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!

Mockingjay

It seemed to be forever for this book to be released. To prepare, I reread The Hunger Games and Catching Fire to have the story and characters fresh in my mind. I am so very glad I did as I gained a new perspective and appreciation for characters and circumstances.

This book begins with Katniss visiting District 12. And...we're off.

Careful reading is required to savor every word, every action, every thought and every deed of Katniss'. I will not include any spoilers. That just ruins the whole experience. Be careful when exploring other sites because not everyone that posts comments remembers you might want to find out for yourself.

Fantastic. Fabulous. I laughed. I cried. I LOVED IT!

Probable New Series: Number Six

Teri Hall's The Line is her first book and the last page had me thinking, "OK, now that you've told me that...where is the next chapter." Sigh.

Rachel is the main character in The Line. Her mother and her live on estate with Ms. Moore. The estate is in a relatively isolated area which borders the line. The line is an invisible barrier to Away. The government created the National Border Defense System to keep invaders out; it also kept citizens out (and in) when it was activated. Many scary stories are told about what is living in Away, but Rachel doesn't quiet believe them, and when she hears a cry for help from Away - a young man's voice - she is even more curious. Now, she discovers her country's true history and the parts her parents played during the War.

Is this a grab you right away book? Nope. Is this a nail-biting, action-packed, cliff-hanger? Nope. Is it worth reading? Yes, because it makes you think about freedoms we take for granted and the dangers of being unaware, uninformed and complacent.