On a relatively quiet afternoon, as I sat at the reference desk reading the latest YALSA magazine, a small redheaded boy with a dash of freckles on his nose felt the urge to share his discovery with EVERYONE in the library. What was his announcement? "Wow! This Library is dangerous!" This young boy's view is definitely not mainstream. As a matter of fact, most people, would probably say that the library is a wonderful place to visit. Quiet. Safe. Sometimes, even cozy. But Dangerous? Nah! Not the library. What was this kid talking about? Upon further investigation it turns out that he had discovered a whole new world of rocket, volcanos, magnets and wrestling. Could a boy dream of anything better?
The thought comes to mind that perhaps this little boy is right. This library or any library for that matter is a dangerous place. Where else could boys who like to shot things into the air like a model rocket find the inspiration to make their craft fly? There are wonderful books that demonstrate all types of dangerous activities from creating electricity with magnet to forming hot black lava to ooze out of self made volcano. The possibilities are endless! This actually should be a marketing ploy to lure boys into the library on a Saturday afternoon. Send home letters to parents and children in a red envelope with the worD DANGER in block letters on the front. The letter inside would warn parents of the dire consequences of letting Johnny or Jenny go to the library. They might find out cool facts about fire, wrestling and darts. All very dangerous to young children. What would happen if you utter these words to your child, "No! You can't do that?" You get the picture.
Danger can come in all forms. Kids sometimes find the novels which challenge them to "think" dangerously. Titles like Atlas Shrugged, Brave New World and Animal Farm all deal with individuality and the price for not conforming with authority. A more recent trilogy that has become one of my favorites is The Hunger Games. Collins' book is riveting, compelling and dangerously thought provoking. This book has been used in the teen's book discussion. Teens' comments and insights about the role of government and citizens were candid and a little suprising. One teen jokingly said that dictators were cool, as long as he got to be the dictator!" Indeed, the idea of absolute power can be a very dangerous.
What can be more dangerous than the tricks that our minds play on us from time to time? Series like Michigan Chillers and American Chillers from Jonathan Rand explore the world of creepy scary things that make the skin crawl. No one really wants to believe that these creatures exist, but there is a small nagging feeling that just maybe there is something to these stories. After reading Rand's Chillers, thee are some kids who dare to poke around in the paranormal sections to investigate if things really go bump in the night. That is a very dangerous section indeed.
AS National Library Week comes to a close, it's a nice thought that libraries can be very dangerous places. A place where a kid can find out how to make their own big "bang", explore ideas that ignite debate or scare oneself silly that their own heart might dangerously stop. As a librarian, its satisfying to know that this is what living on the edge is all about! It is absolutely true, libraries are dangerous for kids of all ages. Go ahead and let them loose in the library. I dare you!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
A Look At State of America's Libraries Report
On Monday, the American Library Association released their report on the state of libraries in our country. The facts that were uncovered were not surprising. The trend in libraries has always been that when tough economic times hit library services are in high demand. It is not even surprising that libraries are find ways of doing more with less. Librarians have had a talent for doing this for years. It is a miracle that many of our nation's libraries have remained open and it is in large part to librarians and advocates who diligently serve the public with the best possible service. What is surprising and encouraging to note is that Americans do see the value in their libraries. This would indicate that the message is getting out about the library's role in the community. While this is terrific news, it is also a "call" to continue putting the library at the forefront of community news. In advertising, it's all about being seen.
The picture of today's American library is of an institution that passes the test of time. Americans still see the public library as the "source" for books, information and lifelong learning. There may be some misconceptions that libraries are "archaic" but it is few and far between. Avid library users know that libraries today have wifi services, internet access, electronic databases and ebooks. it may not look like your grandfather's library but it still provides the opportunity for lifelong learning as well as entertainment. For the nay sayers who believe that the library's days are long gone have not walked into a library lately. If they had, they would see the enormous change and realize what they have been missing.
It would be misleading not to mention the communities that lost their libraries due to mileages failing or city councils who refused to find a way to keep the "jewel" of the community. One closed library is one too many. Having said that, a valuable lesson can be learned from these unfortunate circumstances. When communities lose a library, it is not just losing a building that holds books. It is essentially cutting off the information flow to the public. As an example, in my own backyard, Troy Public Library will be closing it's doors soon. For good. Most of Troy's citizens do not realize that this means library services will not be available to them anywhere in Southeast Michigan. The surrounding libraries that provided reciprocal borrowing to Troy residents in the past will no longer provide that service. Leaving Troy residents with a locked up library. Sure they can visit a library, but internet access, borrowing materials and perhaps some programs will not be available to them. In situations like this, it seems that a PSA ad would do wonders to demonstrate what is lost when a library closes its doors. Its all about showing a picture that speaks louder than words.
Libraries have been known to take a couple of punches, get knocked down and get back on their feet again. Just like any other industries, there are cycles of good times and bad. What makes this year different is that unlike previous years, libraries have many more outspoken supporters. This can only lead to good things for the future. Stories of eight year olds like Paul Valleau, patron at Jersey City Public Library starting a fund raiser for the local library not only warms the heart, but gives hope that the generation that seems to be glued to their computer gadgets and cell phones will want and need libraries in their busy lives. If the message of this year's State of America's Libraries Report suggests anything, it is that now is the time for libraries to be visible, vibrant and valiantly defending the rights of all citizens to have access to libraries.
The picture of today's American library is of an institution that passes the test of time. Americans still see the public library as the "source" for books, information and lifelong learning. There may be some misconceptions that libraries are "archaic" but it is few and far between. Avid library users know that libraries today have wifi services, internet access, electronic databases and ebooks. it may not look like your grandfather's library but it still provides the opportunity for lifelong learning as well as entertainment. For the nay sayers who believe that the library's days are long gone have not walked into a library lately. If they had, they would see the enormous change and realize what they have been missing.
It would be misleading not to mention the communities that lost their libraries due to mileages failing or city councils who refused to find a way to keep the "jewel" of the community. One closed library is one too many. Having said that, a valuable lesson can be learned from these unfortunate circumstances. When communities lose a library, it is not just losing a building that holds books. It is essentially cutting off the information flow to the public. As an example, in my own backyard, Troy Public Library will be closing it's doors soon. For good. Most of Troy's citizens do not realize that this means library services will not be available to them anywhere in Southeast Michigan. The surrounding libraries that provided reciprocal borrowing to Troy residents in the past will no longer provide that service. Leaving Troy residents with a locked up library. Sure they can visit a library, but internet access, borrowing materials and perhaps some programs will not be available to them. In situations like this, it seems that a PSA ad would do wonders to demonstrate what is lost when a library closes its doors. Its all about showing a picture that speaks louder than words.
Libraries have been known to take a couple of punches, get knocked down and get back on their feet again. Just like any other industries, there are cycles of good times and bad. What makes this year different is that unlike previous years, libraries have many more outspoken supporters. This can only lead to good things for the future. Stories of eight year olds like Paul Valleau, patron at Jersey City Public Library starting a fund raiser for the local library not only warms the heart, but gives hope that the generation that seems to be glued to their computer gadgets and cell phones will want and need libraries in their busy lives. If the message of this year's State of America's Libraries Report suggests anything, it is that now is the time for libraries to be visible, vibrant and valiantly defending the rights of all citizens to have access to libraries.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Celebrating With Weird & Wonderful Facts About Libraries
National Library Week kicked off officially yesterday, April 10th. At the beginning of any week's celebration, be it National Pie Week or National Fire Prevention week, there must be the obligatory statistics and weird facts to share about the week's topic. Libraries are not from weird facts. Some may come as a surprise, while others might generate a yawn or two. However, if you love libraries these facts will not seem boring at all. In fact, it offers a shot of morale for those who sit behind the reference and circulation desk or conduct storytimes. In no particular order are ten wonderful facts about libraries.
1. The Library of Congress, which was established in the 1800's, is the oldest federal cultural institution in the nation.
2. The largest library in the world is the Library of Congress. Care to guess how may miles of bookshelves there are in this historic building? If your guess is 745 miles, you are correct.
3. There are more library cardholders than VISA card holders. It must be because libraries help families of all sizes save money.
4. Who do you think would have more outlets McDonald's or public libraries? If you guessed that it was the all familiar Golden Arches, you would be wrong. It's actually, the blue and white library signs that point to the many library outlets.
5. The world's "greatest lover" Giacomo Casanova spent the latter part of his life as a librarian for Count Waldstein of Bohemia.
6 Children's materials account for 35% of all circulated transaction in US public libraries.
7. During his undergrad years, Edgar Hoover supported himself by working nights at the Library of Congress.
8. It's common knowledge that Melvil Dewey invented the Dewey Decimal System which is still in use in many public libraries today. Mr. Dewey was a true pioneer in the field of librarianship. He served as the head librarian for Columbia University for five years, and later became the director of the New York State Library.
9. Outside the New York Public Library are two library statues whose names are Patience and Fortitude.
10. What book holds the record for being the book most often stolen form the Public Library?
Guinness Book of Records, of course!
At the next social gathering, perhaps its a library fundraiser, enlighten your friends with library trivia. Who knows? it might even earn you a spot at the head table.
1. The Library of Congress, which was established in the 1800's, is the oldest federal cultural institution in the nation.
2. The largest library in the world is the Library of Congress. Care to guess how may miles of bookshelves there are in this historic building? If your guess is 745 miles, you are correct.
3. There are more library cardholders than VISA card holders. It must be because libraries help families of all sizes save money.
4. Who do you think would have more outlets McDonald's or public libraries? If you guessed that it was the all familiar Golden Arches, you would be wrong. It's actually, the blue and white library signs that point to the many library outlets.
5. The world's "greatest lover" Giacomo Casanova spent the latter part of his life as a librarian for Count Waldstein of Bohemia.
6 Children's materials account for 35% of all circulated transaction in US public libraries.
7. During his undergrad years, Edgar Hoover supported himself by working nights at the Library of Congress.
8. It's common knowledge that Melvil Dewey invented the Dewey Decimal System which is still in use in many public libraries today. Mr. Dewey was a true pioneer in the field of librarianship. He served as the head librarian for Columbia University for five years, and later became the director of the New York State Library.
9. Outside the New York Public Library are two library statues whose names are Patience and Fortitude.
10. What book holds the record for being the book most often stolen form the Public Library?
Guinness Book of Records, of course!
At the next social gathering, perhaps its a library fundraiser, enlighten your friends with library trivia. Who knows? it might even earn you a spot at the head table.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Celebrating National Library Week 2011: Making Everyday Count!
April is the month of spring, silliness, and showers. Mixed in with the warmer weather, jokes and puddles is tax season, baseball begins and National Library Week. It's a nice mixture because libraries blends in well with every spring activity or holiday. Literally, there is a book, film, dvd, database and the list goes on just about every topic. The library is the best place to find the answer to any question on any topic. Which is precisely the reason why there is a week in April devoted to celebrating libraries and all they do for a community. National Library Week begins on April 10 and libraries across the country will be recognizing this week with special events. However, this should not stop a library enthusiast from finding their own creative ways to celebrate libraries this week. Here are some simple ways to celebrate for each day of the week.
April 10: Sundays are perfect for going to the library to find a book to read for pure enjoyment. Your local library is closed on Sunday? Contrary to popular belief that libraries are old and out of date, anyone with a library card can visit the library 24/7. To find that perfect book to read go to your library's website to download an ebook edition.
April 11: Monday is the day when everyone is back to business as usual. It is the perfect day to write to your local, state and federal representative informing them of your support and need for your local library. Don't know where to send your email or letter to? Call the library and ask the librarian for the information.
April 12: Tuesdays are typically the day where everyone eases into the tasks that need to be done for the rest of the week. The American Library Association dedicates this day to library workers. Most people assume that if a person works in a library that automatically suggests that the job title is "librarian". That is not the case. There are many people behind the scenes and at the front desk that help the library run smoothly on a day to day basis. They are the clerks, book shelvers and administrative assistants. Give a shout out of "thanks" on the library's Facebook page or their website's comment page to let them know you appreciate everything they do on a daily basis.
April 13: Wednesday is hump day and the weekend is just around the corner again. It is also National Bookmobile Day. Not every library is fortunate enough to provide this outreach service to their community. A bookmobile basically goes out into the community and brings the library to those who otherwise do not have the opportunity to visit the library. in the spirt of reaching out, spread the word about your favorite library service or programs to your family, neighbors, and coworkers. You could even suggest a "road' trip to the library to attend or use the wonderful services.
April 14: Thursday is one day closer to Saturday. The excitement of what the weekend has to offer is starting to affect everyone at home and work. Libraries are traditionally busy on Saturdays with programs for the entire family. Check out the library's calendar to see what programs the library has to offer. Today is also the day to Support Teen literature. Check out the latest Young Adult best sellers. It just may surprise you to see who is writing for Young Adults these days. (Would you have guessed James Patterson?)
April 15: Yeah it's Friday! However, it is also Tax Day. This year's taxes should be done, but if you need an extension form, they are available at the library, along with all the other forms for city, state and local taxes. Hopefully you were able to claim a deduction for a donation to the library. No? There's no time like the present to do something positive for next year's filing. Make a donation to the library, either in materials or monetary. It will make you feel good and the library would appreciate the gift.
April 16: Saturday is finally here and so is the end of a week long celebration in honor of libraries. what better way to cap off the week than by thanking the librarians for finding the answers, reading the stories, and encouraging life-long learning. (Yes, shameless plug for my profession. Can you blame me?) The best way to show your gratitude for librarians is to visit the library and visit it often. Cards are nice too, but it is much more rewarding when librarians' hear patrons, young or old, say, "I LOVE MY LIBRARY".
There are so many ways to support libraries. Hopefully, some of the suggestions will motivate you to visit the library. For me, I'll be celebrating in my unique way. I will need to find my "I Love My Library" and "Hug A Librarian" pins. They will be the wardrobe accessories of the week. It goes without saying that my Nancy Pearl Action Figure will be on display at my desk. To all my peers in libraries, have a wonderful week. To my favorite patrons, thank you for supporting the library which allows me to have the best job on earth.
April 10: Sundays are perfect for going to the library to find a book to read for pure enjoyment. Your local library is closed on Sunday? Contrary to popular belief that libraries are old and out of date, anyone with a library card can visit the library 24/7. To find that perfect book to read go to your library's website to download an ebook edition.
April 11: Monday is the day when everyone is back to business as usual. It is the perfect day to write to your local, state and federal representative informing them of your support and need for your local library. Don't know where to send your email or letter to? Call the library and ask the librarian for the information.
April 12: Tuesdays are typically the day where everyone eases into the tasks that need to be done for the rest of the week. The American Library Association dedicates this day to library workers. Most people assume that if a person works in a library that automatically suggests that the job title is "librarian". That is not the case. There are many people behind the scenes and at the front desk that help the library run smoothly on a day to day basis. They are the clerks, book shelvers and administrative assistants. Give a shout out of "thanks" on the library's Facebook page or their website's comment page to let them know you appreciate everything they do on a daily basis.
April 13: Wednesday is hump day and the weekend is just around the corner again. It is also National Bookmobile Day. Not every library is fortunate enough to provide this outreach service to their community. A bookmobile basically goes out into the community and brings the library to those who otherwise do not have the opportunity to visit the library. in the spirt of reaching out, spread the word about your favorite library service or programs to your family, neighbors, and coworkers. You could even suggest a "road' trip to the library to attend or use the wonderful services.
April 14: Thursday is one day closer to Saturday. The excitement of what the weekend has to offer is starting to affect everyone at home and work. Libraries are traditionally busy on Saturdays with programs for the entire family. Check out the library's calendar to see what programs the library has to offer. Today is also the day to Support Teen literature. Check out the latest Young Adult best sellers. It just may surprise you to see who is writing for Young Adults these days. (Would you have guessed James Patterson?)
April 15: Yeah it's Friday! However, it is also Tax Day. This year's taxes should be done, but if you need an extension form, they are available at the library, along with all the other forms for city, state and local taxes. Hopefully you were able to claim a deduction for a donation to the library. No? There's no time like the present to do something positive for next year's filing. Make a donation to the library, either in materials or monetary. It will make you feel good and the library would appreciate the gift.
April 16: Saturday is finally here and so is the end of a week long celebration in honor of libraries. what better way to cap off the week than by thanking the librarians for finding the answers, reading the stories, and encouraging life-long learning. (Yes, shameless plug for my profession. Can you blame me?) The best way to show your gratitude for librarians is to visit the library and visit it often. Cards are nice too, but it is much more rewarding when librarians' hear patrons, young or old, say, "I LOVE MY LIBRARY".
There are so many ways to support libraries. Hopefully, some of the suggestions will motivate you to visit the library. For me, I'll be celebrating in my unique way. I will need to find my "I Love My Library" and "Hug A Librarian" pins. They will be the wardrobe accessories of the week. It goes without saying that my Nancy Pearl Action Figure will be on display at my desk. To all my peers in libraries, have a wonderful week. To my favorite patrons, thank you for supporting the library which allows me to have the best job on earth.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Pass On The Joy Of Reading Donate A BooK!
This month libraries will be celebrating National Library week beginning April 10th. One may think that for many libraries there is not be much to celebrate because of budget cuts, library closings or staff furloughs. As any optimist will say, there is still plenty of other positives to celebrate when it comes to our nation's libraries. For example, in the past year, library usage has risen. Proving that there is still a need for libraries in growing communities. Corporations have also come to the aid of libraries in unique ways such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundations Geek The Library. The Direct Brands' Book-of-the-Month Club has formed a partnership with the Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends, and Foundation (ALTAFF) to support libraries with an old idea but with a new twist. On their 85th Anniversary, Direct Brands' Book of the Month Club is promoting for the first time National Donate A Book Day beginning on Thursday, April 14th. Pardon the pun, but what a novel idea!
Many avid libraries users are aware of the policies of local libraries concerning donating personal books. This national day is for everyone else, who ever thought, "I have books that I haven't read in years, where can I donate them?" The answer to that is your local library. To participate all one has to do is go through their private library, find gently used books that are in good reading condition and bring them to the library. Its spring cleaning time anyways, right? This is the perfect way to clear out some books, and help the library at the same time.
Libraries would welcome books for readers of all ages, which includes books children have outgrown.
Libraries have always counted on the support of library users to keep the doors open. In these financially strapped times, the idea for this day is long overdue. It is a creative spark libraries need in trying new ways to fill the community's needs. Hats off to Direct Brands' and ALTAFF for promoting a positive and effective way to support America's libraries. If there is an award for BFF of American Libraries, it should go to them. However, they can not make this day a huge success alone. They will need library supporters to spread the word to friends and family. One way to accomplish that is to go www.facebook.com/BookOfTheMOnth wall next week and share this information with friends. A good book should not sit on a shelf and collect dust. It should be shared, don't you agree?
Many avid libraries users are aware of the policies of local libraries concerning donating personal books. This national day is for everyone else, who ever thought, "I have books that I haven't read in years, where can I donate them?" The answer to that is your local library. To participate all one has to do is go through their private library, find gently used books that are in good reading condition and bring them to the library. Its spring cleaning time anyways, right? This is the perfect way to clear out some books, and help the library at the same time.
Libraries would welcome books for readers of all ages, which includes books children have outgrown.
Libraries have always counted on the support of library users to keep the doors open. In these financially strapped times, the idea for this day is long overdue. It is a creative spark libraries need in trying new ways to fill the community's needs. Hats off to Direct Brands' and ALTAFF for promoting a positive and effective way to support America's libraries. If there is an award for BFF of American Libraries, it should go to them. However, they can not make this day a huge success alone. They will need library supporters to spread the word to friends and family. One way to accomplish that is to go www.facebook.com/BookOfTheMOnth wall next week and share this information with friends. A good book should not sit on a shelf and collect dust. It should be shared, don't you agree?
Monday, April 4, 2011
SRP One Story One World: Folklore's Magical Creatures
It's spring now, but just around the corner will be summer. The time when children start the chants, "No more pencils, no more books.." and they rush outdoors to begin their few weeks of freedom. For most public libraries across the country, this is the busy season. Especially in the children's area, where parents with children in tow search for activities to keep everyone busy and happy. Summer Reading Programs change the end of school chants to, "Know more characters, Know more books". This year will be no different. The theme "One Story, One World" gives an opportunity for children to explore the world through tales from long ago, the present or into the future.
Every culture has favorite tales that are unique to them. It is true that from country to country, continent to continent, the tales can be unique but they also share some similarity. The themes usually deal with good versus evil or teaching a moral lesson. Each tale may have one or more magical creature who either brings chaos or clarity to a story. These magical characters come in all shapes, sizes and sometimes are familiar to young readers. This year's SRP theme is perfect for inviting these magical creatures into the library for little ones to find. Of course these creatures don't exist except in the imagination and between the covers of books. This should not deter any librarian from collecting statues or pictures of them to grace the library during a summer program that could stir the pot of imagination. As a matter of fact, it can stir up some fun if it turns into a scavenger hunt.
What magical characters should top the list at this year's summer program? For starters, Leprechauns, Gnomes, Trolls and Elves. These are the magical little people that either cause mischief or good will towards humankind. Although they are small they are mighty. (Gnomes were fabled to be seven times stronger then humans.) Everyone knows that Leprechauns are part of the Irish heritage, but where did the other little people originate. A bit of trivia here, Gnomes are said to originate from Scandinavia. Trolls are from Norway, while Elves are from the German tradition. What could possibly be smaller than all of these characters combined? The Abatwa which comes from South Africa folklore. Abatwas are the size of ants, and life among them in ant hills. In folklore, are very shy but will show themselves to young children, pregnant women or wizards.
No list of magical characters would be complete if unicorns, centaurs and pegasus. Each of these creature have features similar to horses. While mentions of the unicorns can be found in the bible, most avid readers would place the origins of these three with Greek mythology. In he Chinese tradition, the unicorn is called Qilin. Close your eyes and picture an animal that has a body of a deer, the head of a lion, green scales and a long forwardly-curved horn. Nope not a unicorn in our book, but then again, variety is the spice of life!
Going off to the sea, magical creatures from Ireland , Scotland and Iceland, such as mermaids and selkies show up in folklore as beautiful female creatures who capture mens' hearts. In the case of mermaids, some of there tales involve luring fishermen to their watery grave or trading in their scales to become human in order to live with their human soul mate. Selkies are from the Scottish and Icelandic traditions. These beautiful creatures who are half human and half seal, and when they come to shore, if they strip from their seal skin, will become human. Their fate is doomed if a fisherman steal the selkie's seal skin and makes her his wife.
Not to be forgotten are fairies and pixies. Both of these creatures are often depicted as little helpers or notorious pranksters. Either way, they have fluttered their way into the hearts of many readers around the globe. Perhaps the best known, and loved fairy around the world is Tinkerbell, from J.M Barrie's Peter Pan.
Each one of these magical creatures add a vibrant chapter to the world's storybook. It is well worth the effort to find stories, songs and images of them to demonstrate how cultures have similar stories and characters but each adding a unique perspective. The gnome sitting in front of this computer is anxiously waiting to be used as a scavenger hunt prop. He will have to wait along with the leprechaun, troll, unicorn and fairy for summer to roll around. Until then, a reader's bibliography featuring these lovely creatures will be compiled.
If interested in the bibliography, just drop a note at lvnlibrarian@gmail.com
Every culture has favorite tales that are unique to them. It is true that from country to country, continent to continent, the tales can be unique but they also share some similarity. The themes usually deal with good versus evil or teaching a moral lesson. Each tale may have one or more magical creature who either brings chaos or clarity to a story. These magical characters come in all shapes, sizes and sometimes are familiar to young readers. This year's SRP theme is perfect for inviting these magical creatures into the library for little ones to find. Of course these creatures don't exist except in the imagination and between the covers of books. This should not deter any librarian from collecting statues or pictures of them to grace the library during a summer program that could stir the pot of imagination. As a matter of fact, it can stir up some fun if it turns into a scavenger hunt.
What magical characters should top the list at this year's summer program? For starters, Leprechauns, Gnomes, Trolls and Elves. These are the magical little people that either cause mischief or good will towards humankind. Although they are small they are mighty. (Gnomes were fabled to be seven times stronger then humans.) Everyone knows that Leprechauns are part of the Irish heritage, but where did the other little people originate. A bit of trivia here, Gnomes are said to originate from Scandinavia. Trolls are from Norway, while Elves are from the German tradition. What could possibly be smaller than all of these characters combined? The Abatwa which comes from South Africa folklore. Abatwas are the size of ants, and life among them in ant hills. In folklore, are very shy but will show themselves to young children, pregnant women or wizards.
No list of magical characters would be complete if unicorns, centaurs and pegasus. Each of these creature have features similar to horses. While mentions of the unicorns can be found in the bible, most avid readers would place the origins of these three with Greek mythology. In he Chinese tradition, the unicorn is called Qilin. Close your eyes and picture an animal that has a body of a deer, the head of a lion, green scales and a long forwardly-curved horn. Nope not a unicorn in our book, but then again, variety is the spice of life!
Going off to the sea, magical creatures from Ireland , Scotland and Iceland, such as mermaids and selkies show up in folklore as beautiful female creatures who capture mens' hearts. In the case of mermaids, some of there tales involve luring fishermen to their watery grave or trading in their scales to become human in order to live with their human soul mate. Selkies are from the Scottish and Icelandic traditions. These beautiful creatures who are half human and half seal, and when they come to shore, if they strip from their seal skin, will become human. Their fate is doomed if a fisherman steal the selkie's seal skin and makes her his wife.
Not to be forgotten are fairies and pixies. Both of these creatures are often depicted as little helpers or notorious pranksters. Either way, they have fluttered their way into the hearts of many readers around the globe. Perhaps the best known, and loved fairy around the world is Tinkerbell, from J.M Barrie's Peter Pan.
Each one of these magical creatures add a vibrant chapter to the world's storybook. It is well worth the effort to find stories, songs and images of them to demonstrate how cultures have similar stories and characters but each adding a unique perspective. The gnome sitting in front of this computer is anxiously waiting to be used as a scavenger hunt prop. He will have to wait along with the leprechaun, troll, unicorn and fairy for summer to roll around. Until then, a reader's bibliography featuring these lovely creatures will be compiled.
If interested in the bibliography, just drop a note at lvnlibrarian@gmail.com
Friday, April 1, 2011
Humor in Children's Books: Laugh Out Loud Favorites
Most of the reluctant readers that come into the Youth Services area of the library tend to sing the same song: Books are not fun! Whenever that song starts coming out of a child's mouth, it's time for an intervention. What these lost readers need are books that will capture their imagination as well make them smile. Not all authors can pull off humor effectively but those who do will hook the reader in by the first page. There are many types of humor, such as sarcastic, slapstick and silly. Humor in books is a perfect genre to demonstrate that reading can be fun. Contrary to popular belief, humor in children's literature does not begin in chapter books. Over the years many authors have cleverly used humor, in words and illustrations, to entertain their readers. If the funny bone is tickled, chances are the reader will move from reluctant to reaching for another book.
There are very good picture books to introduce to children who are learning to read but find it a tedious task. Doreen Cromin's Click Clack Moo i, a tale of labor negotiations between Farmer Brown and the striking cows, has become a story time favorite. Children giggle as the frustrated farmer tries to come a "reasonable" solutions with his very literate cows. All ends well, until the ducks decides to make demands too! Another picture book whose star is a literate cow is Adventures of Cow. marshall Taylor uses a play on words and humorous pictures to tell the tale of how Cow gets lost and finds his way home. The sequel to this title is Adventures of Cow, Too.. Both books are well worth the time to read and share. Even with older children who love a good laugh and will catch the play on words.
A different take on a well known fairy tale will have children rolling on the floor. This book has been around for a while, but it is a testament to it's ageless appeal. Jon Sciexka's True Story of he 3 Little Pigs is told by the Wolf himself who defends his actions of blowing down the pigs' houses. He's been framed. The unique few point allows the reader to wonder if indeed the poor wolf has been wrongly accused and misunderstood. More often then not, no matter how sly and silly the wolf is in telling his side, the little pigs still win the verdict.
To chase away the monster fears which plague many small children, Sean Taylor uses humor in When A Monster is Born. This bright, hilarious look at the monster world will have children begging for the kind of monster who lives under their bed. Who couldn't love a monster who goes to school, eats the principal and falls in love. This book is wonderful for story time because the refrain "That's that" encourages the kids to join in the fun.
17 Things I Am Not Allowed to do Anymore is Jenny Offil's tribute to a little girl who just can't stay out of trouble. This book is not for the faint hearted. Some of the heroine's brilliant ideas are absolutely hilarious. However, little minds who are seeking inspiration may get ideas about flies in ice cubes, stapling siblings' hair to a pillow or gluing slippers on the floor to keep them in place. Sure they are all innocent and seem like a good idea at the time, but actions have consequences. This is a wonderful laugh out loud book that parents will enjoy reading with their kids. However, before opening up the book, they may want to warn their audience to not try this at home.
Reading does not have to be a serious task. Moving children from the reluctant to the reaching for new book category can be as simple as using the "laugh" factor. Let's face it, no one likes doing things they do not enjoy. Children are no different. Discover what "quacks" up the reluctant reader in your life and watch their attitude change when it comes to reading.
There are very good picture books to introduce to children who are learning to read but find it a tedious task. Doreen Cromin's Click Clack Moo i, a tale of labor negotiations between Farmer Brown and the striking cows, has become a story time favorite. Children giggle as the frustrated farmer tries to come a "reasonable" solutions with his very literate cows. All ends well, until the ducks decides to make demands too! Another picture book whose star is a literate cow is Adventures of Cow. marshall Taylor uses a play on words and humorous pictures to tell the tale of how Cow gets lost and finds his way home. The sequel to this title is Adventures of Cow, Too.. Both books are well worth the time to read and share. Even with older children who love a good laugh and will catch the play on words.
A different take on a well known fairy tale will have children rolling on the floor. This book has been around for a while, but it is a testament to it's ageless appeal. Jon Sciexka's True Story of he 3 Little Pigs is told by the Wolf himself who defends his actions of blowing down the pigs' houses. He's been framed. The unique few point allows the reader to wonder if indeed the poor wolf has been wrongly accused and misunderstood. More often then not, no matter how sly and silly the wolf is in telling his side, the little pigs still win the verdict.
To chase away the monster fears which plague many small children, Sean Taylor uses humor in When A Monster is Born. This bright, hilarious look at the monster world will have children begging for the kind of monster who lives under their bed. Who couldn't love a monster who goes to school, eats the principal and falls in love. This book is wonderful for story time because the refrain "That's that" encourages the kids to join in the fun.
17 Things I Am Not Allowed to do Anymore is Jenny Offil's tribute to a little girl who just can't stay out of trouble. This book is not for the faint hearted. Some of the heroine's brilliant ideas are absolutely hilarious. However, little minds who are seeking inspiration may get ideas about flies in ice cubes, stapling siblings' hair to a pillow or gluing slippers on the floor to keep them in place. Sure they are all innocent and seem like a good idea at the time, but actions have consequences. This is a wonderful laugh out loud book that parents will enjoy reading with their kids. However, before opening up the book, they may want to warn their audience to not try this at home.
Reading does not have to be a serious task. Moving children from the reluctant to the reaching for new book category can be as simple as using the "laugh" factor. Let's face it, no one likes doing things they do not enjoy. Children are no different. Discover what "quacks" up the reluctant reader in your life and watch their attitude change when it comes to reading.
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