Katniss Everdeen is the pride of District 12 because she is one of the best hunters around, even at age 16. The Capitol, a corrupt, oppressive government which rules over Panem, selects her younger sister for the 74th Hunger Games. Katniss volunteers to take the place of her sister and soon finds herself in a fight to the death with 23 other competitors, all teenagers. If she wins, she gains a lifetime of glory and freedom from the poor living conditions. If she loses… well, she doesn’t want to think about that.
Has the heat wave got you down? Do you find yourself already thinking about (or wishing for) the calming snow of winter? Are you thinking of moving somewhere further north? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might want to bring your kids to our Christmas in July preschool storytimes at Mid-Continent Public Library's Boardwalk Branch on July 20 and 22 at 11 am. Preschool storytime includes songs, crafts, and snowball fights for kids of all ages. Registration is not required. Just come on by and think cool thoughts.
If you like to read about true friendship and fixer-uppers, you will enjoy reading A Year On Ladybug Farm by Donna Ball. Cici, Lindsay, and Bridget's friendship has grown stronger through years of raising kids,
I have always been a fan of British writers. There is something about reading books that take you to a different time and place. I am a bit of an Anglophile anyway, so anything involving the tiny island across the pond calls to me. I love Val McDermid, Peter Robinson, and especially P.D. James. Currently in her eighties, James has published over 20 books. Since 1962, she has been charming us with the Inspector Dalgliesh mysteries.
Not too long ago, a staff discussion brought up the question "What was your favorite book when you were 12?" Our answers show our different personalities and how they were starting to emerge even at a young age.
With the decade of the eighties turning thirty in 2010, various eighties icons have published their memoirs. As they look back on their bad haircuts (i.e. mullets) and their bad fashions (i.e. leg warmers and Members Only jackets), you can, too.
The following is a sample of some of the eighties icons who have published their memoirs in 2010. All of the books are available at MCPL.
What kind of adventure do you have when you and your children go to the Supermarket? Do you make a grocery list and let your children help you find the items in the supermarket? When you return home do you help each other put the items away?
Welcome to the world of 
