Book Review: Julius: The Baby of the World by Kevin Henkes

I've noticed quite a few lovely pregnant bellies lately, so I thought I should do a review of a book for introducing a new baby into the home. Most of these types of books are so sweet and wonderous, but Henkes reveals a darker and funnier side to bringing home baby.

The book begins with Lilly acting the part of a wonderful sister. She reads and sings to her mama's belly. Unfortunately, the story changes when Julius actually comes home. Lilly discovers a new baby takes up too much attention, and he stinks!

Everyone thinks Julius is the baby of the world. Everyone, except Lilly's cousin, Garland. Garland thinks the very same things that Lilly has said throughout the book. So, you would think that Lilly would be overjoyed to have a partner in her baby brother drama club. Oh, no!

Now, Lilly is the one to hail: "Julius is the baby of the world!"

This book captures the essence of sibling rivalry perfectly. Brothers and sisters are going to have disagreements. It is inevitable. If someone on the outside of this tenuous relationship tries to start trouble, though, they will be faced with a united front: family. Henkes uses humor to bring this concept to those who are experiencing the love/not-so-much love relationship for the very first time. Jealousy and sharing are hard concepts for pre-schoolers. Read this book and let yourself laugh about it!

Book Review: A Black Cat: An ABC Book by Britta Teckentrup

Bright illustrations and whimsical text are perfect for toddlers who have begun to ask, "What's that?" This is not one of those ABC books that also tells a story. It is a fun adventure through the alphabet, though. Our favorite page is the Octopus playing the Piano.

The high contrast pictures and small board book form are sure to please babies and toddlers. Learn a few new vocabulary words and get a big laugh with Y is for Yak. Just try saying Yak without laughing...

Book Review: Icky Sticky Frog by Dawn Bentley

I haven't reviewed any books in a long time, so I thought I'd review my son's favorite book right now! The Icky Sticky Frog is about a hungry little frog. It has wonderful rhythm and rhyme, so it is perfect for toddlers. The surprise ending will delight children of all ages. It comes in board book form or with paper pages complete with the sticky tongue on the cover. I found my copy at Big Lots for under $2, what a steal!

Summer Reading Club 2010

I've had many questions about SRC 2010 already! I know you are all excited about joining the reading club for all ages during the summer. We have fun activities planned for the whole family. We'll kick things off this year at the South Branch with a water-themed party. Wear your bathing suits and bring your own towel because you will be getting wet! The fun starts at 6 on June 7, 2010. You can sign up for the reading club, or just enjoy the festivities. Food will be served while supplies last. I can't wait to see everyone!

Storytime Break!

We are taking a week off before Spring Break, so we can have some springy fun for those of us who are not going away. This year, we are holding Spring Fling during Spring Break. Our theme is "Spring into Spring" and we'll be doing lots of jumping. This is a great theme for all ages, because even the littlest child likes to bounce and jump. You can come dressed up as any animal that hops! Wednesday, April 7th from 10:30 to 11:30, we will have stories, crafts, games, and a snack!

Regular storytimes will start again in two weeks on April 14th and 15th and continue through the end of the month.

Wednesdays- Ages 3-5 @ 10:05

Thursdays- All Ages @ 10:05, Babies/Toddlers @ 11

Why Saturday Storytime?

Do you work all week long? Storytimes are held every week during the day, so working parents cannot attend. We don't want you to miss out on an opportunity to bond with your child over books.

About a year ago, we started holding storytimes at night once a week on Mondays from 7-8. Budget cuts led to staff hours being cut, so we went down to every other week on Monday night. Unfortunately, it made it difficult for parents to come each time.

For this session, we decided to try Family Storytimes once a month on Saturday morning. So far, the attendance has been low, but we are hoping for more interest. If you have never come to a storytime before, this program is for you!

Meet other parents with children the same age as yours! The library is a great meeting place. Don't let this opportunity pass you by, because it may not be offered again. Spread the word about Saturday Storytimes!!!

Spring into Spring!

The weather outside may still be cold, but the librarians at KHCPL are looking forward to blue skies. With that in mind our storytime session will be about all things Spring. Join us this week for stories in the garden. Then, make a craft to go in your own backyard.

Week 1: Garden
Week 2: Lambs
Week 3: Bears
Week 4: All Things Fluffy
Week 5: Rain

Remember to sign up at the Reference Desk for the Wednesday storytimes. All ages are welcome Thursday mornings, and babies and toddlers come for the 11 a.m. slot.