4 New Non Fiction to read throughout winter!

Hi Kids! Check four latest new non fiction added to the children’s collections. Read all about dragon and other fascinating creatures, ways you can create minecraft projects with household items, how a writer overcame difficulty and challenges to becoming a successful author of a timeless children’s classic and how girls can become more confident! Great books to read during the winter season!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsUnofficial Minecraft STEM lab for kids : family-friendly projects for exploring concepts in science, technology, engineering, and math.

“In Unofficial Minecraft STEM Lab for Kids, you’ll find a collection of creative projects that make learning science, technology, engineering, and math exciting and fun for the whole family. Start with a Minecraft lesson that gets beginners up to speed on terminology and gameplay. Then venture off on six action-packed Quests, each with four unique Labs that pair a hands-on activity with an in-game project. Look to the sky, dig beneath the ground, explore cycles in science, and engineer solutions to design challenges! Learn to document your Lab activities with sketchnoting, and how to screencast and narrate videos to share with family, friends, and other Minecrafters. Enjoy Minecraft together–and harness its powerful potential for learning–with Unofficial Minecraft STEM Lab for Kids”– Provided by publisher.

Overall, the coolest book to date, that encompasses all the elements of STEM concepts that will help kids get the necessary skills to go far in the future, while having fun at the same time with elements of Minecraft.

image courtesy of syndetics
Eric Carles dragons dragons & other creatures that never were.

An illustrated collection of poems about dragons and other fantastic creatures by a variety of authors, combined with Carle’s artistic illustrations that beautifully capture the descriptions embedded within the poems.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsBecoming Madeleine.

Read all about the life of Madeleine L’Engle, famous writer and author of timeless classic, A Wrinkle in Time from her  lonely childhood, financial insecurity, and countless rejections of her writing–and eventual triumph. A inspirational book to read and ideal for fans of L’Engle’s writing or anyone want to become a writer.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe confidence code for girls : taking risks, messing up, & becoming your amazingly imperfect, totally powerful self.

“Girls can rule the world– all they need is confidence. This empowering, entertaining guide from the bestselling authors of The Confidence Code gives girls the essential yet elusive code to becoming bold, brave, and fearless. It’s a paradox familiar to parents everywhere: girls are achieving like never before, yet they’re consumed with doubt on the inside. Girls worry constantly about how they look, what people think, whether to try out for a sports team or school play, why they aren’t getting “perfect” grades, and how many likes and followers they have online. Katty Kay and Claire Shipman use cutting-edge science and research, as well as proven methods of behavioral change, to reach girls just when they need it the most– the tween and teen years. Packed with graphic novel strips; appealing illustrations; fun lists, quizzes, and challenges; and true stories from tons of real girls, The Confidence Code for Girls teaches girls to embrace risk, deal with failure, and be their most authentic selves”–Amazon.com.

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.

6 New Non Fiction to step into spring with – Part Two.

Hey Kids! September and spring has finally sprung! Not to mention, new junior fiction has also sprung into the library collection. Check new books that will shatter your senses, get boys into reading with he promise of rugby, wrestling and exploration, where girls can journey into mythology where they become the heroines rather than being saved by the heroes and  much more!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsRipley’s Believe it or not! : Shatter your senses.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Shatter Your Senses! is filled with thousands of strange stories, bizarre feats, and hair-raising oddities from around the world. Discover the sport of underwater ice hockey or marvel at the flower that bloomed in space-it’s all weird and all true! Bursting with vibrant and eye-catching photos, as well as submissions from our dedicated readers, this book is a must-have for every Ripley’s fan.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe WWE Book of Top 10s.

A must read book for boys! From the greatest champions to memorable matches and everything in between, the best of WWE is ranked once and for all. Let the countdown begin!

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsGirls, Goddesses and Giants.

Handsome princes need not apply – these girls are doing it for themselves! In these stories it’s the girls who save the day through their courage, cunning or kindness – whether they are facing up to wolves, demons, dragons, enemy tribes, or the sun itself! A selection of brilliant folk tales from Africa, the Americas, Asia and Europe make this a really inclusive anthology of girl power, stunningly illustrated in papercut style.

image courtesy of syndeticsRugby The History.

Who brought the game of rugby to New Zealand? How did the All Blacks get their name? What are the rules of wheelchair rugby? Find out how rugby evolved from a game played by English schoolboys to become one of the most popular sports in the world! Read how rugby spread throughout New Zealand and the Pacific, including: the greatest matches and the greatest players; Rugby at the Olympics and Paralympics; and a chapter on women’s rugby.

image courtesy of sydneticsThe Quest for Z: The True Story of Explorer Percy Fawcett and a lost city in the Amazon.

“The true story of the British explorer Percy Fawcett, who set out on a doomed expedition to find a lost city in the Amazon jungle”– Provided by publisher. It’s hard to imagine in these days of Google earth that explorers would go off into the unknown on quests to find lost cities only talked about in legends but many did and the mystery of the expeditions disappearance is still not solved.

image courtesy of syndeticsWhat is a Monarchy?

What is a Monarchy and how does this political system work? This fascinating book looks at different aspects of Monarchies, explaining what they are, how they have come about and giving examples of such political systems in the world today. Age 9+

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMythology.

This is an intriguing and captivating introduction to the culturally diverse world of mythology. Discover everything from creation myths, the origin of humans, and mythical beasts, to gods and goddesses – and explore how different mythologies explain the mysteries of our world. Find out about the supernatural powers of the gods, the mystical powers of shamans, the purpose of the Native American Sun Dance, and the story behind the stunning medicine beaver mask. Discover who swallowed the Sun god Ra, the secrets of the towering totem pole, how many animals make a Chimera, who had snakes for hair, the magical powers of Thor’s hammer, and much, much more! With stunning photographs of masks, jewellery, and sculptures, Eyewitness Mythology offers a unique view of mythology and its gods, goddesses, heroes and monsters. See Native American love dolls, a fire-breathing dragon, African trickster Eshu, and the one-eyed Cyclops. Includes a fact-filled wall chart perfect for bedrooms or classrooms.

9 New Non Fiction: The Wonderful Worlds of Disney and Star Wars.

NEWS ALERT! Star Wars and Disney’s Polynesian Princess, Moana has taken over this blog post and… the junior non fiction collection! But hold the press, there’s another Disney (Latina) princess in town and amongst the junior non fiction collection in the guise of Elena of Avalor! – Another strong willed, caring, brave and determined princess and a long awaited role model for young girls! Also included are some trailers to movies that will be released later in the year.

Check out the following books and as always, Enjoy!:

image courtesy of syndeticsMoana: The Essential Guide.

Read this book and find out everything you need to know about the newest Disney heroine, Moana, and her companion, hero and trickster of Polynesian mythology 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 information and images of Moana’s quest and provides a fascinating, in-depth look at the most thrilling moments from the movie. Overall, I think this book serves as a wonderful companion alongside the movie. It is also a great learning tool to help young girls begin their path to finding themselves, as well as becoming emerging and strong leaders.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe World of Moana: A Guide to Motunui and Beyond.

Journey to the world of Moana where you will view lush tropical islands, encounter enormous sea creatures and read stories of legendary folklore. These are all part of an ancient Pacific world that is home to Moana. Explore Matunui, meet the people, learn the customs, and more in this official guide to Moana’s world.

image courtesy of syndeticsMoana Hairstyles and Looks.

Dive into the wonderfull rich and beautiful culture of Moana’s world, to recreate Moana’s style and look. You will find instructions for hairstyles and accessory crafts related to the Disney film. Hairstyles are shown in detail and photograhed on real-life girls.

image courtesy of syndeticsLearn to draw Disney Moana.

Presents step-by-step instructions for drawing characters from the movie Moana, including Moana, Maui, and other favorite characters.

image courtesy of syndeticsElena of Avalor: The Essential Guide.

Tagline from the TV Series: “Becoming a leader will be her greatest adventure.

Move over, Moana, there’s a new Disney Princess in town! Meet the caring and brave Princess Elena and everyone she loves in this fantastic essential guide. In this guide, you will learn about Avalor’s lively music and fascinating folklore. You will also get the chance to unleash your adventurous spirit and explore the kingdom of Avalor. Overall another fantastic book and great learning tool that will help young girls begin their path to finding themselves, as well as becoming emerging and strong leaders.

image courtesy of syndeticsCars 3 : the essential guide.

Describes the memorable and ever-popular characters, including race car Lightning McQueen, plus key locations, themes, and iconic moments from the movie.

Check out the trailer below:

For an extra treat, check out the trailer for upcoming Disney/Pixar, Coco. Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, young Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead. After meeting a charming trickster named Hector the two new friends embark on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history.

image courtesy of syndeticsStar Wars: Character Encyclopedia.

Go on a journey through the Star Wars galaxy, and learn all about its brave heroes and deadly villains. Meet a host of loathsome creatures, weird aliens, and loyal droids from the Star Wars saga.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsStar Wars: the Visual Dictionary.

Presents the Star Wars line of LEGO action figures and playsets, detailing a history of the toy line and how each playset connects to the events in the Star Wars films.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsStar Wars: Complete Vehicles.

For any fan who wants to explore the inner workings of the spaceships and vehicles of all six Star Wars movies, comes this fascinating expanded edition of a fan favourite, now with new cross-section artworks and a wealth of new photos.

 

Check out the trailer for Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

 

New Non Fiction on Folk Tales, Myths and Legends.

Hey kids! There is more new Junior Non Fiction available at your local library. The theme for this post is Folk Tales, Myths and Legends, where you will encounter books where you go on magic carpet rides, fight mythological beasts, encounter gods and goddesses and much, much more!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsTales from the Arabian Nights.

Tales from the Arabian Nights consist of a collection of Persian, Arabic and Middle Eastern tales cleverly told by Scheherazade, where she begins to tell the Sultan a tale, but does not end it. The Sultan, curious about how the story ends, is thus forced to postpone her execution in order to hear the conclusion. The next night, as soon as she finishes the tale, she begins (and only begins) a new one, and the king, eager to hear the conclusion of this tale, postpones her execution once again. So it goes on for 1,001 nights

image courtesy of sydneticsUsborne Illustrated Myths from around the world.

Some wonderful stories that reconstruct the daily life and customs of several cultures. A great selection from around the World.

Including stories about my favourite Trickster Gods Maui and Anansi, who knew they were capable of getting up to so much mischief!

Continue reading

Walt Disney Children’s DVDs in the library.

Winter has finally arrived in the Capital and in the library. Why not head down to your local library and issue some DVDs, which you can watch in the comfort of your own home, with a warm blanket and a cup of cocoa.

Why not check some new (and old) DVDs produced by Walt Disney and as an added bonus, two special non Walt Disney movie that the entire family will enjoy, as well as entertain and capture hearts of all ages.

Enjoy!

Moana.

A tribute to the Polynesian culture and mythology, and full of heroic exploits of the heroes and heroines that Kiwis will be familiar with, namely Maui, the demigod. The plot follows the adventure and journey of Moana , a spirited teenager, who like most Disney princesses has a lot on her plate. This involves sailing out on a daring mission to save her island, restore the heart of Te Fiti – the island goddess, fulfill her ancestors’ unfinished quest and save the world. During her journey, Moana meets the once-mighty demi-god Maui, and together, they traverse the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous fiery creatures against impossible odds. Once again, Disney has put together a movie of epic proportions filled with quirky and memorable characters, as well as an amazing cast, including Kiwi actors, Temuera Morrison, Jemaine Clement and Oscar Kightley. Kids, if those names don’t ring a bell, ask your parents and a Disney Princess in the form of Moana who embodies the qualities of an adventurous, headstrong, practically fearless, and physically capable heroine. An 8/10 all the way!

The Lion Guard: Life in the Pride Lands.

Rough, tough and roarin’ to go, your favorite heroes are back for even more epic adventures! Join Kion and his fearless friends as they defend the Pride Lands and protect the Circle of Life in five action-packed episodes featuring King Simba, the spirit of Mufasa and the hilarious Timon and Pumbaa.

 

 

The Lion Guard: Unleash the Power.

Alone, every hero has his or her own special talent. But when champions work together, the results are “un-Bunga-lievable”! Defend the Pride Lands with Kion and his courageous team in Disney’s breathtaking adventure series based on the legacy of the Lion King. You’ll run like the wind, move mountains and save the day with these five brave friends as they summon their inner powers and help protect the Circle of Life. Packed with action, music and over two hours of fun, The Lion Guard: Unleash the power proves that when heroes join forces, they’re truly a force to be reckoned with!

Beauty and the Beast.

Belle (Emma Watson), a bright, beautiful and independent young woman, is taken prisoner by a beast (Dan Stevens) in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the beast’s hideous exterior, recognising the kind heart and soul of the true prince that hides on the inside. This film is beautifully constructed and made! Overall it was an interesting revamp of the original animated 1992 classic. Filled with the same musical numbers and dance sequences, there a few twists, turns and few surprises during the film. Sorry, no spoilers in this review. The ballroom scene where Belle and the beast are dancing is fantastic. Belle’s dress and the dance moves – WOW, could possibly put the previous Disney Princess, Cinderella to shame! All the characters had a part to play, had more depth, personality and beautifully showcased their uniqueness on screen. As always, the story encourages viewers to look beyond the superficial and to be compassionate, curious, humble, and generous. This movie is a must see and has been worth the long wait. A film that the entire family can enjoy for a quiet night in– especially on a Saturday night! 9/10 all the way!

An added Bonus and non Walt Disney DVDs:

image courtesy of amazon.co.ukRed Dog, True Blue.

Every legend has a beginning. When eleven year old Mick is shipped off to his grandfather’s cattle station in the remote Pilbara region of Western Australia, he prepares himself for a life of dull hardship, but instead finds myth, adventure, and a friendship with a scrappy, one-of-a-kind dog that will change his life forever.

 

image courtesy of amazon.co.ukFinding Dory.

This movie is in a word, FANTASTIC! Finding Dory reunites the friendly but forgetful blue tang fish, Dory, along with her friends, Marlin and Nemo on an epic quest to find Dory’s family. The questions that hangs on everyone’s lips are what does she remember? Who are her parents? And where did she learn to speak whale? Favourite moments in the film include Dory as a baby – Boy, she’s adorable!, Marlin and Nemo’s encounter with the seals, Still can’t get the ‘OFFOFFOFFOFF’ aka the seal talk out of my head, Dory making new friends with Hank, an octopus with seven tentacles and who, for a guy with three hearts is very bad tempered, Dory reuniting with her childhood friend, Destiny and the odd cameo of previous characters from Finding Nemo. Even the Pixar short film, Piper that was released alongside Finding Dory is beautiful and heart warming. Two movies for the price of one, you can’t go wrong. Overall, I loved the film! It will make you laugh, it will make you cry and it will make you want to watch it over and over again. It is truly unforgettable. A well deserved 9/10.

10 New Non Fiction: Heroes-Gaming-Mythology-Programming Winter Madness at the library!

School holidays are around the corner and Wellington City Libraries is bursting with Junior Non Fiction on their shelves for your viewing pleasure and entertainment. All the resources you need to get schooled up on folklore, mythology, coding, computer programing and much, much more! Let the heroes-gaming-mythology-programming winter madness at the library begin!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsDC Comics Super Heroes: The Awesome Guide.

“Ever wondered where Superman got his powers, or how The Flash became so speedy? Or why Wonder Woman flies an Invisible Jet, and why Batman has so many cool vehicles? All the answers and more can be found in this totally awesome guide to LEGO DC Comics Super Heroes. Discover the origins of the Justice League and their secret identities. Gasp at the amazing superpowers and learn all about their incredible collections of gadgets and vehicles. Who will win the fight between good and evil? It’s time to find out!”

 

image courtesy of syndetics

The amazing book of Marvel Spider-Man.

Now that you have had your DC fix, why not have some Marvel for added measure. Check out this amazing book on Spiderman, his friends and foes. A great resource to have on hand just in time for Spiderman: Homecoming. Check out the trailer down below.


image courtesy of syndeticsTimeline : a visual history of our world.

Translated from the Dutch. Originally published under the title ‘Tijdlijn’.

 

 

 

Multicultural Stories from…

image courtesy of syndetics India.

A collection of traditional stories retold from the folktales and epics of India, including “Dead Man Walking,” “Valmiki–the Highway Poet,” and “The Goddess with her Hands Full.”

 

 

 

image courtesy of sydneticsWest Africa.

From the flesh-eating ghosts to the fearsome Sasabonsam Monster and the tale of a man named Hate-to-be-contradicted, these exciting stories are about tricks and magic, cunning heroes and wicked villains, and the threats of terrifying ghost.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMinecraft: Guide to Exploration.

The mysterious world of Minecraft is just waiting to be explored. But danger lurks around every corner and survival can prove difficult for even the bravest adventurer. The official Minecraft Guide to Exploration from Mojang will help you to survive and thrive. You’ll learn how to find resources, craft equipment and protect yourself from hostile mobs. Discover which biomes to avoid when starting out, how to build a mob-proof shelter and where to look for naturally-generated structures laden with loot. With insider info and tips from the experts at Mojang, this is the definitive guide to exploration and survival in Minecraft.

image courtesy of syndeticsPokémon Encyclopedia.

“This up-to-date, comprehensive encyclopedia features: fascinating facts and figures about Pokémon and their world; the definitive reference for key characters, battles and places; every region, including Kalos; Pokémon life lessons; Ash’s story, his friends … and enemies!”–Back cover.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsCool mythology : filled with fantastic facts for kids of all ages.

This fun book is a fascinating introduction to world mythology, broken up into handy bite-sized chunks. It covers all the main world mythologies, including Sumerian, Incan, African, Native American, African, Egyptian, Persian, Hindu, Norse and, of course, Greek and Roman, including the famous Olympians (Zeus, Hera, Poseidon and others). It begins with a selection of creation myths from different cultures (for example the Dreamtime of Aboriginal Australian mythology) and delves into individual stories from mythology, such as Perseus meeting Medusa and Pandora’s box. It covers fantastical mythological creatures from the fearsome Manticore from Persian legend to the modern-day Yeti, plus giants, dragons and the Phoenix. It explores mythological places like Atlantis and various versions of the afterlife, from the idyllic Arthurian Avalon to the rather less pleasant Yomi, the dark and gloomy underworld of Japanese mythology. Ancient myths are still relevant to today’s society, explaining traditions and giving lasting moral lessons.

image courtesy of syndeticsCoding Games in SCRATCH.

Coding computer programs is one of the most valuable skills for anyone to have. Written for children with little to no coding experience, Coding Games with Scratch guides children through building platform games, puzzles, racers, and 3-D action games. Schools have incorporated computer coding into their curriculum, beginning as early as kindergarten to ensure students understand the languages and uses of computer coding. The step-by-step guides are simple and easy to follow with Minecraft-style pixel art. Children will learn essential coding skills while having fun and creating games to play with their friends. The many different styles and types of games are covered, such as classic and arcade games. When people learn to code in Scratch, they learn important strategies for solving problems, designing projects, and communicating ideas. Coding Games with Scratch empowers children to be creative and to have fun while teaching them practical real-life skills. Great for ages 9 to 12 years old and great to have on hand for the ‘Meet The Robots’ event at your local library.

Also check out:

image courtesy of syndeticsComputer coding games for kids.

Your kids will be building computer games and learning code in no-time with ‘Computer coding games for kids’. Kids can enter the world of programming in this illustrated guide packed with step-by-step explanations showing kids how to build all types of games, from puzzles and racers to 3D action games. The perfect way to introduce a reluctant child to coding, ‘Computer coding games for kids’ shows kids how to have fun with Scratch by creating games. Simple instructions and graphics breakdown coding with Scratch so kids learn all the code they need to build, play and share their favourite games with friends.

image courtesy of syndeticsHelp your kids with computer coding : a unique step-by-step visual guide, from binary code to building games.

This unique guide is full of fun exercises and helpful tips that will help children learn all aspects of coding. Step-by-step explanations make the complex art of programming clear, teaching the basics of JavaScript, Python, and C++. Eventually building to more advanced projects, Help Your Kids with Computer Coding will have children and parents alike creating their own games, apps, 3-D models, animations, and websites in no time. 

8 New Non Fiction to read during Autumn.

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.

 

Top 10 children’s non-fiction for December 2016

This month’s Top 10 has so many great books in it!  The new Annual a group of New Zealand writers, illustrators, musicians and poets have come together, sourced by Kate deGoldi and Kate Paris from Gecko Press.

Lego and Minecrafters have the virtual and real life block worlds covered and beautiful photos from Vesa  Lehtimäki show off the lego model world.

Maori myths and legends illustrator and author Peter Gossage, died this year, so it’s a fitting tribute that his books should still be so popular with younger readers.  His iconic images live on in the books he created.  His illustrations were also part of animated versions, here for your viewing pleasure.

 

Here’s your Top 10 for December: 

1. LEGO, by Daniel Lipkowitz

2. Hacks for Minecrafters, by Megan Miller

3. Harry Potter and the cursed child, by Jack Thorne, John Tiffany and J. K. Rowling

4. Minecraft : Redstone Handbook, by Nick Farwell

5. Star Wars character encyclopedia, by Simon Beecroft and Pablo Hidalgo

6. Minecraft. Construction Handbook, by Matthew Needler

7. Small scenes from a big galaxy, by Vesa  Lehtimaki

8. Pokemon gotta catch ’em all! published by Scholastic

9. Annual edited by Kate de Goldi and Susan Paris

10. Maui and other Maori legends, by Peter Gossage

 

7 New Non Fiction to read during the last days of spring.

It’s less than three weeks till the end of spring and the beginning of summer. Pop on down to your local library and check out the latest new junior non fiction that will take you on a journey into the wonderful world of animals, fairies, Star Wars and Harry Potter. Enjoy!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsA first book of animals

From blue whales to bumblebee bats and everything in between, A First Book of Animals takes you all over the planet to visit all kinds of different creatures.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsStar Wars: complete locations

Check out this updated, expanded guide to a galaxy far, far away and discover a universe of information of the Star Wars galaxy, which includes brand-new material from Star Wars: The Force Awakens. With eight brand new artworks, and an incredible range of location cross-sections, illustrations, and photographs, Star Wars: Complete Locations is the essential guide for anyone wanting to find their way around the galaxy far, far away.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsHarry Potter Cinematic Guide

Prepare to enter the world of Harry Potter by reading this cinematic guide which holds an outstanding collection of photographs and quotes, featuring Harry Potter, describing his life at Hogwarts, his relationships with friends and family, and his battles with Voldemort.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsHermione Granger : cinematic guide

Girl power is rolled into one with The Essential Film Companion for Hermione Granger! Throughout all eight HARRY POTTER films, Hermione shows her wisdom and daring on her adventures with best friends Harry and Ron, secretly brewing Polyjuice Potion, rescuing Sirius Black with a Time-Turner, and creating Dumbledore’s Army. Revisit these moments and more from the girl who proved that Muggle-borns can be the most skilled witches and wizards of all.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsRon Weasley : cinematic guide

Harry Potter’s sidekick, Ron Weasley finally gets his own starring role in his own Essential Film Companion! This collection of photographs and quotes from all eight HARRY POTTER films takes a closer look at Ron’s life, including his time at Hogwarts, family and friends, and dangerous battles against the Dark Lord, Voldemort.

 

 

image courtesy of sydneticsFairy World

Read this book and step inside a world of magic, enchantment and mystery as you enter the realm of the fairies. A great book for girls to enjoy.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMy first Dog Book

This essential guide covers everything you need to know about caring for your dog and basic training techniques, with easy step-by-step instructions, from sit, down, and stay to walking to heel on the lead.