Writing about humor is a good way to suck all the fun out of it, so please—feel free to skip straight to the booklist.
The Holocaust: Rescue and Resistance | Focus On
By on April 4, 2013 6 Comments
Stories of resistance, rescue, courage, ingenuity, and survival are beacons of light amid the dark horrors of the Holocaust. These titles document the events, help to promote understanding, and inspire a new generation of readers.
The 1920′s: The Decade That Roared | Focus On
By on March 19, 2013 1 Comment
The books below will effectively sharpen readers’ knowledge and understanding of the Roaring 20′s, from carefully researched nonfiction to perceptive examples of historical fiction.
Why Can’t We Be Friends?: Tales of the Heart
By on February 6, 2013 Leave a Comment
Filled with unlikely but enduring attachments, ostensibly incompatible Romeos and Juliets, and unexpected instances of true animal camaraderie, these books prove that affection can allow individuals to look beyond their differences and forge long-lasting bonds. Use these books to expand Valentine’s Day and friendship storytimes; tease out overarching themes; and initiate discussions of tolerance, compassion, and community.
Books to Celebrate the Everyday Heroes of the Civil Rights Movement
By on January 1, 2013 5 Comments
Fifty years ago this May, people around our country turned on their televisions to the sight of children being viciously assaulted with fire hoses and snarling dogs by uniformed grown men, their faces twisted with hatred. The violence in Birmingham, Alabama, stirred a swelling of national conscience and raised questions demanding an answer: Do we really believe that “all men are created equal”? What would our country look like if we really did? What has to change to make that dream a reality?
Healthy Lifestyles: A Balancing Act | Focus On
By on December 3, 2012 3 Comments
It seems as though not a day goes by without the media covering a story about children’s health. Fast-food restaurants decide to list the nutritional information of their entrees. School districts ban soft-drink vending machines in their cafeterias. Childhood obesity is at epidemic levels.
Middle–Grade Fantasy: Believe It! | Focus On
By on November 1, 2012 Leave a Comment
In this Article
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A visit to the children’s section of any large bookstore might leave the impression that current fantasy consists almost entirely of lengthy Harry Potter or Percy Jackson clones, entries in a trilogy or longer series. Happily, some deeper digging uncovers a wonderful variety of middle grade, stand-alone fantasy novels which exemplify some of the best qualities and possibilities of the genre. While all fiction faces the challenge of making the reader believe in [...]
Nail-biters: Gripping Tales | Focus On
By on October 1, 2012 2 Comments
In this Article
On the Web
Just what constitutes a “nail-biter” is certainly open for debate, but librarians know they are highly sought after titles. Suspense and action are two main requisites, and a good thriller is structured to keep readers hanging at the end of almost every chapter, leaving them hungry for more. For those serving reluctant readers, these titles are gold. Fortunately, nail-biters can be found in almost every genre. Since YA lit has been dominated by [...]
