RVC Library Teen Centre

Happy Holidays

2011-12-22T10:23:00.000-05:00

Peeled

2011-12-13T13:35:00.003-05:00

Hilly Biddle wants to be a journalist, a real one that tells the truth, sorting fact from fiction. As one of the best writers for her high school newspaper, The Core, Hilly wants to do the best job she can. Hilly lives in a small, apple-picking town in upstate NY. When murders begin piling up near an old--and allegedly haunted—abandoned house, and signs that warn people to stay away mysteriously appear on the lawn, it’s up to Hilly and the school newspaper to figure out the truth. However, the panic from the locals, and the sensationalized writings from the town’s newspaper that is creating even more fear in the community, has Hilly’s truth angle in the minority. Are things really as they appear to be? When Hilly and her friends get too close to the truth, their school newspaper is suspiciously shut down after the lead reporter from the town’s newspaper tries sues the school on the grounds of slander. What connection does this reporter have the mysterious occurrences surrounding the haunted house? Why does Hilly’s secret newspaper, The Peel, which features anonymous articles that threaten to expose the truth, cause so much controversy among the townspeople?

Peeled by Joan Bauer is a cute, well-written mystery, with a plot reminiscent of what you might see in an episode of Scooby Doo.

Goodreads Choice Awards

2011-12-08T16:27:00.004-05:00

The 2011 Goodreads (http://www.goodreads.com/) best book award results are in! The awards covered a variety of genres in both childrens, YA, and adult fiction, as well as non-fiction for adult categories.

The winner for best 2011book is the extremely popular Divergent by Veronica Roth. Divergent also won for best YA in the category of Fantasy/Sci-fi.

Divergent takes place in future Chicago, where sixteen-year-old Beatrice Prior must choose among five predetermined factions to define her identity for the rest of her life, a decision made more difficult when she discovers that she is an anomaly who does not fit into any one group, and that the society she lives in is not perfect after all.

Read more about the awards--and check out an amazing site to keep track of what books you've read and want to read--here: http://www.goodreads.com/award/choice/2011

Liesl and Po

2011-12-07T18:38:00.001-05:00

The sun hasn’t shown in over 1,000 days, and it’s been three days since Liesl’s father died. Liesl has been locked up in her step-mother’s tower—to keep her out of harm’s way, of course—since her father died. One night, a cookie-cutter figure of a person materializes in her dark room, along with its pet companion. The ghost’s name is Po and it came from the Other Side. When asked if it is a boy or a girl, Po explains it doesn’t remember; on the Other Side, things are different. So begins the friendship of Po and Liesl. Around the same time that Po and Liesl meet, we are introduced to Will, the Alchemist’s orphan apprentice. Will has just been given another late night assignment, to deliver to most impressive magic the Alchemist has ever created to the Lady Premiere and also to get materials from the coroner. The magic he must give to the Lady is rumored to bring the dead back to life. Will accidentally mixes up the box with the magic and the box at the coroner’s that holds Liesl’s father’s ashes. From that one mistake, Will finds himself on the run. Liesl, too, is on the run, having escaped from the tower to deliver what she thinks is her father’s ashes to their old home. Liesl, Will, and Po find themselves in the adventure of a life time and form a friendship strong enough to transcend dimensions.

Liesl and Po by Lauren Oliver (acclaimed author of Before I Fall and Delirium) is a charming tale about friendship, magic, family, and the power of belief. Oliver’s writing is lyrical, with a fairy tale quality. Illustrations interspersed throughout the book really make the story come alive. This book is highly recommended for fans of the supernatural, fairy tales, and books with beautiful writing.

A Monster Calls

2011-12-07T18:11:00.000-05:00

There is one thing that scares Connor more than anything in the world, more than when his father left him and his mother to move to America, more than his creepy grandma, and more than his mother’s cancer that never seems to get better. This is Connor’s one truth, a truth that hides itself in a horrible, incessant nightmare that no one can ever know about. On a particularly stormy night, when the old Yew tree outside his house comes alive, turning itself into a horrible, leafy monster and calls to Connor, Connor is not scared; this monster is not the same monster as in his nightmare. The monster, which has always preferred to take the shape of a Yew tree, is as old as stars, wide as the sky, and righteous in a way that would confuse most humans. The monster has only come walking three times before Connor called it and he tells Connor that he will share three stories with him. When he is done with these tales of royal quarrels, selfish apothecaries, and a wicked step-mother, Connor must tell him a story, the truth he has never dared tell anyone.

A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness is lyrical, haunting and heart-wrenching; it’s one of those rare books that will stay with you forever. The stark black illustrations throughout the book add even more depth to the story and characters. Make sure to have some tissues nearby when you get towards the end of the book. One of the best books I’ve read this year!

The Future of Us Book Review

2011-12-06T12:49:00.007-05:00

Imagine you've just gotten a new computer. You power it up, go on the internet and are immediately brought to a Facebook page. It's actually your Facebook page, only it is your Facebook page from the future. Your future. Fifteen years from now. Would you read every detail about yourself and try to change the things you don't like or would you ignore it and let things happen as they are supposed to? That's the dilemma that friends Emma and Josh face in The Future of Us by Jay Asher (13 Reasons Why) and Carolyn Mackler (Tangled).

It's 1996 and Facebook hasn't even been invented yet, but when Emma's dad buys her a computer and she signs on to AOL (WECLOME!) she spies her future Facebook page and realizes that not only can she learn her fate, but she can also change the outcome. The things she does when she is 15 can alter the things that happen to her when she is 30.

Emma and Josh, have big decisions to make. Do they keep reading Facebook and do what they can to make their futures what they want them to be? Or do they log off and keep the future well, in the future? And why aren't they even Facebook friends when they grow up? Talk about a tough decision.

The Cardturner by Louis Sachar

2011-11-21T14:32:00.003-05:00

Throughout his entire life, 17-year-old Alton has heard stories about his rich great-uncle. Though he’s only met him once, said uncle must continually be told he is Alton’s “favorite uncle” whenever they talk on the phone, as per his parents’ request. Alton’s parents have made it very clear that they want to be listed in the uncle’s will and must continually try and get in his good graces. This is pretty hard to do, considering his uncle’s heart is “cold as stone” and he’s really not interested in accepting dinner invitations from Alton’s mother nor spending time with Alton and his sister. One day, Alton’s uncle calls, asking Alton if he would like to be his card tuner. Alton’s uncle is a high-ranking bridge player, and after going blind, he requires someone to play the cards he picks. While being a card turner starts out as a chore for Alton—and a way to get the family on his good side—, Alton soon finds himself immersed in the game of bridge and begins to really connect with his uncle. Alton learns there is more to his uncle than meets the eye in this fascinating novel of bridge, family, friendship, love and loss.

Taylor Swift Wins Big at CMAs

2011-11-21T14:08:00.002-05:00

Did anyone watch the Country Music Awards this weekend? Taylor swift won Artist of the Year for the second time in a row, as well as awards for favorite country artist and favorite country album.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

2011-11-21T13:51:00.004-05:00

Rumor has it Tim Burton is in talks to direct Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. If there is anyone weird enough to do it...it's him!

Read the article from Deadline New York here.

Hunger Games Interview

2011-11-20T13:28:00.003-05:00

Check out this interview with Jennifer Lawrence aka Katniss Everdeen from Vanity Fair!

http://www.vanityfair.com/online/daily/2011/11/jennifer-lawrence-the-hunger-games-twilight

Across the Great Barrier (Frontier Magic Book #2)

2011-11-09T17:40:00.005-05:00

Three years have passed since Eff defeated the mirror bugs that threatened to destroy the Western settlements and became a hero, despite her being the thirteenth child. Now 18-years-old, Eff needs to figure out what she wants to do with her life. Her brother Lan, magician prodigy and the seventh son of a seventh son, wants her to continue her magical education with formal training at a name school. The only problem is Eff still has difficulty with Avrupan magic and must compensate by using Aphrikan magic to force her spells to work. Instead of more schooling, Eff really wants to continue helping Professor Jeffries at the menagerie and to explore more of the mysterious Far West past the Great Barrier. Eff’s desires become reality when she’s asked to join an expedition with Professor Torgeson and Wash, her Aphrikan magic mentor. On their journey they uncover some peculiar findings: magical and normal animals petrified. Eff and the others must find out if this happened because of some natural fossilization process or if another creature with great power is causing this.

Across the Great Barrier is an excellent follow up to Wrede’s first book in the series, Thirteenth Child. You won’t find Wrede’s version of the late 19th century western expansion in U.S history books, but she does an excellent job creating a fascinating alternate history. In this book we even find out that while the events parallel our own U.S history, the characters are in the United Sates of Columbia not America. Wrede’s novel is historical, coming-of-age, and adventure rolled into one good story. While this story is a sequel, enough of the first book is explained that it could stand alone. Here’s to hoping that there will be more books in the series!

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

2011-11-03T09:52:00.006-04:00

Jacob grew up with fantastical stories from his grandfather that he always wanted to believe. Jacob’s grandfather is a Holocaust survivor; after surviving the Nazi's horrific genocide as a child, he has been on the run from something else: monsters. Jacob’s grandfather took solace along with many other children in a mystical house on an island off the coast of Wales, led by “the Bird,” their protector. Jacob’s bedtime stories were filled with these peculiar children: some could levitate, one had a mouth in the back of her head, covered up by golden curls, and others could control sound waves or elements. As a teenager, Jacob denounces these stories as lies, and he believes that his grandfather’s fear of monsters is nothing more than a delusion caused by old age and the trauma he faced as a child. But, when Jacob sees his grandfather lying dead outside their house and catches a glimpse of his killer, an otherworldly-looking creature with long tentacles coming out of his mouth, he realizes that everything his grandfather said must be true. Jacob sets off to the island where his grandfather grew up, hoping to find clues about the peculiar children, the monsters they were running from, and their guardian, Miss Peregrine. The challenge is not only where these clues are, but when.

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs is a mysterious tale of survival and believing in your own abilities. The book is filled with old pictures of the peculiar children, the basis for the creation of the specific children. The photos make the book unique and compliment the text nicely—they’re also fascinating to look at on their own. Unfortunately, the book is a little too similar to the X-men and Xavier’s School for the Gifted. Even the Holocaust was an important part in shaping one of the main character’s lives, as it is in this novel. While the story is enjoyable, the similarities were so striking that it detracted from the original aspects of this book. Nonetheless, it is still worth reading.

Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25

2011-11-02T18:13:00.002-04:00

If Michael Vey was a normal 14-year-old boy, the only things he would have to deal with would be his mild case of Tourette’s Syndrome, the bullies who throw him into lockers, and his unsympathetic principal. But, Michael Vey is far from ordinary—he’s electric. Michael Vey is one of 17 surviving infants from a failed medical experiment. As a result, these children, including Michael, and as he finds out later, his classmate, Taylor, have unique electric abilities. Michael, Taylor, and Michael’s brilliant best friend Ostin form a secret club known as the Electroclan to track down how and why Taylor and Michael have these powers. Meanwhile, Dr. Hatch, leader of Elgen research lab and part of the group responsible for the accident, has spent more than a decade tracking down all the “Electric Children.” The Electroclan’s snooping regarding the accident sets in motion their captivity by Hatch. Hatch’s self-righteous ambition is to study the surviving teens, control their power, and create a new world of superior humans. The Electric Children live pretty glamorous lives at Elgen with a $200,000 expense account and lavish living quarters, but the utopian environment masks dark manipulation and murder. Michael and his friends must do whatever they can to avoid Hatch’s temptation, protect their families, and escape their imprisonment.

Richard Paul Evan’s first YA book is filled with non-stop action, memorable characters, believable dialog, and is a unique take on the whole ‘world domination by a new breed of humans’ troupe. Luckily, this is only the first novel in the Michael Vey series. Don’t miss this book!

Trick or Treat

2011-10-31T12:40:00.002-04:00

Happy Halloween~!

Happily Ever After?

2011-10-30T15:32:00.004-04:00

If you love fairy tales, you don't want to miss Grimm or Once Upon a Time. While the shows both involve fairy tale characters, they're actually quite different. However, it seems many viewers are choosing to watch either or instead of both.

Check out this interesting article comparing the two shows:

http://www.televisionwithoutpity.com/telefile/2011/10/once-upon-a-time-vs-grimm-will.php

Has anyone seen Grimm or Once Upon a Time? What are your thoughts about the shows?

Essential Steampunk Reading

2011-10-24T15:11:00.002-04:00

Check out this website for essential steampunk reading:

http://bestbookrecommendations.com/what-is-steampunk-fiction/

The Name of the Star

2011-10-10T12:57:00.004-04:00

Jack the Ripper is still considered one of the most feared serial killers in history. The murders he committed in 1888 were the first to be committed for no real reason other than enjoyment. More than two-hundred years have passed and someone-or something-is carrying out murders in London that follow the exact MO as Ripper: the days, the times, and the number of victims. Rory finds herself in the middle of all this when she moves from New Orleans to London when her parents take a job teaching at a British University. At first, the only thing Rory has to worry about is fitting in at her new foreign boarding school; but she soon finds herself the only witness for one of the Ripper murders, and oddly enough, the only person to have seen the killer, despite her friends standing right next to her when he spoke to her. With the help of a special, underground police force, virtually unknown to anyone in London, Rory realizes that she has a gift that can help put a stop to the psychotic new Ripper—but at what price?

The Name of the Star, book 1 in The Shades of London series, by Maureen Johnson is an intriguing, supernatural take on the Ripper murders in modern times. While this is not historical fiction, Johnson clearly did her research on Ripper and his affect on 19^th century London and the world thereafter. The ending was a little too neatly resolved, but there is still plenty of suspense throughout the novel that will have you guessing. If you love series, you’ll be happy to know that there will be more books after this one; for those of you who don’t care for continuations, The Name of the Star stands well on its own. This is one spooky read you don’t want to miss—and just in time for Halloween!

Favorite YA Book of 2011?

2011-10-03T20:28:00.004-04:00

The teen librarians of Nassau and Suffolk counties are hard at work nominating titles for this year's mock Printz Award. The Printz Award is given to a young adult novel every year "for a book that exemplifies literary excellence in young adult literature" (http://ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/booklistsawards/printzaward/Printz.cfm)

Last year, Shipbreaker by Paolo Bacigalupi won the award.

If you could nominate a book that you read, published in 2011, for this award, what would it be?

RVC Library is Famous for Teen Community Service Week

2011-10-03T11:44:00.004-04:00

Congrats to our two amazing YA librarians for getting their article, "At Your Service: Community Service Week in Long Island," published in the Voices of Youth Advocates (VOYA) journal!!!

Ask at the reference desk if you're interested in reading the hard copy of the article.

http://www.voya.com/2011/09/16/in-october-2011-voya/

Breaking Dawn Part 1

2011-10-01T12:21:00.003-04:00

Having Twilight withdrawal? You won't have to wait much longer, as Breaking Dawn will hit theaters on November 18th! Like Harry Potter, the final book will be broken into two movies.

Happy145th Birthday H.G Wells

2011-09-21T09:58:00.006-04:00

H.G Wells, known to be one of the 'fathers' of science-fiction, has written classics such as The Time Machine, War of the Worlds, and The Invisible Man. Today would have been his 145th birthday!

Interesting fact: In 1838, War of the Worlds was broadcast as a radio play, read by prolific actor Orson Welles. His performance was so convincing that people actually believed martians were invading Earth! Widespread panic occurred days later. The mix-up forever changed Welles' career, as the one who convinced the world of alien invasion from his dramatic performance of Wells' book.

Ashes

2011-09-16T14:09:00.003-04:00

Alex has a monster inside of her, a brain tumor that threatens to swallow her whole; it’s already taken away her sense of smell and taste. Alex is fed up with chemo and new treatments that haven’t produced results. She decides to take a break, leaving home for awhile to hike in the woods, when a mysterious thing happens: a pulsing noise, leaving electromagnetic waves in its path streams across the entire continent. All of the electronics shut down; anyone in their 30s to early 60s is instantly killed on the spot. Young children remain the same, as do the elderly. The teens, however, begin to experience a weird transition. Their bodies begin to decompose and they crave human flesh. Only Alex and a few other teens are unaffected by the zombie transition, something that may have to do with Alex’s diminished brain. The world is left in chaos. Who do you trust? How can you avoid the zombies? What caused the blast—nuclear attack or something else? These are questions Alex must face as she journeys in the new post-apocalyptic world, finding people she can trust and people who will turn on her in second because she’s an endangered species now.

Ashes, which is the first novel in a new trilogy by Ilsa J. Black, is an engrossing, fast-paced post-apocalyptic thriller. The book sucks you in from the beginning and doesn’t let you go until the end. This is one book you don’t want to miss!

Library Renovation

2011-08-31T15:31:00.003-04:00

Still need summer reading books? We'll have summer reading lists and books available in YA until Friday, September 2 @ 6pm when we close for renovations. We'll be reopening Tuesday, September 20th. But to hold you over until then you can visit other local libraries including Baldwin, Lakeview, Oceanside and Malverne, they will be happy to help you! In the meantime, the Library staff will be working hard to have the Library ready for you on the 20th!

My Life: The Musical review

2011-08-18T19:59:00.007-04:00

Emily and Philip become instant friends when they find out they have two things in common: they are both from (our very own!) Rockville Centre and they love the musical Aurora. Using money they have saved up from holidays, birthdays, and celebrations, they take the train into NYC every week to see their favorite play. Not everyone shares their obsession for Auroro, such as Mr. Henderson, Emily’s English teacher who refuses to let her write persuasive essays about Aurora, and the owner of the show’s venue, who feels he will make more money cancelling the show to make room for plays co-starred by The Producers' Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick. And there is still the mystery of who really wrote Aurora. The answer may solve all of their problems.

My Life: The Musical by MaryRose Wood is a humorous, fast-paced coming of age novel about holding onto your passion—and fighting for it! This is great book to read even if you are not a thespian; but if you are into theater, you will definitely appreciate the references more, especially the fact that every chapter opens with a quote from a Broadway show.

Thirteenth Child book review

2011-08-17T17:56:00.006-04:00

“Everybody knows that the seventh son is lucky…and everybody knows that seventh son of a seventh son is a natural born magician.”

Seven isn’t the only number that permeates lore—there is also thirteen. You’ve probably heard that thirteen is unlucky, bad, and even evil. Eff was born thirteenth child and twin to the seventh son of a seventh son. Eff and her brother Lan are inseparable, despite the Fate determined by their birth order. Eff knows what it’s like to be different, to have her siblings, cousins, and aunts and uncles treat her like she’s a demon. When things get too out of hand, Eff’s father decides to take a job out West as a professor of magic at a new college and move the family away. There, Eff finds her true destiny, as she helps protect the homesteaders from these strange beetles that threaten to destroy everything they come in contact with. Eff learns that she has always been more powerful than anyone let her believe, and once she believes in herself, she’s capable of anything she sets her mind to. Thirteen may be unlucky in some cultures, but what happens if you change the perspective?

The Thirteenth Child by Patricia C. Wrede is a heart-warming tale about finding the courage to believe in your inner strength. Wrede’s writing is nostalgic, creating a magical alternate late 19th century American world. If you like adventure and humor; if you like dragons, magic, and mystery, then you don’t want to pass this book up!

New Steampunk Books

2011-08-09T10:46:00.005-04:00

Love steampunk? Love romance? Then you don't want to miss these two books we just got in the library!

Corsets & Clockwork: 13 Steampunk Romances: "Dark, urban fantasies come to life in the newest collection of Steampunk stories. Young heroes and heroines battle evils with the help of supernatural or super-technological powers. Throw in epic romances that transcend time, and this trendy, engrossing anthology is sure to become another hit..."

The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross: "Finley, who has a beastly alter ego inside of her, joins Duke Griffin's army of misfits to help stop the Machinist, the criminal behind a series of automaton crimes, from carrying out a plan to kill Queen Victoria during the Jubilee."

Book Review: Imaginary Girls

2011-08-08T18:57:00.002-04:00

In Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma, Chloe has spent most of her fourteen years living in her older sister's shadow. Ruby is the girl that every guy wants to date and every girl wants to be. It evens seems as though Ruby has some kind of power over people, always getting them to do things for her. Chloe has never minded being known as Ruby's little sister, since it is Ruby who has practically raised Chloe. But when Chloe finds the body of a local teen at a party, her world is shattered. Sent away to live with her father, Chloe spends two years separated from Ruby until Ruby reappears and convinces Chloe to return home promising that everything will be the way it used to be. Chloe is shocked to discover that Ruby is right. Everything is the same as it was two years earlier--the dead girl is alive and Ruby's power over others is terrifying. A creepy reservoir with deep secrets, a living dead girl and Ruby's other-worldly powers add up to one scary mystery.

And the Winner Is....

2011-08-08T17:50:00.004-04:00

Did anyone watch the Teen Choice Awards last night? I watched part of it and was so glad that Darren Criss (aka Blane from Glee) won for best break-out star!

If you missed the show, check out a list of the winners here: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/teen-choice-awards-2011-winners-220172?page=2

Tosho-con = Big Success!!

2011-07-21T09:27:00.006-04:00

(Anime Improv group)

RVC's second annual Tosho-con was a huge success. With about 160 people, it was even bigger than last year!

Check out some of the pictures at my Flickr account http://www.flickr.com/photos/64600137@N04/sets/72157627100219637/

Read about us in Newsday here:

http://www.newsday.com/long-island/towns/long-island-now-1.1732330/anime-takes-over-rockville-centre-library-1.3029932

And check also check out some videos (the taiko drumming was amazing!)

http://www.youtube.com/user/RVCAnimeToshoCon

Case Closed manga vol. 1

2011-07-06T19:26:00.009-04:00

Case Closed, also known as Detective Conan, by Gosho Aoyama, is a dramatic and hilarious detective manga series. Seventeen-year-old detective prodigy Jimmy Kudo finds himself way over his head when he tries to catch two criminals in the act and ends up being poisoned by the “men in black” for knowing too much. Rather than dying, Jimmy shrinks down to the size of a toddler. Adopting the pseudonym “Conan,” after the famous novelist, he makes it his life goal to track down the culprits and get his real body back. Now, Conan must solve crimes to get closer to those he seeks--only, no one will take tiny Conan seriously. Conan takes refuge with his high-school friend, daughter of a mediocre detective, and uses his incredible wit to solve crimes on behalf of the clueless detective. Armed with an array of scientific gadgets created by his scietist neighbor--and the only other person who knows what really happned to Jimmy--Conan successfully solves crimes, unbenonst to his friend and her father.

With great artwork and expertly plotted out mysteries, it's no wonder this series is a hit in Japan and the U.S!

Childhood Memories-Reading Rainbow Flash Mob

2011-06-28T23:15:00.011-04:00

Does anyone remember watching the show Reading Rainbow? This hit children's show, hosted by Star Trek's LeVar Burton, promoted literacy and the enjoyment of reading. It was on from 1983-2009. I remember watching the show in the early-mid 90's and taking out videos from the library. Burton just announced that he is organizing a ..."fan flash mob that will sing and dance to the show's theme song." You can sign up to receive emails and tweets for when this will happen.

Check it out here! http://www.mediabistro.com/galleycat/levar-burton-to-lead-reading-rainbow-flash-mob_b33254

And if you forgot the theme song, you can see the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6j8EiWIVZs

Anime Tosho-con Youtube Channel!

2011-06-23T19:32:00.007-04:00

If you have a YouTube account, make sure to subscribe to the channel I made for this year'sTosho-con. Even if you don't have an account, check out the link after July 16th for videos from the convention!

http://www.youtube.com/user/RVCAnimeToshoCon?feature=mhee

The Girl in the Steel Corset review

2011-06-22T18:00:00.003-04:00

In Victoria London, things are not always as they seem. Deep in the Earth’s core exist primordial beings known as “organites,” creatures that make up the very emblem of life. If attached to humans, they can rebuild organs, skin, and tissue, making one heal faster—they can even bring back those on the brink death. These “beasties” work their so-called magic not only on people, but they can also work their powers on robots. A team of scientists excavated these creatures decades before, and at the wishes of Queen Victoria, they remained a secret from the public.

In the present, there are ordinary people, relatives of the team of those scientists, who exhibit inhuman powers. Finley Jayne has something inside her, a darker self, which seeps out when her normal self is threatened. Griffin King, newly appointed Duke after his parents were mysteriously murdered, has the ability to control the aether, energy, to the point that he can converse with the dead. Sam has extraordinary strength; and Emily, a brilliant mechanic, develops an ability to communicate with metal. Together, they must stop The Mechanic, a man who has given life to robots and threatens to destroy those who betrayed him.

This fascinating steampunk novel is, as the author describes, “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen meets X-men,” with an additional mix of Jekyll and Hyde and The Golden Compass thrown in. Cross’s language is lyrical and descriptive; the world she creates is imaginative and well-developed.

Hunger Games Parody

2011-06-15T12:06:00.001-04:00

Check out this hilarious Hunger Games parodoy using Britney Spears' song.

New Anime Tosho-con Website!

2011-06-13T12:35:00.004-04:00

Will, a member of the RVC Anime Club, created a new website to advertise our second annual anime convention! Make sure to check it out! He did an amazing job ^_^

http://www.toshocon.com/

All Men of Genius

2011-06-01T18:58:00.003-04:00

I was lucky enough to get an advanced readers' copy of this great steampunk book, which will be available to the public this October!

In alternate Victorian England, there are many scientists who have mastered the ability to create inventions beyond the common man’s wildest dreams, using gears and steam for power. Illyria is a prestigious private school run by Duke Ernest, and takes only the best of men. Violet is not your typical Victorian girl; rather, she is a gifted scientist and inventor and wants nothing more than to go to lllyria. Violet concocts a scheme to impersonate her twin brother, Ashton, in order to attend the school. She plans to keep up her disguise until the final exhibition at the end of the year, and hopes that after proving herself as a worthy scientist, she will be allowed to stay. As one would expect, keeping up this ruse is not an easy task for Violet, especially when she starts getting close to the Duke. Within Illyria, there are also dark secrets that threaten to ruin Violet’s plan.

A mixture of steampunk, The Twelfth Night, and The Importance of Being Earnest, All Men of Genius by Lev AC Rosen is a book that will suck you in from the prologue. The attention paid to the details of the elaborate inventions will satisfy any steampunk fan, though it is not overdone to the point that newcomers will grow bored with the descriptions (which are done very well). The combination of action, mad science, humor, and romance allow for the novel to have a wide audience.

RVC now carries the Steampunk Bible by Jeff Vandermeer

2011-05-26T09:14:00.004-04:00

For all of you interested in steampunk--or if you just want to find out what it is!--then this is a book you do not want to miss! Jeff Vandermeer's book The Steampunk Bible is filled with gorgeous full-colored photos of steampunk fashion, gadgetry, and characters from books, anime, and movies that have a steampunk flaire. It's also chock full of information about the evolution of steampunk as we know it today, how it impacts the lives of its followers, and provides a nice annotated list throughout the book of different things to read or watch.

This is the resource for all things steampunk!

Revolver Book Review

2011-05-20T14:45:00.007-04:00

“Even the dead tell stories.”

You think that once a person is gone, they no longer exist and they have no future. But that’s not true. Their legacy will always live on, and their unfinished business will simply be passed to their remaining loved ones. No one’s story ever truly ends, as is the case with Einar, recently deceased father to Sig and Anna.

The time: late nineteenth century-early 20th century during the Gold Rush.Tthe location: the Arctic Circle. Einar moved his family to the Arctic Circle in hopes of getting rich on gold. Months turned to years and his family continued to stay there, though no gold ever came. Eventually, Einar gets a job weighing gold, and at that time he comes in contact with a bear-like man. Years pass and this man shows up hours after Einar dies, saying he has unfinished business with him. Sig and Anna must take responsibility to deal with this man’s problem.

And what of the gun?

Why I picked it up: It was recommended to me as a 'must read.'

Why I finished it: The book sucked me in from the very first line. I didn't know a lot about the Gold Rush during that time, and I was also intrigued by the concept.

Who I'd give it to: Anyone who wants a quick read with great characters and a unique plot. Fans of historical fiction and back-and-forth timelines would love this, as well.

First Photo of Katniss

2011-05-19T09:31:00.004-04:00

Check out Jennifer Lawrence on the cover of Entertainment Weekly, preparing for her role as Katniss in The Hunger Games.

Rick Riordan's Favorite Childhood Books

2011-05-12T12:04:00.000-04:00

Last week the New York Times had an article about author Rick Riordan's (Percy Jackson, Red Pyramid) favorite childhood books. See his top picks here:

http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/05/03/rick-riordans-favorite-childhood-books/

Saturday is Free Comic Book Day!!

2011-05-04T23:04:00.002-04:00

Free Comic Book Day is the first Saturday in May! Check out your local comic book shop to get yours!!

Read more about it here http://www.freecomicbookday.com/

Ghostgirl Review

2011-05-04T19:07:00.002-04:00

All Charlotte Usher wanted to be was popular. Is that too much to ask?

For Charlotte, it was too much to ask and it came with a penalty. Every year for Charlotte is the same: no one in school notices her, she’s invisible to her crush, and the popular girls want nothing to do with her. But this year is different. Charlotte spent all summer primping to have “the look.” Things were starting to go her way, especially when she was paired with her crush for chemistry lab, which would last the whole year. Then things changed. Charlotte Usher, virtually unknown to the rest of the world, became even more so—she died.

Not yet ready to go to the other side, Charlotte is stuck in between. Dying doesn’t even get her out of school, as she’s forced to attend a school for teens like her with unfinished business. Charlotte must learn to work with the other teens and learn to accept herself for who she is. But what is her unfinished business and how will her dreams to attend the Fall Ball with her crush—despite the fact that she’s dead—affect the Fate of everyone else?

Ghostgirl by Tonya Hurley is a fast-paced, intriguing book with a great premise. Each chapter starts off with a quote from a famous author, poet or musician to set the mood.

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Pt 2 Trailer

2011-04-28T15:40:00.003-04:00

Here it is

Book Trailer for Melissa de la Cruz's New Series

2011-04-26T10:30:00.008-04:00

Check out the book trailer for Witches of East End, book 1 in Melissa de la Cruz's new series. It looks good and the book takes place on Long Island!

Sakura (Cherry) Blossoms at Brooklyn Botanical Garden

2011-04-23T09:12:00.003-04:00

Hanami celebrates the Japanese cultural tradition of enjoying the blossoming of the Cherry Blossom trees, known as Sakura in Japanese. At the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens between April 1 and May 2, you can see beautiful Cherry Blossom trees and visit the Japanese gardens. On Saturday April 30 and Sunday May 1, they will have their annual Sakura Matsuri, a festival with Taiko drumming, origami, traditional Japanese instrument concerts, and tons of anime/manga related events!

http://www.bbg.org/discover/cherries/

Cart and Cwidder book review

2011-04-22T14:25:00.003-04:00

Osfameron Tanamoril, or Moril for short, is the son of the famous singer Clennen. As traveling musicians, his family is allowed to travel between the warring Northern and Southern parts of Dalemark. Equipped with two cwidders, their lyrical songs, and their horse Barangarolob to pull them along, Moril’s family has made quite a name for themselves in all areas of Dalemark. As legitimate travelers, his family often takes on passengers seeking to visit other areas of the country; they are also allowed to pass messages between the two halves of Dalemark. Yet, this common act is not what it appears to be, and a new traveler to be taken to the North is suspiciously different from the rest. The family’s seemingly simple life changes dramatically when Clennen is mysteriously murdered, Moril’s older brother is arrested for treason by Southern official, and Moril is bequeathed his father’s ancient—and magical—cwidder. What does this new traveler have to do with these occurrences? How is the past, once thought to be exaggerated songs sung by Clennen, repeating itself with Moril as the new hero?

This first book in Diana Whynne Jones’ The Dalemark Quartet series will take you on a fantastical adventure. Her writing is, as always, engaging and descriptive.

Trapped Book Review

2011-04-11T20:06:00.010-04:00

I have to admit, I probably took the easy way out by reading Trapped by Michael Northrop in April when the threat of snow is unlikely. Regardless, Trapped is a gripping page turner. Scotty, a sophomore basketball player, narrates the events as they unfold of the seven students and one teacher who are stranded at school when a winter storm turns into the biggest nor'easter the U.S. has ever had. The small group, ranging from a jock and a bully, to the prettiest girl in school and the most average boy, must weather the storm by rationing left over cafeteria food, navigating the dark hallways, and ultimately deciding how to get help when the school building becomes too dangerous for them to remain. Scotty's admission that not everyone will survive builds the suspense immediately and the ever falling snow piles on the drama. Best read on a snow day, but pretty chilling on a warm spring day too.

Saturn Apartments Vol. 1

2011-04-06T19:41:00.002-04:00

In Earth’s future, all humans have evacuated into space to preserve the dying planet. Instead of living on Earth, all humans now live around Earth in a man-made ring structure, occupying apartment buildings in three levels organized by social status. Considering the fact that right outside their homes is space, how can one ever have clean windows? Enter the window washers, those who risk their lives to leave the comforts of their controlled atmosphere to enter space and clean the windows of people rich enough to afford them.

Mitsu, a hard-working orphan, has just graduated school. Mitsu is training to be a window washer like his missing father, who, years ago, mysteriously disappeared during a lower-level window washing job. Was his rope torn by the raging wind or did the beautiful site of his old home planet have something to do with it?

Saturn Apartments by Hisae Iwaoka is a fascinating science fiction story, filled with interesting and well-developed characters. The art is just as unique as the plot. If you love science fiction or are just looking for something out of the ordinary to read, then make sure to pick up this book!

Ladies and Gentlemen: The Cast of The Hunger Games

2011-04-04T15:54:00.009-04:00

Gale will be played by Liam Hensworth Peeta will be played by Josh Hutcherson

Katniss will be played by Jennifer Lawrence

None of them are exactly what I pictured, especially Katniss and Gale. But I'll reserve judgement until I see the movie.

NYPL launches mobile app scavenger hunt

2011-04-02T10:47:00.003-04:00

If you love scavenger hunts and have a smartphone then head over to the New York Public Library after May 20 until the end of this year to participate in this landmark event! All you have to do is download the virtual scavanger hunt app to your phone and it'll take you on adventures throughout the library's special collection (ie: to see a copy of Declaration of Idependence)! Check out this article from CNN for more info! http://www.cnn.com/2011/TECH/innovation/04/01/new.york.library.game/index.html?hpt=Sbin#

British Fantasy Author Diana Wynne Jones Dies at 76

2011-03-28T20:08:00.005-04:00

Diana Wynne Jones, author of Howl's Moving Castle, the Chrestomanci series, and dozens of other children's and young adult fantasy books passed away today. She was one of the most well-known fantasy authors in the world. Make sure to check out the book display in front of the YA section, along with a book list of her most popular books!

Hush book review

2011-03-28T15:59:00.003-04:00

In a community that prides itself on tradition and following the ways of G-d, how do you deal with enemies from within?

Silence.

Hush by Eishes Chayil, provides a window into a community where ‘dirty laundry’--secrets and family problems--are best left buried in the closet. In such a world, what happens to those who cry out and are silenced? What happens to the witnesses who survive but are scared to speak up? This is a story friendship and betrayal; family and criminals; regret and courage; silence and voice.

Devory and Gittel have been best friends since birth. They go to school together, play together, and even dream of getting married on the same day. But when they’re nine-years-old, Gittel discovers a horrible secret about her best friend: she’s being molested at home. Devory tries to reach out to Gittel, but Gittel believes such things don’t happen to their people and refuses to truly listen to her friend.

Gittel has lived nearly a decade in regret after Devory was driven to suicide and must decide whether or not to become a ‘traitor’ in her community and speak up about Devory’s murder or let her friend’s memory die.

Hush is gripping, thought-provoking, and engaging; it’s a book you will begin reading and not put down until you’ve reached the very last page. The book explores issues in a community not often written about in fiction novels. Hush is based on experiences witnessed by the author, who has written this book under a pseudonym. If you’re looking for a realistic fiction book with a unique plot and characters you will come to care about, don’t miss out on this read!

Authors Unlimited

2011-03-10T13:38:00.004-05:00

If you're intersted in reading and writing, check out Authors Unlimited, a free full-day event connecting teens and authors. The event will take place Saturday, April 30 @ 10am-4pm at St. Joseph's College and features a number of popular authors including Robert Lipsyte (The Contender, Center Field) Rita Williams-Garcia (One Crazy Summer), Tonya Hurley (Ghost Girl), Anna Godbersen (Luxe series) and many more!

Get more info here.

Busy Emma Watson

2011-02-26T12:24:00.008-05:00

Emma Watson has a full schedule! She'll be acting in some of our favorite YA books in the near future. First up is The Perks of Being a Wallflower written by Stephen Chbosky. If you haven't read it, Perks is the coming of age story of a Charlie, a very shy high school freshmen. Over the course of the novel, he deals with typical school issues as well as the suicide of his best friend. Watson will be playing the role of Samantha, Charlie's bff and Logan Lerman (star of Percy Jackson) will be playing Charlie.

Incarceron written by Catherine Fisher, is a science fiction thriller about a teen named Finn, who is stuck in a prison that has a mind of its own. Watson will play Claudia, the warden's daughter and Finn will be played by Taylor Lautner.

How to Say Goodbye in Robot

2011-02-25T16:29:00.002-05:00

Bea is the new girl in a town, a feeling that is not unknown to her. Her current location is Baltimore, Maryland, where she is to start senior year in a fancy private school where everyone has known each other since they were 3 years old. Bea is looking for something, but she’s not sure what; she often imagines herself living in Iceland, working as a hairdresser—it’s been said that Icelandic hairdressers are the happiest people on Earth. Then she meets Jonah, nicknamed Ghost Boy by the rest of the school, who introduces her to the midnight talk radio show the Night Lighters. Listening every night, she becomes immersed in the world of quirky characters, people who are all searching for something in life. There’s Larry who only calls in to play songs, Kreplach, who believes he is from the year 2110, and Don who calls in specifically to piss the other regulars off. Ghost Boy and Robot Girl (aka Bea) form an intense relationship, one that cannot be constrained to the terms of ‘friend’ or ‘boyfriend/girlfriend.’

Yet, Ghost Boy is more lost than the rest. When he finds out that his mentally retarded brother, who he buried, along with his mother, after they died in a car crash 10 years ago, is actually alive, it pushes him farther away from the human world. Can Bea tie him down or will he disappear forever?

How to say Goodbye in Robot by Natalie Standiford is filled with quirky, yet likeable and relatable characters. Bea’s first person narrative is sharp and realistic. The Night Lighters are all wonderfully strange and weird, and seeing the actual dialog between them and the radio shows host throughout the book provides a fun break from Bea’s narrative. Everyone is searching for something in their life and can easily relate to the characters of this book. If you’re looking for a fun, quick read, with characters you will think about long after you’ve finished reading, then do not pass this up!

Across the Universe

2011-02-20T16:50:00.001-05:00

Amy was given two choices: remain on Earth and live out the rest of her life as a normal seventeen-year-old girl or become cryogenically frozen and accompany her parents on a 3 century journey aboard the spaceship Godspeed to Centauri-Earth. Despite being ‘nonessential;’ that is, she’s not a scientist or military personal like everyone else being recruited to allow for a successful colonization of New Earth, Amy chooses to give up the life she loved and follow her parents.

Unknown to Amy and the other frozen bodies, Godspeed itself fully colonized by over 3,000 passengers, born and bred on the ship. On the ship, led by the tyrannical leader Eldest, there are no differences and no individual thought—Amy’s bright red hair, pale skin, freckles, and memories of her home cause some concern.

However, when Eldest’s protégée, Elder, the future leader of the ship, finds Amy prematurely unplugged, he begins to question everything he’s been taught about life on the ship. Now, he and Amy must find out who is trying to murder the frozen people of old Earth and what dark secrets lie within Godspeed’s lengthy past.

Across the Universe, by Beth Revis, is a gripping, fascinating, and unique novel. Told in alternating points of view, Revis’ writing is fresh and well-written. Her characters are ones you will remember for a long time. This is one story you don’t want to pass up!

Dragon Sword and Wind Child

2011-02-16T17:51:00.005-05:00

Imagine being the reincarnation of a powerful Priestess, but having no conscious idea of who you are? Yet, you’re haunted by dreams of your past life, knowing that there’s a part of you that doesn’t really fit in with the adopted family who raised you or the world you’ve come to know and rely on. This is what 15-year-old Saya has to deal with when her past life catches up with her and she’s thrust into a centuries old mythological battle. Saya must return to the people of the Dark, her people, and lead them as the Water Maiden to save Toyoshihara from the Immortal Children of Japanese legend. Together with Chihaya, the keeper of the Dragon Sword, and the best fighters of the Tsuchigumo (ground spiders aka people of the Dark), Saya must stop the coming of Izanagi, who wishes to destroy the mortals of Saya’s world and reunite with his wife, Izanami, the Goddess of the Underworld. Saya must choose once and for all whether her loyalty lies with the Light or the Dark.

Ogiwara’s writing is lyrical and poetic, making every sentence enjoyable to read. Ogiwara’s story is a unique take on Japanese mythology and is filled with great characters, intense emotion and plenty of action.

For anyone who has read the Kojiki, the oldest chronicle in Japan, dating from the 8th century, which tells about the creation of the world and the history of the first gods, the three Immortal Children and their parents will not be unfamiliar. If you read Dragon Sword and Wind Child and like it, make sure to check out the Kojiki or look up information about Japanese mythology for more information!

Find out your Steampunk Style

2011-02-09T18:01:00.004-05:00

Do you love steampunk? Take this quiz to find out what your steampunk style is!

http://www.helloquizzy.com/tests/the-steampunk-style-test

I got the Gadgeteer!

What Would You Do If Your Friend Asked You to Help Him Die? God is in the Pancakes Review

2011-01-19T18:50:00.006-05:00

“Here’s what I’ve come to realize about perfect happiness: It’s as fragile as the bubbles that form on the top of a pancake.”

This line of prophetic (and delicious!) wisdom comes from 15-year-old Grace Manning who uniquely compares her life to the making of pancakes throughout the novel. Grace is an average teenage girl: her father ran off, she lives with her mother and slightly older twin sister, she has a volunteer job at the local nursing home, she has a crush on her best friend, and she’s not sure what she believes in. What Grace is sure of is her love of volunteering at the nursing home, especially because of Mr. Sands, a sarcastic, intelligent, smart-mouth old man who has become a close friend. What Grace originally doesn’t know about Mr. Sands is that he has Lou Gehrig’s disease and his condition is worsening every day. To Mr. Sands, dignity is everything, and ending up like a potato with no ability to move or act on his thoughts certainly does not fall into that category.

Enter Grace. Mr. Sands asks Grace the one question she was never prepared for: “Grace, I need you to help me die.” No one would suspect young, innocent Grace of playing a part in old, sickly Mr. Sands’ death. The secret question, of which no one knows, stays in the back of Grace’s mind as she goes on her with her life until she finally makes her decision.

God is in the Pancakes by Robin Epstein is a tender and gripping novel about how we come to terms with the decisions we make in life. The pancake motif is creatively and effectively used throughout the novel, adding an extra layer to it. While there is a clear moralistic undertone to the book, Epstein does an unexpectedly great job of objectively addressing these important issues without being preachy.

What would you do?

Anime Tosho-con 2011

2011-01-15T09:11:00.007-05:00

RVC Library is proud to announce that we now have a website for this year's Anime Tosho-con, which will be held on July 16, 2011. Last year, Rockville Centre was the first library in Nassau County to host an all day anime convention! Over 100 fans gathered for panels, screenings, candy sushi making, games and cosplay. This year, we hope to have even more people! Check out the website at http://rvcanimetosho-con.webs.com/.

Our two mascots were drawn by Diana (the first one) and Tiffany (the second one).

2011 Printz Award

2011-01-11T10:06:00.006-05:00

Congratulations to Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi for winning the 2011 Printz Award! The Michael L. Printz Award is given to one book each year that exemplifies literary excellence in young adult literature. We must have had a good feeling about this book because we picked it months ago for our Buzz Book Club Discussion to take place on Monday, January 24 @ 7pm. You can get a copy at the Circulation Desk and join us for our book club.

The Printz Honor books were awarded to:

Stolen by Lucy Christopher, the story of a sixteen-year-old British girl who is kidnapped and brought to Australia by her captor.

Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King, a dark comedy in which Vera's dead best friend will not leave her alone.

Revolver by Marcus Sedgwick (my personal favorite!) is set in the Arctic Circle and is the chilling tale of a teen named Sig who finds his father's frozen body and then finds an armed stranger at his home demanding stolen gold.

Nothing by Janne Teller, the unsettling story of seventh grader searching for the meaning of life.

Other awards were given yesterday as well. For a complete list click here.

NPR's Best Teen Reads

2011-01-09T13:29:00.003-05:00

We love NPR's picks for the best teen reads of '10. In fact, their first selection The Sky Is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson was voted to be the Mock Printz award winner by the Nassau and Suffolk county librarians this past week. (The real winner of the Printz award will be announced January 10). What we also love is that author Gayle Forman made the book selections and wrote the article for NPR. Gayle is the author of If I Stay, another great YA book. See the best books here.

Bide Your Time and Hold Out Hope--Monte Cristo Book Review

2011-01-08T10:20:00.006-05:00

"All human wisdom [is] contained in these words...'wait' and 'hope.'"

These are the words of Edmond Dantes, also known as the Count of Monte Cristo, a man wrongly accused of being a Bonaparte traitor by his shipmates. As a result of this false accusation by Fernand Montego, who later adopted the name Count Morcerf, the man who would marry Dantes' former finacee Mercedes, Gerard de Villefort, the Royal Prosecutor who imprisoned Dantes to save himself, and Baron Danglar, a man who benefited immensely from the ordeal, Dantes was sentenced to life in the highest security jail. During the time he spent there until his elaborate escape only one thought was imprinted on his mind: revenge.

Dantes' revenge is not quick and it's not easy, but Dantes knows that through patience comes reward. By befriending--and saving--the son of the infamous Morcerfs, the Count of Monte Cristo begins to manipulate the lives of everyone involved in the betrayal with his impeccable charm and unrivaled intelligence. This one action of saving Albert Morcerf sets the wheels in motion for Dantes' intricate and meticulously planned revenge--these three men and those closest to them will have their lives changed forever as the persistent ghost from their pasts comes to haunt them (and without their knowledge... until it's too late!).

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas is filled with action, adventure, romance, friendship and the ultimate betrayal. The characters, though removed from our present time, are believable even today. Each character has a strong motivation and a reality that they desperately work to preserve; yet each is blinded in some way by this driving motivation.

The original and abridged versions are equally good. This is one classic you don't want to pass up!!

For even more Monte Cristo fun, check out the movie or the sci-fi anime series Gankutusou: Count of Monte Cristo from our library!

It's All About Perspective--Jumped Book Review

2010-12-21T14:11:00.009-05:00

Three girls, three voices, three perspectives.

Dominique is an all-ball girl who's been benched because her grades are too low; she doesn't like anyone getting in her space and everyone knows not to mess with her. Trina is a peppy artist who loves to flaunt her stuff. All it takes is one word, "hey," to send Dominique over the edge. Leticia is stuck attending zero-hour classes to make up for the subjects she failed last term. She overhears Dominuqe's plan to jump Trina at the end of the day--only she questions whether she really understood what she overheard.

Sometimes, what you don't do has more of an impact than what you do. With very little interaction among them at first, Dominique, Leticia, and Trina's lives will change forever as their paths intersect. For these girls, intent is not everything.

Jumped by Rita Williams-Garcia is a fast-paced, gripping novel told from the perspective of three distinct and realistic voices. Your eyes will be glued to the page as you read about how decisions, actions, and words can change a person's life.

The Hunger Games Movie

2010-12-17T13:01:00.005-05:00

There's good news and there's bad news. The good news is, according to an article on Entertainment Weekly's website, Suzanne Collins has written the first draft to the screenplay for Hunger Games motion picture. I love the idea of the author writing the screenplay since she'll have a clearer idea of what can be edited and adjusted for the big screen. The bad news is, the movie won't be out until 2012, which seems so far away! For more info read the article here.

Girl in Translation Book Review

2010-12-14T21:14:00.005-05:00

The Statue of Liberty, bright lights, and skyscrapers--these are quintessential landmarks of New York City. This is what 11-year-old ah-Kim (aka Kimberly) Chang is looking forward to when she and her mother emigrate from Hong Kong to the U.S. Instead, she finds herself living in a broken down area of Brooklyn in a small apartment with no heat in the freezing winters and no air to cool them from the sweltering heat. The apartment also has many nightly visitors, such as giant roaches and rats. Despite her harsh living conditions, Kimberly has to balance school, which luckily, she has a great talent for, and helping her mother at the sweatshop in Chinatown. Faced with endless struggles, Kimberly continues to shape her own destiny and fights to create a better life for her and her mother.

Kwok’s debut coming-of-age novel about the life of a Chinese-American immigrant girl from adolescence to adulthood is engaging, thought-provoking, and heartwarming; it provides a glimpse into the lives and repressed hardships many immigrants faced, while expressing the universal struggle of holding onto your own identity while striving to fit in.

Rosebush Book Review

2010-12-13T20:03:00.006-05:00

Someone tried to murder Jane. And it seems like they aren't going to stop until she is good and dead. In Michele Jaffe's pyschological thriller, Rosebush, popular girl Jane wakes up in a hospital bed paralyzed. Jane learns that she's been the victim of a vicious hit and run accident - only this was no accident. As Jane is layed up in bed, she begins to discover that it may have been one of her friends who tried to murder her. Is it her best friend Kate, beautiful and perfect but whose feelings for Jane may not be what they seem? Or is it Ollie, her boyfriend's best friend who has never hid his dislike for Jane and has been known to secretly video tape people? Or could it even be David, Jane's "perfect" boyfriend who was caught in a compromising position with another girl at a party on the night of the attack? Could it be her "secret admirer" who keeps sending creepy gifts to Jane? Or could this all just be Jane's heavily medicated mind playing tricks on her? As Jane's memories of the evening slowly come in to focus the suspense mounts and the killer just may be lurking in the shadows.

Nominate Your Favorite Steampunk Book

2010-12-10T17:21:00.005-05:00

Steampunk is a fascinating subgenre that takes place (mostly, but not always) in the Victorian era. Yet, characters in this alternate time line have advanced technology, mostly made of steam. Steampunk is reflected in fiction and has also made its way into fashion. For anyone who enjoys Steampunk, visit this website to nominate your favorite Steampunk novel for "Steampunk.com's Best Book of 2010 Award." New to Steampunk? Not a problem! This website also provides great information about what it is, what some classic titles are, etc.

http://www.steampunk.com/pick-the-steampunk-book-of-the-year/

'The Person Just for Me'--Review of Girl Parts

2010-12-10T13:55:00.006-05:00

Girl Parts by John Cusick begins with a young girl overdosing in front of her computer; the webcam has its eyes on her and hundreds of viewers are glued to their screens, watching her die. After being confronted for watching the suicide by his computer-tycoon father, seventeen-year-old David Sun is diagnosed with “dissociative disorder”… and he’s not the only one. What’s the cure? For David, the cure for his disorder is to pick out his perfect ‘companion’ from the well-known Japanese Company Sokora Solutions who specializes in creating custom made fem-bots to help males around the world.

Beautiful, red-headed Rose is everything David could ever want in a woman. Yet, David needs to learn to keep control, seeing as her intimacy clock is specifically designed to keep David in line and train him to form proper connections with females. This is done by sending him mild electric shocks to try and condition his behavior. And when the time finally does come for them to be completely intimate, David and Rose find out that despite Rose’s life-like looks and attitude, she’s still not a human girl. David and his lonely classmate Charlie both become emotionally involved with this unique girl, while Rose slowly learns what it’s like to truly be human.

From the very first page, to its disconcerting ending, Girl Parts addresses our growing reliance on technology and the importance of feeling connected to others. The book explores themes of humanity, artificial intelligence, and the role of the Internet in our lives. The concept is intriguing, combining science fiction with the real world. While it takes place in the present, technology is more advanced than it is today: students sit in front of computers all day for ‘school,’ and research in artificial intelligence is thriving. Though the story takes a while to build up and tends to drag in certain places, Girl Parts is a fun, quick read.

Fans of anime and manga will recognize these themes from numerous popular series, particularly Chobits, by Clamp. It was for Girl Parts’ striking resemblance to Chobits that I was attracted to this book. Artificial intelligence creatures desiring to be human and questioning their role in society is not a new concept, but Girl Parts does a good job at setting itself from the mainstream in an interesting and unique way.

The Replacement Book Review

2010-12-10T13:37:00.005-05:00

Welcome to the town Gentry, where there is great fortune and prosperity, the direct result of an ancient pact made between two worlds. But deep down, there's a dark secret that no one will admit to: every seven years a human baby is taken as a sacrifice and replaced with a baby from the underworld. Most of the time the Changling dies, unloved by the family it tore apart--all except Macky Doyle. Macky just wanted to fit in; instead, his coloring is a little too pale, his eyes darker than normal, and he gets sick anytime he's overexposed to anything with iron in it. Macky wants to go on dates and kiss the girl of his dreams, even though she has a metal tongue ring that would poison him. He lives his life knowing it isn't his, knowing he isn't the real Macky Doyle, despite the ongoing love and support from his sister. But, when Macky's friend's sister gets Taken, he must return to where he came from and decide where his loyalties lie.

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff is a unique take on the popular topic of faeries in YA fiction. Yovanoff's engaging characters, beautiful language, and haunting tone alongside an eerie backdrop make her first novel a must read. For fans of Tim Burton, Irish and Norse mythology, faeries, horror, and unlikely heroes, this book is for you.

The Last Good Place of Lily Odilon Book Review

2010-11-29T20:40:00.015-05:00

I always love a good mystery and The Last Good Place of Lily Odilon by Sara Beitia is just that. Albert Morales sneaks into his girlfriend's house to spend the night, only to wake up later and find her gone. Since Lily has been known to be a bit on the wild side, Albert tries not to worry too much. But when the police show up at school, Albert becomes a prime suspect in Lily's disappearance. With the help of Lily's sister, Olivia, Albert uncovers a shocking secret and sets out on foot to find Lily. The chapters alternate between real time and Albert's memories of meeting Lily and their relationship as it progresses. Albert is a regular high school guy, with difficult parents who don't understand him or his relationship with Lily. With a despicable villain, a sketchy jock and building suspense, this is a satisfying mystery.

One Crazy Summer Book Review

2010-11-22T19:43:00.006-05:00

It's 1968 and Delphine and her two youngers sisters are flying from Brooklyn to Oakland, California to spend a month with their mother, Cecile, who abandoned them years ago. Until now, all Delphine has known of her mother is the brief flashes she remembers and the negative things her grandmother and uncle have told her. Nothing can prepare Delphine for what she encounters when she arrives in California. Cecile's dislike and disinterest for her children is shocking to the girls. Instead of a summer at Disneyland and meeting glamorous movie stars, Delphine and her sisters are forced to spend their days out of Cecile's house and at a community center run by the Black Panthers. The summer turns out to be memorable and eye opening for both Delphine and the reader. A must-read!

Dash and Lily's Book of Dares Book Review

2010-11-19T14:53:00.009-05:00

Rachel Cohn and David Levithan have teamed up again with their latest title: Dash and Lily's Book of Dares. It's Christmastime in New York and Lily is looking for someone worthy of sharing her first kiss. When Lily's brother Langston gives her the clever idea to leave a red notebook with a list of literary clues in The Strand (Lily's most favorite book store), she's hopeful she'll attract the boy she's been waiting for. Enter Dash (short for Dashiell), a bit of a grinch and certainly "snarly", who happens to be celebrating Christmas alone. Full of New York City landmarks, Christmas cheer, and memorable and quirky characters, this is the perfect read for the month of December. Fans of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist will find this to be more innocent and less edgy, but a fun read in its own right.

(Lily and Dash are named after a famous couple Dashiell Hammett and Lillian Hellman, both American writers.)

If I Stay Movie

2010-10-25T14:59:00.010-04:00

Rumor has it Dakota Fanning is in talks to play Mia in the film adaptation of If I Stay based on the book by Gayle Forman. Personally, I'm not a fan of Dakota Fanning, so I'd rather the role go to someone else. A follow up to the book, Where She Went, will be published in April 2011.

Book Trailers

2010-10-25T14:27:00.005-04:00

We love book trailers here at the library. It's a great way to promote a book and they look like a lot of fun to put together. Check out this blog that has book trailers of the past Printz award winners and honor books. It was put together by a professor and her students from a Texas college. What books would you like to see trailers for?

Looking for a Scary Read?

2010-10-18T20:31:00.009-04:00

Autumn always gets me in the mood for scary books and movies. If you are in the mood for a creepy read, here is a list of some scary books I've read recently:

Wicked Girls by Stephanie Hemphill

Historical fiction about the Salem Witch Trials. Told from each of the accusser's point of view, it's not scary in the traditional sense, but it's fitting for this time of year.

Wait Till Helen Comes by Mary Downing Hahn

Ok, I know this is a book for a younger audience, but it scared me to death when I was in 4th grade...and when I read it again recently.

The Prince of Mist by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

During WWII, a family moves to the seaside to escape the bombings occuring in London. Little do they know their new house is haunted by an evil magician. Creepy stone statues in the garden add to the atmosphere.

Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly

Part realistic fiction, part historical fiction (taking place during the gruesome French Revolution), add a supernatural twist and you've got a good read.

Coraline by Neil Gaiman

After opening a door in her new home, Coraline finds herself in a mysterious world where she must overcome a scary entity to save her family.

A Curse Dark As Gold by Elizabeth Bunce

A retelling of the Rumplestiltskin tale. A little man spinning staw into gold, trying to take the first born--definitely creepy.

Teens Top Ten Results

2010-10-18T20:13:00.003-04:00

The results of the YALSA Teens' Top Ten were announced today. And the winners are:

1. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
2.City of Glass by Cassandra Clare
3.Heist Society by Ally Carter
4.Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
5.Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
6.Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
7.Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen
8.If I Stay by Gayle Forman
9.Fire by Kristin Cashore
10.Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

Good choices!

What young adult novel should Hollywood adapt next?

2010-09-23T16:52:00.009-04:00

EW.com recently had a good article called What young adult novel should Hollywood adapt next? It's a good question. With the success that Twilight had and the buzz that the possible Hunger Games film is getting, as well as all of the other books that are being made into movies that I've blogged about, it seems that teen books are perfect material for movies. So, what book would you pick to be made into a movie?

Book Review: You by Charles Benoit

2010-09-09T12:03:00.007-04:00

Told in the second person, You could just as easily been called "If Only." Narrated by Kyle, a high school sophomore and a member of "the hoodies", Kyle's school is like every other - clique ridden. The hoodies wear black hooded sweatshirts, they drink beer in the park, they slack off and they pretty much stick to themselves. But when Kyle garners the hatred of the king of the jocks, even his fellow hoodies don't help him. Kyle scuffles through life, seemingly dead on the outside, until Zack an eccentric transfer student kicked out of a prestigious prep school befriends him. But by this point, Kyle's earlier choices may have already sealed his fate. From the start of Kyle's narration, the reader knows that things may not turn out well for Kyle. His decisions through out high school culminate in the final harrowing conclusion.

The Kyle that the world sees is very different from the Kyle that the reader knows. His feelings and thoughts are realistic. He acts tough, uninterested, and bored. Only the reader sees Kyle's hurt when he hears his mother telling his younger sister not to be like Kyle. Like Kyle, the reader will be left thinking, if only.

Voice Your Choice

2010-08-31T09:17:00.004-04:00

Got a favorite book? Then let your voice be heard and take part in YALSA'S Teens' Top Ten 2010. Here's the deal, click on this link and vote for up to 3 of your favorite titles. The winners will be announced September 17 (and posted here).

Just to recap, last year's winners were:

10. Graceling by Kristin Cashore, 9. The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau Banks by E. Lockhart, 8. Untamed by PC and Kristin Cast, 7. Wake by Lisa McMann, 6. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, 5. Identical by Ellen Hopkins 4. City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare 3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins 2. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer, 1. Paper Towns by John Green.

Flipped

2010-08-30T14:54:00.006-04:00

Last week, yet another teen book was made into a feature film. Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen, and a popular book around these parts, caught the attention of famous director Rob Reiner when his son had to read the book in middle school. (In case you don't know, Rob Reiner is kind of a big deal, who starred in a TV show called All In the Family in the '70s and then directed some pretty amazing movies like Stand By Me, The Princess Bride (!!), When Harry Met Sally and more. So it's cool that he's behind this movie.) It sounds like the movie will stay pretty close to the book with the exception that it now takes place in the 1950s. For an interview with Reiner about the film click here.

And if you haven't read Flipped, basically it's a romance between two teens (a guy and a girl) who tell about themselves and their feelings for each other in alternating chapters.

Hunger Games Apparel

2010-08-11T10:30:00.003-04:00

One of the librarians (thanks Jen!) just told me that Hot Topic sells Hunger Games shirts! They even sell a different style shirts. This would be the perfect thing to wear while reading Mockingjay in 12 days (yes, we are counting!)

The Scorch Trials

2010-08-06T13:32:00.002-04:00

If you haven't read The Maze Runner by James Dashner you have about 59 days until book 2 comes out. The Scorch Trials will pick up where The Maze Runner left off -- let's just say Thomas was in a very harrowing situation and we are dying to find out what will happen. If you're a fan of The Hunger Games and The Adoration of Jenna Fox, then this book is for you.

The Countdown Begins...

2010-07-27T09:34:00.002-04:00

Mockingjay comes out August 24!

It's Kind of a Funny Story

2010-07-19T13:39:00.006-04:00

Another YA book is set to become a movie. Check out the trailer for It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini. If you haven't read the book yet, it's definitely worth a read. The movie will be in theaters September 24.

Cool Kicks

2010-07-12T15:16:00.004-04:00

Percy Jackson would love these new sneakers coming out from Adidas this summer!

YAY!! New Harry Potter Trailer

2010-06-30T13:47:00.002-04:00

Another New Rick Riordan Book

2010-06-22T16:43:00.002-04:00

If you loved The Percy Jackson and the Olympians series and you've already flown through Riordan's latest book, The Red Pyramid, then you'll be happy to hear that Riordan will another new book out this fall. Most fans will be especially excited to learn that the newest book, The Lost Hero, will be about the Percy Jackson heroes as well as some new characters from Camp Half Blood. The book will be out October 12--can't wait!

Life According to Seventeen Magazine

2010-06-09T13:38:00.005-04:00

What would happen if you lived your life the way magazines tell you to? You know, followed all the trends and the quirky suggestions that they give? Well, if you did that then you'd be alot like 18 year-old Jamie, who has created the Seventeen Magazine Project -- an attempt to spend one month living according to Seventeen magazine. Follow Jamie's hilarious blog here. Trust me, it's good.

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner

2010-06-07T20:33:00.004-04:00

Just a reminder, the latest Stephanie Meyer book The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner is available to read for FREE online until July 5. Find it here. It's a companion to Twilight, from the point of view of one of the newborn vampires. And while you can't read it free online forever, you can always get a copy here at the Library for free!

The Perks of Being a Librarian

2010-05-29T09:43:00.006-04:00

Last Tuesday and Wednesday I had the opportunity to attend BookExpo America (BEA) in the city. Basically the two days consisted of hearing about upcoming books, getting a TON of free books (and I mean a suitcase full!) and getting to have the authors autograph books. It's heaven!

Here are a few books that I got my hands on that I'm excited to read:
For the Win by Doctorow--The author's last book Little Brother is a favorite of mine.
I Am Number Four by Lore--A new sci fi series. The film version is already optioned with some involvement by Steven Spielberg.
Monsters of Men by Ness--The 3rd and final book in the Chaos Walking trilogy!
The Agency: A Spy in the House by Lee--A female detective in Victorian England.
Revolution by Donnelly--The author of A Northern Light returns with a tale of two girls living two centuries apart.

I also had the chance to attend a party at Scholastic for Mockingjay the 3rd and final book of the Hunger Games Trilogy. Hearing Suzanne Collins read from the final book was definitely the highlight of my week. (see picture above--taken by Jen Marino)

The Perks of Being A Wallflower

2010-05-22T12:57:00.002-04:00

According to Variety magazine Emma Watson (Hermione in Harry Potter) and Logan Lerman (Percy in Percy Jackson and the Olympians) are in talks to star in the film adaptation of The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chobsky. It'll be interesting to see if this ever actually makes it to the big screen.

Set In Stone

2010-05-21T09:00:00.004-04:00

I recently read Set In Stone by Linda Newbery. It was published in 2006, but I only came across it recently and something about it caught my eye. It's historical fiction, set in late 19th Century Sussex, England at an English country home. The narrative alternates between Samuel Godwin, a young artist who has come to the home to tutor the teen daughters of Mr. Farrow, the homeowner, and Charlotte Agnew, the governess of the girls. Samuel reminded me of Nick Carraway (The Great Gatsby) in his honesty, honor, curiosity and overall congeniality. He was also very sentimental in a similar manner to Carraway. What I liked about the story is that it started off like a Jane Austen novel, then it became mysterious (ah hah!) and then scandalous (yay!). The writing is beautiful and the setting is haunting. Well done!

"Who Ya Gonna Call?"

2010-05-20T14:15:00.003-04:00

To bring attention to the importance of keeping the New York Public Library around, an improv group recently reenacted a scene from Ghostbusters that takes place in the main branch of NYPL. It's really funny--I love how people just move their bags out of the way so the ghosts can sit down! It's too bad NYPL can't really call the Ghostbuster to help them with their impending budget cuts.

Popular Names

2010-05-11T09:28:00.005-04:00

How would you feel if you were named after a vampire? Ask a ton of babies that were born last year. The number one ranked boys' name was Jacob and the number one girls name? You guessed it, Isabella. And to top it off, the name Cullen was also very popular for boys as well. It just shows how popular the Twilight series is.

Theirs and Ours

2010-04-29T16:11:00.017-04:00

Here are some book jackets from England. I always like to see different covers. Theirs are the ones on the left and ours are the ones on the right. In general, I tend to like "theirs" better than "ours".

Online Book Club

2010-04-26T18:18:00.004-04:00

As you may know, our Library offers book clubs for all ages. If you're interested in a book club, but can't make it in for our monthly meetings, you might want to join this online book club. The club is hosted by a new teen Each week and a different book is featured. It's a great way to be a part of a book club from the comfort of your own home (and with out have to change out of your pajamas).

RVC Idol 2010 Video

2010-04-20T17:24:00.004-04:00

In case you missed RVC Idol 2010 or just want to relive the night, here are the videos.

Teens' Top Tens

2010-04-20T10:51:00.004-04:00

If you are looking for a good book to read, why not try one from the nomination list for the ALA Teens' Top Ten.

Here's the deal, there are 26 titles on the list that were nominated by 15 teen book groups. Read the ones that you might be interested in and if you really love them, vote for them for the Teens' Top Ten in August and September when the polls are open. (I'll post a reminder here on the blog when the voting starts). They have a great selection. Find the complete list here. Some of our favorites include: Wintergirls, Fire, Catching Fire, Incarceron, If I Stay and Leviathan...but we're too old to vote.

Summer TV

2010-03-31T09:45:00.010-04:00

Two popular teen books will be turned into TV shows on ABC Family this summer. Pretty Little Liars based on the mystery series by Sara Shepherd will air Tuesdays at 8pm starting June 8, while Huge based on the book by Paley about 2 girls at fat camp will air Mondays at 9pm starting June 28. I'm definitely curious to see how the shows will turn out. Plus it's always nice to have a new show to watch in the summer when everything else is on hiatus. You can read more about these shows here.