and the winners are…. September 15, 2011

Congratulations to the 42 teens who played the Beast Battle Royale Teen Summer Reading Game! You collectively submitted over 400 reviews, many of which were downright hilarious, or  blatantly honest, and often richly descriptive (some of you even won prizes for your penmanship, but more on that later!).  You also voted multi-headed Mythological  Beastie HYDRA as the ultimate champion in the Tournament of Terror. Talk about having the advantage of ’putting your heads together’ to accomplish something!

In addition, a belated congratulations to everyone who won prizes for participating in the summer reading game. Some of the winners were chosen through a random drawn of all players who finished the game, while others were hand picked for submitting the most creative, funny, or well written reviews. All prize winners have aleady been notifed, and many have already been in to pick up the aweseme prizes donated by our generous local sponsors! Enjoy your well deserved goodies

Pandora’s Legion By Harold Coyle And Barrett Tillman August 29, 2011

Teen Review By: Alana H.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

Forensic anthropologist, Temperance Brennan, has to solve a mystery connecting seemingly unrelated deaths.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked the detail the author went into when describing the autopsies, and other forensic details.

Who would you recommend it to?

I would recommend it to anyone who likes a good mystery

Hunger By Michael Grant August 27, 2011

Teen Review By: Emily R.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

In Perdido Beach, California, everyone over the age of 15 has disappeared. Those who are left are mutating and developing special powers.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked that it’s full of mystery and suspense.

Who would you recommend it to?

Teenagers who like books full of action.

Thirteen By Lauren Myracle August 26, 2011

Teen Review By: Shayla M.

Rating: 4/5

What is this book about?

It was about Winnie, who is in seventh grade. She just turned 13 and she had to deal with a lot of things at once, including her boyfriend.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I like how every chapter was a different month, starting with March.

Who would you recommend it to?

Preteen girls.

Locked In Time By Lois Duncan

Teen Review By: Mackenzie W.

Rating: 4/5

What is the book about?

A girl named Nore moves into the home of her new stepmother, and must find out the secret of her stepmother’s beauty.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I like how the author describes the characters and how they always come close to telling her the secret, but don’t.

Who would you recommend it to?

Anybody who likes suspenseful books involving the supernatural.

The Odyssey By Gareth Hinds August 22, 2011

Teen Review By: Matthew J.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

This book is about Odysseus, sacker of Troy, who on his voyage home was cursed by the gods. Mutiny and misfortune plague him, delaying his journey 17 years.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked the well done art and the delivery of the story. I think that Homer’s epics should be shown to everyone.

Who would you recommend it to?

I would recommend it to anyone who likes a long graphic novel, around 250 pages, and who is a reasonable age (some gore).

Maus: A Survivor’s Tale by Art Spiegleman August 18, 2011

Teen Review By: Taylor W.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

Art decides to write a comic about hsi dad, a Holocaust survivor. This is his dad’s story.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I hate reading history stories, but I liked how this one is told in comic form. It really tells what it was like for those in the camps, something we don’t get nowadays. A great history read.

Who would you recommend it to?

Anyone who wants to know more about WWII, but hates reading history books.

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* A note from YS staff member Tara: Did you know that Art Spiegleman won the Pulizter Prize Letters Award for Maus in 1992? Also, don’t forget to check out the equally awe-inspiring sequel, Maus: A Survivor’s Tale: And Here My Troubles Began.

Falcondance by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes August 17, 2011

Teen Review By: Victoria D.

Rating: 3/5

What is the book about?

A falcon who is alone in his court, traveling to the city of falcons and discovering that he is the next heir.

What did you like/dislike about it?

It was very richly written

Who would you recommend it to?

It is a very good fantasy, so fantasy fans.

Beast Battle Royale – 5 More Days to Play! August 16, 2011

This week is the final role call for players to join in on the fun, as our BEAST BATTLE ROYALE Teen Summer Reading Game wraps up this Saturday. Hordes of great reviews have been pouring in – 178 to be exact! Valiant teen reviewers have also been casting their votes in the final round of the Tournament of Terror - a heated duel between the ferocious Kraken and the mighty Hydra. So, please remember to stop in by August 20th to pick up a fresh batch of great reads and hand in your review forms, or better yet, submit your reviews online for an additional chance to win a fangtastic prize from one of our sponsors!


Also, there is still time to RSVP to Clash of the Creatures: Teen Windup Party. This years feastivities will include battles of wit, strength and agility, plus snacks, prizes, and the unveiling of the creature you have chosen as the grand champion in the Tournament of Terror! Stop by the Information Desk, call 780-410-8621 or email info@sclibrary.ab.ca to reserve a spot for yourself and your beast friends

 

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles August 15, 2011

Teen Review By: Abbey F.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

It all starts when “Miss Popular” Brittany is paired up with badboy Mexican Alex. Soon they fall for each other but it is hard to have a relationship when everyone else is against it.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I loved the storyline and how there is so much emotion in the pages of this book. The author really transports you.

Who would you recommend it to?

Anyone who likes a good love story about forbidden love. It is a realistic read.

 

Beastly by Alex Flinn August 12, 2011

Teen Review By: Shayla M.

Rating: 4/5

What is the book about?

Kyle Kingsbury is a shallow guy who is rude and mean. One day he takes it too far with a girl in his class and she turns him into an ugly beast. Then he has 2 years to get someone to love him or he stays like that forever.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked how it was a modern version of “Beauty and the Beast” which is one of my favourite fairytales.

Who would you recommend it to?

Anyone who likes fantasy and fairytales.

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* A note from YS staff member Tara: For those who enjoy Twisted Fairytales such as Beastly, check out our Fractured & Grimm: Fairy Tales for Teens booklist.

Get your craft on – this afternoon! August 11, 2011

Just a reminder that the Cute-a-licious program is today! Hope to see some of you there:)

Granny by Anthony Horowitz August 10, 2011

Teen Review By: Caitlin T.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

Joe’s granny is evil and she is out to get him. Can he stop her?

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked the unbelievable topic.

Who would you recommend it to?

Horror fans

Hello cuties! August 8, 2011

Calling all teens with an interest in super cute things. Join us for a free, fun, and fabulous program at the library this Thursday, August 11 from 2-3:30. Make (and munch!) candy sushi, then construct your own mini monster, finger puppet, or other teensy, adorable creature.

We’ll provide hot glue, felt, fabric scraps, and basic sewing implements, but feel free to bring your own embellishments. Sewing experience not necessary.

For more information, or to register please call the Information Desk at 780-410-8621.

Distant Waves by Suzanne Weyn

Teen Review By: Emily R.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

Jane is just an average girl, until one day when she accidentally takes a trip on the Titanic and her life is forever changed.

What did you like/dislike about it?

This book combines both non-fiction and fiction aspects of the Titanic to make an amazing story.

Who would you recommend it to?

Anyone who likes book full of suspense or reading about historical events that changed the world.

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* A note from YS staff member Tara: Skip on over to YouTube and check out this nifty book trailer put out by publisher Scholastic. It features author Suzanne Weyn, who talks about the real life events and places that inspired the story, and shares advice for young  historical fiction writers.

Elf Realm: The High Road By Daniel Kirk July 28, 2011

Teen Review By: Josh B.

Rating: 4/5

What is the book about?

It’s about a boy who steps on an elf shoe and his foot gets infected. The only way to get an antidote is to find the leader of the elves.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked that it was an adventure book about elves and humans.

Who would you recommend it to?

I would recommend it to someone who likes fantasy.

 

How To Ditch Your Fairy By Justine Larbalestier

Teen Review By: Megan H.

Rating: 5/5

What is this book about?

Charlie is 14 and lives in a world where everyone has a fairy. Hers is a parking fairy and she hates it. Along with another girl who hates her fairy as well, they devise a plan to ditch their fairies.

What did you like/dislike about it?

What I liked about this book was the emotion in it. Whatever Charlie felt, I felt even more.

Who would you recommend it to?

I would recommend this book to any teenage girl who is interested in funny fiction stories.

 

Switched By Sienna Mercer July 26, 2011

Teen Review By: Abbey O.

Rating: 4/5

What is the book about?

When Olivia moves to town she meets Ivy Vega. But there’s something different about her. She is identical to Olivia.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I really like books about vampires, so it was cool to have a little twist to it.

Who would you recommend it to?

People who like vampires or kids in grade 6.

Poll of the Week July 25, 2011

Vitals: Who Will Win?

You get to decide! Place your vote when you submit your reviews for the summer reading game.

Up this week:
If you could choose, which book-beast would win: slow but deadly Ent, bone-crushing Cthulu, warrior-munching Grendel,  or the fire-breathing, darting Norwegian Ridgeback. Read up on the stats for each of this week’s fangsome champions.

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Margret And Flynn By Kathleen Duey July 21, 2011

Teen Review By: Katie S.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

Margret and her older sister Libby are orphans. Staying with a kind Mrs. Fredrickson, Margret knows Libby will want to move on. Then a tornado comes, leaving an injured horse she names Flynn.

What did you like/dislike about it?

It brings out what everyday life was like in 1875, and the struggle of an orphan who wants stability in her life. It was very exciting.

Who would you recommend it to?

Anyone who is interested in horses and history.

The Lovely Bones By Alice Sebold

Teen Review By: Abbey F.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

This is a book that is about a 14 year old girl and her murder. It also goes into detail about how her death affects the lives of the people who loved her, as well as the people she didn’t even know.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked that it had multiple points of view from an array of characters. However, I did not like that the story seemed to get sidetracked and it would go into too much detail when it came to side plots.

Who would you recommend it to?

Teens or anyone who wants a realistic read and can handle topics like murder.

Over The Wall By Chris Fabry July 19, 2011

Teen Review By: Ryan S.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

Jamie goes to driving school and Tim moves in with the Maxwells. Tim also tries to find out more about his dad’s crash.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked how determined Jamie was to get through school, and how persistent Tim was to find out more about his dad.

Who would you recommend it to?

Anyone who likes NASCAR.

Twilight: The Graphic Novel Vol. 1 By Stephenie Meyer

Teen Review By: Samantha L.

Rating: 4/5

What is the book about?

In my book, Bella goes to live with her dad for a while in Forks. In Forks, she falls in love with Edward Cullen who is strange. Later she finds out he is a vampire but she is not scared. She is in love.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked the romance between Edward and Bella. It was interesting and sometimes strange.

Who would you recommend it to?

I recommend this book to teens who love fictional love stories.

Vitals: Who Will Win? July 18, 2011

You get to decide! Place your vote when you submit your reviews for the summer reading game.

Up this week:
If you could choose, who would win: it’s a battle of the giants!  King Kong, Godzilla, a Kraken, or Frankenstein. They’re big, but is brawn better than brains? Read up on the stats for each of this week’s fangsome champions.

 

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The Last Apprentice: Revenge Of The Witch By Joseph Delaney July 14, 2011

Teen Review By: Alwin M.

Rating: 4/5

What is the book about?

A boy (Tom Ward) is being the apprentice of a Spook.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked how everyone had a country accent.

Who would you recommend it to?

I would recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy books.

The Secret of Sentinel Rock by Judith Silverthorne

Teen Review By: Caitlin T.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

Emily’s grandmother died and her family went to her house for the funeral. She visits her lookout rock and finds a girl that looks like she jumped out of a textbook! What does the rock have to offer and can the girl help Emily?

What did you like/dislike about it?

I like the connection between Emily and Emma! Although the ending is sad.

Who would you recommend it to?

People who like history and bonds between friends.

Vampire takes all! July 11, 2011

It’s official – we’ve counted the spatter and the vampire is the winner of this week’s battle. We’re surprised – from the roar and rumble of the crowd, we were sure that the zombie would have won…

Place your vote for this week’s champion when you bring in your book reviews.

Kiss by Ted Dekker

Teen Review by: Julie S.

Rating: 5/5

What is the book about?

A girl wakes up from a 6 week long coma after a tragic accident, and can’t remember the past 3 months of her life. She quickly finds herself wrapped up in a complex mystery.

What did you like/dislike about it?

I liked that it was suspenseful and held my interest the entire time. It was complex and had several twists/surprises.

Who would you recommend it to?

Teens or adults looking for an exciting mystery novel.

Poll of the Week

Vitals: Who Will Win?

You get to decide! Place your vote when you submit your reviews for the summer reading game.

Up this week:

If you could choose, who would win: a slobbering, three-headed lapdog? a mirror-loving fury? a stubborn as a bull Minotaur? or a fire-breathing, 9-headed monster? Read up on the stats for each of this week’s fangsome champions.

 

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Vitals: Who Will Win? July 7, 2011

You get to decide! Place your vote when you submit your reviews for the summer reading game.

Up this week:
If you could choose, who would win: a vampire, a werewolf, a golem, or house favourite, Bob Zombie? Read up on the stats for each of this week’s fangsome champions.

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Who will win this week’s battle?

Dare you to Play!

Beast Battle Royale: Teen Summer Reading Game has started and we already have 31 teens signed up to play. Here’s your dare – come in to the library to pick up a game package or print off a review form.

Read! Review! Win! There are some terrific prizes to be won. Check out the list of Game End and Grand Prize Draws. The best part, you can vote for your champion in this week’s beast battle!

Beast Battle Royale – video trailer June 26, 2011

The Teen Summer Reading Game starts in 5 days! The Beast Battle will begin on June 30. Have a look at the video.

Hunger Games movie getting closer…

This past month’s edition of Entertainment Weekly featured a lengthy article about the upcoming movie, lots of pics, and information about the cast. Katniss is going to be played by Jennifer Lawrence, who plays Mystique in the X-Men: First Class movie.

Take a look at the Entertainment Weekly website…if you want to read the complete article, look for the May 27, 2011 Library copy in our catalogue.

What do you think of the new Katniss?

Summer is here!

Okay, almost. School’s out next week, and the hint of summer freedom and lazy days is in the air.

We’re just gearing up for a new slate of fantastic programs here at the Strathcona County Library this summer. Watch for information about Beast Battle Royale: Teen Summer Reading Game, teen programs, as well as great reads to keep you busy this summer.