Incarceron Update

The sequel to Incarceron, Sapphique, is now in the library. I finished it last night. It is fast paced, packed with twists and turns in the plot, political intrigue, magic, strange characters - you know, all the characteristics of great fantasy. Finn, Claudia, and Jared are dealing with the dangers in the outside world; Attia and Keiro are dealing with the dangers of Incarceron.

If you love fantasy, read the series. And, if you love this actor - Taylor Lautner - you may be interested to know that he will star in the movie Incarceron. Read the book first - it is always better than the movie.

This and That

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins is the favorite book of teens according to AASL (American Association of School Librarians). This is no surprise to me since we have twelve copies of the book and all of them are checked out AND there is a hold list. As you may or not know, the movie for Hunger Games is in the works. Mr. Warfel was a bit annoyed with me when I told him my choice of actors for Haymitch. He said all he could see in his mind's eye was Jack Nicholson, but I think he is perfect for the role! Who would you choose?

Over the last two weeks, I immersed myself in the Harry Potter videos - one through six. It was so interesting seeing the growth of Harry and pals through each video, as both the fictional characters and real life actors. The first installment of Deathly Hallows is released next month in case you are interested. Mrs. Owens reminded me that a few years ago I said "Eh...Harry Potter" (I was angry with Harry for being so angry. Yes, I get too involved in characters. Forgive me. I am a librarian.) Well, I just reread The Deathly Hallows because I couldn't remember if Snape was a good guy or not. I wasn't disappointed and I take back what I said about Harry Potter.

I will not, however, change my mind about Twilight, the books or the movies.

Another Great Fantasy!

This is fabulous fantasy! Incarceron is a prison. Those imprisoned cannot escape since it has been sealed for centuries. Prisoners do live in cells, in metal forests, decaying cities, and strange wildernesses. Legends say only one has ever escaped this place. Finn is convinced he is from the Outside - that unknown realm that seems to be only a dream.

Claudia is from the Outside; she is the daughter of the Warden of Incarceron. Through a strange series of events, Finn and Claudia communicate through a crystal key. Can she help Finn escape the prison? Is she really Outside? Do they have the strength, courage and conviction to accomplish this feat?


PS The sequel will be released in late December.

Adoration of Jenna Fox

Great read!

New Professional Books

This is different than my usual posts since it is exclusively for the teachers. So, here is a list and summary of new professional books available in the library for your perusal.

On Excellence in Teaching, edited by Robert Marzano. This book contains three chapters - Theories of Excellence, Systemic Excellence, Classroom Excellence - from renownded education leaders in the world. Chapters are filled with ideas and practical advice to improve instruction.

Cemeteries: Alive with Learning by Barbara Kissling. Ideas on how a cemetary can provide intersting learning experiences.

Visual Impact, Visual Teaching: Using Images to Strengthen Learning by Timothy Gangwer.Practical advice on how to stimulate students' interest and participation by using visual strategies and activites. All subject areas can benefit from this guide.

Primary Source: Teaching the Web 2.0 Way K-12 by Mary Johnson. Extensive listing of popular Web 2.0 tools, primary sources, and a guid eon how to get started.

Nonfiction Mentor Texts: Teaching Information Writing Through Children's Literature, K-8 by Lynne Dorfman and Rose Cappelli. Use this book to help your students become more effective writers of nonfiction. A helpful list is included, as well as insturction on how to select appropriate texts to use.

Good Girl Read!