What Comes Next? Warriors

Many parents will be familiar with the challenge of finding their tamariki interesting and exciting books to read after they finish a fantastic series, and the library is here to help. In our series “What Comes Next?” we provide some recommendations for children after they’ve finished a popular series. Last month we looked at the hilariously unlucky Series of Unfortunate Eventsand this month we have focused our attention on the long-running Warrior Cats series by Erin Hunter.

For many tamariki the Warriors books are one of the first big series they really dive in to. And whether they make their way through all the books or are looking for something to read after they’ve gotten their fill, we’ve done our best to find something for everyone. We haven’t included the other Erin Hunter books in this list, but if you haven’t read them yet then check out Seekers, Survivors and Bravelands

Librarian’s tip — If you are reading the Warriors series and aren’t quite sure what order you’re meant to be reading them in, we recommend visiting Fantastic Fiction, who’ve done all the hard work of putting all those books in reading order for you!

Younger Kids:

Young kids have quite a few options when it comes to animal-focused books with lots of adventure. Kathryn Lasky’s Guardians of Ga’Hoole is simply excellent, and Lucky by Chris Hill is sure to delight kids, with a fun squirrel as the main character. Animorphs by Katherine Applegate needs no introduction to many people, who wouldn’t remember a book where kids gain the power to transform into animals? Finally, a newer book with panthers as main characters is The Lost Rainforest by Eliot Schrefer.

The capture / Lasky, Kathryn
“When Soren, a barn owl, arrives at St. Aggie’s, a school for orphaned owls, he suspects trouble and with his new friend, a clever elf owl named Gylfie, embarks on a perilous journey to save all owls from the danger at St. Aggie’s.” (Catalogue)

Mez’s magic / Schrefer, Eliot
“Caldera has forever been divided into those animals who walk by night and those who walk by day. Until the eclipse. Now Mez has discovered that she can cross the Veil and enter the daylight world. Her magical power has unknown depths, but she must rush to discover it after a mysterious stranger arrives at her family’s den, bearing warnings of a reawakened evil. Saving Caldera means Mez must leave her sister behind and unite an unlikely group of animal friends to unravel an ancient mystery and protect their rainforest home.” (Adapted from catalogue)

Lucky / Hill, Chris
“Every day is a fight for survival when you’re a young squirrel lost in the world. And for Lucky, it gets even tougher when he finds out he’s the only red squirrel in a city park fought over by grey ones. Lucky needs fortune on his side to win a place in their hearts. But when he discovers a plot that threatens his new home, is his luck about to run out?”–Back cover” (Catalogue)

Invasion / Applegate, Katherine
“When Jake, Rachel, Tobias, Cassie, and Marco stumble upon a downed alien spaceship and its dying pilot, they’re given an incredible power … a power they must use to outsmart an evil greater than anything the world has ever seen.” (Catalogue)

Older Kids:

If you’re on the older side, and looking for Young Adult reads with similar energy to Warriors then we’ve found a few books you’ll probably enjoy. While Gone by Michael Grant doesn’t have any animals, it does have teenagers with mysterious powers trying to solve a mystery in a Lord of the Flies-esque society. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater does have animals in the form of werewolves as main characters and Protector of the Small by Tamora Pierce is an excellent fantasy series sure to delight fans of Warriors who enjoyed the political intrigue.

Gone / Grant, Michael
“In a small town on the coast of California, everyone over the age of fourteen suddenly disappears, setting up a battle between the remaining town residents and the students from a local private school, as well as those who have “The Power” and are able to perform supernatural feats and those who do not.” (Catalogue)

Shiver / Stiefvater, Maggie
“In all the years she has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house, Grace has been particularly drawn to an unusual yellow-eyed wolf who, in his turn, has been watching her with increasing intensity.” (Catalogue)

First test / Pierce, Tamora
“Ten-year-old Keladry of Mindalen, daughter of nobles, serves as a page but must prove herself to the males around her if she is ever to fulfill her dream of becoming a knight.” (Catalogue)

Hopefully you’ve found something to dive into after finishing Warriors, and catch us next time for another blog on a popular series, we haven’t quite decided which one yet, so feel free to drop some suggestions down below!

Feisty Cats and Fearless Dogs: Our furry friends are superheroes!

via GIPHY

Throughout history there have been amazing stories of our furry friends coming to our rescue – whether it is waking the household in time to escape their burning house, finding lost people in the snow and staying with them until help arrives, to our wonderful companion animals who help their humans to lead a good life.  And even when we humans don’t treat them as well as we should, or the going gets touch for our feline and canine friends, there are so many heart-warming stories of their resilience and death-defying journeys.

We love our cats and dogs in Aotearoa. Nearly two thirds of Kiwi households have at least one companion animal. With 41% of New Zealand households having a cat, our rates of cat ownership are higher than both Australia and the US, and more than double the rate of the UK. Dogs are also an increasingly popular pet, with 34% of New Zealand households having at least one dog.

Our pets are such an important part of our lives that we have even created special days to celebrate them:

International Cat Day: 8 August 2022

Black Cat Appreciation Day: 17 August 2022

International Dog Day: 26 August 2022


Here are just a few stories of real-life heroes to give you that “awwww” moment you’ve all been waiting for:

Feisty Cats

Quaky cat / Noonan, Diana
“Tiger the cat flees for his life during the Canterbury earthquake that destroys his home. Frightened and in despair he wanders the city of Christchurch, searching for his caregiver Emma. As the city rocks and buildings tumble around him, he sniffs out the comforting smell of stew and finds his way to an emergency hall, where he is reunited with Emma. Although his house is in ruins and city battered he realises that none of it matters when the people you love are safe. Suggested level: junior, primary.” (Catalogue)

Cleo & Rob / Brown, Helen
“Sometimes hope has four paws, golden eyes and soft black fur. A kitten called Cleo steps into six-year-old Rob’s life after his big brother Sam dies. Based on true events in author Helen Brown’s family”– Back cover.” (Catalogue)

The Adventures of Mittens by Silvio Bruinsma - Penguin Books New ZealandThe adventures of Mittens : Wellington’s famous purr-sonality / Bruinsma, Silvio
“Meet Mittens, Wellington’s world-famous cat-about-town. He has thousands of followers, a hit song, an exhibition of fan art, and with his exploring paws he brings joy to everyone he meets!” (Catalogue)

Dozer the Fire Cat : a New Zealand story : inspired by true events / Prokop, Robyn
“In February 2019, a tiny spark in a Pigeon Valley paddock became the largest fire in New Zealand since 1955. Up to 150 volunteer firefighters fought the blaze. Around 3,500 people were evacuated, including the whole town of Wakefield. Story is based on a real cat that survived the fires. While his family is busy packing up to evacuate, Dozer is oblivious, busy doing what Dozer does . . . stalking, pouncing, washing . . . and sleeping. But when he wakes up, his family has gone and the world is a frightening place!” (Catalogue)

Lost and found cat : the true story of Kunkush’s incredible journey / Kuntz, Doug
“When an Iraqi family is forced to flee their home, they can’t bear to leave their beloved cat, Kunkush, behind. So they carry him with them from Iraq to Greece, keeping their secret passenger hidden away. But during the crowded boat crossing to Greece, his carrier breaks and the frightened cat runs from the chaos. In one moment, he is gone. This remarkable true story is told by the real people involved, with the full cooperation of Kunkush’s family.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The cat from Muzzle : a high-country cat’s incredible walk home / Sutton, Sally
“Dwayne is a rumble-tumble tabby cat who knows where he belongs — up on the farm at Muzzle Station. So, when he’s taken to live far away in the town of Kaikoura, what’s a cat to do? Shake the dust off his paws and start walking, of course! The trouble is, home is a very long way away … true tale of feline audacity” (Catalogue)

The little war cat / Khan, Hiba Noor
“Inspired by a true story, The Little War Cat follows the story of a little grey cat who is caught up in the BANGS and CRASHES of the humans in boots, who have changed the city of Aleppo she knew so well into one that’s harder to recognize. She is roaming the streets looking for food and shelter when an unlikely friend appears. He shows her that kindness is still there when you look for it, and soon the little grey cat knows exactly what to do to made a difference herself.” (Catalogue)


Fearless Dogs

Mac: A High Country Working DogMac : a high country working dog / Pitts, Hayley
“Mac lives at Mount Gladstone, in Marlborough’s high country. Mustering sheep, cattle and deer is Mac’s life-long job. His puppyish enthusiasm and hard work has earned him a special place in the farm dog team. Join Mac at work in this glimpse into high country farm life.” (Catalogue)

Dogs : fun facts and amazing stories / Bates, Dianne
“Dogs really are the perfect best friend. They are loyal, smart, fun and totally awesome! In this fabulous combination of remarkable true stories, amazing facts and lots of fun stuff, we get to discover just how incredible our canine friends really are. From stories about dogs in history, heroic dogs and working dogs to bizarre facts and wacky dog jokes, this book will entertain and make you smile. This gorgeous book also features lots of beautiful illustrations and images of the adorable dogs from Best Friends Pet Rescue.” (Catalogue)

Paws of courage : true tales of heroic dogs that protect and serve / Furstinger, Nancy
“Modern wars recruit more than just human soldiers. Our canine companions also serve in the line of duty and under fire, whether helping police protect our home turf or accompanying soldiers on missions abroad. Readers will cheer for the hero dogs featured in this collection, profiled with stunning photos and inspiring tales of bravery, friendship, heroism, and devotion.” (Catalogue)

Rescue & Jessica : a life-changing friendship / Kensky, Jessica
“When he is paired with a girl who has lost her legs, Rescue worries that he isn’t up to the task of being her service dog.” (Catalogue)

Lola goes to work / Goldman, Marcia
“Lola, the Yorkshire terrier, learns to be a therapy dog and then enjoys visits to schools, hospitals, and centres for elderly people.” (Catalogue)

Dog finds lost dolphins : and more true stories of amazing animal heroes / Carney, Elizabeth
“The first in a line of Animal Rescues chapter books, Dog Finds Lost Dolphins will be a tale you’ll not soon forget. In this charm- ing and awe-inspiring story you’ll meet Cloud, the black lab with a nose for rescue. She’s the only dog certified to sniff out stranded dolphins. Cloud can sniff out a dolphin over a mile off the coast of the Florida Keys. She’s even become friends with them, waiting on the dock for them to pop up and give her a kiss. This and two more amazing stories are so engaging, readers will never want to put the book down!” (Catalogue)

Courageous canine : and more true stories of amazing animal heroes/ / Halls, Kelly Milner
“Courageous Canine features an amazing pup named Lilly who sacrifices her own life to save her owner, a brave pod of dolphins who face a great white shark to save a stranger, and a mother gorilla, who in mourning her own baby, saves a 3-year-old boy who falls into her zoo enclosure. Filled with gorgeous photographs, sidebars, and fun facts, Courageous Canine will leave young readers hungry for more.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Comics and Graphic Novels: New Releases in November 2021

Hey Kids! Wellington City Libraries has some new children’s comics and graphic novels this month to keep you amused just in time for Summer. So what are you waiting for? Come on down to your local branch and borrow the following:

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Smurfs tales. 1.

“On the occasion of the all-new animated TV series starting on Nick this September, an all-new series of Smurfs graphic novels! The Smurfs are back in new stories in English for the first time! First, when Papa Smurf’s stork gets wounded in a storm, he must rely on the kindness of a local farmer to nurse the stork back to flying condition. A different kind of storm arrives in the shape of Johnny, the nephew of the farmer. The boy is as aggressive as his uncle is friendly. Making his way to the Smurfs Village, Johnny leaves a path of destruction in his wake, putting the whole village in jeopardy…” (Adapted from Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsMaking friends. [3], Third time’s a charm.

“Dany’s sketchbook is at it again, but this time it’s not Dany’s doing! Dany and Madison are living a new reality. Rather than best friends, the pair now believe they are twins — and that isn’t the only part of their lives that has been completely rewritten. […] Can the pair put things back the way they were, or is this magic beyond their control?” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Also available as an eBook.

image courtesy of syndeticsCat & cat. 4, Scaredy cat.

“After a long day of chasing around Sushi the cat, paying attention to Sushi the cat, and catering to Sushi the cat’s every whim, Sushi’s owner Cat and her dad get exhausted. But you did know that cats are nocturnal, right? And when Cat and her dad are away, sleeping, Sushi the cat will play… ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsGrumpy monkey. 1, Freshly squeezed.

“Jim Panzee is out for his usual Wednesday walk when he accidentally squishes his stress orange into orange juice. He and his friends must cross the jungle before all of the fresh oranges are gone” (Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsCity of Dragons: The Awakening Storm.

“When Grace moves to Hong Kong with her mom and new stepdad, her biggest concern is making friends at her fancy new boarding school. But when a mysterious old woman gifts her a dragon egg during a field trip, Grace discovers that the wonderful stories of dragons she heard when she was a young girl might actually be real – especially when the egg hatches overnight. The dragon has immense powers that Grace doesn’t understand. And that puts them both in danger from mysterious forces intent on abusing the dragon’s power.” (Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Baby-sitters Club. 10, Kristy and the snobs.

“This graphic novel adapted by rising cartoonist Chan Chau is now available in full colour! Kristy, Mary Anne, Claudia, and Stacey are best friends and founding members of The Babysitters Club. Whatever comes up, you can count on them to save the day. Kristy’s family moves to a new neighborhood where the kids make fun of Louie, Kristy’s pet collie, who’s going blind. The Baby-sitters are not going to let them get away with it.” (Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsSunny makes a splash.

“It’s summer, and Sunny is BORED. Most of her friends are out of town. Her mom wants her to baby-sit way more than Sunny wants to baby-sit. There’s nothing good on TV. The only place that’s cool (in a not-boring sense) and cool (in a not-hot sense) is the community pool. Sunny loves going there . . . and loves it even more when she’s offered a job at the snack shack. Soon she’s flinging fries and serving soft ice-cream like a pro . . . with the assistance of the very sweet boy who works with her. Sunny’s mom isn’t sure Sunny should be quite so independent. But Sunny is definitely sure: Life is best when it’s free swim.” (Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsBaby-sitters little sister [4] : Karen’s Kittycat Club.

“Karen wants to start her own club! Karen’s best friend Hannie just got an adorable new kitten. Their neighbor Amanda has a cat, too, and Karen has grumpy old Boo-Boo. Now that they all have cats, Karen comes up with a great idea. She wants to start a Kittycat Club! What will the club do? Karen can’t baby-sit like her big sister Kristy… but she can cat-sit! Will anyone want to hire Karen and her friends?” (Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsBeak & Ally. [1], Unlikely friends.

“Ally the alligator is perfectly happy being alone… until one day a noisy bird named Beak lands on her snout. Much to Ally’s annoyance, this chatty bird likes to sing all the time and has chosen a nearby tree to build his new nest. Even worse, he insists that he and Ally will be best friends. In fact, he has all kinds of friendship goals in mind, and it seems nothing Ally says will convince him that she’d rather just be alone. Nothing beats peace and quiet… except for maybe a new best friend?” (Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsBeak & Ally. 2, Bedtime jitters.

“With weird swamp noises swirling around him, Beak the Bird cannot get any sleep until his friend Ally the alligator shows him where the racket is coming from.” (Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsBig Nate Aloha!

“Aloha can mean hello or goodbye–which makes it the perfect word for sixth grader Nate Wright. Why? Because Nate doesn’t know whether he’s coming or going. Will his romance with Daisy sizzle or fizzle? Will his hair survive Teddy’s cut-rate barber skills? And when Nate spots a crime in progress at Klassic Komix, can he find his inner superhero?” (Catalogue)

Also available as an eBook.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe spellbinding episodes of Phoebe and her unicorn.

“A deluxe bind-up featuring all the comics from two different Phoebe and Her Unicorn books: Unicorns vs. Goblins and Razzle Dazzle Unicorn . In these spellbinding adventures, nine-year-old Phoebe Howell and her unicorn best friend, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, explore the possibilities of friendship, summer camp, the holidays, and even founding their own detective agency. ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

image courtesy of syndeticsAbsolutely Nat.

“Natalie has just arrived at summer camp and soon realizes it isn’t anything like the brochure. Instead of spending the summer with her best friends, Zoe and Flo, Natalie is stuck with her ex-BFF, Lily, and someone even more annoying than the endless mosquitoes: Millie Flatbottom. Even worse, she’s constantly pushed out of her comfort zone and forced to come face-to-face with some of her greatest fears. Although summer camp isn’t at all what Natalie expected, could it be exactly what she needs?” (Catalogue)

Also available as an eBook.

Children’s DVDs: New Releases in 2021

Hey kids! Easter and winter are around the corner and there will be more days we’ll be spending indoors. To curb the winter blues and boredom, why not head on down to your local library and rent some new DVDs? We’ve been adding new titles to the children’s movie collection to keep you entertained. So what are you waiting for? Go down to your local branch and borrow these DVDs!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of amazon.comBenji the Dove.

“A tender tale of four boys who are rapidly coming to terms with school, bullies, friendship, and loyalty. Not to be limited by a poor upbringing, they tap their immense creativity and imagination to create The Order of the Red Dragon, a brotherhood of knights determined to fight injustice with justice.” (Catalogue)



image courtesy of amazon.comCats and Dogs 3 Paws Unite!

“It’s been 10 years since the creation of the Great Truce, an elaborate joint-species surveillance system designed and monitored by cats and dogs to keep the peace when conflicts arise. But when a tech-savvy villain hacks into wireless networks to use frequencies only heard by cats and dogs, he manipulates them into conflict, and the worldwide battle between cats and dogs is BACK ON. Now, a team of inexperienced and untested agents will have to use their old-school animal instincts to restore order and peace between cats and dogs everywhere.” (Catalogue)



image courtesy of amazon.comLassie Come Home.

“Flo’s best friend, his collie Lassie. When his family is forced to give the dog away, Flo is heartbroken. But Lassie isn’t easily separated from Flo and embarks on an adventurous journey across Germany to be reunited with Flo.” (Catalogue)



image courtesy of amazon.comEl Americano the movie.

“Cuco is a Mexican boy parrot that would rather imitate the crazy stunts of his TV super-parrot hero, El Americano, than help with his chores at the family bird circus. Yet when a gang of bully birds threatens his ringmaster father and takes over the circus, Cuco sets off on a hilarious and perilous journey to Hollywood to enlist his hero in his fight, only to discover the true hero within himself” (Catalogue)

image courtesy of amazon.comLino : an adventure of nine lives.

“Lino is an entertainer and clown for children’s parties who cannot stand his job anymore – especially the cat costume he has to wear. Deciding to seek outside help, he unfortunately finds a very untalented wizard who transforms him into the thing he hates most: his cat costume.” (Catalogue)

image courtesy of amazon.comSoul.

“Joe Gardner is a middle-school band teacher who gets the chance of a lifetime to play at the best jazz club in town. A misstep takes him from New York City to The Great Before, a fantastical place where new souls get their personalities before going to Earth. Determined to return to his life, Joe teams up with a precocious soul, 22, who has never understood the appeal of the human life. As Joe tries to show 22 what’s great about life, he may discover the answers to the most important questions.” (Catalogue)

Overdrive Kids: The Wonderful World of Children’s Comics!

As Wellington City Libraries enters another week of being closed, even more awesome new titles are being added all the time through our Kids’ Reading Room on Overdrive! If you like comics, graphic novels, cartoon strips and manga, why not give our collection of kids’ comics a try? Check out titles such as:

image courtesy of syndeticsChi’s Sweet Home by Konami Kanata.

Read all about Chi, a lovable and curious kitten who adopted by the Yamada family, who gets up to mischief and many adventures while making new friends along the way. A librarian’s choice and a delightful comic for cat lovers!
image courtesy of syndeticsGuts by Raina Telgemeier.

Raina Telgemeier is back, once again bringing us a thoughtful, charming, and funny true story about tummy problems,  growing up and gathering the courage to face — and conquer — her fears. A delightful and humorous comic and librarian’s choice all the way!

image courtesy of syndeticsArchie Modern Classics Volume One by Archie Superstars.

An oldie but a goodie! Read all about Archie and the Riverdale gang in this collection of the best stories from 2018. One modern classic you don’t want to miss out on! 
image courtesy of syndeticsJohnny Boo: The Best Little Ghost in the world by James Kochalka.

Read all about Johnny Boo, the best little ghost in the whole world, with Boo Power and his adventures alongside his pet ghost named Squiggle. With ghost races, wild loop the loops and even an Ice Cream Monster, there is never a dull moment in this delightful comic book.


image courtesy of syndeticsStrawberry Shortcake Volume One Issue One by Georgia Ball.

Bring a little Strawberry Shortcake into your life with this amazing comic! Read all about how Strawberry Shortcake’s solution to a tropical dilemma convinces her friends that she’s taking a trip to Luau Island. Sounds like a dream vacation, but in the middle of all of the excitement, the residents of Berry Bitty City forget to check their facts before they bid farewell! Ideal for girls and Strawberry shortcake fans!

If you want to borrow these amazing comics and more from our collection of kids comics, all you need is a Wellington City Libraries membership — click here if you don’t have a library card and would like to join online.

Here’s 7 great new kids fiction books from your library to start your New Year off perfectly!

 

It’s the end of the school holidays! You might be excited to go back to school …or you might not be. Either way, you can ease yourself back into routine with these simply awesome super cool new books. They will make you forget all about going back to school, guaranteed!! **

** Not guaranteed, sorry. 

 

Image courtesy of SyndeticsKlawde: Evil Alien Warlord Cat by Johnny Marciano

Klawde is not your average cat. He’s an emperor from another planet, exiled to Earth. He’s cruel. He’s cunning. He’s brilliant… and he’s about to become Raj Banerjee’s best friend. Whether he likes it or not. Klawde had everything. Sharp claws. Fine fur. And, being the High Commander of the planet Lyttyrboks, an entire world of warlike cats at his command. But when he is stripped of his feline throne, he is sentenced to the worst possible punishment: exile to a small planet in a quiet corner of the universe… named Earth. Raj had everything. A cool apartment in Brooklyn. Three friends who lived in his building. And pizza and comics within walking distance. But when his mom gets a job in Elba, Oregon, and he is forced to move, all of that changes. It’s now the beginning of summer, he has no friends, and because of his mother’s urgings, he has joined a nature camp. It’s only when his doorbell rings and he meets a furball of a cat that Raj begins to think maybe his luck is turning around…


Image courtesy of SyndeticsZac’s Biggest Ever Hits; Volume 3 (4 missions in 1!!!) by H.I Larry

Zac Power is a boy spy who has twenty-four hours to save the world and do his homework. A haunted house, sabotage in space, vanishing tombs and undead dinosaurs – Zac’s biggest ever adventures are action-packed. But can he outsmart an evil genius and save the world, yet again?

Image courtesy of SyndeticsMika & Max by Laura Bloom

A story about a girl who meets a boy who changes everything. When 13-year-old Mika is forced to attend a music festival with her family, she resigns herself to hippies, heat, and embarrassment. But nothing could prepare her for Max, who’s almost 10 and has autism. When the two of them join forces, a series of unexpected and life-changing events unfold.

Image courtesy of SyndeticsMy Parents Cancelled my Birthday by Jo Simmons

Tom can’t wait for his LUCKY BIRTHDAY. It’s an EPIC family tradition and he’s dreamed up an UNFORGETTABLE party! Only, after several disasters involving a flattened Chihuahua and a curse from the tooth fairy, it’s been CANCELLED. But Tom won’t give up. With the help of his friends (and a pig painted like a zebra), Tom decides to throw himself the party he deserves. What could possibly go wrong?

Image courtesy of SyneticsNatboff! One Million Years of Stupidity by Andy Stanton

Time travel through the funniest and most mad moments in history, from the stone age to a million years in the future, all set in the town of Lamonic Bibber (home of Mr Gum). Meet the town’s most famous residents such as Natboff the caveman, Terry Shakespeare, a squirrel, Edith the witch, some grapes and mysterious Victorian inventor, Cribbins, who invented mysterious Victorian things. Learn LOADS of stuff about history along the way*.

*You won’t learn anything about history.


Image courtesy of SyndeticsTrouble in New York (the Travels of Ermine (who is very determined)) by Jennifer Gray

Ermine the Determined is off to explore NEW YORK. She can’t wait to visit Central Park Zoo, ride in a yellow taxi, and zoooom to the top of the Rockefeller building! But when her suitcase is switched, Ermine finds some robbers are hot on her tail.

Image courtesy of SyndeticsThe Leap of Death by Andrew Clover and Ralph Lazar

Meet RORY BRANAGAN – he eats bad guys for breakfast. Well, not ACTUALLY. But he IS the best detective in town. Fifth in a hilarious comedy-crime series for readers of 8+. Hello. I am Rory Branagan. I am actually a detective. And I am about to face more DEADLY DANGER than ever …

 

 

7 New Junior Comics and Graphic Novels to read during November.

Hey Kids!

The springfest continues with the latest shipment of junior comics and graphic novels!

Spring on down to your local library and check out the following –  Enjoy! :

The Truth about Stacey.

Joining the Baby-sitter’s Club after moving to a new town, Stacey helps her new friends outmanoeuvre a rival sitter group while coming to terms with her diabetes.

 

 


The Last Olympian.

The long-awaited prophecy surrounding Percy Jackson’s sixteenth birthday unfolds as he leads an army of young demigods to stop Kronos in his advance on New York City, while the Olympians struggle to contain the rampaging monster, Typhon.

 

 


Hawkeye.

Remember Hawkeye? No, not that Hawkeye – your favorite Hawkeye! The former Young Avenger, the butt-kicking hero who had to save that other Hawkguy all the time and basically keep his life in some semblance of order. Yup, you know her, it’s the dazzling Kate Bishop – making her solo comics debut! Kate is heading back out west and returning to Los Angeles, with her bow and arrow and P.I. badge in tow. There are crimes to solve and she’s the best archer to handle ’em! But is she ready to face the ghosts of her past? The City of Angels has a new guardian angel. This is Kate Bishop like you’ve never seen her before, in a brand-new saga that really hits the mark!

 


Artemis Fowl : The Graphic Novel.

When a twelve-year-old evil genius tries to restore his family fortune by capturing a fairy and demanding a ransom in gold, the fairies fight back with magic, technology, and a particularly nasty troll.

You might also like to read the original novel and…

 

 

…check out the movie trailer for the upcoming film release on the 29th of May 2020.

 


Dinosaur explorers. #5, Lost in the Jurassic.

Joined by a new companion, the Dinosaur Explorers return to the Jurassic period, when the first non-dinosaurs begin to emerge — and start looking for dinner!

 

 


Uncle Scrooge : the colossal coin calamity.

If there’s money to be made or a fortune to be found, you can bet Uncle Scrooge will be on the scene–with his beleaguered nephew, Donald Duck, in tow! Find out what adventures (or should that be misadventures?!) await …

 

 


Cats : nature and nurture.

We meet feline friends from the tiniest kodkod to the biggest tiger, and find out what makes your neighborhood domestic cats so special. Equipped with teeth, claws, and camouflage to survive everywhere from deserts to mountaintops, how did these ferocious felines make the leap from predators to playmates… and are they even done leaping?

9 New Junior Comics and Graphic Novels at Wellington City Libraries!

Comicfest may be done and dusted for another year. However the comics and graphic novels still keep coming at Wellington City Libraries. Wellington City Libraries has some new comics and graphic novels in the children’s collection. Come on down to your local library and borrow them before they’re all gone!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsMeg, Jo, Beth, and Amy : a graphic novel.

A modern retelling of Little Women! “Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy are having a really tough year: Not only is their father overseas with the military and their mother working overtime to make ends meet, but each girl is struggling with her own unique problems. Whether it’s school woes, health issues, boy troubles or simply feeling lost, the March sisters all need the same thing: support from each other. By coming together — and sharing lots of laughs and tears — these four young women find the courage to discover who they truly are as individuals… and as a family.

image courtesy of syndeticsGarfield Homecoming.

Garfield the loveable fat cat returns in Homecoming, an all new adventure where Garfield explores what life is like outside of the friendly confines of Jon’s house.

image courtesy of syndeticsLucy : A Peanuts collection.

Charles M. Schulz’s Peanuts continue with brand new adventures and classic tales! Featuring a best of collection of Lucy’s comic book adventures. The Doctor is in. Celebrate Charles M. Schulz’ Lucy with this jam-packed collection of stories starring everyone’s favorite older sister! Follow Lucy as she continues to be a model student and “helps” her fellow kids of the neighborhood. Don’t take your eye off the football–this is a round of tales spanning across all eras of Schulz’s masterpiece that you won’t want to miss.

image courtesy of syndeticsWings of fire : the graphic novel. Book two, The lost heir.

She can’t believe it’s finally happening. Tsunami and her fellow dragonets of destiny are journeying under the water to the great SeaWing Kingdom. Stolen as an egg from the royal hatchery, Tsunami is eager to meet her future subjects and reunite with her mother, Queen Coral. But Tsunami’s triumphant return doesn’t go quite the way she’d imagined. Queen Coral welcomes her with open wings, but a mysterious assassin has been killing off the queen’s heirs for years, and Tsunami may be the next target. The dragonets came to the SeaWings for protection, but this ocean hides secrets, betrayal, and perhaps even death.

Catch up on the Wings of Fire story by reading the first book in the series –

image courtesy of syndeticsWings of fire : the graphic novel. Book one, The Dragonet prophecy.

Determined to end a generations-long war among the seven dragon tribes, a secret movement called the Talons of Peace draws on a prophecy that calls for a great sacrifice, compelling five appointed dragonets to fulfill a painful destiny against their will.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Loud house. #5, After dark.

A sleepwalking sister! Space dreams and scientific surveys! A sudden surge of songwriting inspiration! Slippery, silent worm hunting and the stealthy seeking of a warm bath! The search for a sticky ghost! There is no such thing as sweet slumber in the Loud House. Witness what kind of antics the Loud kids – Lori, Leni, Luna, Luan, Lynn, Lucy, Lola, Lana, Lisa, Lily, and Lincoln (plus best friend Clyde) can get up to in the wee hours! One thing’s for sure, it’s going to be a long, long night!

image courtesy of syndeticsBig Nate : payback time!

Continues the adventures of Nate Wright as he develops a mysterious allergy to Mrs. Godfrey, wages a snowball fight, and has a disastrous run-in with Randy.

image courtesy of syndeticsMickey Mouse : the pirates of Tabasco Bay.

From cowboy capers at “Yesterday Ranch” to the fan-favourite mystery of “The Vanishing Railroad!,” there are seven Mickey stories in all — all newly restored in the colours of the original comic books!

image courtesy of syndeticsThe breakaways.

When a popular student encourages her to join the soccer team, Faith signs up even though she has never played the game and learns about loyalty and friendship.

image courtesy of syndeticsCatwad : it’s me.

Meet Catwad. He’s blue, he’s a bit of a grouch, and his best friend is a happy-go-lucky cat named Blurmp who can see the bright side of anything. From pizza and computers to love and happiness, this burball has a funny take on just about everything, and he’s not afraid to share it. It’s an all-new, laugh-out-loud series that will make even the grumpiest of grumblers smile!

7 New Non Fiction to read before the summer holidays end.

Happy new year!

Check out the latest new non fiction in the collection. Books about ancient warriors, Pokémon, animals and so much more! Get your hands on them before the summer holidays end.

Enjoy!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsAncient Warriors.

“Tracing the history of warriors from the Stone Age all the way up to the Crusades, fascinating facts and insights into tactics from the battlefield are revealed alongside kid-friendly, detailed illustrations. Delve into the lives of Alexander the Great, Joan of Arc, and Genghis Kahn. Follow the stories of Celtic warriors, Shaolin Monks, Vikings, Knights, and Samurai, all while learning about weaponry such as sword fighting, bow and arrows, martial arts and even poisonous beetles!” — Amazon.com

image courtesy of syndeticsRivers.

This breathtaking journey along the most important rivers in the world takes us from the Nile to the Amazon, the Mekong Delta to the Mississippi, the Murray to the Waikato. Our seas and rivers tell a compelling story about our planet.

image courtesy of sydneticsPokémon Ultimate Guide.

The ultimate guide to the Pokémon movies – revisit the exciting stories of 12 favourite films. Relive epic battles, visit key locations, meet the heroes and villains as well as uncovering facts and stats about Pokémon and find out about Legendary and Mythical Pokémon, too. Gotta catch ’em all!

image courtesy of syndeticsEarthquakes! : shaking New Zealand.

“Explains everything about the natural phenomenon, providing information for what to do during an earthquake and exploring some of the earthquakes through history”–Back cover.

image courtesy of syndeticsIncredible animal trivia : fun facts and quizzes.

“With fun pictures, cool design elements, and incredible facts, this trivia book will engage and excite readers who love animals and who love learning and sharing fascinating information with their friends.”– Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Cat Encyclopedia.

Sink your claws into some cat facts! Learn the history, behaviours, physical traits and special characteristics of cat breeds including Siamese, Persian, American Shorthair, Abyssinian, Maine Coon and many more. This guidebook gives cat lovers and owners an in-depth look at some furry feline friends. Charming photographs, fun facts and hands-on pet care tips make this is the ultimate cat-alogue!

image courtesy of syndeticsWhy can’t I feel the Earth Spinning?

Why Can’t I Feel the Earth Spinning? is an irreverent and informative introduction to tricky questions about science. How do we know what dinosaurs looked like? Why does medicine taste so bad? Why don’t airplanes fall down? Why Can’t I Feel the Earth Spinning? encourages children to start asking and answering questions for themselves. The book is structured around twenty-two questions. Each section explores the question and answer with detailed illustrations, photographs, or diagrams and then asks further questions on a similar theme. Children learn about how their bodies work, why trees’ leaves are green, why people dream, and whether “The Cloud” is really a cloud. Written with humor and full of fun illustrations, Why Can’t I Feel the Earth Spinning? is the perfect primer for young inquisitive minds and budding scientists.

Top 5 New Non Fiction of 2017 – Part Two.

Hey kids! Check out the latest instalment of top 5 junior non fiction of 2017! This post features books filled with tasty treats, help you master skills on how to be a professional football player and some good old folk tales fashioned folklore that teach moral lessons.

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsEnid Blyton Jolly Good Food.

Jolly good food, indeed! Reading this cookbook makes my mouth water! With this cookbook, inspired by Enid Blyton’s stories, you master the perfect way to share the pleasure of making and eating food with your child. Jam packed full of yummy recipes, beautiful artwork and extracts from Enid Blyton’s writing that will inspire children – and the whole family – to get busy in the kitchen. Ideal for picnics, kids’ parties and barbecues. Librarian’s choice all the way!

image courtesy of syndeticsGoal!

Who is the greatest striker ever to play football? How do you do the Cruyff turn? Where is the perfect place is to put a penalty? How far do players run during a match? Goal! doesn’t just tell you the answers – it shows you. With bright, imaginative info-graphics and eye catching artworks, football facts leap off the page. Did you know that more than 40 million footballs are produced each year?! Packed with vital tips and tricks, as well as astounding, mind-boggling stats, from the origins of football to the FIFA World Cup, it focuses on information that won’t date. Goal! is a vibrant, visual guide to everything you need to know about the world’s most popular game – football!

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Rough Face Girl.

In this Algonquin Indian version of the Cinderella story, the Rough-Face Girl and her two beautiful but heartless sisters compete for the affections of the Invisible Being. A beautifully told story that ensures that the good are rewarded and the wicked are punished. Librarian’s choice all the way!

 

image courtesyNorse Myths.

The stories of dazzling magic and thrilling journeys tell of the creation of the nine worlds and follow Odin with his one eye, Thor with his mighty hammer and Loki the shape-shifting trickster on their adventures until the final great battle of Ragnarok. In this stunning collection of myths, the strange world of ancient magic, gods, giants and dwarfs is unforgettably imagined.

image courtesy of syndeticsCrazy about Cats.
“Did you know that the fishing cat has partially webbed paws for catching fish? Or that pumas can leap over 15 feet into trees? There are roughly 38 species of cats today, each one superbly adapted to their environment – whether that be in the rainforest or the desert!”–Publisher.