistonline.com/ProductInfo.aspx?pid=4844276&AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1

The Bartlesville Public Library does have most of the books mentioned at the above-linked website...come check 'em out!

LEGO Creations Contest 2011 Winners!!

2011-05-02T15:08:00.011-05:00

We had a bunch of outstanding Lego Creations this year. I am so glad I wasn't a judge. Once again I'd like to thank the Bartlesville Friends of the Library for making this contest possible.

Category 1 - 3rd Place - EMMA SHELLEY, 4th Grade

Category 1 - 2nd Place - PIERSON INDA, 1st Grade

Category 1 - 1st Place - ISAAC GENSHAW, 1st Grade

Category 2 - 3rd Place - TODD HOWARD, 8th Grade

Category 2 - 2nd Place - ALEX SCHEUERMANN, 6th Grade

Category 2 - 1st Place - JOHN GOODWIN, 5th Grade

GRAND PRIZE WINNER - OLIVER DASH, 6TH GRADE

Winners (Left to Right): Pierson Inda, Emma Shelley, Isaac Genshaw, and Oliver Dash.

Not Pictured: John Goodwin, Alex Scheuermann and Todd Howard.

New Sequoyah Masterlists are out!!

2011-04-25T17:38:00.005-05:00

High School Sequoyah List 2012

Reality Check by Peter Abrahams

Hate List by Jennifer Brown

Cater Finally Gets It by Brent Crawford

After by Amy Efaw

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

Say The Word by Geannine Garsee

Into the Wild Nerd Yonder by Julie Halpern

Brutal by Michael Harmon

Freaks and Revelations by Davida Hurwin

Pop by Gordon Korman

Blue Plate Special by Michelle Kwasney

Flash Burnout by L.K. Madigan

Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

A Map of the Known World by Lisa Ann Sandell

Wherever Nina Lies by Lynn Weingarten

Intermediate Sequoyah Masterlist

Abbott, Ellen. Watersmeet

Avi. Murder at Midnight

Berry, Julie. The Amaranth Enchantment

Breen, M.E. Darkwood

Burg, Ann E. All The Broken Pieces

Cochrane, Mick. The Girl Who Threw Butterflies

Gratz, Alan. The Brooklyn Nine

Hahn, Mary Downing. Closed for the Season

Hoose, Phillip. Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice

Ketchum, Liza. Newsgirl

Potter, Ellen. Slob

Preller, James. Bystander

Sheinmel, Courtney. Positively

Swanson, James. Chasing Lincoln's Killer

Whinnem, Reade Scott. The Pricker Boy

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 57

2011-04-20T17:47:00.001-05:00

Grayson watched Angel rummage around in her purse for her keys. “They always drop to the bottom.” She gave Grayson an apologetic smile. “My brother says if I didn’t carry a duffle bag for a purse I wouldn’t have this problem.”

She laughed lightly at her own joke as her cell phone went off. Grayson grimaced as she answered it. “Brett, I don’t want to talk to you. In fact, I can’t. I’m busy.” She winked at Grayson, making his heart leap to his throat.

“What I’m doing is none of your business,” she snapped into the phone. Setting her purse on the back of Grayson’s car, she continued the search for her keys. She put her hand over the phone, rolled her eyes and whispered, “I’m sorry,” to Grayson.

“If it’s all a big misunderstanding then why did you leave that creepy message on my home phone?” Grayson cringed. Would she believe Brett when he said he didn’t leave the message? “My mom is totally freakin’ out. I can barely leave the house alone anymore. That was totally uncool.”

She listened for a minute longer then sighed. “Brett, I really am helping someone out and can’t talk right now. I’ll call you back in a few.” She snapped her phone shut.

“Sorry ‘bout that. He just can’t get over the fact that not all girls believe his crap.” Tossing the phone back in her purse, she sighed again. “Grayson, can I ask you something that I’m hoping you won’t take the wrong way?”

Grayson tried to say, “You can ask me anything,” but his tongue felt swollen in his mouth so he just grunted.

“Why are all guys jerks? I mean they talk all smooth and get you to go out with them. So you do, then they say, ‘they don’t want to force you into anything you don’t want to do’ so you tell them you aren’t ready, and then they’re on to the next conquest. It just really pisses me off. I’m tired of everyone telling me what I want, when it’s really what they want and they’re trying to force me to want what they want.”

Grayson’s heart sank. Was he really like all the rest of them?

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 Trailer!!!!

2011-04-18T14:56:00.003-05:00

Unless you've been living under a rock you know Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 came out on DVD last week. And now you can watch the trailer for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in theaters July 15, 2011.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 56

2011-04-13T12:25:00.002-05:00

Grayson stood in the shadows, watching the back door of the library. He was sure Carly would’ve left by now, but her car was still there and Grayson could see her still sitting at her desk by the large picture windows.

She was going to wait until Angel left, he just knew it. He cursed as he kicked a discarded box that had blown into his corner. What was he going to do now?

His hand slid into his pocket and cradled the exacto knife he had stolen from art class. He could slash Carly’s tires, and then when he drove off with Angel she wouldn’t be able to follow. But she would probably see his mom’s car and that wouldn’t do. As far as he knew, nobody even knew he could drive. If he was followed to the safe house, then everything would be ruined.

Maybe he could just wait Carly out. If he acted on his best behavior and didn't follow Angel for a while, Carly would think he had agreed to leave Angel alone. His heart ached at the thought of not seeing his Angel daily. Would he have to avoid the library for his plan to work? He shook his head; it couldn’t wait. She couldn’t wait. Everyday she was falling more and more into the materialistic world of scum.

The back door opened and he held his breath. It was Angel.

He waited to see Carly’s stupid socks follow her out, but they didn’t. She was alone.

“Hi,” he said softly, coming out the shadow.

“Oh my god,” she screamed. “You scared the crap out of me!”

“I didn’t mean to scare you,” he said. “I’d never do anything to hurt you. I just need a favor and it’s kind of a big one.”

“O…K…” Angel said, raising an eyebrow.

“My car needs a jump. I’ve got the cables, just need another vehicle.”

Angel smiled. “Sure, I can help you out.”

Autism Awareness Month

2011-04-11T15:01:00.005-05:00

What Is Autism?

Autism (also referred to as autism spectrum disorder or ASD) is
a neurological disorder that affects the way a person’s brain and
body works. As it is a spectrum disorder, no two people will
have the same symptoms and characteristics. In other words,
just like other teenagers, not all people with ASD are the same.
It is also important to know that autism is not a disease and is
not contagious.

A person with ASD may have diffi culty communicating with
other people, making friends or following directions. Sometimes
a person with ASD may have trouble understanding what is
going on if they are overwhelmed by lights, noises, movements
and smells. Certain things may make them upset, and they may
not know how to calm down or tell you what’s bothering them.
Some people with ASD may not understand “common sense”
things you take for granted. However, with help from teachers,
classmates, families and friends, teens with ASD can fi nd it
easier to attend school in spite of these challenges.

What Causes Autism?

No one knows exactly why some people have autism. There
may be many different causes. Scientists are still trying to fi nd
out what those causes are and how to best help people with
ASD. Approximately 1,500,000 people in the United States
have an autism spectrum disorder—that’s 1 out of every 150
people. ASD can affect anyone, regardless of race, religion,
economic status or where they live; however, it is more common
in boys than in girls.

To see teen struggle with Autism I suggest you watch MTV's True Life: I Have Autism at
http://www.mtv.com/videos/true-life-i-have-autism/1554937/playlist.jhtml

LEGO CREATIONS CONTEST 2011 RULES

2011-04-10T13:42:00.002-05:00

Theme: A Moment in Time

Find a picture (online, magazines, internet, ect...) or take a picture, then using your own LEGO blocks duplicate that picture.

Once your creation is complete, bring it and the picture to the Bartlesville Library, Meeting Room A, on Friday, April 29th between 11:30 am and 5:00 pm or Saturday, April 30th between 9:00 am and 11:00 am.

Public viewing will begin at 1:00 pm on Saturday, April 30th, with an awards ceremony to follow at 2:00 pm. Refreshments will be served.

Winning entries will be displayed in the library lobby from May 1st through May 25th.

Eligibility:
Open to all ages, even adults. Any LEGO style building brick will be accepted, they do not have to be LEGO brand.

Rules:

Any LEGO style brick will be accepted, they do not have to be LEGO brand.

The theme is “A Moment in Time” you must bring in your picture to display with your LEGO creations. It does not have to be framed, but that would make it easier to display. NO PICTURE, NO ENTRY.

No vulgar or pornographic images will be accepted. Whether an image is considered vulgar or pornographic will be up to the library’s discretion.

There will be a point system this year.

LEGO entries that do not meet size requirements will not be disqualified, but will have points deducted from their overall score. Any entry, winning or not, that is too big for the display case will NOT be displayed.

Entries must be dropped off at the library on Friday, April 29th between 11:30 am and 5:00 pm or Saturday, April 30th between 9:00 am and 11:00 am in Meeting Room A (upstairs).

No entries will be allowed after 11:00 am on Saturday, April 30th.

After dropping off your entry, you will be given a receipt. Be prepared to show this receipt or have a parent with a photo I.D. when picking up your entry. This way we can prevent any confusion.

Winning entries will be displayed in the library lobby from May 1st through May 24th. Winning contestants will need to pick up their entries on May 25th. Entries not picked up on May 25th will be taken to the staff workroom and contestants will be called.

Photos of winners with their entries will be posted on the library blogs, in the Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise, and other media outlets. If you don’t want your picture posted to the public please let us know ahead of time.

Non-winning entries can be taken home April 30th after 3:00 pm.

Size Regulations:

Category 1 (K-4th grade):
• Entries must be no larger than 1’ x 2’ and no taller than 4’
Category 2 (5th grade – 8th grade):
• Entries must be no larger than 1’ x 3’ and no taller than 4’
Category 3 (9th grade – adults):
• Entries must be no larger than 2’ x 3’ and no taller than 4’

National Poetry Month

2011-04-09T09:28:00.004-05:00

April is National Poetry Month, so grab a notebook, go outside, enjoy the lovely spring weather, and let the elements move you into a poem or two.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 55

2011-04-06T15:27:00.001-05:00

“I think that’s a question only Grayson can answer,” Carly said, eyeing Grayson. “Do we have an understanding?”

Grayson gave a quick nod and fled the library. He held his breath until he exited the building. He knew he couldn’t erupt at that stupid youth librarian or he’d be banned from the library. Being able to access the library was the only way he was going to stay close to Angel. Everything was working out as planned until Carly had gotten in the way. Why did she have to be so nosey?

He should go right back in there and take them all down. He kicked the metal trash can and concentrated on the pain surging through his middle toe. Pain was good. Pain was the only thing that would calm him and he knew he must remain calm. Lashing out now would only ruin his plan.

He sat on the bench and slipped off his shoe, examining his toe. He could only imagine what that excuse for a woman was saying to Angel right now. Was she telling Angel about the note? That he had been the one to make the phone call? He knew both had been foolish, but he couldn’t help himself. He had to let Angel know where she belonged and that was with him, and only him.

Grayson shook his head. Carly might have her suspicions, but she had no proof that he had done anything. She would be watching him now, making sure Angel was “safe”. Ignorant woman, Angel was only safe with him. But there was no way Carly would be able to understand that. No one understood.

He would have to act tonight. Before Carly could alert others to what was going on, before she found proof and ruined everything.

New Books!!

2011-03-28T13:20:00.003-05:00

The Girl with the Mermaid Hair by Delia Ephron Click. Sukie Jamieson takes a selfie after her tennis lesson. Click. She takes one before she has to give a presentation in class. Click. She takes one to be sure there’s nothing in her teeth after eating pizza at Clementi’s. And if she can’t take a selfie, she checks her reflection in windows, spoons, car chrome—anything available, really. So when her mother gives her an exquisite full-length mirror that once belonged to her grandmother, Sukie is thrilled. So thrilled that she doesn’t listen to her mother’s warning: “This mirror will be your best friend and worst enemy.” Because mirrors, as Sukie discovers, show not only the faraway truth but the truth close up. And finding out that close-up truth changes people. Often forever.

Metamorphosis Junior Year by Betsy Franco High school artist Ovid's journal recasts his classmates' lives and loves as modern-day Roman mythology, while slowly revealing his own struggles with parents who need him to be the perfect son in the wake of his meth-addicted sister's disappearance.

Free? Stories About Human Rights by Various Authors One universal declaration names 30 rights for freedoms for everybody. But more than 60 years later, Millions of people around the world are still denied full human rights. 14 acclaimed storytellers take inspiration from those struggles.

Happy Birthday Harry Houdini!!

2011-03-27T14:40:00.004-05:00

The world just celebrated Harry Houdini's 137th birthday on March 24th. You'll be happy to know all our books on the world greatest magician have not disappeared. Come in and read about this amazing man today.

LEGO Creations Contest Starts Soon!!

2011-03-26T09:24:00.005-05:00

The LEGO Creation Contest starts this Wednesday, March 30th!

There will be a theme and we will have three categories this year: Kindergarten through 4th grade, 5th grade through 8th grade, and 9th grade through adults.

That's right, all you grown up "kids" can raid your children's LEGO boxes and join in the fun!

You can register and pick up your entry form at the Youth Services Desk, starting on the 30th.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 54

2011-03-23T13:36:00.002-05:00

Carly shook her head. “Sorry, I’m fine. That phone call sounds creepy. Do you really think Brett would do something like that?”

“I don’t know. He was pretty pissed when I broke up with him.” Angel titled her head. “It didn’t really sound like him, though. I just figured it was one of his friends.”

“Have you noticed anything else strange?” asked Carly. “Anyone lurking around the library or on Facebook?”

Angel shrugged. “Not really.”

Grayson rounded the corner and Carly took her chance. “Hey Grayson, have you met Angel? I think you all go to the same school.”

Stopping in his tracks, Grayson’s face flushed pink.

Angel giggled and waved a little ‘hi’ to Grayson. “Yeah, us and about a million other kids. I better get on this cart,” she said and disappeared around the corner with a stack of books.

Carly watched Grayson as he stared at the spot where Angel had just been. “You know I’ve noticed,” she said.

“Noticed what?” He flopped his black hair away from his eyes.

“The way you watch her.” Carly waited for the pink to return, but instead she saw an awful shade of red.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he mumbled.

Carly raised an eyebrow. “I think you do. I think you know a lot about a mysterious phone call and note that was left on her car last night.”

Grayson leaned forward on the desk. “Stay out of my business.”

“That girl is my business.” Carly stood. “Don’t make me contact the authorities.”

“And tell them what exactly?” Grayson rose to his full height. He had a good couple of inches on Carly.

“Just stop what you’re doing now, Grayson, and this doesn’t have to get messy.”

Angel rounded the corner and furrowed her brow as she took in the scene. “Everything ok, Carly?”

New Books

2011-03-21T12:59:00.004-05:00

Charlie is the freak. Gloria is the freak magnet. They're pretty much destined to meet. And when they do, sparks fly... for Charlie. Gloria, well, she just thinks he's like every other freak who feels compelled to talk to her, although a little better-looking than most.

While Charlie has his head in the clouds, Gloria's got hers in a book: her Freak Folio - a record of every weirdo who's talked to her in the last year (it's a big book). But never before has she felt the pull to get to know one of them better. Until now.

Being brown and broke has been a seventeen-year test in just how badly I want an average life. A life where doing the right thing is punished with the luxury of having to choose between the things I need and those I want. Why does the valedictorian have to choose between the class ring and an SAT prep class? Why does a clean-cut teenager have to decide between showing up to a minimum-wage job and going to the movies with the most popular girl in school? Why do I have to fight so hard just for the mere chance to have it all?

After a lifetime of following the rules, Cecily Powell surprises everyone by arriving for her freshman year of college... and turning around. There are infinite possibilities for Cecily's unexpected gap year. She could volunteer, or travel around the world - but, for now, Cecily is content to do absolutely nothing.

What follows is a year of self-doubt and self-discovery during which Cecily must ask herself, for the first time: what does she really want to do with the rest of her life?

Beastly - Trailer (Official Video) [HQ]

2011-03-14T13:26:00.000-05:00

Alex Flinn's Beastly is now out in theaters.

Library Funnies

2011-03-13T14:34:00.002-05:00

Book Review: Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

2011-03-12T09:20:00.006-06:00

I've decided to take you back to a book I read in high school, you know way back in the 90's. Even though I read it eons ago, there's a reason I'm reviewing it now, it stuck with me. One of the many reasons this book is a classic, once you read it you'll never forget it.

Of Mice and Men tells the story of George and his friend Lenny. Lenny is a bit slow and George has taken it upon himself to be Lenny's caretaker. They travel from farm to farm looking for work, in the hopes of one day owning their own piece of land. Steinbeck takes us on a journey of friendship and hope, as we fall in love with George and Lenny. And in the end learn what true friendship and love is really about.

Even though you'll find this book in the adult section of our library (F Steinbeck, J.) I highly recommend it for teens. It's not a long book, but Steinbeck doesn't need a lot of words to pull you in and take your breath away.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 53

2011-03-09T14:07:00.002-06:00

Carly inhaled sharply. “What did you see?” She willed her voice not to crack.

Angel blushed. “This is going to sound silly. Maybe I should just forget it?”

“I’m sure whatever you saw last night has a reasonable explanation.” Carly pushed up her glasses.

“Well…” Angel chewed on a fingernail. “It’s just that, last night, in the parking lot I saw…”

Carly leaned forward. “Yes.”

Angel exhaled. “I saw Ginger get into Brock’s car and I wondered if you thought they were a couple or if they’re just friends. You see, I kinda like Brock and since Brett and I broke up…” Angel blushed again. “I just don’t want to step on Ginger’s toes. I mean, we work together and I’m not trying to cause drama.”

Carly released a breath she hadn’t been aware she was holding in and giggle-snorted. Angel raised an eyebrow. Carly raised a hand. “I’m not laughing at you.” She regained her composure. “You’re right we don’t need any more drama, there’s been plenty of that lately. I honestly don’t know if Ginger and Brock are more than friends. I’m sure he’s grateful that she pepper sprayed those boys beating him up. You should just ask Ginger.”

Angel shook her head and looked at her cart. Carly bit her lip. “Angel?”

“Yep,” said Angel grabbing a couple of books off the cart.

Carly cleared her throat and tried to think of the right words to say. “We do have a lot of troubled patrons. In light of what happened to Brock a few weeks ago, I don’t think it’s a bad idea to carry some pepper spray with you, especially if you leave before closing. And it would be a good idea to have someone walk you to your car.”

Now it was Angel’s turn to laugh. “You sound like my mom. She’s been so paranoid lately.”

Carly tilted her head. “Really? I’ve met your Mom, and she doesn’t seem like the paranoid type.”

“Well she wasn’t until some jerk left a prank call on our home phone.”

“What did the message say?” asked Carly. Then she smiled. “I know I’m being nosey, I’ll mind my own business.”

“Nah, it’s ok,” said Angel. “I’m sure it was just joke. But he said ‘You belong to me.’ It really tripped my mom out, but it was probably just Brett being….” Angel stopped. “Are you ok Carly? You look like you’re going to puke.”

2011 Battle of the Books Pics!!

2011-03-09T12:58:00.005-06:00

Osage Hills Team Members
St. John Team Members
Central Team Members
Madison Team Members

And the winner is...
St. John for the second year in a row!!!

NEW YOUNG ADULT BOOKS!!!

2011-03-08T09:25:00.006-06:00

We have a ton of new books in. Check out the center "green block" display and the window shelves for the majority of our new books.

Trash by Andy Mulligan

My name is Raphael Fernandez, and I am a dumpsite boy. People say to me, "I guess you just never know what you'll find! - sifting through rubbish. Maybe one day you'll find something nice."

Then one day I did.

The Deadly Sister by Eliot Schrefer

Abby Goodwin has always covered for her sister. Maya's screw ups started out ordinary enough - broken curfews, failed classes, hanging out with drugged-out losers.

But now Maya's been accused of murder. And Abby's not sure she'll be able to cover for her anymore.

Hold Still by Nina LaCour (William C. Morris Debut Award Finalist)

That night Ingrid told Caitlin, I'll go wherever you go. But by dawn Ingrid, and her promise, were gone, and Caitlin was alone. Ingrid's suicide immobilizes Caitlin, leaving her unsure of her place in a new life she hardly recognizes.

But Ingrid left something behind. Devastating and hopeful, playful and hopeless. In words and drawings, Ingrid documented a painful farewell in her journal- for Caitlin. Journeying through Ingrid's final days, Caitlin fights back through unspeakable loss to find renewed hope.

Lockdown by Alexander Gordon Smith

Furnace Penitentiary: an underground hellhole built especially for young felons. A place ruled by murderous gangs and thuggish guards. A place where horrific creatures come out in the dead of night to steal you away. A place where the impossible - escape - is your only hope.

Book Review: The Patron Saint of Butterflies by Cecilia Galante

2011-03-07T17:56:00.003-06:00

This book was on my to-read list, so when it came up on a reading list that I had to read for work, no one had to twist my arm. It started off really slow and without giving away too much I was really disappointed with the characters. I wanted to see more emotion and confusion. There weren't enough "questions" going through Agnes brain to make what she did at the end make sense to me. That being said, it's not a bad read. For the most part I enjoyed the book; I just wanted more from the characters.

Great Resource for Help with Higher Education Planning!

2011-03-02T15:55:00.000-06:00

Within Reach ... Within You!

Education beyond high school is possible for everyone. No matter your circumstances - rich or poor, straight As or all Cs, first generation or third generation college student, rural or urban - if you have the determination and drive, you can attend a university, college or technical school and be well on your way to a great career.

The information throughout this site can help you and your parents prepare, plan and pay for education after high school. No matter where you want to go or what you want to do, one thing is true. Getting some type of education after high school (whether going to college, trade school or technical school) will help you along the way.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 52

2011-03-02T13:33:00.001-06:00

Carly fingered the note under her desk. The way she saw it, she had two choices: tell Angel about her suspicions or leave Angel in the dark and keep an eye on Grayson.

Carly sighed. Telling Angel would mean having to tell her she took the note off her car. Carly shook her head, not took, stole was a better word for what she did. Maybe she should call the police and say she found the letter in the parking lot? Of course, then she’d have to explain why she thought it was written to Angel and she didn’t have an explanation for that. She could leave an anonymous message for Angel’s parents, but that would probably just freak them out more.

No, there was only one choice and that was to keep an eye on Grayson. It wouldn’t be easy. Angel worked evenings, while Carly typically worked during the day. Switching with her co-worker wasn’t really an option either. Carly had no idea how long she’d have to keep an eye on Grayson.

She could talk to Grayson, but even though her gut told her he had something to do with it, again she had no proof. Would talking to him send him off the deep end? And how would she explain to the library director that she had accused a boy of stalking with nothing but a gut feeling and an anonymous note. No, she would have to watch from afar, become a bit of a stalker herself.

“Knock, knock… anybody home?”

Carly jumped and turned to see Angel smiling behind her. Sliding the note casually into her desk, she turned and smiled back at Angel. “Sorry you caught me in La La Land.”

Angel giggled. “Happens to me all the time.” Her smile faded. “Can I ask you a question?”

Panic ran through Carly’s mind. Had Angel seen her take the note last night?

“Sure,” said Carly, pulling up her shamrock-covered socks and concentrating on breathing. She took the note for Angel’s own good. She was protecting her. She might lose her job, but it was the right thing to do. If Angel did see her, then they could at least get the police involved and a professional to possibly keep an eye on Grayson. “Ask away.”

“It’s kind of awkward,” Angel said. “I really don’t want to step on anyone’s toes so I’m coming to you first.”

“O…K…,” Carly said slowly.

“Well, I saw something last night…”

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 51

2011-02-23T13:28:00.002-06:00

Carly glanced up just in time to see Grayson slide through the front doors. Every day was the same routine; he took a lap around the library and then sat at the computers. At first she thought maybe he had OCD and needed that lap before he could sit down. It didn’t take her long to realize he was looking for someone. And that someone happened to be her young co-worker, Angel.

She could see why he had a crush on Angel. She was nice to everyone, had pretty, long blonde hair and a body only a seventeen year old wouldn’t appreciate fully. She was good at her job and always quick to help a patron. If anything she was too trusting and talked on her cell phone too much, but Carly was willing to let that slide, as long as the books were shelved correctly.

Lately though, Grayson’s crush seemed to turn into something darker. The way he followed her through the stacks made Carly uncomfortable. She had seen him looking at Angel’s Facebook page on a number of occasions, but for all Carly knew, they were Facebook friends. She didn’t know much about Angel’s life away from the library, other than she and Grayson went to the same school and, up until recently, Angel had been dating some kid named Brett.

Grayson walked by the youth desk.

“Hi Grayson,” Carly said, silently adding, “I see you.”

Grayson grunted something that sounded like a “hello” and continued his loop.

“Maybe I’m over-reacting,” thought Carly. “He’s never done anything but watch her, I’m sure he’s waiting for the right time to ask her out?” Carly shook the bad thoughts from her head and continued with her work.

*****

Work day done, Carly grabbed her coat and walked out to her car. She noticed the car next to hers, Angel’s car, had a note attached to the windshield. For an instant Carly thought about reading it.

“No,” she said to herself, “it’s none of your business.”

But she couldn’t shake the gut feeling that it was bad news. She glanced around the parking lot, walked around to her passenger side door and pretended to shift the contents of the front seat. Closing the door, she casually yanked the note off Angel’s windshiedl and hurried around to her driver’s side.

“What are you thinking? Now you’re the one who’s stalking,” she chided. “Put the note right back where you got it and go home.”

But she had to open it, there was no going back. Flipping up the single folded sheet, she gasped as she read the words: You belong to me!

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 50

2011-02-16T13:22:00.001-06:00

It was easy to follow her around the library. As she shelved, he browsed. Not always on the same row, but always close enough to hear the buzz of her cell phone and every word of her conversations. Today she was talking about how crampy she was feeling. Grayson rolled his eyes; was nothing personal?

He knew it wasn’t her fault. In a world full of Jersey Shores and Gossip Girls no topic was off subject. Once she was his, then she would learn some things are meant to be private.

Grayson leaned in to listen to the rest of the conversation.

“I had no choice but to dump him,” Grayson heard his love say. “He’s a sleaze bag. Anyone who would…”

“Oh, hey, Grayson.”

Crap, he thought as he turned. There was Carly, the Youth Librarian, smiling at him with her spiky blonde hair and red cat eye glasses. She always wore skirts and funky socks; today the socks were covered with the Cat in the Hat. She stared hard at him. It was like she could sense his intentions.

“Hi,” he mumbled back.

She grabbed a few books off the shelf. “How’s school going?” she asked.

Grayson shrugged. “Alright, I guess.”

Carly nodded and Grayson could hear his love hang up the phone and push her book cart further away.

“The Chatty Cathy as always, Grayson,” Carly teased, and then her expression changed. Grayson couldn’t tell if it was one of loathing or caring.

“Need help with anything?” she asked.

Not unless you’re going to help me kidnap the girl of my dreams, Grayson thought, but he just shook his head no.

“Well, if you do need anything, I’m right over there at the desk.” She pointed to her desk as if to add, “I’m watching you.”

Grayson grabbed a random book off the shelf and headed for the circulation desk.

Tonight was not the night.

Maureen Johnson is Coming to OKC

2011-02-14T14:00:00.003-06:00

Come hear supercool YA author and Twitter legend Maureen Johnson speak at our libraries in April!

Tuesday, April 5th
9:30am - Bethany Library, 3510 N. Mueller, Bethany

Wednesday, April 6th
9:30am - Edmond Library, 10 S. Boulevard, Edmond
1pm - Midwest City Library, 8143 E. Reno, Midwest City
7pm - Village Library, 10307 N. Penn, OKC

Thursday, April 7th
9:30am - Capitol Hill Library, 334 SW 26th, OKC

A list of Maureeen's books are here: http://www.maureenjohnsonbooks.com/books

Check them out from your library!

For more information go to: http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=138164692910194

Selena Gomez to Play Hannah Baker

2011-02-13T13:37:00.004-06:00

Selena Gomez is slated to play Hannah Baker in the film version of Jay Asher's Thirteen Reason's Why. Good idea or are we totally over the Disney "princesses"?

To hear what Jay Asher has to say about the choice go to: http://jayasher.blogspot.com/

I'm not judging but...

2011-02-11T23:12:00.002-06:00

Remembering Brian Jacques (June 15, 1939 - February 5, 2011)

2011-02-08T17:51:00.004-06:00

The world of children's literature was hit by a devastating loss this weekend when Brian Jacques passed away on February 5, at the age of 71.

Jacques is best-known for his Redwall fantasy series featuring a world full of the adventures of various critters. The Sable Queen is the most recent release in the 22 book series and the last novel, The Roque Crew, is scheduled to be released later this year. His wonderful writing style and vivid imagination will be missed.

You can find the Redwall series in our Young Adult section under YA Jacques.

Book Summary: Chocolate Dreams Poems by Arnold Adoff

2011-02-07T17:41:00.004-06:00

It's that time of year again. The aisles of the grocery store are covered in flowers, teddy bears and those oh-so-yummy red heart boxes of chocolate. Come on, let's be honest, male or female we want the chocolate. Arnold Adoff has formed his love for chocolate in a collection of poems called Chocolate Dreams that are bound to make your mouth water.

Book Review: The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins

2011-02-06T14:11:00.003-06:00

I will be the first to admit that I didn't think the Hunger Games series would be something I liked. I picked it up because it's a very popular book and I'm a youth librarian. I felt it was my duty to read The Hunger Games so I knew what I was suggesting to others. And low and behold I fell in love with the characters.

I read a lot so I hardly ever get emotionally invested in fictional characters. Suzanne Collins instantly drew me in with Katniss and Peeta. I needed to know if they were going to make it, not just through the Hunger Games, but Catching Fire and of course the finale, Mockingjay. I found that this series got better as it went on and by the end of Mockingjay I was crying like a baby.

I highly recommend this series. Though there is violence, it's crucial to the story. I would suggest it for ages 12 and above.

Did I mention they're going to make the series into a movie? Details are still vague but tentative release date is March 23, 2012.

Southerners' Enjoyment of Snow Over Time Cartoon

2011-02-05T17:10:00.001-06:00

Click the picture to make it larger.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 49

2011-01-26T14:08:00.002-06:00

Grayson did a quick lap around the library before settling in at the computer furthest from the reference desk. She wasn’t there yet, which meant she was working the night shift. He knew his chances were good. He couldn’t remember a Wednesday night she didn’t work.

Taking a stack of library cards out of his pocket, he pulled his sister’s card from the pile. As long as he didn’t bring attention to himself, they wouldn’t even check the name. Blending in was his specialty. He did it at school, at home, and here at the library. Nobody ever noticed him, nobody ever paid attention to him. Not even his own family. Using his sister’s card insured him another hour of computer time after the shift change. Then he’d be able to watch his love.

Glancing at his watch, he logged in to Facebook. He wanted to see what his girl was up too. They weren’t Facebook friends, but all her information was public, which gave him free access to her status updates, the little rants she posted on the notes page, even her pictures. And boy did she like to post pictures. He watched her every day with her friends, snapping shots in the school hallway with her iPhone. More than likely she had posted them the minute she got home from school.

He wasn’t disappointed as three new pictures popped up on her profile page. There she was leaning against her best friend, wearing the same green sweater she’d been wearing that day, the day he fell in love with her – the day he knew she was his soul mate. He’d been shoving his books into his locker when his math handout floated to the ground. He turned to retrieve it, but she was already there, paper in hand.

“I think you dropped this,” she said with a smile. He made quick eye contact and she held it, only for a minute, but she looked deep into his eyes. There was a connection, any fool could see that.

He wanted to tell her right then how he felt. But all he could manage was a low grunt. Not even an appropriate thank you. He mentally slapped himself again for being so tongue-tied.

She hadn’t even noticed him since, but he knew that she was just putting on a cover for her friends. She was part of the popular crowd, he was an outcast. He knew their relationship would have to be a secret until they graduated, but mostly he knew she’d be thankful when he took her away from all the things he knew she secretly hated.

Book Summary: The Crowfield Curse by Pat Walsh

2011-01-25T09:50:00.003-06:00

If the deep secret has been spoken...

Can the deadliest curse be broken?

Book Summary: Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready

2011-01-22T10:53:00.001-06:00

I heard shouts coming from the hallway. I muted the stereo and listened for Logan's voice in the crowd.

Instead, I heard his name, shrieked by Siobhan, followed by the word "defibrillator."

"Oh, God." I grabbed my shirt and cami from the floor and yanked them both over my head in one movement. My face was lost inside as I tried to find the right hole and not shove my skull through a sleeve.

My head popped through, and I screamed.

Logan was standing at the foot of his bead, his shirt open and his hair rumpled, just as he'd been a few minutes before. But now he was violet.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 48

2011-01-19T14:21:00.002-06:00

Brock winced as Ginger helped him up.

“Maybe you should stay down,” said Ginger, raising an eyebrow.

Brock rubbed his ribs. “They’re probably just bruised. I doubt those punks could kick hard enough to break a twig.” He glanced at Carson as the police loaded him into the back of a police car.

Nathan ran up and embraced Brock, backing away as Brock let out a low groan.

“Are you ok?” Nathan asked.

“I’m fine. Why are you here? Where’s Dad?”

“He’s talking to one of the officers. I came with him to get you. What happened?” Nathan wiped a tear from his eye. Brock could tell his little brother was trying to be strong, but the whole ordeal had him on the verge of a nervous breakdown.

“Carson and his goon jumped me while I was waiting on Dad. They covered me in a pink blanket and tried to kicked the crap out of me.” Brock smiled. “They failed miserably of course, since I’m invincible.”

Ginger cleared her throat. Brock’s smiled widened. “Then Ginger maced them for good measure.”

“So she’s your knight in shining armor?” Nathan smirked.

“Yeah, you could say that.” Brock winked at Ginger. “Let’s go inside till they’re done. It’s freezing out here.”

Brock wrapped one arm around Ginger and the other around Nathan as they gingerly made their way to the back door.

***

Grayson stood in the shadows across the street and watched the commotion in the library parking lot. It was the perfect night for his plan, then those fools showed up to jump the boy and ruined everything. Grayson kicked the dirt and reminded himself to be patient. He would get his way, as long as he didn’t do anything rash. The girl would soon be his.

Book Summary: I Am Number 4 by Pittacus Lore

2011-01-10T13:47:00.002-06:00

In rural Ohio, friendships and a beautiful girl prove distracting to a fifteen-year-old who has hidden on Earth for ten years waiting to develop the Legacies, or powers, he will need to rejoin the other six surviving Garde members and fight the Mogadorians who destroyed their planet, Lorien.

I Am Number 4 will be in theaters on February 18, 2011.

NEW TEEN READING BLOG FROM YALSA

2011-01-07T13:33:00.000-06:00

The Hub is the literature blog for YALSA, the Young Adult Library Services Association. You can learn more about YALSA here.

The mission of The Hub: Your Connection to Teen Reads is to provide a one-stop-shop for finding information about teen reads, including recommendations for great teen reads, information about YALSA lists and awards, book trailers and other book-related videos, and best of the best lists.

Content is created by librarians and teens, with a particular focus on YALSA’s booklists and book awards, book related projects, literacy and reading, and authors.

DID YOU LOVE "THE HUNGER GAMES" TRILOGY?

2011-01-07T09:07:00.000-06:00

Want to read something similar? Check out this list of "read-alikes" compiled by YALSA (Young Adult Library Services Association). Click on the link:

http://ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pr.cfm?id=4754

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 47

2011-01-05T15:17:00.001-06:00

Brock tried to concentrate on the spine labels, but his mind kept wandering. Carson’s bullying of Nathan had only gotten worse after the truck incident. Nathan now had to walk to his classes with a teacher and eat lunch in the teacher’s lounge. Nathan said he didn’t mind, but Brock felt his brother was the one being punished instead of the bullies. The principle had insisted nothing could be done until a teacher or adult saw the “alleged bullying”. Only after a call from the family lawyer did the principle agree to chaperone Nathan to his classes and lunch hour.

“Hey, didn’t see you come in.” Ginger broke Brock’s concentration.

“Yeah, my dad dropped me off at the front doors a couple of hours ago. I’m just about done here. Sorry I didn’t check in.” Brock continued to shelve.

“So your truck’s still in the shop?”

“Yeah, for another couple of days.”

“Must’ve been expensive.” Ginger traced the books on the shelf. “Were they able to prove Carson did it? You know if they did, he could get a trespass ticket for being on library property while banned.”

“My insurance covered it and no, they couldn’t prove Carson did it. No one saw him and they didn’t leave any fingerprints or paint cans lying around.”

“What a jerk,” said Ginger. “How’s Nathan?”

Brock cringed. “Is there something you need or did you just come over to be nosey?”

“I just wanted you to know that I’ve been spreading the word about what Carson’s doing.”

“I don’t need you to clear my name,” Brock said.

“I know,” Ginger said straightening some books, “but Carson shouldn’t get away with it and people need to know so we can watch your back.”

Brock shelved the last book on the cart. “I’ve got my own back. I’m going to go wait for my dad on the loading dock. See you tomorrow.”

Pacing the loading dock, Brock looked for his dad’s car. Of course he was late; it was coldest day of the year. Brock rubbed his arms as a pink blanket netted him. He struggled to get free as four pairs of hands drug him to the ground. Brock instantly went into the fetal position as the kicks started falling.

He prayed that his dad would drive up, prayed a patron would see the commotion, as each foot met with a rib or the back of his head. He willed himself to stay awake, not to black out. Soon the kicking stopped and he heard screams as the smell of nutmeg and pepper filled the air.

Brock pulled the blanket off his head. Carson and a buddy lay on the ground rubbing their eyes and crying as Ginger and three other staff members stood over them.

Ginger looked at Brock, twirled her keychain mace around her finger, and smirked. “Told you, I’ve got your back.”

Book Review: Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson

2011-01-03T18:50:00.005-06:00

Everybody told me to be a man. Nobody told me how.

Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson follows the life of high school Senior Tyler. He has spent the summer doing "hard labor" community service and working for a landscape company to pay off his "foul deed". Heading into school, he is tan, buff, and no where close to the boy he was as a Junior.

Now people are noticing him, some for the better: the beautiful Bethany, and some for the worse: her brother, Chip. Tyler sees everything he's ever wanted finally falling into place, until nude pictures of Bethany surface online and everyone's pointing the finger at him.

Twisted has found itself on many banned book lists for it's use of language, drinking, and violence. Of course, I have found with most books on the banned lists the actions of the main character are realistic and in the end, the main character always choices the moral path. Twisted is no exception to that. Some parents may cringe at the language and Tyler's temper, but I don't believe it's too extreme and I'm sure there are boys out there struggling with similar thoughts and how to deal with them. I highly recommend Twisted, I think teenage boys will relate to Tyler and hopefully learn how to deal with anger, depression, and bullying in an appropriate way. ~ Jennifer

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 46

2010-12-18T14:00:00.003-06:00

Brock hung up the phone and let out a deep breath.

“Well what did your probation officer say?” Nathan leaned on the back of a chair.

“He said that even if I’m doing my community service I have to say 50 feet away from Carson.”

“That sucks.” Nathan pulled on his arm sleeves.

“It is what it is,” said Brock. “If he comes back I’ll just go upstairs to the office until he leaves.”

“He’s not coming back.” Ginger snapped her gum in the doorway to the staff lounge.

“Then you don’t know Carson very well,” said Brock.

“He’s banned for 30 days for using fowl language in the library.” Ginger explained. “That should give you plenty of time to finish your community service.”

“I don’t think we’ve met.” Nathan advanced toward Ginger and extended his hand. “I’m Nathan.”

Ginger took Nathan’s hand and gave it a polite shake. “Does Carson bully you a lot?” she asked.

Nathan looked over his shoulder at Brock. “Man, this one doesn’t hold back does she?” He turned back to Ginger. “It’s been going on for about a year. He doesn’t understand alternative lifestyles, so he mocks. It’s what Neanderthals do. I usually just brush it off, but Brock here was a bit more sensitive to the colorful language.”

“How come the rest of the school doesn’t know this side?” Ginger asked Brock. “I’m sure more people would understand why you did what you did, if they knew what Carson was doing.”

“It’s all in the police report,” said Brock. “Nobody cared to find out my side once the pictures got plastered all over Facebook.”

“I’m sorry,” said Ginger, looking at her feet. “I’ve been awful to you. I had no idea what he was doing to your brother.”

“Don’t worry about it,” said Brock. “If you don’t mind, I think I’m going to call it a day and drive Nathan home.”

“I understand. I’ll give you the full hours for today,” said Ginger.

“Don’t do that. No matter the situation I shouldn’t have hit Carson. I’ll do all my community service.” Brock walked to the door. “Come on Nathan, let’s go home.”

Brock turned towards the driver’s side of his black truck and began cussing. Nathan hurried over to see what the problem was. A note spray painted in big white letters across the driver’s side door read: “FAG LOVER”

*Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama will return December 29th.

New Books!!

2010-12-11T09:46:00.005-06:00

The Unwritten Rule by Elizabeth Scott (YA Scott U 2010)

He's looking at me like - well, like he wants to look at me. Like he likes what he sees, and he's smiling and his eyes are so blue even in the faint glow of the porch light they shine, and I nod dumbly, blindly, and then grope for the door handle, telling myself to look away and yet not able to do it.

"Sarah," he says, softly, almost hesitantly, and my heart slam bangs, beating hard, and this is what it's like to want someone you can't have. To want someone you shouldn't even be looking at.

Eli the Good by Silas House (YA House, S E 2009)

In the summer of 1976, ten-year-old Eli Book's excitement over Bicentennial celebrations is tempered by his father's flashbacks to the Vietnam War and other family problems, as well as concern about his tough but troubled best friend, Edie.

Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce (YA Pearce, J S 2010)

The wolf opened its long jaws, rows of teeth stretching for her. A thought locked itself in Scarlett's mind: I am the only one left to fight, so now I must kill you.

Scars by Cheryl Rainfield (YA Rainfield, C S 2010)

Fifteen-year-old Kendra, a budding artist, has not felt safe since she began to recall devastating memories of childhood sexual abuse, especially since she cannot remember her abuser's identity, and she copes with the pressure by cutting herself.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 45

2010-12-08T14:14:00.002-06:00

“Oh, would you now?”

Ginger whirled around to see Carson standing behind her. “Carson! What are you doing here?” she asked.

“I just wanted to see how Brock’s community service was going. I was hoping to see him scrubbing some toilets with his toothbrush,” said Carson.

Brock grunted. “Well, apparently the judge didn’t think hard labor was merited, given what you did.”

“What I did?” Carson placed a hand on his chest. “You’re the one who beat the crap out of me.”

“And like I said,” Brock took a step closer to Carson. “I’d do it again.”

“Shut up, Brock,” said a young man, turning the corner.

“Who are you?” asked Ginger.

“He’s my brother,” said Brock. “What are you doing here, Nathan?”

“Apparently, I’m saving your butt.” Nathan walked towards Brock. “You know she could go to your P.O. and tell him you threatened Carson again. Dude, you’ll go to juvie.”

“You know I’d do it again.” Brock narrowed his eyebrows.

“I know you would.” Nathan put his hand on Brock’s shoulder. “And I’m thankful for that, but you don’t have to. I can take care of myself. You think Carson’s the first person to call me that?”

“I call it as I see it.” Carson grinned.

Brock took another step towards Carson. Nathan pushed him back. “He’s not worth it. Just walk away, Brock. He’s just being ignorant.”

“Who you calling ignorant, fag!” snarled Carson.

Ginger gasped and motioned to Natalie at the reference desk. Natalie hustled over. “What’s going on here?”

Ginger struggled to find the words. “I think…” She looked from Brock to Carson. Images of Carson’s battered face flooded her mind. Then her eyes met on Nathan’s. Just how many times had Carson taunted him? “I think Carson needs to leave. He’s insulted a patron.”

Carson’s jaw dropped. “You’re taking his side?”

Natalie stepped in front of Ginger. “Carson, I understand that there are always two sides to every story, but on this occasion I think it would be best if you left.”

Carson glared at Brock. “This isn’t over.”

Book Summary: Reckless by Cornelia Funke

2010-12-06T14:15:00.002-06:00

Jacob and Will Reckless have looked out for each other ever since their father disappeared, but when Jacob discovers a magical mirror that transports him to a warring world populated by witches, giants, and ogres, he keeps it to himself until Will follows him one day, with dire consequences.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama Part 44

2010-12-01T14:00:00.000-06:00

Ginger snapped her gum as she watched Brock. He had been doing his community service for the past three days and hadn’t slipped up once. She longed for the opportunity to tell the judge he hadn’t fulfilled his end of the probation and needed jail time. But no, he had showed up on time, done his work correctly, without complaint, and gone home. He even helped the occasional patron find a book.

She had seen the pictures of Carson’s face after Brock got done with him. Who hadn’t seen them? In less than an hour after the incident they had been posted online. Nothing was a secret now-a-days. The world knew everything about you with just a few keystrokes.

“Did you need something?” Brock asked.

Ginger shrugged.

“Well, you keep staring at me,” said Brock. “Makes me think you have something to say.”

“Oh, I have something to say.” Ginger popped her gum. “But saying it at work could get me fired and I, unlike you, actually like being a productive member of society.”

Brock shook his head. “Sounds like you’ve got it all figured out. I’ll just be over here shelving, like a productive member of society. Just know,” Brock smiled. “If you keep staring I may get the impression you have a crush on me.”

Ginger’s mouth flew open. “I would never crush on someone as disgusting as you! You should be in jail, we all know it.”

The corner of Brock’s mouth twitched. “Oh, I get it. You’re waiting for me to mess up, so you can tell the judge I didn’t do my community service.” He closed the distance between them. “That’s not going to happen. I’ll do my time right, then I’m done and you won’t have to see my ‘disgusting’ face any more.”

He turned back to his shelving, then paused and faced Ginger again. “And for the record, I’d do it again. Carson deserved it.”

Movie Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1

2010-11-29T13:02:00.002-06:00

Last week I finally braved the crowds and went to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1. I was instantly pleased as the movie started out with an action packed scene that left me on the edge of my seat. Having read the books, I knew what was coming, but I thought they brought the "Harry Clone" scene vividly to life.

There is a lot of "story telling" done in this moving that's crucial for part 2, but it does appear to move slow at times. I think the director did an excellent job, fitting in the drama and action around the "story telling", but I can see why some critics thought it moved too slow.

Warning to parents, this is not your first Harry Potter movie. It's darker, there is death and at least one scene is pretty brutal and scary to watch. Anyone who has read the book (and I highly recommend you do if you haven't) knows there are some really sad moments. I cried at the end, I can imagine a young child being upset at the end of this movie. There is a reason it's PG-13.

I know a lot of this is very vague, but I'm trying not to give away any spoilers to those who haven't read the books. Bottom line, I highly recommend the movie, and of course if watching the movie has put you in the Harry Potter frame of mind we have all 7 books at the library just waiting to be read (or re-read) by you.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 43

2010-11-23T14:48:00.002-06:00

Brock stared at the pile of books on the floor.

“What happened?” asked Sam.

“I was trying to straighten the Spider-Man comic books.” Brock scratched his head. “And I must’ve hit the shelf behind it, cause the next thing I know the entire row is hitting the floor.”

“Come on,” said Ronnie. “Let’s get these books picked up before Ginger comes over.”

A loud snap of gum echoed behind them. “Which one of you delinquents is responsible for this?”

Brock held up his hands. “Chill, Ginger, it was an accident….”

“Don’t tell me to chill, Brock Cummings, we’re not at school. You can’t bully yourself out of this.”

“I’ve never bullied myself out of anything, Ginger.”

“Oh yeah, pretty sure that’s not what Carson Fuller would say.”

Brock’s eyes grew wide. “That was a misunder…. You know what? I don’t have to explain myself to you. I’m here doing my community service. I dropped a few books. Get over it.”

Brock turned his attention back to the books on the floor. Ginger snapped her gum twice and then stormed off.

Ronnie piled the books. “So that was you?”

Brock looked up and nodded. “Thanks for the help guys, but I got it. You better go work on your cart before she decides to go postal again.”

Sam and Ronnie retreated to their cart. Brock continued gathering the books, trying to focus on the alphabet. Books shelved, he sat on his haunches and stared at the floor. That night flooded back to him. The fight with Carson. The hurtful words that flew out of his mouth, words that could never be taken back. The smell of blood and the flurry of sirens and lights.

Why would anyone forgive him for what happened to Carson, when he couldn’t even forgive himself?

Fall into Classics

2010-11-22T13:45:00.006-06:00

Fall is here. There's a chill in the air, the semester's coming to an end. Soon there'll be nothing to do but sit in front of the fire and read a good book.

Let me encourage you to put down the Twilight and pick up a classic. A book that has stood the strands of time. Who knows you may fall in love with a classic.

Harry Potter Jeopardy Pictures

2010-11-20T16:32:00.003-06:00

The houses/schools awaiting the start of the game... Who will win the House Cup?

Discussing strategy on how to take home the best prize.

Youth Assistant Jennifer mans the almost empty prize table while Sara debates which prize she wants.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 42

2010-11-17T16:57:00.001-06:00

“OK,” said the blonde at the front of the meeting room, as she slammed a book down, making everyone jump. “My name is Ginger and I’m gonna show ya’ll how to shelve. I know ya’ll don’t want to be here. I understand that. I’m not here to judge.”

She snapped her gum. “But, I am here to make sure you do your community service right so I don’t have to fix it after ya’ll have gone on to your happy, little delinquent lives. So pay attention, K.”

Snapping her gum again, Ginger turned towards the dry erase board and started going over the fundamentals of shelving.

Sam leaned into Ronnie. “I feel bad that I got you into this mess. I never in a million years thought your dad would write you a ticket, too.”

A figure loomed above them. “Oh, I’m sooo sorry,” Ginger said sweetly, “am I disturbing your conversation? Please do continue. It’s not like you’re here for a reason or anything.” She looked at her fingernails. “Oh wait, you are here for something. What was it… oh yeah, community service. Which you need me to sign off on, so if I were you, which I’m glad I’m not, I’d pay attention.”

“You should lay off the kids.”

Ginger looked up and glared at the only other person in the training. He sat slouched in a back chair, hands deep in his leather jacket, messy blonde hair falling into his eyes.

“Oh really, Brock?” said Ginger, “Look, you’re more than welcome to do your community service with another city department. I hear sanitation needs some workers. You’d probably fit right in.”

Brock shrugged. “I’m cool here.”

Ginger gave a little grunt before strutting back to the front of the room to finish the training. Half an hour later Ronnie and Sam worked on shelving a youth cart together.

“Wow, that Ginger is something else,” said Sam.

“She’s alright,” said Ronnie, placing a book on the shelf. “She’s got a point. Most people come in and just shove the books on the shelf in any ol’ place, then she has to fix it. It’s got to be incredibly frustrating.”

“Yeah I guess,” said Sam.

“How’s the Fosters?” asked Ronnie, giggling.

“I know, a foster family, named the Fosters, it is pretty funny. They’re great. I never thought it would be so good. We even have Foster Family Fri…”

Sam was interrupted by a large crash two rows over followed by a low, “Crap!”

HARRY POTTER TRIVIA THIS SATURDAY!!

2010-11-15T18:23:00.002-06:00

HARRY POTTER JEOPARDY

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 FROM 2-4

IN MEETING ROOM A

TEST YOUR HARRY POTTER KNOWLEDGE AND WIN FABULOUS PRIZES. SNACKS PROVIDED. KIDS OF ALL AGES WELCOME. PLEASE REGISTER AT THE YOUTH DESK OR CALL 338-4170 FOR THIS FREE PROGRAM.

Book Review: Dreamland by Sarah Dessen

2010-11-15T18:05:00.003-06:00

Strange, sleepy Rogerson, with his long brown dreads and brilliant green eyes, had seemed to Caitlin to be an open door. With him she could be anybody, not just the second-rate shadow of her older sister, Cass. But now she is drowning in the vacuum Cass left behind when she turned her back on her family's expectations by running off with a boyfriend. Caitlin wanders in a dream land of drugs and a nightmare of Rogerson's sudden fists, lost in her search for herself.--Patty Campbell

I believe this is one of those books every girl and parent should read together. Too often young girls find themselves in abusive relationships and don't know what to do. Caitlin takes us into that world and makes us want to help her, makes us want to shout at her parents... it makes us want to make it better for her. This is a YA title, but I'm warning parents right now, the main character uses drugs, smokes, and has sex with her boyfriend. These activities, though inappropriate, are there to prove a point. They are not just there for a "cool" factor. Just in real life she learns a lesson, and a hard one at that. ~ Jennifer

New Books: More and More Trickle In

2010-11-06T11:10:00.005-05:00

Due to the budget we aren't getting as many new books as we would like, of course we are librarians so we'd "like" to get new books every day. We are very thankful for what we do get, here are a couple you might want to check out.

Annexed by Sharon Dogar (YA Dogar, S A 2010)
I look out the window into the street... I'm meant to be at Mr. Frank's workplace in a few hours. We're arriving separately, all of us. We'll walk into the building just like it was any other visit - only this time we'll never walk out again.

What was it like hiding in the Annex with Anne Frank? To be with Anne every day while she wrote so passionately in her diary? To be in a secret world within a world at war - alive on the inside, everything dying on the outside? Pete Van Pels and his family have lost their country, their home, and their freedom, and now they are fighting desperately to remain alive. Look through Peter's eyes. He has a story to tell, too. Are you listening?

Kyle's Island by Sally Derby (JF Derby, S K 2010)

This is not the way Kyle planned to spend his summer. Summers mean the lake - staying at Gram's cottage, fishing all day, and hanging out with the whole family, just like they've done every year as far back as Kyle can remember. But this summer is different. Gram died. Dad moved out. And now Mom says they'll have to sell the cottage - sell their summers! - because they can't afford the upkeep anymore. It isn't fair.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 41

2010-11-03T12:22:00.002-05:00

Ronnie awoke to the sound of muffled voices. The world was fuzzy and she blinked desperately trying to get the looming forms to clear up. Suddenly, the events of the night flooded her thoughts and everything snapped into focus. There was her dad, snapping his fingers, trying to get her to look at him. Just above his left shoulder was Sam, a frantic look still on his face.

She tried to sit up, but her dad’s firm hands held her down.

“Whoa, just lie still,” her dad said softly. “You’ve been out for awhile. The EMTs will be here soon.”

“I’m so sorry,” Sam cried.

“What happened?” Ronnie asked, voice cracking as she noticed she was still in the stairwell.

“You fell down the stairs,” her dad said, brushing her bangs away from her eyes. “I’m gonna go see what’s taking them so long.”

Ronnie watched her dad hustle down the rest of the stairs.

“Oh no, Sam, your dad…” Ronnie tried to sit up again; pain exploded in her head causing her to lie back down.

“Don’t worry about it. My dad has a problem. At least now he’ll get help.” He grabbed her hand. “I just hate that you had to get hurt for me to see that. I’m so sorry. I should’ve stopped that whole conversation when I saw what kind of mood he was in. This is all my fault.”

“No, it’s mine. I shouldn’t have insisted on talking to him.” She looked up at Sam. “So what’s gonna happen to you?”

“I’m waiting for the social worker. Group home tonight, then foster placement tomorrow or the next day.” Sam smiled. “At least I won’t have to steal crackers anymore.”

“Where’s your dad?” Ronnie asked.

“Right now, he’s in jail. We don’t have the money to bail him out, so he’ll stay there and sober up. Hopefully he will get probation and rehab. I’ll probably get a ticket for trespass,” Sam explained.

“I’m so sorry, Sam,” said Ronnie.

“Don’t be,” Sam smiled, “it’s a misdemeanor and probably won’t even go on my record.”

Ronnie squeezed Sam’s hand. “Promise me you’ll keep in touch, no matter where you go.”

Sam squeezed back. “Of course I will, Veronica.”

College-Bound? Win A $5K Book Shopping Spree!

2010-11-03T09:46:00.000-05:00

Author James Patterson is giving away gift certificates which may be worth $250 to $5000 in books for college-bound scholars. The high school seniors who best answer the question
"How has your favorite book inspired you toward what you'd like to do in life?"

at http://jamespatterson.com/dollars-for-scholars-entries.php
will win:

■8 first place gift certificate awards of $5,000 apiece;

■8 second place gift certificate awards of $2,500 apiece; and

■40 third place gift certificate awards of $250 apiece.

Winners can use their gift certificates to purchase books at any bookstores listed on the IndieBound.org web site, either in-store or online.

Teen Read Month: Reading logs due

2010-11-01T14:13:00.002-05:00

October has ended and now it's time to turn in those Reading Logs for Teen Read Month. You need to turn in those Reading Logs to the youth desk before 9:00 pm on November 3rd, that's this Wednesday. We will NOT accept any logs turned in after that deadline. If there is no one at the Youth Desk (make sure to look through the shelves, we may be shelving), feel free to leave them at the Circulation or Reference Desks, they will make sure we get them on time.

Remember if you've read the most PAGES in October you could win an Ipod Nano!!! Don't think it's out of your reach, a girl from Bartlesville won last year.

One more thing, once you turn in your reading log you automatically get 2 FREE BOOKS off the prize cart!!! Whoo-hoo... FREE BOOKS!! So get those Reading Logs in today!!

The Library's Secret

2010-10-31T14:26:00.003-05:00

The library has a secret. Ok, maybe secret is too strong of a word, it’s just something we don’t talk about, and for a librarian that’s a big deal. But due to an experience I had last Wednesday night; I can no longer stay silent. People must know, before someone gets hurt.

The library has a ghost.

That’s right folks, a transparent, walks through walls, thing that goes bump in the night, ghost. Oh, I can hear you laughing; the skeptical side of your brain telling you “there’s no such thing as ghosts.” But you’re wrong, and I know this because I saw her Wednesday night.

Before Wednesday, I too, was a skeptic. I’d heard many a tale from co-workers, claiming to hear moans and other mysterious noises. I brushed it off as air conditioning and other "natural" sounds that happen in buildings as the sun goes down and the evening starts to chill. Our elevators will go up and down, even when they’re shut off. Not trusting the elevators anyway, I always assumed it was a mechanical glitch. They're breaking down all the time. That’s why I always use the nice, reliable, no possibility of getting trapped, stairs.

One staff member even swears the ghost locked her in the bathroom. I couldn't help but think of the children’s bathroom door and how it sticks all the time. Could this “bad carpentry” be the actual bathroom trapping spirit? And let’s not forget how incredibly cold the library gets; there are nights it feels like a meat locker.

Now on occasion I’ve seen someone standing on the bridge either out of the corner of my eye, or in the reflection of the big east windows, but when I turn and look there’s no one there. I’ve always put it off as my eyes playing tricks on me. That is until Wednesday.

Wednesday started off as any other day. There were books to shelve and patrons to help. My dinner hour came and went, more patrons, more shelving. Around 8:30 pm the reference librarian called me to say she had heard something heavy fall in the upstairs office. She couldn’t leave the reference desk unattended and our local and family history librarian was swamped with people trying to print off their latest genealogical finds, so she wondered if I would go up and make sure kids weren’t horsing around.

Of course I said yes and made my way to the office in question. The door was slightly ajar, so I pushed it open and using my best librarian voice, stated that it was not open to the public. Switching on the light, I saw nothing. I scanned the room, my eyes falling on an open closet.

“Ah ha,” I thought, “the culprits are hiding in there.”

The little hairs on my arm began to prickle, and I briefly thought about calling a co-worker for some back-up, but pushed the thought away. I was being silly. I walked to the closet, again switching on the light, bracing myself to see kids making out. Nothing. There was no one there. But a box of donated books laid scattered along the floor.

“Ok,” I thought, chuckling to myself. “The kids knocked it over and fled before I got up here.”

I sighed and began picking up the books. That’s when I noticed the small open door leading to more storage. I hoped the kids hadn’t crawled into the storage space. I got down on all fours and peered into the small closet, feeling around for a light switch. Not finding one, I pulled my cell phone out and used the light to scan the room. There were piles and piles of books. One particular book caught my eye, a very popular book, that had been declared lost earlier that day. I flipped the book over and scanned the UPC sticker. The number was the same, this was the lost book. I held the cell phone higher, trying to see how far back the storage closet went, wondering if they were all lost books, when the light went out. I fumbled for a button when a white mist began to form. I froze in fright, cradling the book against my chest, when I heard a faint, “Mine.”

The mist grew thicker. I couldn’t move, my brain was telling me to run away, scream, do anything but sit there like a dummy. But I couldn’t.

“Mine,” the mist moaned louder.

All of a sudden it advanced towards me, forming the shape of a woman. Her face twisted in anger. She was pointing at me - pointing at the book. “MINE!” she screamed.

Finally, my body caught up with my brain and I threw the book at the ghost. Flinging myself backwards out of the crawl space, I slammed the door shut with my foot. Swallowing a scream I sat there panting, waiting for the ghost woman to come through the wall. Waiting for her to gobble me up.

But she didn’t come. She had what she wanted.

So the next time you’re in the library and you see a shadow out of the corner of your eye or the air feels a little too cold, you know what’s going on. And if she wants a book you’re currently responsible for, trust me just let her have it.

Book Summary: Dead Connection by Charlie Price

2010-10-30T13:11:00.005-05:00

They are not graveyards. I hate it when people say that. They are cemeteries. That's where most of my friends are. I don't spend much time with the older people. The ones my age and the children, they almost all need someone to talk to. I comfort them the best I can. They weren't ready. They'll tell you that. They're not jealous or mean or scary like you might think. Just really lonely. Everybody needs a friend.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 40

2010-10-27T12:24:00.003-05:00

Ronnie’s mouth dropped. “Mr. Brown, I assure you, I don’t want anything in return.” She crossed her arms. “No, I take that back. I do want something.”

Mr. Brown smirked. “I knew it; everybody wants something.” He took another drink from his flask. “Go on girlie, what is it?”

“I want,” she glanced at Sam. “I want Sam to be able to live a somewhat normal life. No more sneaking into libraries for a warm place to sleep. No more covering for you after you go on a bender and trash a kitchen.”

Mr. Brown raised his eyebrows as he took another swig.

“That’s right,” Ronnie continued. “I know all about it. Do you know your son has to steal crackers from the cafeteria so he doesn’t go hungry?”

“Wait,” interrupted Sam, “I don’t steal them; they let me have them.” He lowered his head.

“See,” Ronnie gestured at Sam, “he’s ashamed that he has to ask the cafeteria ladies for crackers because you’re too hopped up on the sauce to stay in a decent place for more than a couple of weeks. So what, the mission wants you to thank Jesus and the shelter wants you to clean toilets. It’s the least you could do for them giving your son a hot meal and warm bed every night.”

Mr. Brown took another deliberate drink from his flask and then slowly screwed the cap back on. Wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, he paced the bathroom.

“Sounds like you’ve got it all figured out, young lady.” Mr. Brown scowled.

He marched towards Ronnie. She took a step back, then stood her ground.

“I’m not afraid of you,” Ronnie said, demanding her voice not to quiver.

“Well, aren’t you the tough one.” He leaned in; Ronnie could smell the whiskey on his breath and willed herself not to turn away.

Sam took a step in front of Ronnie. “Dad, just calm down. She didn’t mean anything by it, really. There’s this job, you see, and I think it would be really good for you. Ronnie’s the one that found it for you. I think it’s a good idea.”

Mr. Brown slammed his hand against a stall, causing both kids to jump. “I don’t give a rat’s whisker what you think!”

Ronnie threw her hands up. “Sorry Sam, but your dad is impossible. I’m leaving.”

She hurried out the door and ran to the steps. This had been a huge mistake; she had to leave before Mr. Brown took it out on the library, or worse, Sam. Running towards the stairs, Ronnie glanced behind her.

The last thing she saw was Sam’s frantic face, then the whole world went black.

Book Review: Witch and Wizard by James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet

2010-10-25T15:55:00.004-05:00

I love having a good audiobook when I travel and Witch & Wizard by James Patterson and Garielle Charbonnet did not disappoint.

Wisty and her brother, Whit, find themselves in a world turned upside-down when the New Order (N.O.) takes over and bans everything creative. Taken from their homes in the middle of the night with only a drumstick and empty book, Whit and Wisty must find the power within, in order to survive.

Reading other reviews of this book, most people had problems connecting with the characters. Maybe because this was an audiobook, read by two wonderful actors, Spencer Locke and Elisha Wood, I didn't have this problem. I hung on every word, wanting to know how Whit and Wisty were going to make it through the various tight spots they found themselves in.

This book gave me a Harry Potter feel and I'm really looking forward to reading the second book in the series, Witch & Wizard: The Gift.

Land of Lexile!

2010-10-22T14:22:00.001-05:00

We are often asked in the Youth Services department about Lexile reading levels. What is Lexile? It is a measurement assigned to either an individual’s reading ability or the difficulty of the text of a book. The Lexile measure is shown as a number with an “L” after it.
The webpage, Lexile.com/fab, has a handy tool that can be used to determine the Lexile level of a book or to find books within a specified range of Lexile levels. You can even search for books that fall into a particular category or genre. If you don’t know your reading level, you can enter the grade you are in and then choose an option stating if the books that are read in school are easy, hard or just right. This will take you to a list of suggested titles based on that criteria!
This resource is extremely hand for students from kindergarten through 12th grade, along with their parents, caregivers, teachers and, yes, librarians!

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 39

2010-10-20T12:29:00.001-05:00

“No, no, no, no… no!” Sam shook his head. “You will NOT be staying here.”

“You don’t really have a choice,” said Ronnie. “The way I see it, I can spend the night camped out in the library with you and your dad or I can tell my dad what’s going on here.”

Sam crossed his arms. “You wouldn’t dare.”

Ronnie pulled out her cell phone and scrolled down to her father’s name. “I’ll call him right now,” she said, showing Sam the phone screen.

Sam stared at her, calling her bluff. Ronnie pushed the send button and leisurely moved the phone to her left ear.

“Hey Dad,” she said, glaring at Sam. “I’ve got something to tell you. I don’t really want to do it, but I don’t feel I have a choice.”

“Fine,” said Sam, grabbing at the phone, “you can stay. Just don’t tell your dad.”

Ronnie nodded. “Dad, there’s a gallon of chocolate ice cream hidden behind the frozen veggies. I wasn’t going to share, but I really shouldn’t eat a gallon of ice cream by myself. Just don’t eat it all, you know, with your triglycerides count and all.”

Sam sighed with relief.

*****

Sam heard a soft knock on the bathroom door. Opening the door, Ronnie bounced in and threw her hand out to Sam’s dad. “Veronica Marshall,” she introduced herself, “but you can call me Ronnie.”

Sam’s dad ignored Ronnie’s gesture. “So you’re the one blackmailing my son?”

Ronnie cringed, pulling her hand back. “Blackmailing is such an ugly word. I just know how to get what I want.”

“So what,” Sam’s dad grumbled, “do you want exactly?”

“I just want to help,” said Ronnie.

“It has been my experience,” Mr. Brown said, taking a swig from his flask, “that nobody just wants ‘to help’. There is always something in it for them.” He took another drink. “The mission wants me to run around telling everyone that Jesus saved me in return for a hot meal. The shelter wants me to be a janitor in return for a cot.” Another swig. “Nobody just wants to help. So what is it, Miss Veronica Marshall do you want?”

Book Summary: All Hallows' Eve: 13 Stories by Vivian Vande Velde

2010-10-18T13:01:00.007-05:00

Halloween's right around the corner... looking for something spooky to read? Try Vivian Vande Velde's All Hallows' Eve: 13 Stories. It'll make you beg for a nightlight.

Witches are Dancing.

The Dead are Walking.

Vampires are Feeding.

For Tonight is All Hallows' Eve.

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 38

2010-10-13T13:34:00.001-05:00

Sam slammed his history book closed and dropped it to the floor. The bang caused the low murmur of the library to fall silent.

Sam glared at Ronnie. “How dare you?”

“I… I don’t understand,” stammered Ronnie. “I thought you’d be happy. You and your dad would have a place to live; in return you just have to keep it in shape. How is that a bad thing?”

Sam crossed his arms. “Yeah, it’s all fine and dandy until my dad goes on some binge and tears the place apart. Then the law gets involved, which means my dad gets put in jail and I get tossed into a foster home.”

“What do you think will happen if he goes on a binge at the library?” asked Ronnie.

Sam was silent, so Ronnie continued. “Look Sam, if he does go on a binge then you’ll have the opportunity to fix it before Courtney will know. That’s the whole reason she’s looking for a caretaker, because she doesn’t have time to go out there herself.”

“Then why doesn’t she just rent the place out?” Sam shook his head. “It just seems too easy.”

“I don’t know the logistics,” said Ronnie. “But it has something to do with the insurance not covering renters. Look, her husband makes good money at his job, so they can afford to pay someone to look after the place.”

Sam sighed. “I don’t know.”

“Sam, I know it wasn’t my place to talk to Courtney about the job. I really just want to help.” She placed a hand on Sam’s arm. “I can imagine you’ve never had it very easy, but this is a good deal – no strings attached, I promise.”

“Ok,” Sam muttered.

“What?” asked Ronnie, smiling. “I couldn’t quite hear you.”

“I said, O…K…,” Sam grinned back. “I’ll talk to my dad tonight. Thanks, Veronica.”

Ronnie blushed at her full name and started gathering her belongings.

“You have to leave?” asked Sam.

“Well I need to go get my overnight stuff,” said Ronnie.

“What do you mean?” Sam raised an eyebrow.

“Well I can’t sleep in my clothes, silly.”

Sam continued to look confused.

“I’m spending the night in the library with ya’ll, to help convince your dad to take the job,”said Ronnie.

Sam stared at Ronnie, eyes wide. “You’re what?”

Life in the Stacks: A Library Drama part 37

2010-10-06T12:58:00.002-05:00

“What are you, my fairy godmother?” Sam snarled.

“No…. Sam, I’m just trying to help,” said Ronnie.

“What makes you think I need any help? We were just fine until you had to go and spout off to your dad. Now we’ve got to find a new place to live. Do you know how cold it gets at night? Do you?” A cold smile crossed Sam’s face. “Of course you don’t. You’ve got a nice roof over your head and central heat, I’m sure.”

“You’re kind of being a brat,” Ronnie said matter-a-factly, picking up her book. “All you had to do was say no thank you.”

She opened her book and started reading.

“Well, no thank you,” snapped Sam.

“Fine,” Ronnie snapped back.

“Fine,” Sam smirked, silently gloating that he had the last word. He unzipped his bag and took out his history book as a red-haired lady that Sam had seen working circulation approached Ronnie.

“Hey Ronnie, did you ever hear back from your friend about that caretaker position?
I really need someone out at my parents’ place soon,” the lady asked.

“I’m sorry Courtney, it turns out they aren’t interested. Which is really a shame; I think the arrangement could’ve benefited both of you.” Ronnie looked at Sam, and then back at Courtney. “Has anyone answered your ad in the paper?”

Courtney shook her head. “The problem is no one wants to live out there for what I’m paying. I really don’t understand it. The house is in great condition and I’m offering to pay utilities. I just can’t pay a huge salary. Maybe that’s the problem. I don’t know.”

Ronnie threw a side glance at Sam. He was staring at his history book, but she was sure he was listening. “Well, let me check with my friend again,” said Ronnie. “Maybe he’ll change his mind.”

“Ok, thanks Ronnie,” said Courtney. “Just let me know.”

As Courtney made her way back to the circulation desk, Ronnie looked at Sam. “Well, did you change your mind?”