biography

8 New Non Fiction to read during Autumn.

Katie

Summer has officially come to an end and we are already days into Autumn – Have you caught sight of any leaves falling from the trees yet? As you’re well aware, Autumn marks the transition from summer to winter, so there’s the possibility of shorter and colder days, bringing an end to the warm sunny days at the beach. But have no fear, the library is always stocked full of books to keep you entertained. This blog post features books for girls and boys of all ages that will curb their gaming and sports fetish; channel their inner princess, sports hero, warrior and leader; extra resources to help with homework and get some insight as to what their parents do in the workforce all day.

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsSkylanders Universe: : the complete collection : one book, 321 skylanders.

This is one book that all Skylanders fans must get their hands on! Read all about every single Skylander in this book featured from all three smash-hit video games. Includes information about character bios, battle cries and all 256 possible SWAP Force character combinations.

 

Cimage courtesy of syndetics ricket with Kane Williamson : a guide to batting, bowling, fielding and captaincy.

Why is it important to play the ball late? How do you play the perfect cover drive? What should you do to deliver a deadly in-swinger? Join New Zealand batsman Kane Williamson, a superstar of the game, as he talks through his approach to batting, bowling, fielding and captaincy.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Amazing Book of Disney Princess.

Dreams of Disney Princesses and books, come to life with the release of The Amazing Book of Disney Princess. Fans will get to discover more about their favourite fairytale princesses. With stunning pictures, fun facts and an exciting quiz, be transported to their kingdoms and discover their magical world. A must have read for budding fans to channel their inner Disney princess.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThis is a horrible book of foul facts.

This Horrible Book of Foul Facts serves up all the dreadful details of horrible history you’ll ever need to know – from rotten Roman graffiti to terrible teacher tortures and rude royal nicknames, the foul facts are all inside. Want to know: the crushing details about execution by elephant? How to soften your skin Georgian-style, using the skins of puppies? Whose idea of a top treat was mashed deer tongues? Whether you’re desperate to discover which famous rulers were left-handed, raring to read about the top ten dogs of all time, or just aching to ask about assassinating apes, then this book is for you. History has never been so horrible!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Princess and the warrior.

A very sad and tragic Mexican legend about a beautiful princess falling into a deep sleep and her brave warrior vowing to stay by her side, even if she never awakens, eventually turning into volcanoes known as Popocatépetl (“the Smoking Mountain”) and Iztaccíhuatl (“white woman” in Nahuatl, sometimes called the Mujer Dormida “sleeping woman” in Spanish), which overlook the Valley of Mexico. Prepare to have tissues on hand.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsAnimal record breakers.

This book holds thousands of amazing facts and spectacular feats. A must have resource for the budding animal enthusiast.

 

 

 

 

image courtesy of synedticsBe the change : a grandfather Gandhi story.

“At Grandfather Gandhi’s service village, each day is filled, from sunrise to sunset, with work that is done for the good of all. The villagers vow to live simply and non-violently. Arun Gandhi tries very hard to follow these vows, but he struggles with one of the most important rules: not to waste.”

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsWhat do grown-ups do all day?

Ever wondered what your Mum and Dad get up to during their day? Here’s your chance to find out. Read this book and explore fourteen diverse workplaces, then turn the page to find out what each grown-up does there. Features more than 100 jobs. Also a great resource to have on hand if you want to choose a profession and career.

 

New Non Fiction to begin the new year!

Katie

Welcome to 2017! A new year and  a new start. And so far, it looks very promising at the library with truck loads of new and amazing non fiction where the wonderful world of Harry Potter continues, and collides with an amazing world of fantastic beasts and hidden realms. Further worlds and realms are discovered where imagination takes flight, creativity comes to life, passions are invoked and where heroes, heroines, role models, leaders are discovered.

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsAlbus Dumbledore.

The Harry Potter film collection continues with the complete guide to Albus Dumbledore. This book holds photographs, memories, and quotes from the eight Harry Potter films featuring Albus Dumbledore, looking the moments that made him a great wizard and Hogwarts headmaster, and how he guided Harry in his adventures.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsFantastic beasts and where to find them : magical movie handbook.

The spin off of the Harry Potter films comes to life with the release of the magical movie handbook: Fantastic Beasts and where to find them. This book featuring amazing photos and details from the film, this handbook highlights all of your favorite characters, locations, artifacts, spells, and magical moments from the movie.

 

Shakespeare Retold.

The wonderful world of William Shakespeare’s plays comes to life in this illustrated volume which features seven classic plays by William Shakespeare, retold by E. Nesbit in plain English – Great for those who aren’t fluent in Shakespeare’s language.

 

 

A Miscellany of Magical Beasts.

A world of magical, mythical creatures from around the worlds comes to life in this amazing book that details information about  giants, trolls, harpies, unicorns, and much, much more!

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsVolothamp Geddarm’s dungeonology : an epic adventure through the Forgotten Realms.

Take a journey into the Forbidden Realms in this amazing book that provides information on how to best explore the treasure-laden dungeons, mysterious Underchasm, and Icewind Dale.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe curious guide to things that aren‘t.

This guide is a toolkit for kids that teaches them how to think creatively  through deductive reasoning, listening skills, and imagination, as well as help kids then have to figure out the answers through detective work and a little creative reasoning.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsA world of Information.

This book is literally a world of information where essential facts are brought to life by stylish infographics and fascinating commentary! You will discover amazing facts and answers to life’s questions such as How much do clouds weigh? Who invented the pencil? How many ways can you tie a knot?

 

 The Book of Heroes. and The Book of Heroines.

National Geographic’s has done again with these two new books on heroes, heroines and role models. In The Book of Heroes, read and discover the true stories of superheroes, rebels, world leaders, action heroes, sports legends, and many more daring dudes, all of whom played their part to make their mark, make a contribution, and make the world a better place. While Timage courtesy of syndeticshe Book of Heroines covers everything you need to know about female superstars, war heroes, world leaders, gusty gals, and everyday women who changed the world. Both books contain engaging text, high-quality photographs and is a toolkit for every kid with a goal, hope, or dream they want to make a reality.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndetics

8 new children’s non fiction summer entertainment guide – Part Two!

Katie

The countdown to Christmas and the end of 2016 continues.  And the new children’s non fiction summer entertainment guide theme continues!

So for your reading pleasure, the library has some new non fiction available from your local library.

Check out books about what DreamWorks characters  like to eat for supper, fantastic guide on popular film and TV characters,  famous children’s authors and even more about Star Wars.

Also Kiwi Christmas song, Summer Wonderland by Ronan Keating  is now available to stream and download from all your favourite music streaming flavours. But you can’t bothered, check out the clip right here, complete so you can sing along and take part in the festive cheer while  strolling through a summer wonderland.

To recap, Summer Wonderland is a Kiwi spin on a much beloved classic Christmas carol Winter Wonderland, with a lyrical twist for the Southern Hemisphere and recorded for Air New Zealand.  This Christmas carol really showcases and beautifully captures the sprit and essence of a Kiwi Christmas of tucking into ham and pavlova, playing cricket, mozzie spray and tan marks. Check it out!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Ultimate DreamWorks Cookbook.

Trolls has finally been released in theatres and to continue the celebration, check out the ultimate DreamWorks cookbook. Have you ever wondered about the secret ingredient in Mr. Ping’s noodles? Do you know how the Croods cook their dinner or how the penguins get their bellies filled? In the Ultimate DreamWorks Cookbook you can find the answers to all of these questions, and many more. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts, all are featured in this fun and nutritious cookbook from DreamWorks.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsDoctor Who: A History of Humankind.

History and Doctor Who all rolled into one, Imagine that?! The doctor has corrected this Coal Hill School Hisotry textbook with his own notes and illustrations that is jammed packed full of the real history about our very special planet.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Usborne Official Spy’s Handbook.

This one book that every potential spy needs to get it’s hands on. Covers everything that a good spy needs to know about secret codes, spy rings, dead drops, disguises, tracking, shadowing, hiding, sending message, decoding signal and observation skills.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsJeff Kinney.

Read all about the man who brought Diary of a Wimpy Kid to life! Simple text and full-color photographs introduce readers to Jeff Kinney.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsDr. Seuss.

Read all about the man who brought The Cat in the Hat, Horton hears a who and The Lorax to life! Simple text and full-color photography introduce beginning readers to Dr. Seuss.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMoana.

Find out everything you need to know about the newest Disney heroine, Moana, and her hero Maui, on their incredible journey across the South Pacific. Discover the beautiful locations of Oceania, including breathtaking underworlds along with frightening sea creatures! This book is packed with stunning images of Moana’s quest and provides a fascinating, in-depth look at the most thrilling moments from the movie.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsTop 10 of everything 2017.

Move over, Guinness World Records, Top 10 of everything 2017, that ranges from video games, insects, movies, sports and so on, will enthral and amaze you for hours… not days… not weeks… but all year long!

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsStar Wars Galactic Atlas.

Calling all Star Wars fans, here is you chance to explore a galaxy far, far away in this stunning guide to the worlds of Star Wars. This book is jam packed full of  superb full colour, covers everything from Alderaan and Naboo to Tatooine and Yavin 4, taking in the epic stories, strange creatures and glorious vistas of the entire saga. Check out the official trailer for the latest release from the Star Wars franchise: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, in which a group of unlikely heroes band together on a mission to steal the plans to the Death Star, the Empire’s ultimate weapon of destruction. Exciting!

 

Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year!  See you in 2017!

7 new children’s non fiction about deadly beasts, famous people and cooking up a storm!

Katie

Kids, the school holidays are flying by and the library has some new and exciting non fiction books for your viewing and reading pleasure. So come on down and grab books about deadly beast that roamed the earth a million years ago, as well as some that only exist in the world of fiction and fantasy; famous people who changed the world and cooking up a storm in the comfort of your own kitchen where the world of Science and The Gruffalo comes to life that will make your tummy rumble.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsDay of the Dinosaurs.

Travel back in time to a period where dinosaurs roamed the earth. This amazing book features eye catching illustrations, as well as information about dinosaurs in terms of diet, how they lived on land, water and in the skies, as well as how they defended themselves and their territory  from four different prehistoric periods: the Triassic, the early Jurassic, the Late Jurassic and the Cretaceous. This is a thrilling read for any budding palaeontologist.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsAtlas of Animal Adventures.

Prepare for a  journey of amazing discovery. Featured in this is an amazing collection of images and information about every animal known to existence, as well as nature’s most unmissable events from between the two poles, including epic migrations, extraordinary behaviours, and Herculean habits.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsGruffalo Crumble and Other Recipes.

Delights such as  Owl Ice Cream, Scrambled Snake, Roasted Fox, and of course… Gruffalo Crumble from the lovable picture, The Gruffalo comes life with this awesome cookbook, filled with recipes and ideas for every meal, that is bound to keep Gruffalo fans of all ages busy in the kitchen. Other tasty favourite that catch eye are caterpillar twists, orange eyes and even a Gruffalo cake. With this book, you are all set for a Gruffalo themed morning/afternoon tea, birthday part or even a Halloween party. These tasty delights are already starting to make my tummy rumble!

 

image courtesy of syndetics.How to draw orcs, goblins, and other wicked creatures.

Where the world of orcs, goblins and artistic creations collide. This simple and easy to read book will teach readers how to draw orcs, goblins, hags, and several other wicked fantasy creatures where you will be able to bring your own Lord of the Rings to life.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsFrida Kahlo : the artist in the blue house.

The artwork and the photographs of Frida Kahlo comes to life with this gorgeous new art book with a charming narrative and fascinating pictures that provide an engaging introduction to the life of Frida Kahlo and her creations.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsScience Experiments you can eat.

Dig into a feast of fun where you’re the scientist and the kitchen is your laboratory. This book that gives you all everything you need where you can test your science theories, make some amazing discoveries and eat your results!  Includes information on how to make rock candy, grape jelly, cupcakes, and popcorn.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsNadia : the girl who couldn‘t sit still.

A cute and easy to read biography of the young Romanian gymnast, Nadia Comaneci. This book goes into full detail of how some of the ways her energy got her into trouble as a child, how she became involved in gymnastics, and how practice and determination led her to become an Olympic champion. This is the greatest picture book biography since Different like Coco.

4 new children’s non fiction that will blow your mind!

Katie

Diary of a Time Traveller.

Join Augustus on his global adventure back in time and meet hundreds of history’s most interesting characters, including Einstein, Columbus and the young Mozart. Packed with interesting facts, awesome illustrations and even a timeline of events, this diary makes a million years of history accessible at a glance.

 

 

David Walliams.

Author, actor, comedian, charity fundraiser, TV talent show judge – David Walliams ticks all the boxes! Now you can read his biography, and discover some of his greatest achievements, how he began his comic career, where he finds his inspiration for his hilarious children’s books and the enormous amount of work he does for charity.

 

 

The Best (& Worst) jobs in Ancient Rome.

Here is your chance to explore the job market in Ancient Rome. Discover which jobs brought wealth and glory and which were dirty, smelly and dangerous.

 

 

 

Ripley’s Believe it or not! : eye-popping oddities.

Brace yourself for some eye-popping oddities. There is an all new Ripley’s believe it or not and it is jam packed with even more odd and bizarre things you never thought was possible such as a man pulling a track with his nose, a woman marrying a Ferris wheel, cow farts blowing up building and many more crazy stories! Proceed with caution when you read, it’s earth shattering!

 

4 New Children’s Non Fiction

Katie

Just in time to finish off the School Holidays – get your hands on these 4 hot new books from your local library.

 

Christopher Columbus : Sailing to America.

Read all about Christopher Columbus and his dream to sail to Asia. Follow his journey into the unknown, discover what he found in America and see what happened to him on his later voyages. A simple fun picture quiz helps readers to recall what they have read. A perfect one-stop-shop for help with homework assignments!

 

 

Star Wars: Absolutely Everything you need to know.

It’s less than two months away until the release of Star Wars : the Force Awakens. So check out  Star Wars: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know, which is crammed with weird and wonderful Star Wars trivia, strange-but-true facts and fascinating “Did you know?” Q&As. Find out who cleans the floors of the Death Stars and what takes 1,000 years to digest its victims! From movie-making trivia to quirky facts you never knew, this book will excite new and old fans alike of Star Wars Rebels, Star Wars The Clone Wars and the Star Wars movies I-VI. Great to have on hand for Star Wars reads day.

Also check out the trailer of Star Wars : the Force Awakens.

 

Everything Birds of Prey.

Introduces the most ferocious raptors to rule the skies, from ospreys to vultures to hawks, and describes what raptors’ lives are like as well as what sets them apart from other birds.

 

 

 

Two Tengu Tales from Japan.

Be prepared to be introduced to the world of Japanese folklore by reading this lively and engaging retelling of two fantastic *tengu tales. A beautiful book, with even more beautiful illustrations that set an atomosphere inspired by classic Japanese art.

*a magical being who grant wishes to those who asks.

 

6 New Non Fiction to get you back into the back to school groove.

Katie

Complete Photo Guide to Bead Crafts.

This book provides information on bead crafting, including bead types, skills and techniques, and simple projects for parents and their children to practice essential skills. A great book to have on hand on a rainy day and during school holidays.

 

 

Space record Breakers.

Look inside this book and prepare to have the most mind-blowing records experience in the universe. Read this book and get information about  outer space and human space exploration, including the planet with the most moons, the first woman in space, and the closest star to the solar system. You will also get to find out which is the biggest known planet? What’s the hottest star? Who’s the most intrepid astronaut?

 

 

New from Eyewitness…

Dog.

Read this book and find out everything you need to know about caring for dogs, working dogs, from those that rescue people to those in the military and find out which dog breed is perfect for you as your family pet.

 

 

Ancient Greece.

This is an engaging and entertaining reference guide about Ancient Greece – perfect for younger readers. Discover epic tales of heroes and villains of the ancient Greek world. A great resource to use for a project on Ancient Greece and classical studies.

 

 

Gandhi.

Reading this book will allow you  to be a part of Gandhi’s extraordinary life story and relive a momentous chapter in history. See who Gandhi was as a person: from a time child to a freedom fighter and religious leader.

 

 

Cat.

Discover in this book how cats can hear the slightest noise and smell other animals in the dark, why cheetahs are the fastest land animals in the world and see the unusual and rare feline breeds, from the hairless Sphinx cat to the white tiger.

 

6 new non fiction staring a blue whale, issac newton, angry birds and a special guest called cupcake.

Katie

The Science Book.

The Science Book is an inventive visual take on astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. With eye-catching artwork, step-by-step diagrams, and illustrations that break down complicated ideas into manageable concepts, The Science Book will have readers conversant in genetic engineering, black holes, and global warming in no time. Along the way are found mini-biographies of the most well-known scientists, and a glossary of helpful scientific terms.

 

 

The Blue Whale.

A picture book all about blue whales, who could ask for more. This book is one a word – gorgeous. It is full of relatable facts from every day life that help to make the size and habits of the blue whale easily comprehensible and engaging. Especially great for a younger audience.

 

 

 

Issac Newton.

Read all about the life of Issac Newton, the man who discovered gravity when an apple fell to the ground and came up with the three basic ideas that are applied to the physics of most motion.

 

 

 

Custom confections : delicious desserts you can create and enjoy!

Feast your eyes on a book that you can sink your teeth into. Mmmm, custom confections. All the delicious deserts that you can create and enjoy! This book contains step by step instructions and photos on making all the delicious sweet treats known to man from red velvet cookies to tiramisu. A great book to have on hand for your next high tea or bake sale. Great for ages 9 to 13 years.

 

 

Tell Me Everything.

Want to know the answers to hundreds of the world’s most fascinating questions? Then check out this book and discover over 300 information packed pages that will take you through everything, including the world, the human body, history and science and technology. Whether you are looking up information for a project or coursework or out of interest, Tell Me Everything has all the answers.

 

 

Angry Birds Friendship Bracelets.

Angry Birds Friendship bracelets presents instructions for creating over fifty woven friendship bracelet patterns based on the personalities of the different Angry Bird characters.

 

 

 

 

*** Special Guest alert!

Also check out Bake Sale. A junior comic about a cupcake called… Cupcake, who runs a successful bakery with his best friend, Eggplant, but dreams of going abroad to meet his idol, Turkish Delight, who is the most famous pastry chef in the world.

6 new non fiction: Buzzing bios, Cooking Madness and the mysterious world of the greeks and… an egg.

Katie

Nelson Mandela : it always seems impossible until it’s done.

Read the incredible story of Nelson Mandela, a remarkable man that would fight against discrimination,  his country’s cruel system of apartheid and eventually become president of his country. A great resource to use for anyone studying Nelson Mandela and apartheid.

 

 

Shackleton’s Journey.

This book tells the story of the shipwreck of the Endurance in a sea of ice en route to Antarctica, and the survival of all 28 members of the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition, led by Sir Ernest Shackleton.

 

 

 

Complete Children’s Cookbook.

Yummy, yummy, yummy and just in time for the winter season. This book features over 150 delicious recipes to get you and your kids in the kitchen. From eggy bread to sunflower loaves, lamb hotpot to ice cream, there’s a scrumptious recipe for every occasion in the Complete Children’s Cookbook. One word to describe this book, YUM!

 

 

Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Greece.

This book serves as a wonderful introduction to the world of gods and goddesses of the Olympians. From Zeus to Athena, read about the family of gods and goddesses that the ancient Greeks believed watched over them.

 

 

 

The Olympics of ancient Greece.

Read this book and learn all about the athletes, competitions, and religious ceremonies of the ancient Olympics. Great for a younger audience.

 

 

 

Egg : nature’s perfect package.

Explore how a simple, often colorful, sometimes surprisingly shaped package, reveals nature’s life cycle, unusual animal defensive strategies, parenting behaviour, evolution, and more, in this beautifully illustrated non-fiction picture book. Overall this is a fantastic book that gives you insight into the remarkable and mysterious world what really goes on inside an egg and what fantastic animals emerge from eggs.

New Non Fiction: Buzzing Bios and shaking it up with Shakespeare.

Katie

All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. Well, that was certainly the case during William Shakespeare’s life. And who was William Shakespeare? Well, he was an English poet, playwright and actor who is widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world’s pre-eminent dramatist. People all over the world have come to recognise the image of William Shakespeare and would heard of his plays, but what do we know about the man himself, or even what went on behind the scenes during the performance of his plays, or even who his plays were being performed for?

Why not check out the following books from the series: Shakespeare Alive

William Shakespeare: A Man For All Timesimage courtesy of syndetics is an excellent biography. This book will take readers on a journey through William Shakespeare’s extraordinary life, covering everything from who he was, where he came from, his life before and after he became a successful playwright and later life. This biography does more than simply introduce the author; it also endeavours to separate fact from fiction.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shakespeare Todayimage courtesy of syndetics discusses the many ways Shakespeare’s plays have been reinterpreted over the decades, as well as the playwright’s sources, translations of his works to other languages, and the influence of the plays on general civilization. Fantastic resource if you are doing a project on William Shakespeare or want ideas if you are putting on a performance of one of Shakespeare’s plays. (Gosh, I wish they had this resource during my school days when I had to do assignments on William Shakespeare and perform his plays)

 

 

 

 

 

Shakespeare and the Theatreimage courtesy of syndetics explores and discusses the differences between outdoor and indoor theatres, looks at the life of an actor, touring and describes how plays were written, funded and staged. Great resource to use if you are doing a project on the history of stage theatre and/or looking into putting on your own stage production/play.

 

 

 

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Weird World of William Shakespeare.

If you enjoyed You Can Get Sucked Down An Aeroplane Loo! and are a fan of the Horrible Histories series, then you will definitely enjoy this book! The Weird World of William Shakespeare. Like William Shakespeare: A Man For All Times,  this is an excellent biography which will take readers on a journey through William Shakespeare’s extraordinary life, but has a similar tone as horrible histories which does contain silly humour, history ,gory bits, (perhaps not as gory as Horrible Histories) and silly quotes.

 

 

 

 

Also check out the following Buzzing Bios!

image courtesy of syndeticsimage courtesy of syndeticsThere are two new biographies from the “People in History” series that have been introduced into the junior non fiction collection on two members of the Tudor Dynasty, who also happen to be father and daughter, and two of the famous British monarchs in history: Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. Henry VII will tell you anything and everything you need to know about the man himself, his childhood, his reign and even his six wives…, YEP! The man had six wives! (not at the same time) and what became of his six wives. While Elizabeth I tells the story of Queen Elizabeth I, the last of the Tudor Dynasty. Covers everything from her long and exciting reign, (apparently she ruled England for 45 years, WOW!) To her epic victory of defeating the Spanish Armada, which also happened to be Queen Elizabeth’s finest hour. Overall I think these books are an excellent read. especially great for younger children as the books contain a lot of simple text and one-lined sentences. Also serves as a good introduction to the history of the Tudor Dynasty.

 

 

 

Boy: tales of childhood by Roald Dahl.image courtesy of syndetics

Boy is the exciting story of Roald’s Dahl’s childhood. Contains tales of exciting and strange things – some funny, some frightening and definitely so true! The tales in this book is bound to make a tremendous impression, that you will never forget them.

 

 

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsOne Direction : The official annual 2014.

Roll up One Direction fans, our favourite boys –  Harry, Niall, Liam, Louis and Zayn are back! Score this awesome read from your local library and get ready to go behind the scenes and have one on one access to One Direction!  A must have read for all One Direction fans! I swear I can hear screaming from outside the library, hee, hee.