Sklansky, Amy E. OUT OF THIS WORLD : POEMS AND FACTS ABOUT SPACE

Sklansky, Amy E. OUT OF THIS WORLD : POEMS AND FACTS ABOUT SPACE 
New York : Knopf, 2012 
IL 3-6, RL 5.6 
ISBN 0375864598 
Have you ever wished on a star? Do you like looking up at the night sky and wondering what is it like to be in space? What about what it is like to ride into space on a rocket? This is a collection of poetry that celebrates space. From countdown to liftoff to the sky itself, these poems take us on a journey into space.

Dashner, James. THE DEATH CURE

Dashner, James. THE DEATH CURE 
New York : Delecorte, 2011 
IL YA 
ISBN 0385738773 
In the conclusion to the Maze Runner trilogy, we find Thomas and the rest of the survivors of the Scorch Trials being held by WICKED (World in Catastophe, Killzone Experiment Department). WICKED has been formed by the governments of the surviving nations and now have combined forces. They have vowed to keep Flare at bay. Although many of the survivors believe that WICKED is in fact a good thing, Thomas and others do not agree. Together they plot an escape to join forces with The Right Arm who want to overthrow the new government.

Jonell, Lynne. LAWN MOWER MAGIC

Jonell, Lynne. LAWN MOWER MAGIC 
New York : Random, 2012 
IL K-3, RL 3.8 
ISBN 0375866612 
The Willow family has just moved into a new home in the country. Although the children like it, they miss their old home and their friends. Derek gets invited to visit his friends for a week but he'll need money for a train ticket. Money is tight after the move and the lawn mower has broken and needs to be replaced. Can the kids find a way to take care of the lawn and find the money for a train ticket?

Greenwald, Tom. CHARLIE JOE JACKSON'S GUIDE TO NOT READING

Greenwald, Tom. CHARLIE JOE JACKSON'S GUIDE TO NOT READING 
New York : Roaring Brook Press, 2011 
IL 5-8, RL 5.8 
ISBN 1596436913 
Do you like to read? Well, Charlie Joe Jackson likes NOT to read. He does everything he can think of to avoid reading. Can you think of ways to avoid reading? Charlie Joe even bribes kids to do his reading for him. But things don't always go as planned for Charlie Joe. If you want to learn some of his secrets for NOT reading, you should pick up this book and find out how he does it. Don't miss his 25 exclusive non-reading tips.

Baratz-Logsted, Lauren. THE TWIN’S DAUGHTER

Baratz-Logsted, Lauren. THE TWIN’S DAUGHTER 
New York : Bloomsbury, 2010 
IL YA 
ISBN 1599905132 
Lucy lives in England about 100 years ago. She has a very good life but she finds it rather boring. But that changes when a stranger knocks on the door. When Lucy opens the door, she sees a woman who looks exactly like her mother. It turns out that this is her mother’s identical twin sister! Helen Smythe is the long lost twin of her mother. They were separated at birth and grew up in very different homes. Aliese was raised in a wealthy home and Helen was raised in an orphanage. Helen is welcomed into the family and truly becomes Aliese’s double. When Lucy returns home one day to find the two women tied up, the mystery truly begins. One woman is dead. But which one? Is it Lucy’s mother – or her aunt?

Ada, Alma Flor. DANCING HOME

Ada, Alma Flor. DANCING HOME 
New York : Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2011 
IL 3-6, RL 6.2 
ISBN 1416900888 
Margie wants to fit in and does all she can to do just that. She wants to pass as an American even though her parents are both from Mexico. When her cousin Lupe arrives from Mexico to stay with the family, Margie is embarrassed at her cousin's foreign ways. Now Lupe is going to school with Margie and Margie is afraid that her friends will see her as foreign also. As the year goes on, things begin to change for the two girls. But will Margie ever be able to accept her heritage?

Acampora, Paul. RACHEL SPINELLI PUNCHED ME IN THE FACE

Acampora, Paul. RACHEL SPINELLI PUNCHED ME IN THE FACE 
New York : Roaring Brook Press, 2011 
IL 3-6, RL 4.1 
ISBN 1596435488 
Things don't look so good for Zachary when we first meet him. His eccentric mother has just taken off to work on a cruise ship. When he and his dad realize that she is not coming back, they decide to move on. And move out. They leave Colorado and head east to Fall, Connecticut. Here Zachary meets a string of unusal characters that help him adjust to his new home. The most intriguing characters are neighbors Rachel and Teddy. Rachel has a temper on her that comes out big time when anyone messes with her brother. Teddy is a fantastic musician but not so good in other situations. As they help Zachary settle in, he may be helping them as well.

Jobling, Curtis. WEREWORLD : RISE OF THE WOLF

Jobling, Curtis. WEREWORLD : RISE OF THE WOLF

Jobling, Curtis. WEREWORLD : RISE OF THE WOLF
New York : Viking, 2011
IL 5-8, RL 6.6
ISBN 0670013307 

Drew is a shepherd’s son living on the Cold Coast of Lyssia. Drew isn’t anything like his twin brother Trent, they are so different. Trent wants to join the Lionguard and see new places. Drew wants to stay and work the farm. Drew’s always had a way with animals and an uncanny ability to avoid danger. The feeling of danger that he has right now. Something’s out there watching, waiting. When Drew’s father and brother leave to go to market to sell their grain, Drew and his mother are attacked in their home. A hideous creature with a foul stench threathens the two. Drew tries to protect his mother but he is injured and thrown down. He feels very strange and ill. He cannot get up to help his mother, what is happening to him? His body is transforming, the pain is unbearable. Drew has become a beast, but how? Why? Drew doesn’t know that he is the last of the werewolves. It may be the only thing that keeps him alive. (Booktalk written by Susan MacDonald- GSF Committee/Weeks Public Library)

Hatke, Ben. ZITA THE SPACEGIRL. BOOK ONE, FAR FROM HOME

Hatke, Ben. ZITA THE SPACEGIRL. BOOK ONE, FAR FROM HOME 
New York : First Second, 2010 
IL 3-6, RL 3.0 
ISBN 1596436956 

Zita wasn’t always a spacegirl, but she has always been bold, brash, and brave, and fortunately for us, has the smarts to back up her not-too-well-thought-through actions. So when she finds a red button in the woods when out with her friend Joseph, she pushes it. And then, Joseph is sucked through a portal and disappears, and Zita has to figure out how to get him back. Zita finds herself on a very strange planet, where every creature from humanoid chickens to neurotic robots are either trying to escape or prepare for the destruction of the planet within three days. Zita finds herself accepting help from a strange gang of allies, including a friendly con man who takes a mysterious interest in Zita’s quest, a giant rat and some monstery looking aliens. But Zita’s leap before you look attitude means the impossibility of facing ancient prophecies, doomed planets, and finding Joseph and getting home in one piece are all part of the adventure for this up and coming intergalactic hero. (Booktalk written by Sara Zoe Patterson- GSF Committee/ New Franklin School)

Today's Book 06/13/2012

• Selznick, Brian. WONDERSTRUCK : A NOVEL IN WORDS AND PICTURES

  Selznick, Brian. WONDERSTRUCK : A NOVEL IN WORDS AND PICTURESNew York : Scholastic, 2011IL 5-8, RL 5.0ISBN 0545027896This is a book with two stories. One story is told entirely in illustrations, the other story is told through the text. One is the story of Rose and the other of Ben. They are hundreds of miles away from each other, but they have something in common: They are both deaf. They also both secretly wish their lives were different. Ben hopes to find the father he has never known. Rose dreams of a mysterious actress whose life she chronicles in a scrapbook. When Ben discovers a puzzling clue in his mother's room and Rose reads an enticing headline in the newspaper, they both set out alone to find what they are missing. Running away as a kid is hard for anyone, but for kids who are deaf, there are extra problems. But they are both drawn to New York City, and the American Museum of Natural History, where the answers connect in unpredictable ways. (Booktalk written by Sara Zoe Patterson- GSF Committee/ New Franklin School)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/12/2012

• Palacio, R. J. WONDER

  Palacio, R. J. WONDERNew York : Knopf, 2012IL 3-6, RL 5.1ISBN 0375869026Ten year old Auggie Pullman was born with such severe facial deformities that, even after 27 surgeries, children still run away from him screaming. But he’s just a regular kid, surrounded by a very loving and supportive family. He even has a best friend. Homeschooled and soon to be a fifth grader, Auggie’s mother has decided it’s now time for him to attend a private school. But the transition isn’t easy when most people don’t get beyond judging him by his looks. In spite of the death of his dog, bullies, and friendships that are tested, Auggie proves to his new classmates and the school administration that he’s smart, funny and brave. The story, which spans a school year, is told from the points of view of a variety of characters, including Auggie’s, his sister’s and a few friends’, allowing the reader glimpses into his childhood. Auggie is faced with challenges that he meets head-on, and the reader will cheer for him and savor his victory in the end. (Booktalk written by Suzanne Wall-GSF Committee/Merrimack Public Library)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/11/2012

• Garretson, Dee. WOLF STORM

  Garretson, Dee. WOLF STORMNew York : Harper, 2011IL 3-6, RL 4.7ISBN 0062000322The dream of a lifetime….. 14 year old Stefan is selected for a sci-fi movie role at a ski resort in Slovakia… Actually it was his friends’ dream, yet Stefan was chosen. Lucky… right? Maybe… maybe not…Thrown together with Raine, a spoiled 13 year old star, 9 year Jeremy and trained wolves, Stefan tries his best to succeed. Yet, Raine has other ideas, demanding, threatening…. could she really have Stefan thrown off the movie set? After a long day of filming and numerous mistakes, Stefan’s confidence is shaken. Leaving the young stars on their own, the frustrated film crew head into town for dinner. Planning only to be gone a short while, all should be well. However, a chain of events, starting with an avalanche throws the group together in a battle of survival. As the young stars battle being cut off, they realize the trained wolves are not the only ones nearby. (Booktalk written by Catherine Ryan- GSF committee/ New England College)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/10/2012

• Hilmo, Tess. WITH A NAME LIKE LOVE

  Hilmo, Tess. WITH A NAME LIKE LOVENew York : Margaret Ferguson Books/Farrar Straus Giroux, 2011IL YAISBN 0374384657It’s 1957. When 13 year old Olivene (Ollie) Love’s family arrives in Binder, Arkansas it feels like every other town they’ve stopped in before. Ollie’s father is an itinerant preacher, and with no permanent home the entire family is involved in spreading his message of redemption and love. When Ollie encounters Jimmy Koppel while passing out flyers for the evening revival she learns of his father’s murder and of his mother Virginia being jailed for that murder. Ollie meets several of the town’s people, some who sympathize with Jimmy and others who are filled with hatred towards his family. After spending time with Jimmy and talking to some of the townspeople Ollie’s sure Virginia is innocent. But can she prove it? Ollie has to convince her father to stay in Binder longer than their customary three days so she can uncover the truth. The book is full of well-drawn characters. You’ll feel the sticky Southern heat and the intense emotions, and you, just like Ollie, will want to know the answer to the mystery. (Booktalk written by Suzanne Wall-GSF Committee/Merrimack Public Library)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/08/2012

• DeFelice, Cynthia. WILD LIFE

  DeFelice, Cynthia. WILD LIFENew York : Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2011IL 3-6, RL 6.5ISBN 0374380015Twelve year old Erik has just passed his hunter safety course! He is finally old enough to get his New York State hunting license. Erik is going hunting with his best friend Patrick, Patrick’s dad and their hunting dog.That is until his parents get word of their six month deployment to Iraq.His parents announce he will be sent to live with the grandparents he doesn’t even know. Worse still, they live in North Dakota. Unable to convince his parents to let him stay with his best friend, Erik reluctantly packs his bags.Upon his arrival, mystery engulfs him. Why is his grandfather so mean? His grandmother so meek? What’s with the locked room at the top of the stairs? Why does his grandfather react so adamantly when Erik rescues a wounded hunting dog? It’s all too much for Erik. Discover what happens when Erik heads out into the wilderness with his rescued dog. Can he survive in the wilderness? Will the secrets of the locked room be revealed? (Booktalk written by Catherine Ryan- GSF committee/ New England College)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/07/2012

• McMann, Lisa. THE UNWANTEDS

  McMann, Lisa. THE UNWANTEDSNew York : Aladdin, 2011IL 3-6, RL 3.7ISBN 1442407689Wanted…Necessary…Unwanted… The annual Day of the Purge has arrived, the day when all the 13-year-olds of Quill will learn their ultimate fate. Identical twins Alex and Aaron have grown up together in this harsh, colorless, totalitarian society where creativity and emotion are forbidden, and strength and conformity are given highest honor. Motto: “Quill Prevails When the Strong Survive!” Aaron is labeled a Wanted, and sets out to begin his career in the military. Artistic Aaron, however, is deemed Unwanted, and is put on the bus to the Death Farm, to be burned in the Lake of Boiling -Oil. But a stunning and magical surprise awaits him when he enters the gates… Along with newfound joy and peace come many dangers, however. A gripping journey into dystopia! (Booktalk written by Luci Albertson- GSF Committee/Bedford Public Library)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/06/2012

• George, Jessica Day. TUESDAYS AT THE CASTLE

  George, Jessica Day. TUESDAYS AT THE CASTLENew York : Bloomsbury, 2011IL 3-6, RL 6.4ISBN 1599906449 “Whenever Castle Glower became bored, it would grow a new room or two. This usually happened on Tuesdays…” Princess Celie loved it when the castle sprouted a turret, a passageway, or even an entire wing, although it was sure to confuse visitors seeking an audience with the king. The castle always chose its own king, in this case benevolent King Glower the 79th and his beloved queen, and it set an affectionate watch over the royal family.When Celie’s parents and eldest brother Bran were ambushed while traveling and reported killed, the castle was flooded with dignitaries from abroad, ostensibly there to offer their condolences and proffer assistance to Celie and her brother Rolf. The Royal Council was behaving very suspiciously however, and with the castle’s help, the children learned that there was a plot afoot to overthrow Rolf, the king’s next eldest son and heir apparent. But were the king and queen really dead? The castle suspected otherwise…A delightful romp! (Booktalk written by Luci Albertson- GSF Committee/Bedford Public Library)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/05/2012

• Hobbs, Will. TAKE ME TO THE RIVER

  Hobbs, Will. TAKE ME TO THE RIVERNew York : Harper, 2011IL 5-8, RL 5.7ISBN 0060741457Fourteen year old Dylan can’t wait for his adventure down the Rio Grande with his uncle and his cousin Rio. Arriving at the bus stop in Alpine, Texas is just the beginning of a harrowing adventure for Dylan. Expecting his uncle to meet him, Dylan instead receives a text from his cousin to “hitch” a ride to their place.Puzzled, and not certain if he should, Dylan decides to go ahead and sets out. He’ll just wait to check in with his mother. Once Dylan arrives, he discovers the trip was to have been cancelled since his Uncle had an unexpected business trip to Alaska. Cousin Rio convinces him to stay and go on the adventure as planned. What could possible go wrong? Travel down the Rio Grande with these teens as a hurricane brews, Blackhawk choppers circle above and a dangerous man crosses their path. Will they survive a triple threat? (Booktalk written by Catherine Ryan- GSF committee/ New England College)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/04/2012

• Jacobson, Jennifer Richard. SMALL AS AN ELEPHANT

  Jacobson, Jennifer Richard. SMALL AS AN ELEPHANTSomerville, MA : Candlewick Press, 2011IL 5-8, RL 6.3ISBN 0763641553Imagine you’re 11 years old. You’ve had a long car ride with your mother to a Maine camp ground and during the trip the two of you argue over a stop at a wild animal park to see an elephant. Now imagine you wake up the next day at the campground to find your mother, her car and all the camping gear gone. This is the situation Jack Martel finds himself in. He figures she’s probably just moved all their stuff to another campsite, so he sets out to enjoy himself…alone. But as time goes by and despite his efforts to contact his mom, there’s still no sign of her, and Jack grows increasingly afraid other campers will discover he’s been abandoned. He finds some comfort in a small, plastic elephant he has in his possession; it’s a reminder of a trip with his mother to the circus when he was four. Jack’s mother has a history of mental illness while Jack has an obsession with elephants. He loves his mother, in spite of her erratic behavior. When Jack realizes he won’t be able to find his mother, he decides to return to his home in Boston, and in need of food and shelter starts to make his way south. (Booktalk written by Suzanne Wall-GSF Committee/Merrimack Public Library)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/03/2012

• Stanley, Diane. THE SILVER BOWL

  Stanley, Diane. THE SILVER BOWLNew York : Harper, 2011IL 5-8, RL 6.0ISBN 0061575437Molly is sent away at age seven to be a scullery maid for the King of Westria. When she is sent away, her Mother gives her a necklace that Molly wears secretly under her dress.Molly has another secret, she sees visions and what’s more, her visions come true. Early on in her days at the Castle, Molly makes friends with a stable boy named Tobias. One day Tobias takes Molly into the royal family’s living area as he is setting the fires. Molly stares at the young Prince Alaric who tells the young scullery maid to mind her place. After a time, Molly is taught to polish the royal silver. A large, beautifully crafted silver bowl makes Molly very uneasy. When she polishes the silver bowl, Molly is transfixed by terrible visions! What does the future hold for Molly, Tobias and the Royal Family of Westria? The Silver Bowl is a tale of mystery and adventure set in the middle ages that will keep you turning the pages. (Booktalk written by Lorreen Keating-GSF Committee/North Hampton Public Library)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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Today's Book 06/02/2012

• Hyde, Natalie. SAVING ARM PIT

  Hyde, Natalie. SAVING ARM PITNew York : Fitzhenry & Whiteside, 2011IL 3-6, RL 5.7ISBN 155455151XArm Pit isn’t a body part…it’s the name of a town. On April Fool’s Day, some jokers had painted out a few letters on Harmony Point’s town sign. And they seem to be living up to the name…their hapless baseball team, the Terriers, have never won a game! Just once, they’d like to show up those Barton Bulldogs! Things begin to look up when the new postmaster, Mr. Blackmore, becomes their new coach…finally, someone who knows something about baseball! Just when the team begins to learn better skills and gain some confidence, a new crisis looms: they overhear a town official saying that their sleepy little town post office may be closed, “unless the numbers work out”. The Terriers spring into action to save their coach’s job, and their team’s chances of winning a game. They begin flooding the mail with inquiries and requests for all sorts of goods and services… free trials, magazines, camp brochures, fudge recipes, and even improved road conditions for Highway 51!Their letter campaign turns out to be a smashing success…but yields some entirely unexpected results! A delightful, warm-hearted sports story filled with lots of kid power! (Booktalk written by Luci Albertson- GSF Committee/Bedford Public Library)

  tags: podcasts blueduke elementary nhgsf

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