We’re coming to the end of the second week and things are settling down. I’ve seen lots of you coming in for books. I decided to share some of my favourites with you, so take a wander down Time Warp Blvd (the Social Studies hallway) and take a look at the Library Learning Commons display case. Think about some of the books that you’ve read (or had read to you) Read More …
A New Year Looms
As we come to the long weekend, Tuesday and a new school year loom. I hope you’ve all had a great summer and had some time to relax, to rest, and to rejuvenate. I’ve done a bunch of reading (no surprise there!). I went to the public library and browsed through the Mystery section, hit a few secondhand bookstores, and downloaded audio books for my phone. Yesterday, I filled the Read More …
Welcome Back
We’re into our 3rd week here at Mountain. Lots of busyness seems to be the norm at this time of year. But don’t forget to take time to relax and rejuvenate. Work-time is more efficient when you’ve had a break. And that’s where the library comes in – a good book, a quiet space, a comfy chair. We have lots of new books and old favourites as well. Whether you have Read More …
Genre of the Month – Science Fiction
Perennially popular, science fiction has been particularly prevalent in YA fiction through the sub-genres of dystopia and speculative fiction. Think Hunger Games, Divergent, and The Scorpion Rules. Classic dystopia is set in a “perfect” world that spirals out of control, turning into a bleak, oppressed society. These are new or alternative worlds, or futuristic societies characterised by degradation in values, social hierarchy, terror and oppression. Tone and mood are dark. The worlds Read More …
Freedom to Read Week
We are in the middle of Freedom to Read week. This year, it seems to me to be more important than ever to consider the right for each of us to choose our reading matter (and by extension, our thoughts). We seem to suddenly be living in a climate of uncertainty: politicians espousing “Canadian values” (whatever those might be – and who gets to decide?), “alternative facts”, and revisionist history. It’s easy Read More …
Post-Valentine Blues & Funny Books
Valentine’s is over and done. Maybe you’re like me and didn’t get any of those yummy little cinnamon hearts and so are feeling a bit blue. What might help brighten your day? How about a funny book? Well, you’re in luck – this month’s genre is Humour. You will find humour in a wide range of other genres. What do we find comical? Well the definition of what’s funny is: Read More …
Genre of the Month…
Realistic, Contemporary Fiction Young adult realistic fiction is a category set in a contemporary, realistic setting. It’s often written in the first person point of view, and is marked by the emotional, evocative voice of young adult books. These books address problems, issues, and life circumstances of interest to young adult readers. – relationships – family / friendship – coming of age There is significant overlap between genres Read More …
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like…
winter out there. Here in Burnaby, we need to take the winter we get, and even if it makes getting around difficult, the snow is beautiful! So bundle up, enjoy the sun (and cold) and make your way to the library to get some holiday reading. Winter and Christmas books are on a cart near the front door. There are displays of Fantasy and New Fiction and New Non-Fiction as Read More …
Fantasy Fiction
Until Christmas break, the Library Learning Commons will be featuring fantasy fiction. These stories revolve around magic, feature supernatural elements and paranormal characters, and contain stories of adventure. The classic fantasy story features a hero who hasn’t understood or fully realized his or her potential or powers. There is often a series of tests (a quest) or encounters that highlight or develop some aspect of the protagonist. This often includes conflict Read More …
Bookmark Contest
This year’s bookmark contest is taking place with Literacy Week (Nov. 14 – 18). Bookmark templates are available from the library and art teachers. Create by hand or digitally. The theme is genres. My favourite is mystery. Which is yours?