Did you know that YP staff members read many of the materials found in our department? This allows us to offer recommendations and provide readers advisory services to our patrons, from toddlers to adults! YP Currently Reading lets you know what materials we are reviewing, and what we think about them.
After a devastating hurricane turns her life upside down, Laurel Daneau is forced to start over. On the surface, Laurel seems to be doing well in her new school. She is a cheerleader and she has a popular boyfriend nicknamed T-Boom. Privately, though, she is struggling with the loss of her mother and her grandmother and she is hurting. When T-Boom introduces Laurel to meth, she believes that she has finally found a way to numb her pain. But a meth addiction proves to be more than she bargained for.
This is a new J Fiction title with a unique format. The story is presented like a video game, with the main character introduced in a brief biographical sketch."Heart of the Enemy" tells the story of LT. Commander Lester Donovan, a US Navy SEAL in serving in Iraq. At the end of each chapter, readers are given a debriefing of the events that have just unfolded.
I have to admit, the thought of "Blood and Guts" makes me a little squeamish! But maybe, just maybe, this book will appeal to those brave souls who are interested in Mixed Martial Arts! The rules and regulations of the sport are defined, and key moves are explained in detail. There is also a biography section that provides a glimpse into the lives of different professional fighters. Exposure to actual blood and guts throughout the story is limited, and the content is not nearly as graphic as the title might imply. If you're looking for the basics of MMA, or just trying to engage a reluctant reader, this book may be the ticket!
Entertainer Jim Gill is responsible for this funny little tale about a man who CAN NOT eat his soup! A great conversation starter about the fundamentals of oprea, but not too serious as to bore the audience. The preschool crowd will appreciate the simplicity of the storyline and enjoy the musical presentation, while the K-5 set will appreciate the subtle humor, such as the "Fat Lady" delivering the last lines of the production. Don't miss this title!
Joy is a typical suburban teen who finds herself in an abusive relationship with her "boyfriend" Asher. In order to escape the relationship, she runs away from home and starts a new life with a group of homeless teens. Joy is rather unprepared for the realities of life on the streets, and she begins a journey of self discovery in an attempt to overcome the obstacles she is facing. Along the way, she makes some unlikely friends, and learns more from them than anyone could have imagined.
I attended college in Texas, where "Texas State Government" was a required course, so I am all too familiar with Sam Houston and his famous "Remember the Alamo!" quote. However, if you need a history refresher, or you are just looking for an entertaining biography, "A Picture Book of Sam Houston" just might do.
Houston was a teacher, a soldier, a lawyer, a governor, and even president of the Republic of Texas. Information about his diverse career choices coupled with vivid illustrations make this biography an interesting read.
This is a new Historical Fiction title, and part of the Boys of Wartime series. The main character is twelve-year-old Michael, who lives with his family in Paris during World War II. Michael wants to help with the war efforts, but he has to decide how much he is willing to risk to defend his country's freedom.
Elephant and Piggie are back in a fantastic new tale of friendship and honesty! Piggie has a new trumpet, and she is very eager to share her musical talents with Gerald, but ...her talent is..nonexistent. When Piggie starts fishing for compliments, poor Gerald has to decide if he should tell the truth, even if it means hurting his friends feelings.
This book is considered an easy reader, and would be a great springboard for discussions about honesty and friendship.
Maisy mouse is back, and she is more active than ever before! Young readers will enjoy following Maisy as she skips, jumps and somersaults through a typical day. With colorful illustrations and text that encourages active participation, this book is sure to be a hit with toddlers!
Chopsticks provides a funny look at what happens when an always together couple is suddenly forced apart. Readers learn the joy of sticking together as well as the power of individual skills. This is a must read for parents who have experience with clingy children as well as anyone who has ever been separated from the person that they love most.