Mrlyablog

Sea Hearts... or Watered Silk by Margo Lanagan

2012-02-03T11:17:00.001+11:00

Check out the book trailer for the new Margo Lanagan book - interestingly it appears to be confused about its title, but looks like an awesome read no matter what it is called... Reserve it here:

Great Holiday read - Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

2012-01-06T11:56:00.000+11:00

If you are struggling to find a well-written, entertaining novel with original themes, consider picking up Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor. This book has been one of the best Young Adult novels I have read recently, and it is a great title for adults too.

The story is set in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Karou is a talented artist, whose drawings of fantastical monsters and demons seem to be drawn from an overactive imagination. But Karou actually draws what she sees - a collection of chimera who are as close to her as family. Her beloved guardian brokers sinister deals in dark alleys - and Karou becomes entangled in a secret feud that could destroy the world as she knows it.

Highly recommended. Reserve a copy from the library today!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

2011-12-21T15:17:00.000+11:00

Mrlyablog would like to wish all the customers and friends of the library a very Merry Christmas, and an incredibly awesome New Year!

Remember that the Dubbo Branch Library will be closed from Saturday 24 December through to Tuesday 27 December, and will reopen on Wednesday 28 December until Friday 30 December, and then closed from Saturday 31 December to Monday 2 January. Normal library hours will resume on Tuesday 3 January 2012.

Win a Wii!!!

2011-12-07T13:44:00.000+11:00

It's that time of year again - time to get reading and go in the draw for an amazing Nintendo Wii!

Our Summer Reading Program, 'The Amazing Read' has kicked off, and all you have to do to get involved is make your way to the Dubbo Branch Library, pick up a Reading Pack, complete a Reading Record and submit it for your chance to win!

For more information, contact the Dubbo Branch Library on 0268014510, or check out our website.

Hunger Games - The Movie!

2011-11-15T13:48:00.001+11:00

If you are a fan of all things Hunger Games, check out the trailer for Hunger Games - THE MOVIE!

It's almost here!!!!

2011-11-03T17:37:00.000+11:00

Paolini fans rejoice! Inheritance, the fourth and final title in Christopher Paolini's epic fantasy series (featuring Eragon and his amazing dragon Sapphira) is released on November 8.

The library has copies on order - and you can place a reservation on a copy now! Contact your local branch for more info...

Find out more about Christopher Paolini and his books at his official website.

Inky Award Winners

2011-10-26T15:35:00.000+11:00

The Inkys are international awards for teenage literature, voted for online by the readers of insideadog.com.au. There are three awards: the Golden Inky for an Australian book, the Silver Inky for an international book, and the Creative Reading Prize, won by a young person for a creative response to a book they love, in any format they choose.

The 2011 Inky Award winners have just been announced.

The Gold Inky for the most popular Australian book for 2011 was won by James Moloney for his fantasy novel Silvermay.

The Silver Inky for the most popular international book went to Cassandra Clare for her Victorian-era fantasy Clockwork Angel.

For more info about the Inky Awards, and for heaps of ideas for great books to read, visit the Inside A Dog website

Who's your favourite author?

2011-10-21T13:24:00.000+11:00

One of my favourite authors of ALL TIME is Road Dahl. His books are just awesome - funny, kind of gross, and sometimes even a bit sad... They are vastly entertaining for adults too- go figure!

Here's my Top 5 Roald Dahl titles (and it is hard to decide on just 5!)

5. Esio Trot

4. The BFG

3. The Twits

2. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

AND...my favourite Roald Dahl book EVER... (drumroll please)

1. THE WITCHES!

If you love all things Dahl too - or would like to give one a try - come on down to the Dubbo Branch Library and borrow one of his great titles today!

Why not have a look at the wonderful Official Roald Dahl website as well!...

So many werewolves, so little time...

2011-10-19T13:15:00.001+11:00

The Dubbo Branch library has been bitten by the werewolf bug - it must be a full moon!

Check out these howling good reads...

Trial by Fire by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Bryn faces the dangers and joys of love and loyalty in this thrilling sequel to Raised by Wolves. Bryn is now alpha of the Cedar Ridge Pack - although it's not simple when you are a human leading a band of werewolves. Then she finds a teenage boy

bleeding on her front porch. Before collapsing, he tells her his name is Lucas, he's a Were, and Bryn's protection is his only hope. But Lucas is a part of another alpha's pack, and Bryn has no right to claim him. As danger closes in, Bryn will have to accept that to be alpha, she will have to give in to her animal instincts and become less human. And she's going to have to do it alone.

Wolfsbane by Andrea Cremer

When Calla Tor, werewolf alpha, wakes up in the lair of her sworn enemies, she's certain her days are numbered. But then the Searchers make her an offer, one that gives her the chance to destroy her former masters and save the pack - and the boy- she left behind. Now in control of her own destiny, Calla must decide which battles are worth fighting, and how many trials true love can survive.

Brand Spankin' New

2011-10-18T10:23:00.001+11:00

What's new at the Dubbo Branch Library? Some great Young Adult fiction, that's what!

Give these awesome titles a try...

Froi of the Exiles by Melina Marchetta

Three years after the curse on Lumatere was lifted, Froi has found his home. Or so he believes. Fiercely loyal to the Queen and Finnikin, Froi has been trained roughly and lovingly by the Guard sworn to protect the royal family, and has learned to control his quick temper. But when he is sent on a secretive mission to the kingdom of Charyn, nothing could prepare him for what he finds. Here he encounters a damaged people who are not what they seem, and must unravel both the dark bonds of kinship and the mysteries of a half-mad Princess.

Froi of the Exiles is the sequel to Finnikin of the Rock, from the multi-award-winning author of Looking for Alibrandi.

The Shadow Girl by John Larkin

The shadow girl never imagined she'd live on the streets. After her parents disappear, life with her aunt and uncle takes a sinister turn. Terrified that the authorities will believe her uncle over her, she flees. She tricks her way into a new school and pretends to have a loving family. No one knows she sleeps in rail

yards, sand dunes and abandoned houses. At school she meets the author she will call on years later. Over time, they piece together the story of how she survived. who helped her, and the friend she wishes she could have saved.

John Larkin's latest novel is thrilling, profound and compelling reading.

Hades by Alexandra Adornetto

The sequel to Halo, Hades continues the story of Xavier and Bethany.

Jake Thorn and his demons have been banished and Xavier and Bethany settle down to resume a normal life. But on the night of Halloween, a childish prank goes terribly wrong and Jake is summoned back to the sleepy town of Venus Cove. Bethany is deceived and like the mythical Persephone she finds herself dragged into the nightmarish underworld of Hades. While the angels call on higher powers to help rescue Bethany, Jake decides to play dirty and goes after the one thing she loves more than anything. But to spare Xavier's life, Bethany must make the ultimate sacrifice.

Pick up these - and many other great titles, at the Dubbo Branch Library!

Yay for more vampires!

2011-10-11T15:21:00.000+11:00

Just when you thought it was safe to venture out with your jugular vein unprotected...

Vampire lovers can get their fix with the new title from Richelle Mead. Bloodlines is the first book in a new series by the author of the phenomenally popular Vampire Academy sextet. (Just before you think I am being rude, that means a set of six!)

Bloodlines focuses on Sydney Sage, whom you might remember from the last two books in Vampire Academy. Sydney is an Alchemist, and a reluctant co-conspirator with the Moroi, a race of peace-loving vampires. When Sydney is assigned to Jill Dragomir, Moroi princess, and half-sister to the queen, she finds herself at high school in Palm Springs - with all the accompanying teenage angst. Fans of Richelle Mead will be familiar with a number of the characters in Bloodlines and those who felt sorry for Adrian for losing out on Rose Hathaway can be comforted in the knowledge that Adrian plays a significant role in this new series. I found Bloodlines an entertaining read, with strong female characters and a fast-paced storyline. A great new series that should appeal to Twilight fans and lovers of paranormal fiction. Reserve a copy from the library today!

The second book in the series, The Golden Lily, will be released in 2012.

Get Reading!

2011-09-21T11:37:00.001+10:00

Although it sounds a little bossy, Get Reading! is a great Australian Government initiative to encourage Australians to pick up a book and start reading - because it's fun!

Pick up a copy of the free Get Reading! booklet from the Dubbo Branch library which lists the 50 books you can't put down - some awesome reads guaranteed to please, or check out our display for some of the titles. There are books for adults, books for children, and best of all, books for young adults!

For more info about Get Reading! visit their website

Here is a sneak peek at some of the featured books:

True Spirit: The Aussie Girl Who Took on the World by Jessica Watson
In 2009, 16 year old Jessica Watson proved that anything is possible when she became the youngest person to sail solo around the world. Here, she details her journey - the battles against sleep deprivation, gale-force winds, mountainous seas and solitude, all endured by someone who claims she's just an ordinary girl, but whom we acknowledge as a true heroine.

The Painted Man by Peter V. Brett
As dusk falls each evening in Arlen's isolated world, a mist rises from the ground, promising death to any who brave the darkness. Hungry demons materialise from the vapours to feed, forcing humanity to take shelter behind magical wards and pray that their protection holds until dawn. But Arlen must leave the safety of his wards to discover a different path and offer humanity a last, fleeting chance of survival...

Bloodlines by Richelle Mead
Sydney is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic, protecting vampire secrets - and mortal lives. When she's ordered into hiding to guard Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, she doesn't expect to be sent to a private school in Palm Springs. And although the school is the last place anyone would look for vampire royalty, Sydney finds the drama is only just beginning. Bloodlines is the first in a new series by the author of the phenomenally successful Vampire Academy series.

Reading Writing Random

2011-07-29T11:47:00.003+10:00

Don't forget to join us at the Dubbo Branch Library on Thursday afternoons at 4.00pm for Reading Writing Random.

If you have a passion for books or are bursting with great ideas for your own stories, Reading Writing Random is for you!

Where: Youth Area, Dubbo Branch Library

Age: 12-18 years

When: Each Thursday of the school term, 4.00-5.00pm

Why: Because it's fun!

For further info, visit our website or contact us at the library on 68014510.

Between the Lines

2011-07-22T11:52:00.003+10:00

Between the Lines is Penguin Australia's dedicated space for young adult readers, writers and books. Here's the link. Find out about new releases, check out some book trailers, and see what's going on with your favourite authors.

Knits and Pics

2011-06-30T13:41:00.002+10:00

The Dubbo library is the place to be these holidays! Beat the winter holiday blues and learn to knit an awesome scarf, beanie or amigurumi toys - or find out how to take amazing photos with your digital camera.

Contact the library on 68014510 to book your place so you don't miss out!

Cool Knits
Learn to knit, crochet and loom knit so you can make your own fashionable scarves, beanies and amigurumi creations.
Thursday 5 July, 1.00pm-4.00pm
Ages: 12+
Cost: $5

Digital Photography
Discover how get the most from your digital camera and take brilliant photos with the Dubbo Camera Club. Please bring your own camera, manual and USB.
Thursday 14 July, 1.00pm-4.00pm
Ages: 12+
Cost: $5

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Children's Book Council Award Shortlist

2011-06-16T16:07:00.013+10:00

The Children's Book Council have released the shortlist of books nominated for prizes in 2011... Let us know which one you think will win!

And the nominees are:

Older Readers Shortlist

Graffiti Moon by Cath Crowley

The Midnight Zoo by Sonya Hartnett

About a Girl by Joanne Horniman

The Life of a Teenage Bodysnatcher by Doug MacLeod

The Piper's Son by Melina Marchetta

Six Impossible Things by Fiona Wood

Random House Teen Book Video Awards

2011-05-06T14:54:00.004+10:00

Are you a high school student who is a budding filmmaker and book lover?

Random House are offering the chance for high school students to create one 90-second book trailer and win some fabulous prizes.

All you need to do is choose one of the 16 books and create a 90-second trailer.

All submitted entries must have the Assignment Deed form, Talent and Location Release form plus the entry form.

The winner will receive a massive cash prize of $1,000 plus $1000 worth of Random House books for their school!

For more details visit the Random House website.

Calling all creative beings!

2011-04-05T12:38:00.003+10:00

SpineOut online is a place where you can express your ideas and thoughts and share your creativity in words, art, film and music.

Library members can access the site free through the Library's website - and here's the link:

http://www.goodreadingmagazine.com.au/libraries.cfm?lib=85&src=8TqiksQW

Check out the book trailers - and maybe create one of your own and submit it...

Youth Week Trivia - Win Great Prizes!

2011-03-25T11:13:00.003+11:00

Now is the time to start gathering your smart friends and getting a team together for the awesome annual Youth Week Trivia at the Dubbo Branch Library.

Form teams of up to 6 people and get your brains working overtime. The Quiz is sponsored by Dubbo City Youth Council and ZOOFM - and features heaps of prizes, music , frivolity, free pizza and soft drink.

When: 3.00-5.00pm Wednesday 13 April 2011

Where: Dubbo Branch Library, Corner of Macquarie and Talbragar Streets Dubbo

Inside a Dog - Updated

2011-03-25T11:01:00.009+11:00

If you love everything about books and like to post reviews, talk about your reading and win great prizes, visit Inside a Dog!

http://www.insideadog.com.au/

The site is a place for teens to find great reads, and share their thoughts via reviews, blogs and book clubs. Read about an author's process with a new guest Writer in Residence each month, create your own profile and discuss the latest news in youth literature.

Back to School - get a great start @ the library!

2011-02-04T13:12:00.009+11:00

Want to get great marks with less work? Check out some of the great resources available from the Dubbo branch library for students.

The Dubbo Branch library has a dedicated HSC collection with heaps of useful information to assist you - from Excel guides to journal articles and literature guides to help you 'translate' English prescribed texts for your exams and assignments.

We have a range of databases available for library members to access from home as well as great links to internet sources from our website (http://www.mrl.nsw.gov.au/). Available databases include Encyclopaedia Britannica Online, Australia/NZ Reference Centre, Consumer Health Complete, Find Legal Answers, History and Reference Library, and more.

Try the HSC Help link to find even more great info to help you out.

Our helpful and knowledgeable staff are also more than willing to assist you with your study information needs - and are happy to demonstrate how to use databases and other resources.

The Library is OPEN!

2011-01-18T17:33:00.002+11:00

Great news for all our fantastic customers - The Dubbo Branch is all dried out and open again to the public!

So come on down and borrow some books, DVDs, CDs, magazines or talking books, take advantage of our free wireless access or use our internet computers.

The Summer Reading Program is in full swing so grab a pack and get reading for your chance to win a Nintendo Wii console and games! Entries close on Friday April 8 - so read as much as you can for more chances to win! Contact the Dubbo Branch library on 68014510 for more information.

Glug Glug Glug...

2010-12-10T12:04:00.002+11:00

Unfortunately due to the flood conditions in Dubbo, the Dubbo Branch Library is closed until further notice (sob!)

If you have any library stuff at home, please do not return it yet - we will wipe any overdue fees that add up during this time.

Also, much to our disappointment, we have had to cancel our awesome Youth Holiday Program! (We are still trying to console Katrina, our Children's and Youth librarian)

But don't despair - you can still participate in our Summer Reading Program which has been extended and will now end on Friday 8 April 2011. So you still have a chance to win a Wii! Reading logs can be downloaded from the Macquarie Regional Library website (http://www.mrl.nsw.gov.au)

Have a great Christmas and New Year - and try to enjoy your holidays without the library...But keep checking the Web - we will let you all know ASAP when we will re-open.

Beat the holiday boredom this January...

2010-11-26T12:47:00.005+11:00

It is almost that time again - Christmas fun and festivities followed by the long January break. It's all OK at first,
(Yay! Holidays!) but as the long hot summer drags on, the boredom sets in.

The Dubbo Branch Library has the solution!

Join us at the library for our spooky youth program and 'Scare up a Good Book'. You can use your creative skills to make a Zombie Feltie or beaded jewellery, indulge your competitive side at the 'Play On! game challenge and party hard at the Monsters and Vampires fancy dress party.

And if that is not enough, you can take part in the Summer Reading Program and could win a Nintendo WII - and all you have to do is read!

Contact the Dubbo Branch Library on 68014510 for more information, and get your reading record for the Summer Reading Program from Thursday 2 December.

This book was awesome!

2010-11-18T15:30:00.006+11:00

The Prince of Mist by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

Having had another of Carlos Ruiz Zafon's books recommended to me (The Shadow of the Wind), I figured that since I enjoyed that so much I would give The Prince of Mist a try. And I was not disappointed... This author has an uncanny way of sucking the reader into his stories, and his way of describing places and people makes the reader feel as if they are actually a part of the action. I didn't realise that the story had a clown in it - and I am kind of phobic when it comes to clowns ('thanks' Stephen King's horror novel It...) but the novel is meant to be somewhat creepy and it does achieve that end.

The novel begins when Max Carver's father - a watchmaker and inventor - decides to move to a small town on the Atlantic Coast. They move into a house that was built for a surgeon, Dr Richard Fleischmann and his wife but was abandoned when the couple's son drowned in a tragic accident. Behind the house Max spies an overgrown garden full of statues surrounded by a metal fence topped with a six-pointed star. When he goes to investigate, Max finds that the statues seem to consist of a a kind of circus troup. In the centre of the garden is a large statue of a clown set in another six-pointed star.Max has the curious sensation that the statue is beckoning to him. As the family settles in they become increasingly uneasy: they discover a box of old films belonging to the Fleischmanns. His sister Alicia has unsettling dreams and his other sister hears voices whispering to her from an old wardrobe. But Max spends most of his time with his new friend Roland, who takes him diving to the wreck of a boat that sank close to the coast in a terrible storm. Everyone on board perished except for one man - an engineer who built the lighthouse at the end of the beach. During the dive, Max sees something that leaves him cold - on the mast floats a tattered flag and on it is the symbol of the circle and six-pointed star. As they learn more about the wreck, the chilling story of a legendary figure called the Prince of Mist begins to emerge.

Prime Minister's Literary Award Winner

2010-11-09T10:21:00.004+11:00

The annual Prime Minister's Literary Awards celebrate the contribution of Australian literature to the nation's cultural and intellectual life.

The Young Adult fiction winner for 2010 was Confessions of a Liar, Thief and Failed Sex God by Bill Condon.

Neil Bridges attends a Catholic boys’ school in which teachers rule with iron fists and thick leather straps. Some crumble under the pressure but Neil toughs it out, just as his Vietnam-bound older brother has done before him. He has to be a man, after all. But at sixteen, how can he be sure of himself when he’s not sure of anything else? He loses a friend and finds another, falls in love and unwittingly treads a path that leads to revenge and possibly murder . . .

Pick up a copy from the Dubbo Branch library today...

Tag-a-tee @ the Dubbo Branch Library

2010-08-06T15:43:00.007+10:00

The Dubbo Branch Library runs activities for youth every school holidays. In the July holidays, we held a Tag-a-tee workshop. For more info on youth activities, check out our website: http://www.mrl.nsw.gov.au/

Book Week 2010

2010-07-26T15:10:00.003+10:00

Travel across the Story Bridge at Macquarie Regional Library during Book Week 2010. Book Week is the longest-running children's festival in Australia and this year will celebrate its' 65th birthday.

Each year Australian children's and young adult's books are nominated for the Children's Book Council Awards, and 6 books make up the Shortlist in each category. The 2010 winners will be announced on Friday 20 August.

The category for Older Readers has some great candidates - so why not grab a title and see what you think...

And the nominees are:

Stolen by Lucy Chistopher
The Winds of Heaven by Judith Clarke
Liar by Justine Larbalestier
Jarvis 24 by David Metzenthen
A Small Free Kiss in the Dark by Glenda Millard
Loving Richard Feynman by Penny Tangey

Beat the Boredom!

2010-07-08T10:51:00.007+10:00

Don't forget that the Dubbo Branch Library has boredom-busters for young people these holidays!

Use your creative flair to 'Tag-a-t-shirt' on Monday 12 July (bookings required - cost $5) or come along on Friday 9 July and Friday 16 July to Youth Cafe and show off your SingStar or Guitar Hero skills.

Photo credit

The Dubbo Branch is open 10-6 weekdays, 10-3 Saturdays and 11-3 Sundays so come and down to find a great read, use the free internet for research, play games on the PlayStation 2, or catch up with some friends.

LIAR By Justine Larbalestier

2010-05-10T10:42:00.007+10:00

Micah Wilkins, the main character in Liar REALLY IS A LIAR!! Continuously throughout this book, I was tossing up whether I wanted to hug her or slap her. But I was only about 20 pages in when I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down before I knew the truth (the whole truth and nothing but the truth!) Now, I am not a fan of 'fantasy.' I like my novels to be realistic, I like to be able to imagine that they're actually happening to me (or at least COULD happen to me). But the 'fantasy' (ie, to me, completely unrealistic and unimaginable) part of this novel snuck up on me so suddenly, that by that time, I was already hooked.

Being a self-confessed liar myself, I totally empathised with Micah's inability to tell her story straight - I know how hard it is sometimes to keep all of your lies together in one neat, little package - and I found the different parts of this book (Telling the Truth, Telling the True Truth, and The Actual Real Truth) hilarious and frustrating at the same time.

The judges of the CBCA awards have really got their work cut out for them this year.. and that's not a lie!! :)

WINTERGIRLS By Laurie Halse Anderson

2010-05-10T10:32:00.002+10:00

I first heard about this book here on the MRLYA blog. It made me want to read it. It made me need to read it. Having personally seen both friends and family go through the struggle of 'perfection,' this turned out to actually be a really tough book to read. So personal, you being to wonder if it really is 'fiction' because how can just anyone know the true feelings of an anorexic? This was a little like reading a diary of torment - trying to keep in check the balance between desperately wanting to be the skinniest, versus the need to stay alive.

Wintergirls is Lia's story of her all-consuming eating disorder - her struggle to pull through her own (real and imagined) demons, as her friend Cassie had not.

A shocking and powerful novel, which I read in one sitting.

STOLEN By Lucy Christopher

2010-05-10T10:15:00.005+10:00

My dad quite often tells me that, at 23, I am maybe getting just a tad too old to be readying YA novels. I completely disagree. They're (mostly) short, sharp and straight to the point (just how I like my life to be). Stolen didn't disappoint. As one of the nominated books for the 2010 CBCA Children's Book Week Awards, Stolen had the ability of taking me from my lounge room, and pushing me straight into the Australian outback. By the time I'd finished reading, I wanted to raid my piggy bank and book a flight to Perth, to explore the 'nothingness' that Gemma describes. This book is dramatic, suspenceful, and by being written in the form of a letter, will really tug at your heart-strings. I knew that the 'bad guy' was a bad guy, but I just wanted to reach into the pages and give Ty a hug..

Oh, and about halfway through, I thought I was awesome and had solved THE BIG MYSTERY of who Ty was, and why he had taken Gemma. Turns out I was wrong, and I hate being wrong...

New Young Adult fiction @ the Dubbo Branch Library

2010-04-22T15:02:00.009+10:00

If you like Science fiction and fantasy try these new titles:

Skinned by Robin Wasserman

No one to trust... everything to lose.
Before the accident, Lia Kahn was happy.Before the accident, Lia Kahn was loved. Before, Lia was a lot of things: Normal. Alive. Human.
Lia no longer lives in before. Six months after the crash that killed her, six months after being reborn, Lia has finally accepted her new reality. She is a machine, a mech, and she belongs with her own kind. It’s a wild, carefree life, without rules and without fear. Because there’s nothing to fear when you have nothing left to lose.But when a voice from her past cries out for revenge, everything changes. Lia is forced to choose: between her old life and her new one. Between humans and mechs. Between sacrificing the girl she used to be and saving the boy she used to love.
Even if it means he’ll hate her forever.

Hive: The Overlord Protocol by Mark Walden

Someone is threatening Number One’s supremacy – very dangerous. The same person is trying to kill Otto, star pupil of H.I.V.E. – even more dangerous, in this hilarious, thrilling and villainous sequel.
Otto and Wing have special permission to leave H.I.V.E.’s secret island location to attend a funeral (all too common in their line of business). But before they reach their destination they are ambushed. Who would risk assassinating Otto Malpense, star pupil of the Higher Institute of Villainous Education and favourite of Number One, the most powerful villain alive? A new power is rising to challenge Number One’s authority, and they need H.I.V.E. and its powerful computer to do so. Otto thought the only thing he wanted was to escape from H.I.V.E., but now he’s desperately trying to save it, and himself!

New titles for Vampire and Paranormal fiction lovers...

The Van Allen Legacy: a Blue Bloods novel by Melissa de la Cruz
With the stunning revelation surrounding Bliss's true identity comes the growing threat of the sinister Silver Bloods. Once left to live the glamorous life in New York City, the Blue Bloods now find themselves in an epic battle for survival.
Not to worry, love is still in the air for the young vampires of the Upper East Side. Or is it? Jack and Schuyler are over. Oliver's brokenhearted. And only the cunning Mimi seems to be happily engaged.
Young, fabulous and fanged, Melissa de la Cruz's vampires unite in this highly anticipated fourth instalment of the Blue Bloods series.

The Splendour Falls by Rosemary Clement-Moore

Sylvie Davies is a ballerina who can’t dance. A broken leg ended her career, but what broke her heart was her father’s death, and what’s breaking her spirit is her mother’s remarriage. Still reeling Sylvie is shipped off to stay with relatives in the back of beyond. Or so she thinks, in fact she ends up in a town rich with her family’s history . . . and as it turns out her family has a lot more history than Sylvie ever knew. More unnerving, though, are the two guys she can’t stop thinking about. Shawn Maddox, the resident golden boy, is the expected choice. But handsome and mysterious Rhys has a hold on her that she doesn’t quite understand. Then Sylvie starts seeing things – a girl by the lake and a man with dark unseeing eyes peering in through the window . . . Sylvie’s lost nearly everything - is she starting to lose her mind as well?

Feel like a read that is like real life?

Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

I am the space between my thighs, daylight shining through.
Lia and Cassie were best friends. But something went wrong and Cassie changed. Now Cassie is dead and Lia has thirty-three unanswered calls on her phone, thirty-three messages from her ex-best friend, all sent the day she died.
How did she die? Why did she cut herself off?
While Lia searches for answers, she drives herself relentlessly down her own path to destruction—to be thin, strong, in control. And completely empty.
Wintergirls is a powerful but intimate story of one girl’s chilling descent into the all-consuming vortex of anorexia.

New books about centaurs and mythology...

Brighid's Quest by P.C Cast

Rather than follow her family's restrictive rules, centaur Brighid chose to set out on her own to make friends and form relationships with humans as well as centaurs.Now she's facing her toughest challenge yet. While helping guide home a grieving human - Cuchulainn, her friend Elphame's brother - Brighid finds herself beginning to care for him. An emotion forbidden by her clan.To add to her troubles, the Great Goddess has awoken the power of the Shaman within Brighid - the first centaur so blessed in ages. And just as she's torn between taking up a power she never expected and a love she's afraid to admit to, Brighid receives a vision of a tragedy that might destroy everyone she's ever cared about.

Halo by Zizou Corder

'Until you know who you are, you're no one.'
Washed ashore as a baby in ancient Greece, Halo is discovered by a family of centaurs. Although her true identity remains a mystery, she is loved as one of their own. But when Halo is dragged away by fishermen, her wild adventure begins . . .
Halo soon realizes that if she is to survive then she must live in disguise – as a boy. A violent war is threatening to erupt and Halo is at the mercy of the mighty Spartan warriors. And as she battles to hide her secret, Halo never forgets her quest to find out who she is – and where she really came from.

The Vampire is just not that into you by Vlad Mezrich

2010-02-19T13:12:00.002+11:00

The Vampire Is Just Not That Into You, is a tongue-in-cheek look at the ups and downs of loving a vampire.

Are you in love with a vampire? Are you worried that you might not be his (blood) type? Do you wonder whether that cold stare means he isn't interested ... or if it's because he's been dead for three centuries (nothing personal)? Have you tried to coax him out of his crypt with a flash of your neck or a near-death situation that requires him to save you at the very last possible moment? Have you ever considered what it will be like to introduce him to your mother?

Even though your vampire's skin is transfixingly translucent, he can still be very hard to read. Sometimes he's simply holding back his true feelings, resisting the urge to bite you on the chance that one day you will truly love him. And other times ... well, he's just not that into you. How can you tell? Undead dating specialist Vlad Mezrich has all the answers, utilising quizzes, Top Ten lists, language analysis, real-life (and real-death) testimonials, and fancy charts to show you what you need to do in order to get your vampire and keep him forever.

Hush Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

2010-02-08T14:29:00.003+11:00

Romance was not part of Nora Grey's plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how hard her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch comes along. With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Patch draws Nora to him against her better judgment. But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is and seems to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel. For she is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those who have fallen -- and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost Nora her life.

I really enjoyed this book. It is well-written and I didn't want to put it down. A particularly good quality first novel from Becca Fitzpatrick.

Escape from Shadow Island by Paul Adam

2010-01-20T10:48:00.004+11:00

Max is an ordinary north London schoolboy by day, but at night he performs sell-out public shows as an escapologist – nicknamed The Half-Pint Houdini by the tabloid press. His father, Alexander, was also a world-renowned escapologist, who disappeared two years earlier in the Central American state of Santo Domingo. His body was never found, but Max’s mother, Helen, was convicted of murdering her husband by a Santo Domingan court. One evening, after his show, Max receives a visit from a mysterious man from Santo Domingo. Lopez-Vega tells Max that his mother’s trial was rigged and, if Max comes to his hotel room the following night, he has something to give him. When Max goes to the hotel, he finds Lopez-Vega dead, shot through the head. The room has clearly been searched by the killer, but what was he looking for? By chance, Max finds a piece of paper hidden under Lopez-Vega’s wig. Written on the paper is a sequence of eight numbers - 83521113.What do the numbers mean? Are they a code, or maybe the combination for a lock or a safe? Could they be the key to unlocking the mystery of his father’s disappearance and getting his mother out of prison?

Songwriting with Patricia Cruzado

2010-01-14T12:31:00.005+11:00

The Dubbo Branch Library held a Songwriting workshop with talented local songwriter Patricia Cruzado on Wednesday 6 January. The young people who attended had great ideas and were very creative.

The Dubbo Branch Library has activities for young people during all school holidays. For more information, contact 68014510.

Blood Promise by Richelle Mead

2010-01-05T12:24:00.003+11:00

Blood Promise is the fourth in the Vampire Academy series. I believe it helps if you read the books in order, but due to random circumstances I have managed to skip from book 1 (Vampire Academy) to book 4...

Blood Promise continues the story of Rose, Lissa and Dimitri. Apparently (spoiler alert) in book 3, (Shadow Kiss) Dimitri has met a fate worse than death - he has become a Strigoi - basically a blood-sucking killer vampire. Rose, whose job is destroying Strigoi, is understandably upset that her honey has crossed over to the dark side. Rose sets off to Russia, to hunt Dimitri down and kill him. Once she gets there, chaos ensues and Rose finds herself in great danger...

The Vampire Academy series is well written and compelling. Richelle Mead writes believable characters and her world of dhampirs, Moroi and Strigoi will entertain any Twilight fans who are looking for something new to read. Even if you are not a Twilight fan, give this series a try.

Blue Noise by Debra Oswald

2009-12-03T16:02:00.002+11:00

Blue Noise is about people letting you down, how to survive your family and the amazing thrill of making music with your friends.

Ash is drooling over his favourite guitar - the one he can't afford - when he meets Charlie Novak. One jam session later and Charlie convinces Ash to play in his band. But it'll never work. Bands never do.Erin is wandering down a corridor at school - overthinking things as usual - when she runs into Charlie. Literally. The guy is a fruit loop with his weird hair and hyperactive rantings. When Charlie invites her to be the band's keyboard player, Erin can't get a word in to say no. She's a classical pianist. It'll never work.But maybe this time things will be different. Maybe blues music is just what Ash and Erin need.

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte - Twilight Edition

2009-11-24T12:25:00.005+11:00

The Dubbo Branch Library has a new Twilight-inspired edition of Wuthering Heights - Bella and Edward's favourite book. If you are a fan of the Twilight series, why not have a read, and get some insight into the world of your fave vampire and his girl...

Love the Twilight books? Then you′ll adore Wuthering Heights, one of the greatest love stories ever told.
Cathy and Heathcliff, childhood friends, are cruelly separated by class, fate and the actions of others. But uniting them is something even stronger: an all-consuming passion that sweeps away everything that comes between them.
Even death...
"My love for Heathcliff resembles the eternal rocks," said Cathy. "I am Heathcliff."

Conspiracy 365 - January by Gabrielle Lord

2009-11-11T11:44:00.005+11:00

Conspiracy 365 is a new series written by Gabrielle Lord - one of Australia's leading and best-selling crime writers. This new adventure series for younger readers consists of 12 books released over 12 months. The first in the series January, is available now from the Dubbo Branch Library.

On New Year's Eve Cal is chased down the street by a staggering, sick man with a deadly warning...

'They killed your father. They'll kill you. You must survive the next 365 days!"

Hurled into a life on the run, with a price on his head, the 15-year-old fugitive is isolated and alone. Hunted by the law and ruthless criminals, Cal must somehow uncover the truth about his father's mysterious death and a history-changing secret. Who can he turn to, who can he trust, when the whole world seems to want him dead? The clock is ticking. Any second could be his last.

Liar by Justine Larbalestier

2009-11-05T12:40:00.002+11:00

Micah Wilkins admits she's a liar. But will murder be enough of a reason to stop lying? An extraordinary and original story that will have you grasping for the truth until the very last page.

Secrets, lies, murder and betrayal. Micah Wilkins is a liar. But when her boyfriend, Zach, dies under brutal circumstances, the shock might be enough to set her straight. Or maybe not. Especially when lying comes as naturally to her as breathing. Was Micah dating Zach? Did they kiss? Did she see him the night he died? And is she really hiding a family secret? Where does the actual truth lie? Liar is a breathtaking roller-coaster read that will have you up all night, desperately seeking for something true.

Vote and Win stuff

2009-10-19T12:16:00.003+11:00

Don't forget to place your vote in the Inky Awards! The Inky Awards are international awards for teenage literature voted for online by readers of http://www.insideadog.com.au/. Readers also have the opportunity to enter the Inky's Creative Reading Prize - entrants need to submit a creative response to a book they love. It could be a short story, video trailer, poem, song or illustration - or any format you choose. The winner gets to choose their prize - it's between a digital stills camera, a digital video camera or an Ipod touch. There are heaps of runners-up prizes as well, including books and insideadog t-shirts.

Youth Holiday Program

2009-09-25T15:26:00.004+10:00

Week 1
Guitar Hero Challenge
Tuesday 6 October 2009
4:00 - 6:00pm
Come down to the library and show off your Guitar Hero skills – no bookings required

Dubbo City Youth Council Youth Cafe
Friday 9 October 2009
4.00-6.00pm
Youth Cafe is a place where young people aged 12-18 can go to ‘hang out’. Youth Cafe is a safe, drug and alcohol free place to go to enjoy meeting with friends, playing PlayStation3 games and listening to music. Food and drinks are be available. The Youth Cafe is supported by the Macquarie Regional Library and Dubbo City Council.

Week 2
Twitter and Treats
Thursday 15 October 2009
2:00 - 4:00pm
Cost: $2
Join us for Twitter, Flickr, Facebook and You Tube. You've heard about these technologies, now find out what they are and how they work. Choc treats provided. Bookings required.

Dubbo City Youth Council Youth Cafe
Friday 16 October 2009
4:00 - 6:00pm

The Devil's Paintbox by Victoria McKernan

2009-09-18T14:18:00.004+10:00

When orphans Aiden and Maddy Lynch first meet trailrider Jefferson J. Jackson in the spring of 1865, they’re struggling to survive on their family’s drought-ravaged Kansas farm. So when Jackson offers an escape—a 2000-mile journey across the roughest country in the world—Aiden knows it’s their only choice.They say there are a hundred ways to die on the Oregon Trail, and the long wagon journey is broken only by catastrophe: wolf attacks, rattlesnakes, deadly river crossings, Indians, and the looming threat of smallpox, “the devil’s paint.” Through it all, Aiden and Maddy and a hundred fellow travelers move forward with a growing hope, and the promise of a new life in the Washington Territory. But one question haunts them: who will survive the journey?

Children's Book Council Award Winners

2009-08-26T16:34:00.003+10:00

On the subject of prizes - check out the winners of the Children's Book Council Awards for Older Readers.

Older Readers Book of the Year:

Winner: Tales from Outer Suburbia by Shaun Tan

Honour: Into White Silence by Anthony Eaton

Honour: A Rose for the Anzac Boys by Jackie French

The Inky's Longlist

2009-08-26T15:12:00.004+10:00

If you are ever sitting around thinking 'what do I read next', take a look at the website insideadog (http://www.insideadog.com.au/) - created by The Centre for Youth Literature, State Library Victoria - which promotes reading as an active, pleasurable and essential activity for all young people. The site contains reviews, a writer in residence and heaps of info about Australian and overseas books for young people.

They have also created the Inky Awards. The Inkys are international awards for teenage literature, voted for online by the readers of insideadog.com.au. There are three awards: the Golden Inky for an Australian book, the Silver Inky for an international book, and the Creative Reading Prize, won by a young person for a creative response to a book they love, in any format they choose.

The Longlist for the Inkys has just been released:

The 2009 Inkys Longlist

Broken Glass by Adrian Stirling

Everything Beautiful by Simmone Howell

Exposure by Mal Peet

Girl at Sea by Maureen Johnson

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

Into White Silence by Anthony Eaton

Jarvis 24 by David Metzenthen

Love, Aubrey by Suzanne La Fleur

My Candlelight Novel by Joanne Horniman

Paper Towns by John Green

Screw Loose by Chris Wheat

Skim by Mariko & Jillian Tamaki

Ten Mile River by Paul Griffin

The 10pm Question by Kate de Goldi

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

The Beginners Guide to Living by Lia Hills

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Two Pearls of Wisdom by Alison Goodman

Where the Streets Had a Name by Randa Abdel-Fattah

Worldshaker by Richard Harland

Youth Cafe Launch @ Dubbo Branch Library

2009-08-24T16:18:00.006+10:00

Great fun was had at the debut of the Dubbo City Youth Council Youth Cafe - held in the meeting room at the Dubbo Branch Library. The Youth Cafe is a place for youth to go that is fun, safe and a great place to meet up with friends, have a coffee and a snack and play the PlayStation 3. Youth Cafe is on Friday afternoons from 4.00-6.00pm and young people aged 12-24 are welcome.

Somebody's Crying by Maureen McCarthy

2009-08-24T12:40:00.003+10:00

A murder in a country town is the backdrop for the story of three young people, Alice, Tom and Jonty, who are bound together because Alice's mother was murdered and Jonty is the suspect.

I really expected to enjoy Somebody's Crying because I loved McCarthy's Queen Kat, Carmel and St Jude get a life. Unfortunately I was a little disappointed. I found the storyline a little slow, and the main character of Tom somewhat bland. I felt that McCarthy's depiction of Tom was not authentic - he simply didn't resemble any 22 year old guy that I have ever known.

I did enjoy the character of Alice - McCarthy is extremely good at writing female characters. The storyline was far more entertaining when being presented from Alice's point of view.

The mystery component of the story does keep you reading and the twist at the end is surprising, but by the end of the book I felt neutral - not particularly affected by this book.

A Time for Dancing by Davida Wills Hurwin

2009-07-29T11:52:00.003+10:00

What do you do when your best friend is dying?

Sam and Jules have been best friends forever. Now in the summer before senior year, Sam and Jules are certain they are ready for whatever the future brings. From college to professional dance careers, they'll share the triumphs and the tears together. But nothing could have prepared them for Jules's sudden illness and the discovery of its cause - cancer. Now both Jules and Sam must learn to accept the unacceptable - that Jules's cancer may not go away.

Calling all Graphic fans!

2009-07-14T15:44:00.003+10:00

The Dubbo Branch Library has some great new Young Adult graphic novels.

Here is a sample:

Battlestar Galactica: Echoes of New Caprica by Emily Salzfass (Tokyopop)

The colonial fleet continues its perilous journey toward Earth and the hope of a brighter future, but the brutal Cylon occupation of New Caprica continues to impact the lives of everyone.

Star Wars Omnibus: Rise of the Sith

During the time of the Republic, the Jedi Council guided the Jedi Knights as they upheld their values of peace and justice throughout the galaxy - and the Sith waited in hiding for the right time to reveal their existence and take revenge...

Star Wars Omnibus: Emissaries & Assassins

It is the beginning of the end of the Galactic Republic. The Jedi just don't know it yet...

Buffy the Vampire Slayer Omnibus - Volume 6

Volume Six of the Buffy omnibus series delves further into the lives of Buffy and her closest friends - Willow, Xander and Giles.

Wolverine: Logan by Brian K. Vaughan (Marvel)

Wolverine travels to a mysterious hill in Japan to come to terms with the ghosts of a long-forgotten incident in his past, a moment that re-forged him in the flames of love, death and destruction.

The Eternal Smile: three stories by Gene Luen Yang and Derek Kirk Kim

Meet Duncan. Charming and brave, he's the Princess's favourite - and he's on the way to winning the throne. But lately, the walls of reality in Duncan's kngdom are wearing a little thin...

Stephen King's The Dark Tower: Treachery by Robin Furth (Marvel)

Everyone knows treachery is defined as someone doing you wrong when they ought not be. So now you want to know how to spot it? Well then, welcome to Gilead...an' take your pick of sights to see.

Dean Koontz's Frankenstein: Prodigal Son by Chuck Dixon

In the nineteenth century, Dr. Victor Frankenstein brought his notorious creation to life, but a horrible turn of events forced him to abandon it and slip away from the public eye. Two centuries later, a serial killer is on the loose in New Orleans, gruesomely salvaging body parts from each of his victims, as if trying to assemble a perfect human being.

The Jeans Go to Gaol (and do not collect $200...)

2009-07-13T16:46:00.004+10:00

The Jean Genies continued their tour of Dubvegas and headed to the Old Dubbo Gaol. They hung around at the gallows, got pilloried, went through the wringer and inspected a very uncomfortable looking gaol toilet - but they had an excellent time. They made a flying visit to the Dubbo Visitors Centre and then went back to the library to relax.

Beat the Boredom!

2009-07-10T12:45:00.002+10:00

The Dubbo Branch Library's Holiday program will help you remain un-bored for the entire school holidays...

For ages 13-18 - for more information contact the Dubbo Branch on 68014510.

Week 1- Tuesday 14 July 5.00-8.00pm - Twilight Formal and DVD viewing – Cost: $5
Come dressed in your formal gear for the Twilight Formal! Have “Prom Photos” taken, enjoy pizza and soft drink, and then sit back and watch the phenomenally popular ‘Twilight’ DVD.

Wednesday 15 July 4.30-6.30pm - Guitar Hero Fest – Cost $3
Unleash your inner Rock Star! Compete to become the Ultimate Guitar Hero and be in the running to win a prize. Pizza and soft drink will be supplied.

Week 2 - Tuesday 21 July 6.00-8.00pm - ‘Have You Got Talent?’ Cost $3
Show how talented you are at the Library’s ‘Have You Got Talent’ Night! Performers will have up to 4 minutes to impress the judges with a musical number, poetry reading, stand-up comedy act, dance or magic performance – or any other talent you have! Bring your own props, instruments or music and make a noise!

Thursday 23 July 2.00 – 4.00pm – ‘Fantasy Worlds’ Creative Writing Workshop Cost $5
Calling all budding authors! Join talented fantasy author Val Clark and learn how to write your own fantasy story. Each participant will receive a free pen and notebook.

The Jean Genies get decorated

2009-07-10T12:39:00.004+10:00

The Dubbo branch library hosted some keen Jean decorators - here are the Jeans in all their glory...

Jean Genies Go to the Zoo!

2009-07-02T15:22:00.004+10:00

The Jean Genies go to the Zoo!
The jeans are here and have been to the Taronga Western Plains Zoo! They met the keepers, were mauled by Juara the Sumatran tiger and worn by Cuddles the African elephant.

Drawing inspiration from The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series by Ann Brashares, this event has 4 pairs of jeans travelling around NSW public libraries in 2009. The Jeans will appear from nowhere, create magic, then disappear!

The Dubbo Branch is holding two workshops to decorate the jeans at the Dubbo Branch on Monday July 6 and Wednesday July 8 from 4 to 5.45pm. Come along to one or both of the workshops to decorate the jeans using fabric paints and other craft materials.

The jeans will then go to gaol for fun, photos and frivolity before they disappear and travel to their next destination. Come to Dubbo Branch Library on Saturday July 11 before 10.30am to participate. A signed permission slip must be returned to the library on or before the departure date and participants will return to the library at 12.30pm.

Book early by calling (02) 6801 4510 as places are limited.

CBC Book Week Shortlist - Book of the Year - Older Readers

2009-07-01T11:09:00.007+10:00

For those who are unaware, the Children's Book Council releases a shortlist of books that have been nominated for Book of the Year for Older Readers.

The shortlisted titles are:

CORNISH, D. M.
Monster Blood Tattoo Book 2: Lamplighter
Omnibus Books, Scholastic Australia

EATON, Anthony
Into White Silence
Woolshed Press, Random House Australia

FRENCH, Jackie
A Rose for the Anzac Boys
HarperCollinsPublishers

MARCHETTA, Melina
Finnikin of the Rock
Viking, Penguin Group Australia

MOLONEY, James
Kill the Possum
Penguin Group Australia

TAN, Shaun
Tales from Outer Suburbia
Allen & Unwin

January Holiday Antics....

2009-02-06T11:44:00.002+11:00

January holidays can get a tad boring - not at the Dubbo Branch Library though. We had fun creating 'Gock' puppets - Goth sock puppets... Check out the pics.

Death, Duck and the Tulip by Wolf Erlbruch

2009-01-12T11:25:00.001+11:00

A strangely heartwarming story. In Death, Duck and the Tulip, Duck strikes up an unlikely friendship with Death. 'Who are you? Why are you creeping along behind me?' 'Good. You've finally noticed me', said Death. 'I am Death'. Duck is startled, then relieved when, the next day, she wakes up alive...you can't blame her for that. Duck and Death experience life together, swimming in the pond, climbing a tree and keeping company together until one day Duck feels very cold...

This beautifully illustrated picture book can provoke an emotional reaction from readers. Death, Duck and the Tulip is intriguing, haunting and thought- provoking. I recommend this book to teenagers and adults. This book deals with a difficult subject in an elegant, witty and straightforward way.

If you like this book you might like The Life of Riley by Colin Thompson

Dragon's Bait by Vivian Vande Velde

2009-01-12T10:40:00.008+11:00

Carrying on the supernatural theme, I found Dragon's Bait to be a quick, entertaining read.

Alys, the daughter of a poor, sickly village tinsmith has a date with a dragon. Unfortunately this is a date that is not destined to go well. A group of greedy, corrupt villagers have conspired to have Alys declared a witch - and the punishment for witchcraft in her village is to become a tasty snack for the local dragon. The villagers stake Alys out on a hillside and scurry home to their warm beds. It's late, it's cold and it's raining, and all Alys can think about is revenge. Then the dragon shows up, a dragon that is full of surprises...

If you like this book you may like Eragon by Christopher Paolini and the Pern series of novels by Anne McCaffrey.

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

2008-11-28T14:33:00.002+11:00

Ah, Twilight. I was hoping to be carried away with the romance and forbidden love of Bella and Edward, but unfortunately I was left a little cold.

For those not familiar with this series, Twilight tells the story of Bella, an awkward teenager who leaves sunny Phoenix to live with her father in the perpetually overcast town of Forks, Washington. Bella is an instant hit when she begins school in Forks and is pursued by several of the school's most eligible boys, much to her surprise. Bella is not particularly interested in any of the regular boys and soon becomes smitten by the mysterious Edward, who we soon find out just happens to be a vampire. The attraction is shared by Edward, who finds the scent of Bella's blood strangely compelling. I enjoyed the storyline of Twilight and the cast of characters kept me reading but I couldn't enjoy the book as much as I wanted to.

The problem I encountered was that I really didn't empathise with the character of Bella. I just couldn't find much that I liked about her, and to be honest, found her a little whiny. (Phew - no instant lynch mob!) I realise that a lot of people really like Bella, but I just couldn't warm to her. If you disagree with me, there will be an opportunity to discuss Twilight at the Dubbo Branch Library during the summer holidays and you may be able to convince me otherwise!

'Jinx' by Meg Cabot

2008-11-28T13:18:00.004+11:00

Jean Honeychurch hates her boring name (not Jean Marie, or Jeanette, just . . . Jean)but she loathes her too-appropriate nickname - Jinx - even more. Misfortune seems to follow her everywhere she goes—which is why she's thrilled to be moving in with her aunt and uncle in New York City. Maybe when she's halfway across the country, Jinx can finally outrun her bad luck. Or at least escape the havoc she's caused back in her small hometown.
But trouble has definitely followed Jinx to New York. And it's causing big problems for her cousin Tory, who is not happy to have the family black sheep around. Beautiful, glamorous Tory is hiding a dangerous secret—one that she's sure Jinx is going to reveal.
Jinx is beginning to realize it isn't just bad luck she's been running from. It's something far more sinister . . . and the curse Jinx has lived under since the day she was born might just be the only thing that can save her life.

I enjoyed Jinx, it was a good fairly light read and had a satisfactory ending. Loving the supernatural themes at the mo'...

The astonishing Adventures of Fanboy and Goth Girl by Barry Lyga

2008-10-15T16:24:00.008+11:00

Fanboy is a skinny, nerdy kid who gets beaten up on a regular basis at school by the popular jocks while members of the opposite sex don't even realize he exists (something he wishes the jocks would catch on to). He carries a bullet around in his pocket, something akin to a safety blanket, and keeps a certain 'List' of people in the back of his mind. You think you know where this is all headed - it is set in America, after all - especially when he meets the similarly bitter and angry Goth Girl, who has a disturbing interest in his step-father's gun collection. But that's where The Adventures of Fanboy and Goth Girl takes a sharp U-turn, avoiding the easy and well-trodden way out - blazing guns and school hallways littered with dead kids. Fanboy isn't just a nerd. He's smart. He's talented. In between being humiliated at gym class and getting his face slammed into school lockers, Fanboy's is pouring his heart and soul into writing a graphic novel, one he hopes to get published, and one he hopes will be a way out his miserable life and the key to his fame and fortune. Lyga's odd hero gives an interesting voice to the thousands of faceless kids that file through schools around the world each year who manage to live in the face of intense harrasment and bullying, without thought of retaliation - other than showing their classmates up at the school reunion. The ending may be a little optimistic for some, but stranger things have happened... (You find out what his real name is once but I can't seem to find the page again - it's something like Cecil - no wonder he prefers Fanboy.)
You may also like:
The earth, my butt and other big round things by Carolyn Mackler

Uncle Montague's Tales of Terror by Chris Priestley

2008-10-15T12:02:00.008+11:00

I don't know why I chose to read this book. The cover looks spooky, the title has 'terror' in it and I've never managed to watch I know what you did last summer the whole way through, despite people telling me it really isn't that scary. In other words, I'm a big chicken! In the end, I'm glad I summoned the courage to read it. It's a collection of ten short and grisly tales, told by the eccentric Uncle Montague to his inquisitive nephew Edgar. Uncle Montague's Tales of Terror are stories inspired by various artefacts Edgar notices in the shadows of his uncle's strangely dark house - a gold watch, a gilt frame, a church pew gargoyle. Each story has a chilling end - but Edgar dismisses them as fiction, although his uncle would have him believe otherwise. Witches, ghosts, demons and jinns wreak havoc on the characters - all children - in each story all told in a disturbingly familiar way, as if Uncle Montague was himself the child, which is why Edgar is almost certain they are just stories... well, almost certain... Reading it reminded me of a pyjama party where everyone sits in a circle with torches lighting up and distorting their faces, telling scary stories, until someone freaks out and the lights have to go on and an adult has to come in and calm everyone down.

You may also like:

The beasts of Clawstone Castle by Eva Ibbotson

Once by Morris Gleitzman

2008-09-18T12:51:00.042+10:00

Once, I read a book from start to finish without putting it down. Once, I read a book that made me laugh. Once, I read a book that also made me cry. Once is the story of Felix, a young Jewish boy with a talent for storytelling - inspired no doubt by the fact that his parents once owned a bookstore. Set in Poland, 1941, the world is in turmoil in the midst of World War II - not that Felix realizes, safely tucked away in an isolated orphanage by his farsighted parents in 1939, in the hope that by disguising him as a Catholic orphan, he will escape persecution from the Nazis.
Felix waits for three and a half long years for his parents to return for him, all the while believing they have simply gone on a long trip to find out why the source of Jewish books for the store they own and run has dried up. When an entire carrot appears in his soup (a small miracle) he is certain it is a message from his parents, telling him they are returning for him. When they don't, Felix sets off by himself to find out what's keeping them from coming back. What follows is the tragic tale of a small boy, who, armed with an active imagination and his unwavering faith in his parents, is a shining light in a story black with the horror and depravation of the Holocaust. The tears you will shed when you read this book will dry, but it's message of sacrifice and hope will stay with you forever.

You may also like:

Then by Morris Gleitzman (the sequel to Once)

School holiday activities

2008-09-18T12:51:00.040+10:00

Only one week to go and you're free again - well, for two weeks at least... Don't forget there will be a tonne of cool things to do at your library these school holidays. But if you're lucky enough to be going away, why don't you take a book to read while you're lying in the glorious sun on that golden beach? Not that we're jealous or anything...

If you've got a long drive before you get there - take an audiobook to play in the car along the way. Here are a few good suggestions:

Mates, dates and Portobello Princesses by Cathy Hopkins
Pictures from the fire by Gaye Hicyilmaz
Black water by David Metzenthan
The curious incident of the dog in the night-time by Mark Haddon
Breathe by Penni Russon

We've also got Harry Potter on audiobook but honestly, people, think outside the square!

Top 10 borrowed books

2008-09-18T12:51:00.038+10:00

Young adult fiction
As you can imagine, the boy wizard is still dominating most lists around the world, including ours:
1. Harry Potter and the Deathly Harrows by J.K. Rowling
2. Harry Potter and the half-blood prince by J. K. Rowling
3. Eragon by Christopher Paolini
4. The dead of the night by John Marsden
5. Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix by J.K. Rowling
6. Eldest by Christopher Paolini
7. Tomorrow, when the war began by John Marsden
8. Erak's ransom by John Flanagan
9. Every boy's got one by Meg Cabot
10. Looking for Alibrandi by Melina Marchetta

Junior fiction
Just because it's junior doesn't mean it's light-weight. Harry Potter casts his spell on this top 10 too.
1. The cat on the mat is flat by Andy Griffiths
2. The BFG by Roald Dahl
3. Fantastic Mr Fox by Roald Dahl
4. Give peas a chance by Morris Gleitzman
5. Just shocking! by Andy Griffiths
6. The Simpson's holiday humdinger by Matt Groening
7. Big beefy book of Bart Simpson by Matt Groening
8. Big bouncy book of Bart Simpson by Matt Groening
9. Harry Potter and the chamber of secrets by J.K. Rowling
10. The witches by Roald Dahl

Emmy and the Incredible Shrinking Rat by Lynne Jonell

2008-09-13T16:04:00.021+10:00

Emmy is a sad, lonely and neglected kid. Her parents recently inherited a fortune from a long-lost uncle, and while Emmy now has everything a kid could ever want, she's never been so unhappy. Her parents are constantly traveling, and when they are home they seem distant and different. She has no friends at her new school - in fact, it's as if she doesn't even exist - even the teacher can't remember her name. She's worried she might be going completely mad because she's certain the classroom pet, a rat, talks to her. And then there's her evil nanny, Miss Barmy. Miss Barmy is like Mary Poppins, but not in the good way - there's nothing sugary or delightful about her! Emmy, fed up with being invisible to everyone and stifled by Miss Barmy's constant control, decides to finally listen to the Rat's beckoning and lets him out of his cage. Little does she know that the talking isn't the Rat's only talent, and the chain of events that follow his release could spell disaster for everyone involved. Soccer-playing chipmunks, a narcoleptic professor and farting potions make this story hard to put down; you'll find yourself cheering on the plucky Emmy Addison to victory over her sinister and sometimes stinky rival, Miss Barmy, right until the very end.

Place a reservation on Emmy and the Incredible Shrinking Rat.

You may also like:
The worry website by Jacqueline Wilson.

The ghost's child by Sonya Hartnett

2008-06-03T09:23:00.006+10:00

Winner of the Children's Book Council of Australia's award for Book of the Year for Older Readers

Sonya Hartnett has created a beautiful, tragic, mythical and completely tangible world in The Ghost's Child. Her characters, drawn with such complexity - striking an odd yet natural balance with the fairytale-like prose - are both ethereal and earthy, existing in a timeless age. As with all fairytales, the story comes with a moral - but it's found in gentle undertones - strong, but gentle, and it sits with you long after you've put the book down. Love hard without fear, live life filled with hope, and see the beauty in all things.

Welcome to the blog

2008-06-02T14:54:00.005+10:00

So you're bored already. School holidays only started two days ago and you're already absurdly dreaming about maths homework. Your mum won't give you a cent to go the the movies. Your best mate is living it up in Queensland for the week. And you can't face another episode of Dr. Phil. Here's an idea - read a book. Sound boring? Maybe. But it beats just sitting there. And when you're done, add a post* to this blog and let someone else know whether it was a good read or not.

*To add posts you will need to register first, by emailing your name, age and email address to mrlyablog@gmail.com – you will be invited you to join, and then you can blog away til your heart’s content.