News & Features

Last month, the Patrick F. Taylor Science and Technology Academy's juniors were treated to a talk by Ruta Sepetys, the author of the New York Times bestseller Between Shades of Gray (Philomel, 2011)—and it was engrossing from beginning to end. In fact, we didn't even want to return to class because we were so enthralled by her.

We have all fantasized about being transported to magical locations, and on March 8, Disney is giving everyone an excuse to revisit the 1900 novel and 1939 movie The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Oz the Great and Powerful (PG) tornadoes into theaters in traditional, 3D and IMAX 3D formats. Oscar Diggs (James Franco), an unscrupulous two-bit circus magician, is swept away via hot-air balloon to the Land of Oz. Teens can visit the movie website to browse videos and photos, play games, and access downloads. Then hook them in with a display of portal fiction that will not disappoint.

NEWBERY IN 90 The 90 Second Newbery, once just a glimmer in author James Kennedy’s eye, has just completed its second year. If you missed the recap of this year’s screening in New York, click here – it looked like a wild night. Spread the word: for those who want to participate in next year’s [...]

It may start this way: you’ve just finished the first lunch period, and because of today's snow, there are massive amounts of students in your library—and a surprising number of them are on task. You’re just now welcoming a social studies class that's here to work on a research project and use the laptop cart and many of your book club students are bursting through the door excitedly.

What's publishing this month? Biographies, poetry, and more!

Michaela MacColl is a history scholar drawn to strong female characters, both historical and literary. Her latest novel, Nobody's Secret, features the poet Emily Dickinson, on the trail of a murderer.

Tackling the subject of refugees from war-ravaged nations who find an outlet in playing soccer, Maria Padian's Out of Nowhere and Warren St. John's Outcasts United: The Story of a Refugee Soccer Team That Changed a Town explore the devastating pasts and impoverished situations of these athletes, as well as the bigotry they encounter in their new homes.

Dear ALA Members: Now is the time to vote! To vote for what you want to have happen at ALA Annual! As explained at this ALA News Press Release, voting is open until March 31, 2013 for Conversation Starters and Ignite Sessions. “Conversation Starters” are “fast-paced 45-minute sessions intended to jumpstart conversations and highlight emerging [...]

How should librarians, publishers, and authors approach diversity in children’s books? Authors Sofia Quintero and Zetta Elliott and editor Connie Hsu joined a recent panel at the NYPL, moderated by Betsy Bird, to discuss these issues and more.