Killingly Public Library Teen Blog

In This Week....All New!

2012-01-24T05:21:00.000-08:00

2012-01-17T06:46:00.000-08:00

Occasionally I pick up a book to read that is so emotionally heavy and unforgettable that I know it won’t be a book that will easily escape my memory. Years from now I will still remember it as a really great book. Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys is that book for me this year. History is not my strong suit so I was easily led down a road I had not been down before. Unfortunately, it was not a pleasant road to go down. As a general rule, I think a good majority of us take our peaceful lives for granted. We eat, sleep and relax where and when we want, surrounded by running toilets, electricity, and all the things our lives of leisure bring us.

It’s difficult to imagine being pulled out of our homes, in the dead night, by soldiers screaming at us in a language that we cannot even understand. Crammed into a train with dozens of people that we have never met before and a life that will now involve little rest, food, bathrooms, and even simple, common courtesy. The author, Ruta Sepetys, puts the reader there though in her novel. Once you are there, you cannot leave.

You will live the reality of Lina and her family, Lithuania’s, forced to endure hardships, and cruelty our minds cannot even comprehend under the leadership of Joseph Stalin. Hitler was killing the Jewish people and Stalin was killing the Lithuanians. I wasn’t even a part of this time period and I feel I want to apologize to the millions of people that suffered under the reign of both of these men.

Ruta Sepetys is the daughter of a Lithuanian refugee. I commend her on telling this story. It could not have been an easy story to write but I’m so glad she did and I hope you will agree. It’s here at our library waiting for you.

The Future of Us

2012-01-09T06:41:00.000-08:00

From the moment I picked up Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, I have anxiously been waiting for his next book. Nevertheless, I think I first thought The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler wasn’t going to be fantastic. I’m not sure exactly why. Maybe the premise of the book didn’t grab me the way I thought it would. So, I decided to read it just because I thought how bad can it be? I love Jay Asher. I’ve read Carolyn Mackler and thought she was pretty darn good as well so….bring the book home and read it!

It turns out…I really do love Jay Asher. I’m not sure how two authors can come together and create a novel but I’m so glad they did. The concept behind the book is that Facebook hasn’t been created yet. Yes…there was a time when this was true! Since I do remember when AOL was the most popular way of communicating, I easily was able to see how the main characters, Emma and Josh, would be thrown for a loop when the Facebook page appears to reveal their futures. Married, children, college degrees, friendships…and you can imagine the confusion that creates along with the questions that it generates.

For the Facebook generation, it’s just a given that at any time you can log on and see what your family and friends are doing at any moment. For the rest of us, this concept can still be a bit mind blowing. So…I say to you teens of today…once upon a time, twenty years ago a guy broke my heart and I walked away and thought I’ll never see him again. A girl I met in college was the coolest girl I ever knew until she switched schools and we lost touch. I always knew that the guy I thought was cute and cool and brave would become some sort of somebody.

It turns out that the guy wishes he didn’t break my heart. The girl lives in Utah and is still way cool and that brave boy became a rock star. I wouldn’t know these things without Facebook.

The Future of Us reminds us of that and for the rest of you younger readers, it points out that the decisions we make today create our tomorrows.

Absolutely read this book, you won’t regret it.

Ringing in the New Year...Vampire Style

2012-01-05T08:28:00.000-08:00

I know I have probably said this before but I am a huge fan of Beth Fantaskey. I recently finished Jessica Rules the Dark Side, the follow up book to Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side. I know I have said in the past that it’s nice to read books about vampires being the evil blood sucking creatures that they are and I do route for them to be destroyed. However, there is also great appeal in falling in love with a vampire as well. What can I say? I like to see both sides of an argument. With that said, what would be better than marrying a vampire and becoming a princess and eventually a queen? Queen of the vampires…you have to admit it does sound very cool.

(From the inside cover) “When Jessica Packwood found out she was a Romanian vampire princess, she had the shock of her teenage life. Turns out that was the easy part.”

Indeed, as much as there is appeal to being the ruler of vampires, it comes with great difficulty. Jessica not only has to struggle to learn their language and customs but also has to win the approval of the Elders while trying to set a new law that leaves her most beloved, accused of murder, in a dungeon slowly dying from lack of blood. With time running out, Jessica needs to figure out how to rule, who to trust, and how to save her husband. From the first page to the last, you will find yourself a vampire fan yet again.

Happy Holidays Everyone!

2011-12-16T07:02:00.000-08:00

2011-12-07T05:09:00.000-08:00

Love Maggie Stiefvater? Win a thirty minute phone chat with her about YOUR writing! Enter the Seventeen Contest here.

This contest is for girls 13 - 21 years old only and there's a $5,000 cash prize attached to it. The deadline is this December 31st so get writing and good luck!

The Scorpio Races

2011-12-01T06:14:00.000-08:00

I am a Scorpio so clearly it was inevitable that I would be drawn to Maggie Stiefvater's new book The Scorpio Races. The races occur every November on wild, unpredictable water horses. Deaths are not uncommon in these races to both the male riders and their horses. However, Kate Connolly has taken it upon herself to enter and try to win in order to save the only home her and her brothers have ever had and have left of their deceased parents. Not only must she overcome the obstacles of being the first girl to ever enter the Scorpio races but also the ridicule from the young men that she will be racing against. Kate's determination deserves complete respect as she does not ever back down, despite the odds.

This book intensifies with each turning page until you find yourself rooting for not only Kate but the returning champion, Sean Kendrick. Inevitably, they find themselves falling in love which causes even more angst when each has a reason for winning that will leave you hoping for a happily ever after ending that is nearly impossible in real life.

This book is here at the library....waiting for you....

Even Better

2011-11-17T07:04:00.000-08:00

If I thought I was excited about Breaking Dawn's movie trailer it was because I hadn't seen this one yet.

On My Birthday

2011-11-04T04:58:00.000-07:00

What better present is this? This movie comes out on my birthday!!! I can't wait to see it!

Preparing for Spooks

2011-10-27T05:19:00.000-07:00

What are YOU doing tonight from 6-7 pm? If you're a true Spook's fan, you'll definitely want to be taking part in the 3rd annual Spook's Halloween Webchat with Joseph Delaney. Everyone is welcome!

Here Now

2011-10-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

Once a century, one person is chosen for greatness.

Elisa is the chosen one.
But she is also the younger of two princesses. The one who has never done anything remarkable, and can’t see how she ever will.
Now, on her sixteenth birthday, she has become the secret wife of a handsome and worldly king—a king whose country is in turmoil. A king who needs her to be the chosen one, not a failure of a princess.
And he’s not the only one who seeks her.

This is at the library now...come and check it out.

Blood Wounds

2011-10-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

I don’t know what it is about this author but Susan Beth Pfeffer has a way of writing a story and hooking a reader in from the first page. I absolutely love this. Although there have been several books that I have read that I thoroughly enjoyed, there is something to be said about an author that grabs you from the beginning and keeps you there turning the pages. In her book, Blood Wounds, Willa is a struggling teenager dealing with a blended family where her stepsisters have been given every luxury by their mother and she has learned to keep her mouth shut and smile accordingly. Yet when she is faced with being in danger by a father since she has long forgotten, both herself and her mother will finally speak up about the injustice in their “oh so perfect family.” Is blood thicker than water? Will love be able to endure? Come check this book and find the answers within….

Check This Out - Great Way to Talk with Authors

2011-10-04T05:03:00.000-07:00

http://facebook.com/thisisteen

2011-09-28T09:07:00.000-07:00

From Exposed by Kimberly Marcus

What Do I Know?

It’s amazing how you think

You know someone so well,

Then one day you come to see

That you really don’t know

That person at all.

And you wonder

What that says

About you.

Exposed will leave you questioning this very thing.

New For Us This Fall

2011-09-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

These Books Just In at the Library

2011-07-06T06:25:00.000-07:00

2011-06-30T06:40:00.000-07:00

“They say that in the old days, love drove people to madness. That’s bad enough. The Book of Shhh also tells stories of those who died because of love lost or never found, which is what terrifies me the most. The deadliest of all deadly things: It kills you both when you have it and when you don’t.”

Lauren Oliver depicts apart love in her book Delirium. She creates a world where love is so dangerous that everyone must submit to the law and have a medical procedure by the time they are 18 so that love will not touch them. This concept immediately drew me in. Imagine a world where there is a cure for love. Imagine a world without love. Imagine a world where you never thought to question everything you’ve been told as a child. Now imagine that everything you ever knew or thought was a complete lie. Set in motion from the first page, this book will drag you into this world where you will long for a cure and fight against the madness of it.

Born At Midnight

2011-06-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

This book is new to the library.
Come on in and check it out if you are interested.

One night Kylie Galen finds herself at the wrong party, with the wrong people and it changes her life forever. Her mother ships her off to Shadow Falls - a camp for troubled teens - and within hours of arriving, it becomes painfully clear that her fellow campers aren't just "troubled." Here at Shadow Falls, vampires, werewolves, shapeshifters, witches, and fairies train side by side, learning to harness their powers, control their magic and live in the normal world. (This excerpt was taken from the back of the book.)

Shine

2011-06-15T07:09:00.000-07:00

I recently read Shine by Lauren Myracle. I think this may be her best work yet or it could just be the fact that she had me hooked on the first page which read:

Bloody Sunday
Teen Brutally Attacked

Seriously, where could a person go from here but to continue reading? It's in our processing system now. Check it out when you get a chance. It's guaranteed to keep you turning the pages.

Volunteers Wanted

2011-05-31T07:36:00.000-07:00

Teen Volunteer~Pizza and Planning 12:30-2:00

Starting on Monday Jun. 27th, 12:30-2:00, as well as the following Mondays: July 11th, 18th and 25th

Come and help us get ready for the weeks programming!
We’ll try out craft projects and plan the week’s events, give out work assignments and have a relaxing lunch together. This counts towards volunteer hours and is mandatory for all teen volunteers! If you’re interested come in to fill out a volunteer application.

Poetry

2011-05-19T06:12:00.000-07:00

Orchards by Holly Thompson is a great quick read for someone looking to explore the topic of suicide in a very non-threatening way. As I am a huge fan of Ellen Hopkins, I like books that present their story told in a poetry format. I do think that the characters could have been explored a bit more but sometimes subject matter can be so heavy. In this way, Orchards provides a look into a serious subject without all the heavy emotional attachment that can often come with it.

I am also currently reading Karma by Cathy Ostlere and Fishtailing by Wendy Phillips, both books are also written in verse. I'm not quite sure how that happened but amazingly enough I always seem to read the same type of subject matter at the same time. I'll blog about them next week. Perhaps these authors can provide inspiration to all the aspiring poets of the world. Pen and paper anyone?

Haunting Me

2011-05-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

When I read the first book in the series The Last Apprentice by Joseph Delaney I was unable to close my bedroom window in the night time. His descriptive visualizations in his book left me feeling the need to look over my shoulder and pull the covers up to my neck. Granted, I am a bit scared of the paranormal and not everyone has this same reaction. However, I just finished reading Rage of the Fallen, the 8^th installment in this series, and I have come to believe that Joseph Delaney is a true master for placing fear in the minds of some readers. I absolutely love this series. I have formed a true relationship with the Spook, his apprentice Tom Ward, and Tom’s friend Alice, a benign witch.

However, this book poses some questions to the reader as well. Can anyone really avoid their true nature? Is our destiny already set in stone? “Each time you use such dark power, it changes you. Bit by bit you get closer to the dark, until eventually you are part of it. Then you’ve lost yourself and can never get back to what you once were.” (Pages 392-393) Will good be able to triumph over evil? This book makes you want to believe it is possible but then leaves you with a feeling of dread. I anxiously wait for the next in the series, wishing all the time that The Spook, Tom and Alice will be okay.

Eona

2011-05-03T08:59:00.000-07:00

Nothing makes me happier than when I see either a new book I’ve been wanting to read arrive at my library or when the next installation in a series arrives. Last week, I was graced with Eona by Alison Goodman. This was the sequel book to Eon: Dragoneye Reborn that I blogged about back in March of 2009.

At a daunting 637 pages, I was nervous that I would be dredging through the book trying to piece together a story that I only had a vague memory of to draw upon. I was very happily surprised when I was drawn into the book within minutes and breezed through it thereafter as if it was simply a quick read book. I give kudos to the author for drawing me into the world of Eona as if I had only recently put Eon down. In Alison Goodman’s first book, Eon is revealed to us to be a girl disguised as a boy, living in fear of discovery as she trains in a world where a girl is not allowed.

In Eona, Eona is once again trying to hide as men hunt for her. Her life and the world at large are in complete jeopardy. Yet she has the ability to right the wrongs and save the world. As time progresses, she is able to fully accept her destiny but in doing so is forced to choose between power and love. Each choice has its merits. You have to read the book to discover what decision will finally compel her. I’m just curious though…What would you choose?

Another Adult Crossover Book

2011-04-18T05:50:00.000-07:00

I'm never read anything by Kristin Hannah until Night Road. She writes for adults and this book will be found in the Adult Section at the library. With that said, I think this book will settle in nicely for older teenagers as well. It's a story based on three teenagers in their senior year of high school. Mia, Zach's twin sister, is less popular than her brother and has been a loner throughout her high school years until a new girl, Lexi, arrives and the two girls become instant best friends. The only thing that could threaten their friendship is the undeniable attraction between Zach and Lexi. This book had me hooked immediately. I couldn't put it down and I absolutely love that in a book. It's more than just first love, or friendship. It's about real life and the choices we make that can haunt us forever. I cried twice while reading this book. I will certainly be exploring this author and I hope you will also.

Teen Lit Day

2011-04-14T08:06:00.000-07:00

04.14.2011 - SUPPORT TEEN LIT DAY- COME IN AND CHECK OUT A BOOK TODAY - LEAVE A COMMENT ON THE BLOG AND LET ME KNOW WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TEEN BOOK

Counting Down....

2011-04-13T09:31:00.000-07:00

I am very anxiously waiting to read these books!

John Grisham at His Best

2011-03-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

Although The Confession by John Grisham is written for adults; I certainly think that this book has definite teen appeal. Donte Drumm, the main character of the book, is arrested for a crime he didn't commit in his last year of high school. Forced into submission by the police force, Donte confesses to the crime. However, he is innocent. Will the truth save him before he is executed? This book will keep you turning the pages to find out.

Another Exciting Series

2011-03-14T08:35:00.000-07:00

"There's no one you can cry to, no one you can beg to. The public have judged you and found you guilty. As far as they are concerned, you are already dead." This quote was taken from page 47 of the amazingly intense book Lockdown from the new series Escape from Furnace by Alexander Gordon Smith. Need I say more? I've been looking for a book to grab me and pull me in. This was the book! I'm ready for the second and am glad to say that although we do not have it at our library yet we will have it here soon! This is meant to be a great read for boys. Last time I checked though, I was a girl and I was hooked.

The premise of this book is that an all boy prison is kept underground for all those criminals out there. Boys that have been caught stealing or even worse killing someone are sentenced in court to spend the rest of their days in Furnace Penitentiary. There are a few problems though. Most of the time, these boys didn't even commit the crimes. They were set up and there is no way out. All outside communication with the rest of the world is non-existent. There aren't even any windows. What does exist for these boys? Brutal gangs, fights, slop for meals, vicious guard dogs, and some type of creature that comes in the dark of night to steal them away. Is there even room for hope?

I'll leave you with this parting wisdom. Check the book out when you get a chance; if you don't love it, let me know why. In the meantime, I'll be trying to get my hands on the second book in the series: Solitary.

Emotional Chaos

2011-02-25T06:18:00.000-08:00

Ironically, I find that more often than not I end up reading similar books at the same time. So, once again, I will point out three books that I recently finished reading that all delve into deep emotional problems. Smack by Melvin Burgess focused on the downward spiral that happens when introduced to crystal meth. This topic is so depressing to me. I just want to scream " Don't Do Drugs!"

After the Wreck, I picked myself Up. Spread my Wings, and Flew Away by Joyce Carol Oates is actually a book written for Adults but I find it is perfect for teens as well. It deals with 15 year old Jenna recovering from a car accident in which her mother was killed. Not only does she have to learn how to live her life now without her mother, she is also dealing with a transition into a new high school and a new family. Sounds stressful? It is.

Last but not least, the book Scars by Cheryl Rainfield. In order to deal with her stressful life, Kendra cuts herself, leaving scars all over her arms where no one can see them. Off all the books, this book is not for the faint of heart. I mention all these books because all are realistic. These things do happen. For all the teens out there reading this blog, try not to go it alone.

2011-02-22T06:25:00.000-08:00

Here are the Nutmeg Nominees for 2012!
www.nutmegaward.org/

2011-02-08T10:13:00.000-08:00

Without even realizing it, I stumbled into the month of love with three completely different novels that all had love stories. Although Keturah and Lord Death by Martine Leavitt is hardly a new book, it has been on my book shelf to read for quite some time. It starts at once with beautiful Keturah lured into the woods by none other than Death himself. Enchanted storytelling is the only thing that saves her from her own immediate demise. As she weaves a tale of true love she refuses to go any further in her story unless Death grants her more days to find her one true love because, naturally, love conquers all. Or can it?

The power of love is questioned again in the novel Dark Water by Laura McNeal. When fires threaten the town that Pearl lives in, instead of fleeing for safety with either her family or friends, Pearl runs for the woods to find her secret love, an illegal immigrant migrant worker living in the woods. As the wildfires approach, there is no way out for either of them. This story is so incredible. I could feel the heat from the flames as I read.

Finishing up my series of love is the book Jane by April Lindner. This book is less intense than the other two but leaves the reader feeling completely satisfied. Having recently lost her parents, Jane applies for a nanny position to help her financially so she can eventually afford to continue her education. She lands a job most young girls would truly want to have, a nanny position for Nico Rathburn, a famous rock star. She much prefers the company of his daughter and is not afraid to state her opinions to him, even if it is that she does not much care for his music. Is it any wonder that out of this would build the perfect romance? Even with the secrets Nico keeps, you will find yourself rooting for him, for Jane, and, inevitably, for love.

Great News!

2011-02-03T07:42:00.000-08:00

In my last post, I blogged about Crusade by Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie. I had not realized at that point that this book would be part of a trilogy. I am very excited to share this news and send a special thank you to the author of this exciting new series for leaving a comment to let me know that the second book in the series is due out in August. It's called Damned. The cover looks fantastic. I can't wait to read it!

Snowy Days....Great Reading

2011-02-01T07:35:00.000-08:00

I was initially drawn to this book simply for the cover. It looks Gothic and immediately invited me inside. I am glad to say that I was not disappointed. As a small child, I was extremely frightened of vampires and could not go to sleep without a blanket wrapped tightly around my neck. As an adult, reading Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, I was instantly in love with a vampire. However, Crusade by Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie put vampires where they belong. Back in the land where they need to be hunted. Vampires are evil, blood sucking killers. Oh wait, not so fast. Although Crusade does have wicked cool vampire hunters, it just wouldn't be the same if there wasn't at least one vampire worth redeeming. One vampire that a simple girl could love completely.Oh...forbidden love. Vampires taking over the world. This book has it all.

Following on the footsteps of this book, I also recently finished Vampire Rising by Jason Henderson. This is all action. Alex Van Helsing has recently discovered that he comes from a family of vampire hunters. He hasn't even had time to make peace with this when two of his friends are kidnapped by an ancient vampire known as the Icemaker. Fighting evil without proper training, Alex will stop at nothing to save his friends.

This book is set to be a series, while Crusade has no promise of a second. I hope that changes.

New Year, New Books

2011-01-13T08:07:00.000-08:00

On the first page is a note from the author that states: If you have ever looked in the mirror and hated what you saw, this book is for you.

Naturally, I had to read it. Speaking from personal experience, the mirror can be my friend or enemy on any given day. For the main character, Lisabeth Lewis, the mirror is also very much her enemy. Suffering from anorexia, Lisabeth barely eats anything and everything she does pick up to eat echoes calories in her mind. Thinking that she can’t take the Thin voice in her head anymore, she decides to swallow some pills and end it all. However, a ringing doorbell stops her. A mysterious pale man hands her a package and says “For thee, Thou art Famine.” Curiosity prevails. With a black horse, and a set of scales, she now has a new job. Famine. Will it kill her or save her?

From a personal wreckage to the end of the world, Fuel has just run out and the world is crumbling around it. No gas, no heat, no phones, almost no food. There is only one thing that will able to save everyone. But will they figure it out before it's too late?

For the Younger Crowd

2010-12-21T06:33:00.000-08:00

I just created myself at http://www.wimpyourself.com/. It's pretty cool. Check it out if you are interested!

The Marbury Lens by Andrew Smith

2010-12-16T05:12:00.000-08:00

I just finished The Marbury Lens by Andrew Smith. I am stunned by the ending. The whole book felt like a roller coaster with each scene being more and more intense. Then the book ends. Just ends. Andrew Smith, how could you leave me like that???? As I blogged earlier, I will definitely be reading more by this author. In the meantime, I will be waiting to see if something more happens with these characters. I'll let you know if it ever does.

This looks awesome!

2010-12-14T10:07:00.000-08:00

Hooked

2010-12-13T10:12:00.000-08:00

I think I haven't blogged much recently since the books I have been reading have been falling short for me. Either they can't hold my attention or my attention is just off in "La La" land. However, I can't say that for The Marbury Lens by Andrew Smith. This book grabbed me instantly. I have not finished it yet but I wish I was reading it right now. It's set in two realities. One where Jack has recently escaped a kidnapper and the other where he is now running for his life while his best friend tries to kill him. I can't say how it will end but I do know I have discovered a new author to explore!

Magazine Opportunity

2010-11-18T08:37:00.001-08:00

I just received this link today in my email. Unfortunately, it is bad timing due to the deadline submission being tomorrow but for anyone that is reading this blog and would be interested in taking a chance of submitting original work, you just never know… you could become a magazine contributor!

Here is the information:

A great advantage to creating a magazine today is the access to talent and voice. This is supposed to have a "for the people, by the people" kinda vibe. We want to find the best possible group of people for this project, and a wide range of ages, styles, etc.

If you want to be a part, email us. MagazineSubmissionsAreFun@gmail.com, because we haven't decided on a title yet. (Hey, if you have an idea for a title, that would be great, too!)

Something that would also be great: A sample -- whether you would put the specific sample in the magazine or not -- of your writing of all and any kinds, photos, artwork, whatever you're good at and think would be at home in a feminist, creative, moody-teenage-girl magazine. Be sure to include the sample of your work, your age and location, and some kind of something about yourself. Talk a lot about yourself, please. I can promise no questions about being a team player and why you got fired from your office job. The deadline is Friday, November 19th -- we wanna get moving!

I know these are vague details, and I'm sorry I can't offer up a better picture of what we're aiming for as a final product, but we want to have all the contributors on board from the beginning so the yet-to-be-made decisions are group-made. A few things people have been asking about, though: It is not a full-time job, you can be a guy, you can be any age, and you don't have to live in the U.S. I'm also sorry I can't say as of now when you'll hear back but it all depends on the number of submissions. I have a really good feeling about this.

Werewolves

2010-11-08T07:25:00.000-08:00

I have to admit I am drawn to stories that involve vampires. I once feared them as a child but am now drawn to the intrigue of them and the romantic stories that evolve around them. However, I became a tiny bit of a werewolf fan from the first appearance of Jacob in Twilight. However, it wasn't until I just finished reading Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes that I have decided that maybe werewolves deserve a true second glance. They are quite a force to be reckoned with and Raised by Wolves offers everything you could hope for in a story. Suspense, romance, weres and a genuine female heroine. It will leave your heart hammering with hope for a possible new series to begin.

Welcome November

2010-11-01T05:26:00.000-07:00

November is National Novel Writing Month is a fun, seat-of-your-pants approach to novel writing. Participants begin writing November 1. The goal is to write a 175-page (50,000-word) novel by midnight, November 30. No problem, right? Check out their website if you are interested or up for a challenge, it could be fun! www.nanowrimo.com

Eclipse

2010-10-21T09:38:00.001-07:00

Contest Time

2010-10-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

Check out www.teensread.com for a chance to win these:

Caution...Before You Read...Strong Opinion Ahead

2010-10-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

I often times find that I will not give extreme opinions on this blog about any book that I read. For one reason, every reader will feel a certain way about a book they read that may or may not be the same as someone else. That is the joy of reading. We, as readers, are allowed to choose what we want to read. Skipping the obvious reading assignments of teachers that are mandatory, readers, in general, can pick as they want. So if it’s horror, sci-fi, historical or realistic fiction, or whatever category, it’s ours for the taking. Especially in a library, where all you need is your library card.

However, I have to speak up today. I just finished reading Fallout by Ellen Hopkins last night. I will not copy the entire review by School Library Journal here but will offer up some of it: “The plot is choked with the perpetual damage of meth addiction—there's too much message and not enough action. Hopkins spreads the narration too thin between three unlikable narrators, and none is ever fully realized. The mood here is just as depressing and cautionary as Glass, and Hopkins's presentation is even more self-indulgent.”—Johanna Lewis, New York Public Library

I do not feel that Hopkin’s is self-indulgent. It may just be my humble opinion but anyone that has grown up in any dysfunctional family will know that addiction doesn’t just destroy the addict. It does affect everyone. Yes, the book might be hard to follow because there is more than one voice but any true fan of Hopkins will be able to navigate. The character’s lives are interwoven and each needed to be heard.

Before I step down off of my soap box, let me also take a moment for pointing out the obvious, that this is based loosely on her own true life struggles with her daughter’s addiction. The mere fact that she opened her wounds for us, as readers, to share with her is commendable. I feel for her and her family. I don’t know Ellen Hopkins, and I will probably never meet her. Yet, I feel her pain, the pain of her grandchildren, and the destruction brought upon her family by crystal meth.

As far as I’m concerned, keep writing Ellen and I know I will keep reading and so will many, many others. I’m not a professional critic or editor. I’m just a Children’s and Young Adult Librarian and it is just my opinion.

Continuations

2010-09-29T05:24:00.000-07:00

I recently finished Joseph Delaney's The Rise of the Huntress and Suzanne Collin's Mockingjay. Both books are part of a series that I've been following for some time now and both author's, once again, did not disappoint me. Although Suzanne Collin's book started out a little slower than her usual fast paced speed, she quickly caught up and had me involved in the world of Katniss, Peeta and Gale. Sometimes when you are into a series and it finishes, the ending is not as you would hope. However, I was rather satisfied with the way the Hunger Games ended. I wonder if I'm the only one that feels that way. What do you think?

I can't imagine how Joseph Delaney will finish the Spook's Apprentice series and I'm not entirely sure I want him to finish. It's bitter sweet when a series ends. The characters become a part of our world and when the series ends, they fade away. Am I just being sentimental today?

Anxiously Waiting to Read

2010-09-08T06:21:00.000-07:00

Fans of Ellen Hopkins

2010-08-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading Glimpse by Carol Lynch Williams and I have to shout out to all my Ellen Hopkins fans and say you will love this book. It hooks you instantly and you won't be able to put it down until you finally close the book. Yes...it is just my opinion but check it out if you get a chance, if you don't love it feel free to let me know why. Either way, read the book!

Stephenie Meyer

2010-07-27T06:13:00.000-07:00

I recently finished The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer. For Meyer's true fans, you'll know that she had somewhat started a book told from Edward's point of view. Although this book is naturally told from the vampire Bree's point of view, I am left wanting to hear from Edward. How many agree that we need to hear the story from Edward's point of view? Am I the only one?

Promising Series

2010-07-12T06:23:00.000-07:00

I recently finished reading Fallen by Lauren Kate. It's a story of star crossed lovers without a happy ending currently in sight. I was completely taken into this story as Luce feels drawn to Daniel instantly. However, Daniel doesn't share her feelings, or so it seems. It won't be until later in the story that it will be revealed that there is more than meets the eye between these two. It hasn't been since Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series that I have found myself rooting for the inevitable to become possible. If you haven't read this yet, it's the perfect time to take the opportunity to do so as the second in this series, Torment, is due out in September.

2010-06-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

Eclipse is here! Opinions people - have you seen it? Do you have plans to see it?
What do you think? Let us know!!!

Summer Programs

2010-06-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

Come see the movie that started it all on
Friday June 25th at 1 p.m.

Don't forget to register for these exciting summer programs from 1 - 3 p.m. on Friday afternoons:

(Registration is required. Call us at 860-779-5383 or stop by the library)
Teen Cooking - Friday July 9th

Watercolor Workshop - Friday July 16th

Teens Create - Friday July 23rd

And Another Movie Day - Friday July 30th - What Movie? It's up to you! Let us know what you want to see.

Supernatural Summer

2010-05-28T08:36:00.001-07:00

The End of the World

2010-05-19T06:29:00.000-07:00

Two very different books, The Last Apprentice: A Coven of Witches and This World We Live In by Susan Beth Pfeffer both tackle the question of what would the world be like if.... The Devil ruled the world or the Sun no longer existed? Although both books are incredibly different, the final question still remains: What would you do?

Contest Contest Contest

2010-05-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

Ever wish you could be discovered as the author you are destined to be? Here's your chance - click on this
link http://www.max-dan-wiz.com/page/writing-contest to get a chance to write a missing chapter in James Patterson's book Fang. You could win $2,500. The deadline is May 31st so check out this link as soon as you can!

Carrie Ryan

2010-04-23T06:35:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading the second book, The Dead-Tossed Waves, in Carrie Ryan's series and I urge you to go out and read this series. I'm eagerly anticipating the third, although it is not due out until sometime next year. From the very beginning you will be hooked into the story. Her writing style is so wonderful that you will often find yourself in the story, feeling the emotions of the main character Gabry. You will feel the intensity as the Mudo (zombies) reach out in hunger. Will Gabry be safe? Will her family and friends? There's only one way to find out. Go read the book, today!

Game Day

2010-04-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder that Game Day will be on Friday April 23rd here at the library. We'll be having snacks as well so don't forget to stop in.
It's from 12:30 - 3:00. We hope to see you there!

The Twilight Graphic Novel is Here

2010-04-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

Love it or hate it - The Twilight Graphic Novel is here at Killingly Library. Let me know if you've seen it and what you think. I'll be waiting.

We also have the New Moon DVD for those that haven't seen it yet or would like to see it again.

Bullycide....

2010-03-17T08:52:00.000-07:00

This book had me hooked before I even opened it. I was one of those teenagers that was filled with angst and the need to just kill myself and be done with it. Obviously, I made it. It wasn't easy. I look back at my teen years and thank the stars above that I don't have to be there anymore. I totally can relate to the deep depression that can threaten to take a teenager down. That's why I think if you are depressed, or know a friend that is depressed that you have to speak up.

Speak to a teacher, a friend, your young adult librarian.
Someone will listen.

This book just brings the point home. Read it. Pass it to your friend. Tell me what you think, I gladly welcome your responses.

Too shy to speak to someone you might know? Try these resources:

National Suicide Hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)

Teen Helpline: 1-800-400-0900

Being Bullied? - Try these web sources:

www.bullying.org

www.cyberbulling.org

* A special thank you to the author Julie Anne Peters for tackling this subject *

This Looks Great!

2010-03-11T10:19:00.001-08:00

Truthful Situations

2010-03-09T10:06:00.000-08:00

Everyone has secrets. Some secrets are worse than others. Some are so bad you wish no one would ever discover them. Family secrets are usually the hardest to keep. It causes embarrassment. It’s something you wish you could share with your friends but can’t. Your family chooses to ignore the problem as they share the secret with you. It’s their fault you even have to be silent. What do you do? Do you finally speak up? Do you keep it in? Can you? What do you do with your secrets?

Sometimes it’s the community you live in that keeps secrets. Secrets sheltered from the outside world. But what if you want more than your community is willing to give you? What if you want out?

Both C.J. Omololu and Shelley Hrdlitschka deal with these issues in their books. Both books will leave you thinking about your own secrets, family secrets and what you take for granted in your own life.

Elizabeth Scott's New Book is out this March

2010-03-01T08:54:00.001-08:00

Everyone knows the unwritten rule: You don't like you best friend's boyfriend.

Sarah has had a crush on Ryan for years. He's easy to talk to, super smart, and totally gets her. Lately it even seems like he's paying extra attention to her. Everything would be perfect except for two things: Ryan is Brianna's boyfriend, and Brianna is Sarah's best friend.
Sarah forces herself to avoid Ryan and tries to convince herself not to like him. She feels so guilty for wanting him, and the last thing she wants is to hurt her best friend. But when she's thrown together with Ryan one night, something happens. It's wonderful...and awful.
Sarah is torn apart by guilt, but what she feels is nothing short of addiction, and she can't stop herself from wanting more...

Finally

2010-02-25T08:18:00.000-08:00

I finally was able to read the book Graceling by Kristin Cashore. I have a bit of a skip to my step after reading this book. As a female, there is nothing better than having a female main character that not only falls in love, and we are to watch her and feel her falling, but is also such a strong capable girl that you can't help but admire her and give kudos to a female hero worthy of our admiration. I can't wait to read Kristin's second book Fire. Since this book has been out for a while, I'm just curious has anyone else read this book and had a positive response to it like myself?

Ellen Hopkins

2010-02-19T10:09:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say thank you to Ellen Hopkins for writing her books, sharing her tragedies and changing lives. I just finished reading Flirtin' with the Monster and, like many of her fans, I am just waiting for her next book to arrive.

Behind the Times

2010-02-09T10:55:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading Smashed: Story of a Drunken Girlhood by Koren Zailckas. It seems I am a bit behind in the times as this was published in 2006. However, it is still worthy of my blog and, for any girl out there who hasn't read this yet, I strongly recommend it. The backdrop of Koren's life will entice you in almost at once as she takes us along her downward spiral into alcohol and alcohol abuse. By the time she writes this book, she will be only 23 years old. Stunning. An absolute must read!

Shelfari

2010-02-04T08:45:00.000-08:00

For a bit of time now, I have liked the Shelfari website which allows me to put the books that I have read, want to read or am currently reading up on there and as you can tell by the bottom of this blog, I can also post it onto my blog so the whole world can see what I am reading.

However, the greatest thing ever has just occurred! Now on Shelfari there is an actual Series Section that lets you know what you have read in a series and what the next book in the series will be. I absolutely love this because as a librarian, try as I can, it is not always easy to keep up with every book in a series that is coming out.

If you haven't joined Shelfari yet, you should give it a shot. I love it!!!

Here's the link - www.shelfari.com

Twilight in Graphic

2010-01-26T11:06:00.000-08:00

Twilight will be out in Graphic Novel form March 16, 2010. What do you think of that????

Teens Top Ten for 2009

2010-01-22T08:12:00.000-08:00

If you haven’t already seen the 2009 ALA Teens' Top Ten list, here are the teen picks:

Paper Towns by John Green
Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
Identical by Ellen Hopkins
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
Wake by Lisa McMann
Untamed by P.C. and Kristin Cast
The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart
Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Bringing in the New Year

2010-01-13T11:03:00.000-08:00

The book By Darkness Hid by Jill Williamson landed on my desk recently. As I often do, I read the book synopsis and decided I might like this book and took it home. For my fellow readers out there, pick this book up if you get a chance. I do not think you will be disappointed. I included the book trailer for you to check out. Watch it and then come check this book out at the library!

Nothing starts the New Year off better than a great book! I'm looking forward to the next in the series.

Always the Gothic

2009-12-07T10:17:00.000-08:00

I have found myself once again reading gothic tales. I don't know how it happens but it just seems to be the way. I recently finished Time of the Witches by Anna Myers. In a brief amount of time, accusations of witch craft have many women fighting for their lives. The biggest question is who are the actual witches? You need to read the book to have the answer to that question.

Teen Program

2009-11-25T06:52:00.000-08:00

Come join us Friday December 4th at 1:30 to make some cool glitter frames. You can sign up at the library or by calling 860 - 779- 5383.

This Looks Fantastic

2009-11-20T07:17:00.000-08:00

<a href="http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-us&from=customplayer_en-us_movies_movietrailershub&fg=MsnEntertainment_MoviesTrailersGP2_a&vid=fd483e49-a19c-4e2a-b23d-03fc7ffe67e1" target="_new" title="'Percy Jackson & the Olympians' trailer">Video: 'Percy Jackson & the Olympians' trailer</a>

Continuing Series

2009-11-18T10:20:00.000-08:00

I'm curious to know if there are any P.C. Cast fans out there following the House of Night series. I would love to hear your thoughts on this series. Not a fan? I would still love to hear what you think.

Evil Times.......

2009-10-28T08:13:00.000-07:00

Just in time for the upcoming spooky holiday comes the latest edition of The Last Apprentice: Clash of the Demons by Joseph Delaney. With the continual theme of demons and witches and all other things that go bump in the night, Thomas Ward again battles the dark forces. Inevitable choices plunge Thomas closer to the dark as he battles one of the most powerful oldest witches of all time. Sure to bring mass destruction if he is unable to stop this witch, Thomas must face reality even as grim as it is. This book is yet another page turner that leaves you hanging waiting for the next in the series.

New Moon Countdown

2009-10-22T10:05:00.000-07:00

Don't Miss This Contest!

2009-10-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

Enter to win: Eternal by Cynthia Leitich Smith (Candlewick, 2009); Coffeehouse Angel by Suzanne Selfors (Walker, 2009); Far From You by Lisa Schroeder (Simon Pulse, 2009); How to Be a Vampire: A Fangs-On Guide for the Newly Undead by Amy Gray (Candlewick, November 2009); Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey (Harcourt, 2009); Kissed by an Angel by Elizabeth Chandler (Simon Pulse, 2008); and Vamped by Lucienne Diver (Flux, 2009).

Click on the contest link above to enter.

2009-10-01T06:32:00.001-07:00

New Teen Programs

2009-10-01T06:19:00.001-07:00

If you are drawn to the paranormal, then don't miss our Paranormal Investigation program on Monday October 19th at 6 p.m. in the community room at the Killingly Library.You can register at the library or by calling 779-5383. We look forward to seeing you!

The following week on Monday October 26th we will be having an Altered Book Workshop at 5:30 p.m. Don't forget to register!

Vampires Vampires....Always Vampires

2009-09-16T09:58:00.001-07:00

Here's one series I haven't read yet. For some reason, it just hadn't called out to me but after watching this trailer I may have to reconsider it. Is anyone out there a fan?

Series Books

2009-09-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

I have found that I am inevitably drawn to books in a series. I recently read and blogged about The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness. His second, The Ask and the Answer, is now available. I can't wait to read it! Does anyone have any favorite series books? If so, recommendations are certainly welcome.

It's Here at the Killingly Public Library!!!

2009-09-03T08:26:00.003-07:00

The Knife of Never Letting Go

2009-08-19T11:19:00.001-07:00

In a world where we often times haven’t a clue what someone else is thinking, imagine being able to know. Imagine being able to hear someone else’s thoughts. It would make life easier, wouldn’t it?

Imagine that you could hear everyone’s thoughts – all the time, everyday. It might not seem so appealing after all.

This is the world Todd Hewitt lives in, constant noise from everyone’s thoughts. To make it even worse, he is on the run for his life which makes it hard to hide when everyone can hear you. There is only one person that has silent thoughts – a girl. She’s not even supposed to exist since all women died when Todd was just a baby but yet she’s on the run with Todd.

Will they escape? Where can they escape to when there’s only one place Todd has ever known to exist?

Catching Fire is Almost Here!

2009-08-14T08:40:00.002-07:00

Summer Reads

2009-08-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

Okay....Summer is rapidly coming to a close. Did anyone read any super reads this Summer?

INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW

Harry Potter

2009-07-23T08:31:00.000-07:00

Has anyone seen this yet?

Old Memories

2009-07-10T07:58:00.001-07:00

Recent Reads

2009-07-10T07:44:00.000-07:00

I've recently read the books below. Great Summer Reads - Check them out if you get a chance!

2009-07-10T07:43:00.001-07:00

New Moon Trailer.........Looks Great

2009-06-24T10:27:00.001-07:00

Check out what's happening this Summer!

2009-06-10T06:51:00.001-07:00

Starting June 22nd you can register for any or all of these great programs happening this summer at the Killingly Public Library.

Teens Express Yourself Creatively: for ages 12-17 on Friday's July 10, 17 and 31st from 1:00 - 3:00 We'll be doing all sorts of creative projects!

Artist Workshop: for ages 10-14 on Wednesday July 22nd from 4:00-6:00 and also on Wednesday August 5th
We will be having a visiting artist introduce and instruct participants in a variety of painting techniques using watercolor and acrylic paints. We will be providing all the materials.

We will also be having a Manga/Anime Workshop on Wednesday July 8th at 6:00 p.m. for ages 11-15

Last but not least, Game Day will be on July 24th from 12:30-3:30 for ages 12-18

Stop by the library to register or call 779-5383 to register on June 22nd.

Dunstanburgh Dawn

2009-05-14T08:24:00.001-07:00

Dunstanburgh Dawn
Originally uploaded by Ian Foote

Take me away!

Seriously.....Vampires

2009-05-07T08:12:00.000-07:00

Okay so I am literally in the world of vampires...I don't know how. I don't know why....but I just finished the fourth in the P.C. Cast series....Marked, Betrayed, Chosen and Untamed and am now waiting for the fifth. I'm going to keep my opinions to myself on this series....but seriously...I heard werewolves were where it's at.

By the way, did anyone go to see The Haunting in Connecticut?...Talk about scary!

Jessica's Guide

2009-05-04T10:40:00.001-07:00

I recently read Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey. I was most pleasantly surprised by this book as I was rather quickly invited into the story. For my fans that are missing anything to do with Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Series, this will help to take away some of the shock of that series being finished. Vampires are ever present......just waiting....possibly for you. ;)

Mark Your Calendars - Free Comic Book Day

2009-04-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

Free Comic Book Day is Saturday May 2nd. Wonderland Comics in Putnam will be giving away a free comic book so don't forget to stop in!

Check out their website at http://www.wonderlandcomics.com/

New Book, New Author, Book Signing

2009-04-24T08:30:00.000-07:00

Come see the newest Young Adult Author!!!

Scott Appleton - He'll be here Thursday April 30th from 2-4 p.m. for a book signing of his book Swords of the Six!

Dying Girls

2009-04-20T10:59:00.001-07:00

I recently read both these uniquely different books about girls that are dying inside. One from being tortured and the other by torturing herself. It got me to thinking just what does our mind do to us? How do we survive horrific events and why do we inflict self pain? If anyone has read either of these books and would like to comment, please do so.

Game Day

2009-04-14T12:38:00.000-07:00

Don't forget this Friday - April 17th We are having another Game Day in the Community Room.

Maximum Ride Series

2009-04-01T10:51:00.000-07:00

Is anyone else out there following the James Patterson Maximum Ride series? I'm currently reading the last in the series, at least I think it's the last, and I'm almost done. Not sure what happened though, it seems this series is fizzling out for me.

wordle creation

2009-03-31T10:06:00.001-07:00

Interview with Neil Gaiman

2009-03-18T10:11:00.000-07:00

Watch Steve Colbert interview Neil Gaiman at the Colbert Show website!

New Book with a Promising New Series to Follow

2009-03-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

If you like the world of dragons, then take a chance with this new book. I'd like to say you won't be disappointed.....if you have read it, do you agree or disagree?