superheroes

8 new Non Fiction on how to build, create and innovate!

Katie

It’s time to build, create, educate and innovate with the latest junior non fiction books.  With STEAM, (science, technology, engineering, arts and math), learning on the rise, these book are perfect to inspire play and interest in science, technology, engineering, arts, mathmatics and coding and help kids develop the skills needed to do well in education, designing, problem solving and teamwork. Also featured in the post are books about public speaking, presentation skills, stories about heroes for boys, and the official guide to the Disney and Pixars 2004 film: The Incredibles.

Enjoy!

IMAGE COURTESY OF SYNDETICSBrick building 101.

Now kids can combine a love for LEGO with learning STEAM topics (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) in this awesomely fun activity book! Industrious minds will love learning to build a bunch of different stuff with these 20 step-by-step projects that range from beginner projects, such as a geo-board and DIY slime, to more challenging projects, such as a bird feeder and balloon racer. Large, full-colour photos show each step along the way, with simple instructions and inspiration to extend projects and keep learning. With STEAM learning on the rise, this book is the perfect way to inspire play and interest in the topics kids need to know about!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsGiving a presentation.

“An approachable guide to help master and apply the writing, speaking, and listening skills involved in preparing for and confidently delivering an effective presentation”– Provided by publisher.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsNow make this : 24 DIY projects by designers for kids.

“25 of the world’s leading designers contribute one object each for kids to make themselves”–Amazon.com.

 

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsSTEAM lab for kids : 52 creative hands-on projects using science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

“The creative projects in STEAM Lab for Kids are designed to demonstrate that there’s math and science to be found in great art! From rubber bands to edible stained glass, young engineers and artists alike will find inspiration in these 52 art-forward labs.” — Back cover.

 


image courtesy of syndeticsIncredibles 2: The Official Guide. 

Disney and Pixar’s lovable characters, The Increidbles are back and better than ever!

“Discover everything you wanted to know about brave superheroes, dastardly villains and cool vehicles from Incredibles 2, the awesome new sequel to Disney-Pixar’s smash hit movie, The Incredibles. When a new villain hatches a brilliant and dangerous plot, the Parr family and their old friend Frozone must find a way to work together again – which is easier said than done, even when they’re all Incredible. This book covers all the memorable and ever-popular characters, plus key locations, themes and iconic moments from the movie.” — Amazon.com.

Check out the movie trailer down below.

 


image courtesy of syndeticsSTEAM play & learn.

Preschoolers will love tackling these 20 fun, easy-to-follow step-by-step projects as they learn about STEAM topics (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). Topics include symmetry and how light bounces to create reflections with mirror mandalas, diffusion and capillary action with tie dye towels, structural framing and bracing with marshmallow structures, and electrical currents with salty circuits. This cross-subject approach to learning will prepare young children for the subjects they will soon learn in elementary school and beyond. Each project features simple instructions and large, full-color photos, to make each one enjoyable and fun for both kids and parents.

 


image courtesy of syndeticsCoding with Minecraft : build taller, farm faster, mine deeper, and automate the boring stuff.

A hands-on introduction to coding that teaches you how to program bots to do cool things in the game you love–Minecraft! This book takes you through Step-by-step coding projects and will show you how to write programs that automatically dig mines, collect materials, craft items, and build anything that you can imagine. Along the way, you’ll explore key computer science concepts like data types, functions, variables, and more. Bonus activities in each chapter will help you take your coding skills to the next level. By the end of the book, you’ll understand how powerful coding can be and have plenty of robots at your beck and call.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsStories for boys who dare to be different : true tales of amazing boys who changed the world without killing dragons.

Stories for Boys Who Dare to Be Different offers a welcome alternative narrative. It is an extraordinary compilation of 100 stories of famous and not-so-famous men from the past to the present day, every single one of them a rule-breaker and innovator in his own way, and all going on to achieve amazing things. Entries include Frank Ocean, Salvador Dalí, Rimbaud, Beethoven, Barack Obama, Stormzy, Ai Weiwei and Jesse Owens – different sorts of heroes from all walks of life and from all over the world.

Latest Top 10 Childrens DVDs

Dusty

Wellington is known for it’s unpredictable summers so have some indoor entertainment ready! These are the Children’s favorites from our collection.  Is one of them yours?

Sing! is a DVD for all of those who have struck a pose in front of a mirror, copied dance moves from their favourite songs or fleetingly thought about performing!  If you get inspired, the library has some great stuff to help you with your performance =)

We have scores, music, play scripts and heaps of CDs and movies for you to sing or act along side of. Have a performance piece already? Let us know the the comments =)

  1. PAW patrol.
  2. My little pony, friendship is magic.
  3. Moana
  4. The LEGO Batman movie
  5. Beauty and the beast
  6. Sing!
  7. Smurfs
  8. The boss baby
  9. Finding Dory
  10. Strawberry Shortcake.

15 New Non Fiction: The Makerspace and Movie Post.

Katie

Hi Kids. Welcome to the Makerspace and movie blog post. Check out all the latest books added to the Wellington City Libraries’ junior non fiction that you need to create your own makerspace area all about coding, 3D printing, minecraft, video capture, arts and crafts. Also included is books and movie trailers on upcoming movies due to be released such as Justice League and Coco.

Enjoy!

Building Amazing Creations.image courtesy of syndetics

This large-format photographic book provides a fascinating in-depth look at a LEGO artist’s oeuvre. Chapters explore such subjects as transportation vehicles, animals, life-size work, science fiction, nature, cities, sports, portraits, and even home furnishings and custom apartments! A personalized LEGO compendium perfect for brick-building enthusiasts of all ages.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsCoco : the essential guide .

Explore the art of the Disney movie Coco! Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Hector. Follow along with word-for-word narration as, together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history.

Check out the trailer down below!

image courtesy of syndeticsJustice League : the ultimate guide.

“This comprehensive guide celebrates the exciting world of the iconic Justice League Super Heroes, a roster that includes SUPERMAN, BATMAN, WONDER WOMAN, GREEN LANTERN, THE FLASH, AQUAMAN, and CYBORG. A must-have for fans, this book showcases major in-world events in the Justice League’s pulsating story, spanning nearly 60 years of comic book history, and is packed with info on the team’s allies, enemies, bases, origins, and more. Includes artwork from the first Justice League comic book in March 1960 to the crucial Rebirth issues and beyond. The stunning design contains lots of in-world information, including in-depth profiles of characters, key comic book issues, and special features on the Justice League’s greatest adventures.”–Publisher website.

Check out the trailer down below!

Also check out the latest and extended trailer of Star Wars: The Last Jedi!

image courtesy of syndetics3D Printing Projects.

Over 20 exciting 3D printing projects for kids to design and print their own toys, gadgets, models, and ornaments. Using freely available 3D modelling software and without the need for your own 3D printer, 3D Printing Projects has inspiration and instructions for a wide range of thrilling projects, from simple models you can print and assemble at home to more elaborate builds you can design on screen and then order online.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsYouTube World Records.

Featuring more than 300 jaw-dropping records and super-powered by exclusive, instant-access QR codes, this unique collection is the best place to find some of the world’s most amazing records being broken.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsHello Ruby: Journey Inside the Computer.

Join Ruby on her journey to what goes on inside a computer. This half picture book, half activity book will help kids understand computer logic and introduces programming without having a computer at all.

Also check out Adventures in Coding, where kids will be introduced through storytelling to the basic concepts of coding. With activities included in every chapter, future kid coders will be thrilled to put their own imaginations to work. image courtesy of syndetics

 

 

 

 

 

image courtesy of sydneticsMinecraft annual 2018.

Contains accounts of the Mojang team’s epic adventures, comic strips depicting your favourite YouTubers’ adventures, and the experts at Mojang have some challenges for you to try in-game, too. This book finds survival strategy for adventurers, a feature about Adventure Mode, inspiration for adventure map builds and ideas for real-world adventures.

 

image courtesy of syndetics101 Video Games to play before you grow up.

Each page in this interactive handbook offers behind-the-scenes tidbits and trivia about the games that belong on your bucket list, along with parental rating guidelines, series background information, and storyline previews. Gamers can record their personal ratings of each series as they play their way through the list, making notes and critiquing the best and worst parts of each game.

 

Code your own…

image courtesy of syndeticsJungle Adventure.

Fearless Captain Maria’s adventure is brought to life by encouraging readers to draw central characters, animate plot lines and create games. With easy-to-follow, illustrated step-by-step instructions, this book introduces key coding concepts through simple and practical tasks – from drawing shapes and giving instructions in code to building games and much more!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsKnight Adventure.

Sir Percival’s brilliant adventure is brought to life by encouraging the reader to draw central characters, animate plot lines, and create games. With easy-to-follow, illustrated, step-by-step instructions, this book introduces key coding concepts through simple and practical tasks–from drawing shapes and giving instructions in code, to building games, and much more!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsPirate Adventure.

Pirate Pierre needs your help to find the lost treasure! With easy-to-follow, illustrated, step-by-step instructions, this book introduces key coding concepts through simple and practical tasks – from drawing shapes and giving instructions in code, to building games, and much more!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsSpace Adventure.

Astronaut Kate’s quest to save Planet Zyskinar is brought to life by encouraging the reader to draw central characters, animate plot lines, and create games! With easy-to-follow, illustrated step-by-step instructions, this book introduces key coding concepts through simple and practical tasks – from drawing shapes and giving instructions in code to building games and much more!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsEasy Origami Decorations.

Handcrafted decorations are just a few folds away! Learn how to turn origami butterflies, swans, and tulips into locker magnets, table decorations, and more.

 

 

 

image courtesy of sydneticsMinecraft mobestiary.

Written by a naturalist who has made it his life’s work to study Minecraft’s mobs, and illustrated with field sketches, Minecraft Mobestiary is the definitive guide to every mob in the game. You’ll find little-known facts about passive, neutral, hostile, utility and boss mobs, as well as more general information about their location, behaviour, threat level and drops.

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

Katie

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. 

9 New “action packed” Non Fiction to curb the winter blues.

Katie

Hey Kids! Welcome to the latest Junior Non Fiction blog post!

July and winter has finally hit and there will days where you want nothing more than to stay inside and hibernate with a hot cup of cocoa and a library book. (Hmmm, sounds like heaven to me!)

Once again, Wellington City Libraries has new “action packed” non fiction bursting through our shelves for your viewing and reading pleasure for boys and girls of all ages.

There are books where the world of Greek mythology, the world of Greek gods and goddesses and… superheroes collides. Not to mention the odd Greek word here and there; Superheroes are featured that boys and girls can look up to; there are books for girls  in the sporting, dancing  and superhero world, hmmm I think I detect a bit of a girl power theme going on and finally books that will help you find the right word for any given situation.

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsHow cities work : explore the city inside, outside and underground.

Lonely Planet kids has done it again with “How Cities Work.” This book allows kids the opportunity to explore the city inside, outside and underground, with lots of cool flaps to lift to see inside buildings, not to mention unfold pages to find out what is going on above your head and udder your feet. Overall a fantastic book that gives a full in depth account to city life as you have never seen it before, and already a popular book amongst kids, which is currently hot on the reserve list.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe right word : Roget and his thesaurus.

Lost for words? You can certainly find the right words in this book. “The Right Word” tells the story of Peter Mark Roget, a brilliant man who took his love for words and turned it to organizing ideas and finding exactly the right word to express just what he thought, who went on the be the creator of Roget’s Thesaurus, one of the most widely used reference books ever published. A biography and a thesaurus all in one, who could ask for more!

DID YOU KNOW: The word “Thesaurus” means “treasure house” in Greek.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Gods and Goddesses of Olympus.

This book briefly recounts the stories of members of the Greek pantheon. Overall a great read and a fantastic introduction to the Greek Gods and Goddesses.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsBatman character encyclopaedia.

Brace yourself, Batman and DC Comics fanatics, the latest Batman Character Encyclopaedia has made its way to the shelves at your local library. Discover all the powerful, strange and crazy characters from the world of Batman. Meet your favorite Super Heroes and learn all about the most fearsome super-villains.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsWonder Woman: The Ultimate Guide to The Amazon Warrior.

“Keep faith. Trust  to love. Fight with honor. But fight to win.” – Wonder Woman.

This is a motto worth remembering.

Finally a superhero that young girls can look up to! A guide to the world of  demigoddess, Wonder Woman includes seventy-five years of iconic characters, major story arcs, and key issues, along with information on locations, enemies, and allies. This is a must have read for every comic fanatic and a great companion alongside The Gods and Goddesses of Olympus!

Also check the following trailers to Wonder Woman, which has just been released in theatres and Justice League, which won’t be released until sometime in 2018, down below.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Beginner’s Guide to Netball.

Maria Tuta’ia, New Zealand international netball player takes you on journey to help you become or improve your skills in playing netball and perhaps ensure your career as a future silver fern, heehee. You will learn skills such as how to shoot goals under pressure, master passing accuracy and pull off the perfect dodge.  “Features the basic skills every netballer should be familiar with, no matter what their position. Read about the story of netball as well as Maria’s own journey to becoming an international netball superstar”–Publisher information.

image courtesy of syndetics
The Barefoot Book of Ballet Stories.

This book hold beautiful retellings of six of the world’s greatest ballet stories are accompanied by two story CDs read by Juliet Stevenson that is bound to enrich library collections and inspire young dancers. This book is in a word… GORGEOUS! A must have read for the budding ballerina and dance enthusiast.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsLots : the diversity of life on Earth.

One, two, three …lots!  Find out in this beautiful and brilliant book how all living things – including us – are part of a big, beautiful pattern and depend on each other for survival. With beautiful words from Nicola Davies and exquisite illustrations by Emily Sutton, this groundbreaking book is certain to enchant and inspire children. Overall a fantastic read that that is suitable for young children and serves as an educational resource on biodiversity and conservation.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe ultimate unofficial encyclopedia for Minecrafters : multiplayer mode : exploring hidden games and secret worlds.

Calling all Minecrafters! Looking for a new challenge? Minecraft strikes again! This book presents information on the world of Minecraft, including how and where to play safely online, playing in creative and survival modes, and server plugins for advanced players.

 

6 New Non Fiction to sink your teeth into.

Katie

It’s happening at once! The end of the school holidays, the beginning of Term Two and only a month to go before winter officially hits the Capital. Have no fear, the library has more new junior non fiction books recently added to the collection. Check out amazing books on superheroes; the weird and peculiar; books to sink your teeth into and good old fashioned entertainment to keep you amused from now until the next round of school holidays.

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsThe League of Superhero Games.

All the greatest superheroes  of all time come together in one book. From free-to-play to triple-A blockbusters, everything is covered in The League of Superhero Games: LEGO Batman, Avengers Initiative, and Spider-Man: Total Mayhem are just a few of the wildly popular superhero video games featured in this in-depth guide. A must have book for all the budding gamers and superhero fanatics.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsPerfectly peculiar! : Ripley’s believe it or not!

Ripley’s Believe it or not has taken weirdness to a whole new level! Drop in to the weird, wide world of Ripley’s with this unique collection of amazing stories, jaw-dropping facts, incredible feats, and more. It’s Perfectly Peculiar!

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Book of Chocolate.

Mmmmmmm, chocolate. This book is bound to make you hungry and gorge on one of the greatest sweet treats in creation. Read this book and discover all you need to know about… YES, believe it, CHOCOLATE! From its origin as the sacred, bitter drink of Central American rulers to the familiar candy bars sold by today’s multimillion dollar businesses, people everywhere have fallen in love with chocolate, the world’s favourite flavour.

image courtesy of synedticsBear Grylls’ Survival camp : the ultimate all-terrain training manual.

It’s a wonderful world out there just waiting to be discovered, but are you ready to be an explorer? Do you know how to cope with searing heat and intense cold? Can you find food and water in the wild? Could you avoid deadly diseases and fight back against man-eating beasts? Let Bear Grylls teach you everything you need to know to venture through all of Earth’s terrain, as well as through the air, over the seas, and under the waves in Bear Grylls Survival Camp. The perfect gift for any young adventurers in training.

image courtesy of syndeticsHow this book was made.

You may think you know how this book was made, but you don’t. Sure, the author wrote many drafts, and the illustrator took a long time creating the art, but then what? How’d it get into your hands? Well, open the cover and read through these pages to find out. Just beware of the pirates and angry tiger. Overall, probably one of the most quirky and interesting books I have ever read and a highly recommended book for those wanting to pursue a career in writing, illustrating and librarianship.

image courtesy of syndeticsStar Wars: The Visual Encyclopaedia.

Yes, more Star Wars books in the library! Feast your eyes on the latest literary instalment in the Star Wars universe: Star Wars: The Visual Encyclopaedia. From lightsabers to beasts to food to clothing, this book is a virtual museum in a book. Jam packed with beautiful galleries with more than 2,500 images, and amazing facts about Star Wars culture, science and geography.

Top 10 Children’s non-fiction for November 2016

Dusty

Star Wars fans are having a great lead into the holidays with the release of Rogue One. There are some great materials related to the space epic in the library, some of them remain exclusively in the library! The reference shelf has some amazing paper engineering – known as pop-up books.  If you don’t see the Star Wars : a galactic pop-up adventure on the shelf, ask at a desk and you’ll get to see the glowing lightsaber appear from the pages!

 

1.  LEGO Books, by Daniel Lipkowitz

2.  Minecraft ; The survivors’ book of secrets, by Stephanie Milton

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

4.  Star Wars, by Adam Bray

5.  Star wars ; complete vehicles, by David West Reynolds

6.  Minecraft, by Nick Farwell

7.  Star Wars character encyclopedia, by Simon Beecroft

8.  Guinness world records 2016, edited by Craig Glenday

9.  Lego DC comics Super heroes character encyclopedia, by Simon Hugo

10.Minecraft hacks master builder, by Megan Miller

6 new children’s non fiction summer entertainment guide

Katie

December marks the first month of summer, the countdown to Christmas and the end of 2016. Let’s hope 2017 is an even better year! So for your reading pleasure, the library has some new non fiction available from your local library for lazy days in sun – if cricket doesn’t tickle your fancy or the occasional rainy days. Check out books about Marvel’s heroes, Star Wars, building your own lego creations and classic childhood favourites. Enjoy!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Cuckoo and the warbler.

The cuckoo and the warbler tells the unique story of one of the most remarkable wildlife relationships in New Zealand, between pipiwharauroa, the shining cuckoo, and riroriro, the grey warbler. Although rarely seen by humans, the interaction of these two native birds is a striking example of nature’s inventiveness – a drama that comes to life through the exquisite illustrations of Heather’s hunt’s latest book.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Ultimate Peter Rabbit.

A childhood classic and favourite of all time. Journey into a world where Beatrix Potter’s creations comes to life in the gorgeous visual guide. Meet the real Peter Rabbit, (Beatrix Potter’s childhood pet), discover real life places that inspired all of Potter’s works and pore over original archive illustrations, sketches and photographs.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsAwesome Lego Creations.

A must have for all the lego fans out there! Grab hold of this book and have a blast with building new lego toys, including animals, scenes and working contraptions.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Amazing Book of Star Wars.

Start your Padawan’s training off right with The Amazing Book of Star Wars, the perfect introduction for young fans to the Star Wars galaxy. Large pictures and short, simple sentences bring Star Wars to life for children as they learn about the brave heroes, helpful droids, amazing aliens, and powerful foes from the saga. Favorite characters and fascinating vehicles are explored in a fun, age-appropriate way, from Yoda and Luke Skywalker to the Millennium Falcon and BB-8″–Publisher’s website.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMaui and other Maori Legends.

A very special collection of exciting, magical Maori myths and legends of adventure and intrigue. A great resource to have on hand for Maori language week and Matariki.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMarvel : absolutely everything you need to know … 

Packed with fun facts, bizarre-but-true tales, and quirky insights into everyone’s favorite Marvel comic characters, including The Avengers, Spider-Man, and Daredevil. little-known facts and information about the iconic Marvel characters.

 

 

 

To celebrate summer and Christmas, check out this awesome clip where Irish pop star, Ronan Keating and Kiwi actor, Julian Dennison put 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.  In Summer Wonderland, the duo sing about prickles on the lawn, passing around a can of mozzie spray, and tucking into pavlova. This Christmas carol really showcases and beautifully captures the sprit and essence of a Kiwi Christmas! Check it out!

 

 

 

 

6 New Non Fiction to cook up a storm!

Katie

Grab hold of these new non fiction books during the school holidays start so you can cook up a storm, whether it is in your own kitchen or backyard.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe ultimate guide to being a superhero

Want to unleash you inner gourmet superhero? Have no fear, we have just the book for you. The ultimate guide to being a superhero is packed with recipes, manoeuvres, and gadgets for every aspiring superhero. Is sure to delight every superchild, every fan of the classic comic book genre, and every parent looking for great party ideas. Recipes include: Kryptonite Jell-O Secret Identity Sandwiches Sidekick Salad Kapow! Cupcakes Super Power Punch And much more!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsOutdoor Science Lab for kids

The great outdoors is nature’s own science lab and you can find lots if fun experiments just outside your back door. This book, complete with 52 fun science activities can bring your own personal outdoor science lab to life. Great for families to do together where they can anything and everything about science while enjoying the sights and scenes of the great outdoors. Great for ages 7+.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Help Yourself Cookbook For Kids

Want to get on the clean eating path? This irresistible cookbook can help empower children to take charge of their own nutrition help you. Also full of  60 appealing  (and healthy) recipes, and cool facts, such as dehydration causes you brain to shrink. Hmmm, makes you want to reach over for that water bottle.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsSecrets of Animal Camouflage

This is your chance to discover who is hiding in the wild and the secret world of animal camouflage. Shine a light behind the page and see… a world filled with great surprises in the animal kingdom.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsFashion rebels : style icons who changed the world through fashion

Calling all fashion rebels! We finally have a book that can help you bring out your innovative fashion creativity and where you can break the rules! Buried deep within the pages, is information female designers and icons, such as Coco Chanel, Marie Antoinette and Katharine Hepburn who treated fashion as an act of fearless creativity, set their standards as to what they would wear rather than follow trends ad as a result changed the fashion industry, as well as the world forever!

 

image courtesy of sydneticsThe young chef : recipes and techniques for kids who love to cook

This book teaches kids to cook and think like a chef, with 100 delicious recipes, essential techniques, insider tips, fun facts, and more. A must have read for the enthusiastic, budding chef!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Pixar Movies to watch these school holidays

Katie

Just in time for the wintery-est of school holidays. With the release of Finding Dory, produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures, why not go down to your local library and check out some other DVDs released by the same companies:

image courtesy of amazon.com

Finding Nemo (2003)

Go back to where it all began where Marlin goes on an epic quest from the great barrier reef to Sydney in order to find and save his son, Nemo, while meeting and encountering new friends on the way such as surfer turtles that live to 150 years old, vegetarian sharks who have regular meetings and of course, Dory herself!, a good-hearted and optimistic regal blue tang with short-term memory loss.

 

image courtesy of amazon.com

The Incredibles (2004)

Looking for a DVD where action, Superheroes and Disney are combined? Look no further, Check out The Incredibles, a movie that follows a family of superheroes who are forced to hide their powers and live a quiet suburban life. Mr. Incredible’s desire to help people draws the entire family into a battle with a villain and his killer robot.

 

 

image courtesy of amazon.com

Cars (2006)

A hot-shot race-car named Lightning McQueen gets waylaid in Radiator Springs, where he finds the true meaning of friendship and family. This is a movies that boys will enjoy, especially boys into cars and formula one racing.

 

 

 

image courtesy of amazon.com

WALL-E (2008)

In the distant future, a small waste-collecting robot named WALL-E, inadvertently embarks on a space journey, to reunite with new found friend, fellow robot named EVE, that will ultimately decide the fate of mankind.

 

 

image courtesy of amazon.com

Up (2009)

Seventy-eight year old Carl Fredricksen travels to Paradise Falls in his home equipped with balloons, inadvertently taking a young stowaway named Russell. This is the movie that came up with sayings and references such as ‘Adventure is out there!”, “the cone of shame.”, and where Kevin can be a girl’s name and Dogs can talk, not meaning woof, woof but actual words like: “My name is Dug. I have just met you, and I love you.”