New @ Your Library for August
Posted on: August 18, 2009
We get new books nearly every day at Kuna Library, and we love watching them fly off the shelves. Here’s just a sampling of what’s new on for you to check out, and don’t forget that you can place reserves on books from home through the library website. Add your name to the reserve list and we’ll call or email you (your preference) as soon as it’s available for you.
Adult Fiction
The Eleventh Victim by Nancy Grace. CourtTV’s Nancy Grace releases her first fiction thriller. Inspired by events from her own life (like the main character, Nancy Grace’s fiance was also murdered), this suspense novel follows a former D.A. being stalked by the serial killer she once put away. He claims 10 of the murders he was convicted of, but denies the 11th, setting the story’s mystery up.
The Hope of Refuge by Cindy Woodsmall
South of Broad by Pat Conroy
Intervention by Robin Cook
Smash Cut by Sandra Brown. Sandra Brown focuses on crime and suspense in Smash Cut, released last week. Inspired by film noir, this story gets readers wondering just how far a film fan might take his obsession. Far enough to kill for thrills by reenacting classic film killings, or is it all a setup with a deeper motive?
Blindman’s Bluff by Faye Kellerman
That Old Cape Magic by Richard Russo
The Girl Who Played with Fire by Steig Larsson
Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann. This NYC-based novel has received outstanding reviews, and even found its way to Amazon’s Best Books of 2009 list-in-progress. The arresting sight of a man walking a tightrope between the twin towers (the book is set in the seedy ’70s) spans out into the stories of 10 different New Yorkers. McCann’s New York is trashy, dim, and totally absorbing.
Young Adult Fiction
The 39 Clues: The Black Circle by Patrick Carman
Playaway Audio
Borderline by Nevada Barr
Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris
Wicked Prey by John Sandford
Tea Time for the Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith
Fugitive by Philip Margolin
Fatally Flaky by Diane Mott Davidson
Adult Nonfiction
Mommywood by Tori Spelling
The Undaunted by Gerald Lund
Supersonic Saints 2 by John Bytheway
Large Print
Finger Lickin’ Fifteen by Janet Evanovich
DVD
17 Again
The Jonas Brothers in Concert
Mobsters & Mormons
Photo courtesy of kennymatic
We can only stay away from storytime for so long… Weekly storytimes are back at the library at noon on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. This week’s theme is “As Seen on T.V.”, so expect appearances from favorite characters like Dora, Diego, SpongeBob and more. Plus, we’ve got some cool giveaways for all kids at storytimes this week, so drop in for a half hour of stories and fun.
The countdown to regular programming is on, so keep your eyes and ears open for updates on Music and Movement sign-ups, which will be available soon!
Photo courtesy of vox_efx
Pancakes… Everywhere!
Posted on: July 29, 2009
Phew! It went by like a whirlwind, but the Flapjack Attack was huge this year! Starting at 9:00 a.m. on the dot, the library’s parking lot was filled with families lined up for pancakes. Since we’re working the “Be Creative” theme this summer, library staff decided to take our own advice and think outside the box. Way out.
Picture pancakes by the dozen in shades of neon green, hot pink, bright turquoise, and rich purple. Then picture topping them with neon whipped cream and a generous helping of sprinkles. Oh, and butter and classic maple syrup, of course!
While the cooks weren’t sure about colored pancakes, the kids in attendance loved them. (Did you expect anything else?) We’re not sure how many pancakes we cooked exactly, but the crowd was pretty close to 500. Ever cooked for 500? We’re kind of exhausted…
Kids were entertained by a Transformer visit, a dance party, plenty of autographs from our summer stars, and—a personal favorite—a guest visit from some of our Tales to Tails regulars. Rugby and Bailey got the star treatment, and we can’t wait to see them again when Tales to Tails starts up again in a month. Pancakes and puppies, and a truckload of chocolate milk; who could ask for anything more?
Thanks, Kuna, for making our annual pancake breakfast another huge success. We’re thrilled that you came out and we appreciate your support. And we’ve already got some ideas up our sleeves for next year…
Photo courtesy of Jonathanb1989
Flapjack Attack at Kuna Library
Posted on: July 23, 2009
The last weekly summer reading program finished up yesterday, and it ended with a bang. Over 300 people came out to Footloose and Fancy Free programs this week and participated in our family dances. (More than 300! That’s a huge turnout, especially for the last week—Kuna rocks!) We did the chicken dance, the hokey pokey, the cha-cha slide and yes, the pancake dance. That leads us to…
We’ve still got one big party up our sleeves, though, and that’s the Flapjack Attack!
Who: The entire Kuna community is invited
What: Free pancakes and fun all morning long
When: 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 29
Where: The Kuna Library on the corner of Maple and Syrup
You’re invited to attend this free community event, gobble up some deliciously creative pancakes, and join the fun.
Plus, keep your eyes peeled for some special guests from the Tales to Tails reading program, which will resume this fall as school starts.
See you there, Kuna!
Fit and Fall Proof Is Back, Baby!
Posted on: July 8, 2009
Kuna Library is excited to announce that Fit and Fall Proof is back! With one hugely successful session under our belts, we’re ready to rock for 12 more weeks of senior exercise.
What Is Fit & Fall Proof?
Fit and Fall Proof is a fitness class designed specifically for seniors. A service of the Central Health District, this class focuses on strength, mobility, and balance. There are no fast-paced dance moves here, but you will get a great workout. For anyone ages 65 and over, this class can help keep you mobile and independent.
How Do I Join a Class?
Stop by the library during any regular class time (Mondays and Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m.). Come a few minutes early so that you can fill out an emergency contact form and the PAR-Q (a basic health questionnaire). Once you’ve completed your paperwork and taken a very short walking test, you’re in! We’ll add you to the list and you can attend anytime.
What Kind of Fitness Level Do I Need to Have to Participate?
There is no standard fitness level needed. Anyone can benefit from and enjoy Fit and Fall Proof, from the very healthy and active to those with minimal mobility. All of the exercises included in the class are designed so that you can work to your fitness level, not anybody else’s. We have both standing and sitting class leaders, and you’re free to stop and rest as much or as little as you need.
What Should I Wear or Bring?
Wear comfortable clothes that you can bend and stretch in. All you need to bring when you sign up is your emergency contact information (who to call, your doctor’s name and phone number). That’s it!
How Much Does It Cost?
Fit and Fall Proof is absolutely free. There is no cost to join and no cost for continued attendance.
How Often Do I Need to Come to Class?
As often as you’re able. You’re not required to come to any specific number of classes, though patrons who attend twice a week tend to see the most physical improvement.
Will the Senior Bus Take Me to Fit and Fall Proof?
Yes, the senior bus has been a fantastic partner, and a number of class members use the local senior bus to get to the library.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask, and don’t forget to spread the word about this fun class that’s totally free for seniors.
Just when you thought you could catch a nap after a long and lovely Fourth of July weekend, Sports Week is here! What does that mean? Expect to be active this week at summer reading programs, with games galore, special guests, and sports-themed prizes.
In between your holes in one, don’t forget to keep reading; this is the week for free Boise Hawks tickets for summer readers. We have lots of folks tell us this is their favorite prize week. After all, who doesn’t want to go out to a ball game on a beautiful Treasure Valley evening–for free?
And remember, if you’ll be attending summer programs this week, wear sunscreen, since we’ll be outside on the lawns for a portion of the program.
This week at Kuna Library:
Monday, July 6:
Fit and Fall Proof 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday, July 7:
Summer Reading Program 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.
Wednesday, July 8:
Fit and Fall Proof 11:00 a.m.
Summer Reading Program 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 9:
Young Adult Activity 11:00 a.m.
Young Adults can take part in Fractured Fairy Tale Puppet Theater. Get ready to get silly, get weird, and most of all get creative with mixed-up, whacked-out, completely original fairy tale theater.
P.J. Storytime 7:00 p.m.
What’s More American?
Posted on: June 30, 2009
It’s “What’s More American?” week at Kuna Library, where we celebrate the sights, sounds, and songs of the Fourth. Families coming to our summer reading program (Tuesday @ 10:30 & 1:30, Wednesday @ 1:30) can expect some fresh takes on our classic tribute, with—of course!—the traditional Fourth of July parade. Plan to be there, with your red, white, and blue on! (And sunscreen, too, of course…)
If you’re looking for some patriotic reads to celebrate the week and get you through the long weekend, consider these:
Adult Fiction:
The Hornet’s Nest by Jimmy Carter. Yep, that Jimmy Carter. This presidentially penned novel is the story of the American Revolution as it takes place in the South. Spun carefully with lots of well-researched facts, this novel shows readers the effects of the revolution on American families.
Adult Non Fiction:
John Adams by David McCullough. A triumph of 2001, this new classic is still a must-read for American history buffs. (If you’re not up for the task, you can check out the HBO film about this founding father.)
Young Adults:
The Capital Mysteries Series: This series, designed for young readers, takes kids from the Smithsonian to the Lincoln Memorial, all in a way that’s fun and exciting.
Revolutionary War on Wednesday by Mary Pope Osborne (Magic Tree House series)
Judy Moody Declares Independence by Megan McDonald
Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes (Still a classic!)
Kate and the Spies: The American Revolution 1775 by JoAnn A. Grote
Children:
Apple Pie Fourth of July by Janet S. Wong: A Chinese American child fears that the food her parents are preparing to sell on the Fourth of July will not be eaten. Will anyone eat Chinese food on the Fourth of July? This book emphasizes the idea of a common American heritage as well as the idea that Americans are nothing if not unpredictable.
Fireworks, Picnics, and Flags : The Story of the Fourth of July Symbols by James Cross Giblin
| Hats Off for the Fourth of July by Harriet ZiefertBig George : How a Shy Boy Became President Washington by Anne F. Rockwell |
New at the Library
Posted on: June 29, 2009
Curious what’s new at the library? We’re always adding the latest releases to our collection for you. A few interesting titles that have come through include:
Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen by Christopher McDougall
“Isolated by the most savage terrain in North America, the reclusive Tarahumara Indians of Mexico’s deadly Copper Canyons are custodians of a lost art. For centuries they have practiced techniques that allow them to run hundreds of miles without rest and chase down anything from a deer to an Olympic marathoner while enjoying every mile of it. Their superhuman talent is matched by uncanny health and serenity, leaving the Tarahumara immune to the diseases and strife that plague modern existence.”
–Amazon review
More new Adult Non-Fiction:
Glenn Beck’s Common Sense
The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
Cassandra’s only clue to her recently deceased grandmother’s roots is a book of fairy tales, and an inherited garden in England. If you love fairy tale inspired fiction, Kate Morton’s new release is one to add to your to-read list. This blend of enchantment and modern-day reality is part gothic mystery and part Secret Garden for grownups. While it takes a while to get used to Morton’s method of jumping between time periods, the payoff is well worth the read, and the different timelines start to merge seamlessly about a third of the way through. P.S.: The latest Sisters Grimm novel is also in: Look for The Everafter Wars, or start back at the beginning with The Fairy Tale Detectives.
More new Adult Fiction:
Fugitive by Phillip Margolin
The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe
Robert Ludlum’s The Bourne Deception
Razor Sharp by Fern Michaels
Young Adult Fiction:
Vampirates #4 is out! Black Heart continues the story of the Pirate Federation as they track a new ship of Vampirates. Look for new developments from Connor, Grace, and Sally Tempest in this latest installment of the popular series.
More new YA Fiction:
The Dragon Hunters by Paul Genesse
The Sisters Grimm: The Everafter War by Michael Buckley
The Singing (Pellinore Book Four) by Alison Croggon
A Taste for Red by Lewis Harris
Return of the Homework Machine by Dan Gutman
P.S. I Loathe You (Clique #11) by Lisi Harrison
Extras by Scott Westerfeld
Vampire Kisses 2: Kissing Coffins
Warriors: Code of the Clans by Erin Hunter
Wii Read Off and Running!
Posted on: June 26, 2009
Our brand new teen summer reading program kicked off yesterday with the first of three open Wii gaming parties. Among the offerings were Guitar Hero (love the drums!), Super Sm
ash Bros Brawl, and Mario Kart.
To get an entry ticket, all teens have to do is read for 2.5 hours each week—that averages out to less than half an hour each day. Teens can bring their completed tracking sheets to the library to get their ticket, or just bring their completed tracked sheets to the library on game day for express entry.
Of course, no expects Kuna’s teens to be video game zombies. Wii-wary adults will be happy to know that classic board games like Battleship turn out to be just as popular as the latest Nintendo fad. (We’re not kidding–just stop by on a game day to see for yourself…)
Bummed that you missed the first Wii Read game day? No worries, since there will be two more game parties this summer. If you or your teen (ages 13-17 can participate) wants to join in, just sign up for the summer reading program at Kuna Library anytime, grab a tracking sheet, and get going. The next Wii Read game day will be Thursday, July 16 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the community room at Kuna Library.
Wii Read, Kuna’s first teen-targeted summer reading program, has been made possible in part by a grant from Wal-Mart and the Idaho Commission for Libraries. The grant, which was created to spark creative ideas in youth library programming, allowed us to get the funding to buy the Wiis, projectors, projection screens, gaming mags, games, and accessories required. With three Wiis in one room, there’s playing time for dozens of Kuna teens.
There’s a pretty sizeable percentage of the population that views a love of reading as something you’re either born with or you’re not. I’d have to respectfully disagree. Sure, some kids take to books like other kids take to, well, candy. But there’s room to encourage even the most reluctant readers to find their place in the world of books. Here’s five ways that you can make reading more fun:
Let Kids Pick Their Own Reading Materials
Choosing their own books is seriously empowering for kids. Whether they pick a winner or a real stinker (yeah, bad books are out there…), they start to develop a sense of what they like and don’t like. This encourages kids to view reading as a big experiment where they’re in control of the outcome. But what happens if all your child wants to read is Goosebumps and graphic novels? Don’t sweat it. As long as the material is appropriate to your family’s values and your child is reading—what could be bad about that? Besides, I’ve yet to meet a full-fledged adult who considers Goosebumps to be Pulitzer Prize material; we really do grow out of it.
Ignore Reading Levels
Some reluctant readers don’t want to be judged on their abilities, so they stay away from reading out of fear. What happens? They don’t get the practice they need, and their reading levels really do suffer. By letting your child read at the level they’re comfortable with–even if it’s lower or higher than you feel is appropriate–you help them learn to read for pleasure. When your child is ready to more on, they will.
Incorporate Books into Play Activities
There are thousands of book-related activities that go beyond, “Hey! What did you think of that one?” Kids can create art projects around their favorite characters, make up new rules for board games based on their latest read, you can let them decorate their morning pancakes in Slytherin colors, or go to Arctic Circle in full Fancy Nancy regalia… Get creative and have fun. Reading goes beyond books and bedtime, and those extra activities help kids build on what they learn in books.
Read Yourself
Despite how much they may love Wolverine or Kobe Bryant, you’re still the biggest role model in your child’s life. If you show an interest in books, there’s a really good chance your kids will absorb and reflect this. If curling up with a book (or listening to audiobooks in the car) is a regular family activity, kids get the message that reading is a normal, enjoyable way to pass the time.
Seek out Exciting New Books
Sure, you may have loved Hatchet growing up (and trust me, lots of kids still do), but if your young one still needs to be convinced that books are a viable alternative to Wii, going with something shiny and new doesn’t hurt. Consider looking into graphic novels, which are written in a comic book style but contain complex plots and character development. (And quite a lot of actual words, too.) Twisted Journeys are a graphic novel twist on the Choose Your Own Adventure format of the 1980s that’s still hugely popular. Or, let your child browse the New Books sections in the Young Adult or Children’s section.
What ideas and tips have worked for you? Drop into the comments and share your ideas and success stories!
Kuna Reads! 