video games

School Holidays: WHODUNNIT? at Wellington City SPYbraries

Merritt 0 Comments

From the 13th to the 28th of April, we invite you to join us for WHODUNNIT? at Wellington City SPYbraries and enter a world of detectives, spies, espionage, and mystery.

We have a whole range of exciting activities planned for you – race against the clock to solve a mystery, search through your local library – sorry, SPYbrary – to solve the mystery of the Golden Tickets, create your own kit of spy gadgets, or put together a tricksy maze using our LEGO® sets – there’s something for everyone!

Wellington City Libraries will also be welcoming two authors into our spaces over the April holidays.

Avril McDonald will be joining us in seven of our libraries for several storytimes throughout the first week of the holidays as she celebrates the launch of her latest book The Wolf and the Hocus Pocus and of the Empowering Brave Voices campaign. For more information about these events, check out this blog post.

Paul Beavis will be leading a fantastic workshop at Te Māhanga | Karori Library in the second week of the holidays where tamariki will get to learn about how a picture book is made and learn some illustration tips and tricks from the master. To find out more about this event, check out this blog post.

If you’re a bit older (ages 12-19) head over to our Teen Blog to learn about our online challenge for teens!

​Visit this page to see the whole calendar, or read on to find out more about what’s coming up at your local library or community centre!

 

Whodunnit? Puzzle Room Challenge

Race the timer to solve a mystery!Three red question marks on a black background

Work your way as a team through a series of hands-on and brain-teasing puzzles to solve the mystery, accuse the correct suspect, and save the day!

Recommended for tamariki aged 7-13 with their caregivers.

Find out how to register for a 30-minute slot with the links below.

Incognito Investigator Kit

Are you a super spy in the making?black and white images of a mask and cardboard magnifying glass and binoculars

Come along to the library to craft your very own spy-kit. Make and decorate your very own binoculars, magnifying glass, mask, or spy-dentification card.

For tamariki aged 5+ with their caregivers.

Join us at two of our libraries for a special detective-themed storytime, followed by the chance to create something to add to your investigator kit.

Where in the Library is Carmen Sandiego?

1985 – the year of the release of the original Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? on floppy disk!an early-stly computer with three red question marks above it, over a background of green binary code

Enter a virtual time machine at the library and learn how to enable our modern computers to run video games from the ‘80s and early ‘90s using emulation software, and experience the classic sleuthing game from 1985 in its original form.

For ages 10+ with their caregivers, if under 14. Laptops will be provided.

Registrations are required as spaces are limited. Find out how to register using the links below.

Golden Ticket Quest

Join us at the library for a thrilling detective adventure!A beaver holding a pencil looks at a board explaining the pigpen code, under a pair of glowing golden tickets

Decode cryptic clues, uncover mysterious messages, and work together in teams to find golden tickets hidden within the library. Can your team find all the tickets before your time runs out?

For ages 8+ with their caregivers.

To register for a librarian-led team experience, visit the link below. Otherwise just drop into your local library, ask the librarian at the desk for the first clue, and head off on your own adventure amongst the shelves!

Let’s go LEGO®: Spy Edition

Come down to the library and test your hand at LEGO® mazes and blind builds!A scene of LEGO minifigs - a detective holds a magnifying glass as a robber climbs the side of a building behind her

Put your creative skills to the test as you design and build your masterpiece using our LEGO® collections.
Recommended for tamariki aged 5+ with their caregivers.

Or join us at Tawa Community Centre for a session of Let’s Go LEGO®: Gadget Edition and combine LEGO® building with some of our spy-gadgets.

Mystery Movie

Join us at the SPYbrary for a casual film viewing of a *mysterious* nature.A giraffe wearing sunglasses and a whale with a false moustache stand in front of a beam of light cast by a camera

What movie are we showing? Who knows?! – we’re not allowed to tell! (But if you call and ask we will let you know!)
Will it be good? – Absolutely! Well, we think so anyway.

All movies screened are rated G or PG.

Tech Time: Gadget Fun

Come along for a hands-on experience with our library spy-gadgets!robotic bee-bots next to a magnifying glass

Try out our robots, and other devices and have the freedom to experiment with them in a (reasonably) free-play environment.

Registrations are required as spaces are limited. Find out how to register using the link below.

Throwback Gaming Afternoon

Experience retro gaming at the library!

Whether you’re joining us for an afternoon of nostalgia, or to experience new (old) video games, there’s something for everyone. We have a variety of consoles from several decades for you to try out.

This event is for ages 10+ (with no upper age limit!), and registrations are required. Find out how to register using the links below.

Experience VR

Virtual reality (VR) offers us a new and exciting way to learn about and experience the world around us. From 3D painting and virtual sculpting to problem-solving with robots and exploring some of the world’s most extreme locations, this is your opportunity to experience VR from the safety and comfort of the Island Bay Community Centre.

This event is suitable for rangatahi aged 10+. Space is limited, so registrations are required — visit the link below to register.

Mystery Board Games

Channel your inner Sherlock and solve mysteries and uncover secrets!

Bring your friends along and make some new ones at our casual mystery-themed board game session.
Choose from a selection of our board games, or bring your own to share.

For ages 5+. Those under 14 will need to be accompanied by a caregiver.

13 New Non Fiction that will leave you spellbound!

Katie

Hey Kids!

There are only a couple of weeks left of spring. Why not spring on down to your local library and check out the latest new junior non fiction!

Read books where you can learn languages with Sesame Street, get spellbound with Harry Potter, read how Maui slowed the sun in English and Te Reo, get your STEAM on and so much more!

Enjoy!


Amazing Inventions.

Odd Science: Inventions is filled with weird and wacky facts that you’ve never heard before. Read about the trainers made of spider silk, wonder at the first record played in space and tell your friends about the robot built in 1937. There are facts about electricity being used as glue, facts about glow-in-the-dark cats and facts about nano-robots that can ‘swim’ inside the body during biopsies!

 


Video Game Creators.

With full-color illustrations and lively text, and chock-full of interesting facts, Awesome Minds: Video Game Creators tells the stories of these amazing men and women who turned a small hobby into a multimillion-dollar industry that changed the way we play and interact, from our living rooms to the arcades, on our computers to our hand-held devices. Awesome Minds: Video Game Creators is the perfect read for those with creative spirits, curious minds, and a love of technology and video games– Provided by publisher.

 


Learn a language with Sesame Street!

Welcome to Mandarin Chinese.

Sesame characters help readers learn Mandarin so they can connect with friends who speak the language. Welcoming words relating to everyday life and friendship give readers new language tools to become smarter, kinder friends.

 


Welcome to French.

Sesame Street characters help readers connect to new friends who speak French. Simple words and phrases relating to everyday life and a colorful approach help readers learn a new language to become smarter, kinder friends.

 


Welcome to German.

Sesame Street characters help readers learn German so they can connect with friends who speak the language. Welcoming words relating to everyday life and friendship give readers new language tools to become smarter, kinder friends.

 


Tales of Aotearoa: How Maui Slowed the Sun in English and Te Reo!

Re-tells the story of how Maui slowed the journey of the sun through the sky each day.

 

 

 

 


Wilma Rudolph.

Read all about Wilma Rudolph, the remarkable sprinter and Olympic champion. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the athlete’s life.

 


Brilliant Bodies.

Prepare to laugh, marvel and learn with Brilliant Bodies. Jam packed full of facts about elements, organs, hair, feet and so much more!

 

 


Game logic : level up and create your own games with science activities for kids.

This book takes kids on a journey to discover the history of games, and then leads them from their initial idea for a new game through several iterations of a game all the way to playing the final version of a game they created. Explore the processes of both playing and creating games while developing critical and creative thinking skills that apply to tasks and concepts across academic fields. — adapted from back cover.

 


The Unofficial Harry Potter Spell book.

The Unofficial Ultimate Harry Potter Spellbook is a beautiful, elegantly designed reference that details all of the known spells cast in the Harry Potter films, books, video games and card games, as well as official Harry Potter spinoffs, such as Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Each spell is given its own entry including spell name, pronunciation details, a description of the spell effect, spell casting methods, wand movements, hand movements and vocalizations, plus primary sources in which the spell was used. Readers will also find trivia related to each spell, such as who it was used against, what the outcome was, or what a spell’s unusual history might be. There are more than 200 spells in all, plus suggestions for strategic spell use and methods for creating original spells.

 


Never too young! : 50 unstoppable kids who made a difference.

“Meet 50 super-inspiring kids! It’s never too early–and you’re never too young– to make a difference in the world! The amazing musicians, writers, scientists, athletes, activists, and other fascinating kids in this book accomplished great feats by the age of eighteen. They impacted people’s lives by coming up with new inventions, making art and music, competing in sports, and speaking out about important issues. Let their incredible stories inspire you to follow your dreams, achieve your goals, and strive for greatness now!”–Back cover.

 

 


Harry Potter. Spells & charms : a movie scrapbook.

Packed with inserts, concept illustrations, and behind-the-scenes photography, Harry Potter: Spells and Charms: A Movie Scrapbook is a guide to the spells and incantations of the Harry Potter films. A must-have collectible for all Harry Potter fans.


The Wonderful World of Roblox!

Katie

Welcome to the wonderful world of Roblox! Move over, Minecraft! Roblox has been taking the world by storm as a multiplayer online and game creation system platform that allows users to design their own games and play a wide variety of different types of games created by other users. As of August 2019, Roblox has over 100 million monthly active users.

So if you’re looking to improve your robloxing skills or new to the game, come on down to your local library and check out the latest release of Roblox books, such as:

image courtesy of syndeticsInside the world of Roblox.

Presents an inside look at the Roblox world, introducing talented members of the community and providing insider information on the games.
image couresty of syndetics

Roblox character encyclopedia.

Offers an official character reference to Roblox, including biographical information and listings of avatar items.
image courtesy of syndeticsRoblox top adventure games.

From the Bloxy Award-winning Jailbreak and Lumber Tycoon 2 to the massively popular Heroes of Robloxia and Apocalypse Rising, this action-packed book gives you the official scoop on some of the most popular and critically-acclaimed adventure games on Roblox. Each profile tells you everything you need to know, including a guide to gameplay, interviews with the creators, and tips and tricks to take your skills to the next level.
image courtesy of syndeticsRoblox top role-playing games.

Offers an introduction to the many role-playing games in the Roblox universe and includes tips, tricks, and interviews with the creators.
image courtesy of syndeticsReady, set, play! : all the funnest, coolest games for kids.

Provides guidance, tips, and tricks for such video games as Minecraft, Angry Birds, Animal Crossing, Crossy Road, Roblox, and Super Mario Run. These games will improve reaction speed, build problem-solving skills, develop imagination and creativity, and encourage teamwork. Many of them are even educational, too!

Top 7 New Non Fiction of 2017.

Katie

Hi kids! Check out the latest and greatest top 7 new non fiction of 2017 in the library collection. Top 7 books that will make sure you’re all schooled up on how to cook simple and healthy meals, forming friendships, becoming the ultimate jedi master in the art of minecraft and wonderful stories  about animals!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsKuwi’s Kitchen: Kiwi Kids’ Cookbook.

Kuwi’s kitchen is filled with easy-to-make recipes, a creative way to encourage kids to make their own simple meals and fun, well balanced healthy lunches.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsGrowing Friendships: A Kid’s Guide to making and keeping friends.

Children want to fit in, but sometimes getting along with friends is complicated. Authors Eileen Kennedy-Moore and Christine McLaughlin give kids the answers they need to make and keep friends using five essential skills: reaching out to make friends, stepping back to keep friends, blending in to join friends, speaking up to share with friends, and letting go to accept friends. — Adapted from back cover.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMinecraft: Master Builder Toolkit.

Become a Minecraft master builder with this incredible step-by-step guide to creating 15 amazing Minecraft masterpieces! Age: 7+

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsGame on! 2018 : your guide to all the best games.

This book, written by gamers for gamers offers information and statistics about all of the hottest games, tips and tricks for gamers, and interviews from gaming’s biggest personalities, including game developers and pro gamers.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMalala’s Magic Pencil.

A beautiful story about a young woman’s goal to make the world a better place and to always hold onto hope even in the most difficult times.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsBig Cats.

In this completely updated edition of Big Cats, award-winning writer Seymour Simon celebrates the grace and power of lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, cheetahs, pumas, and snow leopards. Readers will learn all about how they hunt, care for their young, and rest in their varied natural habitats. Overall this is a fantastic book jam that is well written, easy to understand and jam packed filled with eye catching photographs.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe elephant whisperer : my life with the herd in the African wild.

When Lawrence Anthony was asked to accept a rogue herd of elephants in his reserve in South Africa, it was the last chance for these elephants. If Anthony didn’t take them, they would be shot. But he had no experience with elephants at all. What was he to do? Take them on, of course!–Provided by Publisher.

 

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.

Top 10 New Non Fiction to get you ahead in life while having fun along the way!

Katie

Hey kids! Check out the latest and greatest new non fiction in the junior collection. Top 10 books to get you ahead in life while having fun along the way. Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsLego: Absolutely Everything you need to know.

Can you believe that a wooden duck was one of the LEGO Group’s first toys? Or that 68,000 LEGO pieces are created every minute? Did you know that the evil Overlord is the only NINJAGO® Minifigure to wear a skirt? Or that you’ll find a LEGO croissant piece inside 44 LEGO sets? This book is crammed full of fun and fascinating trivia for LEGO fans of every age. From minuscule Minifigure mugs to the largest LEGOLAND® model, it covers all the places, populations, pieces, and themes that make up the LEGO world. Produced in collaboration with the LEGO Group.

image courtesy of syndeticsSelf Control to the Rescue.

Focusing on specific times of the day that present particular challenges, the book uses illustrations and simple language to describe breathing exercises, stretching, and visualization techniques to help children aged 4-7 keep calm and in control.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsCool Coding.

Want to get into coding? This fun-filled is the perfect introduction to find out how computers count, how the cloud works and what snakes and camels have to do with writing code. Overall a fantastic introduction to the wonderful world of coding.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsAdventures in Raspberry Pi.

Provides instructions for using the Raspberry Pi 3, and explains how it can be used to create stories and games, code music, and build Minecraft worlds.

 

 

 

image courtesy of syndetics10 reasons to love an elephant.

“Did you know that elephants are the largest land animals in the world? Or that they live in herds headed by their grandmothers? Open this book to learn all about why elephants are incredible, and 10 reasons why you should love them.”– Page [4] of cover.

 

 

image courtesy of syndetics10 reasons to love a turtle.

“Did you know that turtles are as ancient as the dinosaurs? Or that they can hold their breath for hours underwater? Open this book to learn all about why turtles are incredible, and 10 reasons why you should love them.”– Page [4] of cover.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsUltimate Marvel.

This definitive in-world guide to the Marvel Comics Universe features, in chronological order, every significant Marvel Comic character, location, vehicle, and weapon in the company’s illustrious history. Go on a fact- and fun-filled journey via the first major Marvel heroes, villains, cowboy stars, and comic characters of the 1940s and 1950s to the iconic, timeless Super Heroes and Super Villains of the Marvel Age of the 1960s and beyond, such as Thor, Hulk, Spider-Man, Black Widow, Doctor Strange, Iron Man, the Avengers, Storm, Loki, and Green Goblin. Further sections feature key vehicles and technology, magical artifacts, planets, countries, and places, plus a glimpse behind the scenes into Marvel Comics’ creative processes and techniques. Cover artwork is by esteemed comic book artist Adi Granov. Including authoritative text by Marvel Comics experts and spectacular artwork from the original comic books.

image courtesy of sydneticsGuinness world records. 2018, Gamer‘s edition.

The ultimate and complete guide to videogames. The brand-new 2018 edition is packed full of the most up-to-date news, achievements and developments in the gaming world, illustrated with the best and most exciting imagery from this year’s top titles. It also includes gameplay tips and hints, retro facts from classic games, and more.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsHow to mend a kea : + other fabulous fix-it tales from Wildbase Hospital.

This is the perfect book for anyone who cares about our wild creatures and wants to know more about how they are helped, when they are ill or injured.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsGirl rising : changing the world one girl at a time.

Girl Rising, a global campaign for girls’ education, created a film that chronicled the stories of nine girls in the developing world, allowing viewers the opportunity to witness how education can break the cycle of poverty. Now, award-winning author Tanya Lee Stone deftly uses new research to illuminate the dramatic facts behind the film, focusing both on the girls captured on camera and many others.

8 New Non Fiction that will unleash your inner play, creativity and jedi.

Katie

Hey Kids! The school holidays may be over, but the fun hasn’t stopped here at the library. We have some fantastic new junior non fiction that will unleash your inner play, creativity and jedi! This week’s post features books related to Star Wars, toys for boys and girls, minecraft, and so much more. Also featured is special Star Wars themed surprise… wait for it… The latest trailer to Star Wars: The Last Jedi! YAY! This movie is scheduled to be released on the 14th of December. An excellent treat during the summer holidays and Christmas! Time to grab your tickets, because judging by this trailer, it looks to be an awesome, action packed movie… with more fight scenes, jedi training and Luke Skywalker himself!

Enjoy… and may the force be with you!

Star Wars Made Easy.

“Get a handle on the world’s most popular saga with quick Q&As and at-a-glance illustrations. You’ll never confuse a Jedi and a Jawa again!” –P.4 of cover.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsStar Wars : absolutely everything you need to know.

Provides fans of the Star Wars movies and television programs with lists, facts, and trivia about the characters and settings in the films and includes behind the scenes information about how the films were made.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsStar Wars coding projects.

Star Wars Coding Projects is a step-by-step visual guide to coding fun projects in Scratch and shows you everything you need to know to create cool computer projects, animations, and games.

 

 

 

See the latest trailer to Star Wars: The Last Jedi down below! Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsWWE : absolutely everything you need to know.

This is a book that boys and WWE fans will want to get their hands on! This book is full of fantastic facts, incredible information, and uncanny trivia about everything in the WWE Universe.

 

 

image courtesy of syndeticsThe amazing book of My little pony.

Not to worry girls, here is a special book that you will wants to get your hands on! Children will love discovering more about the land of Equestria in this early years reference book. Large pictures, fun fold-out pages with extra large images, and short, simple sentences bring the characters to life for children ages 5 and older. Favorite My Little Pony characters, including Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Princess Celestia, and locations are explored in a fun way. Includes fantastic giant poster featuring a collection of My Little Pony characters. This book takes me back to my childhood!

image courtesy of syndeticsMaster the art of fidget spinning.

“Tap into the phenomenon of fidget spinning with the world’s first book dedicated to the tens of millions who spin for pleasure, relaxation or focus today. First invented as a tool to help restless, ADHD or autistic children focus, the finger spinner was designed with skateboard bearings to achieve spin. It quickly became a fad and then a global craze that is also making its way into the corporate toy market”–Back cover.

image courtesy of syndeticsMinecraft: Guide to Redstone.

Pick up the basics of the redstone components and their uses, discover how to make working circuits, and create incredibly complex builds using your new skills. With insider info and tips from the experts at Mojang, this is the definitive guide to redstone in Minecraft.

 

 

image courtesy of sydneticsUltimate LEGO Star Wars.

This is a complete, unrivaled encyclopedia of the LEGO Star Wars theme. Fans will have an all-encompassing companion to the LEGO Star Wars cultural phenomenon. Produced in large format and featuring beautiful imagery, this is an indispensable guide for young fans and a stunning reference work for adults.

 

6 New Non Fiction just in time for the school holidays.

Katie

Hey Kids! The last few weeks have been full on with Elections 2017, Day Lights Savings, and now school holidays and sunny days! Whoohoo! Time to bring on the sunscreen and sunnies finally! While you’re at it, come on down to your local library and check out the latest releases of new junior non fiction. This blog post will feature new books to awaken and enhance your creativity in the minecraft world, real life stories about influential women that changed the world and a impact on the people around them and back to school read – I know, early at this stage – to help improve your grammar and punctuation.

Enjoy!

image courtesy of sydneticsMinecraft: Guide to Creative.

Get into Creative Mode with this official Minecraft book from Mojang. Learn the finer points of architecture, art and other creative disciplines with Minecraft Guide to Creative, and put theory into practice to build incredible constructions in Minecraft. Find out how to combine colours and textures to create different themes, devise intricate plans for complex builds, and discover secret hacks to use blocks in clever ways. With insider info and tips from the experts at Mojang, this is the definitive guide to creating in Minecraft.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMinecraft: Guide to the Nether & the End.

“Survival is difficult in the perilous Nether and End dimensions, and you’ll need to up your game if you want to make it back to the Overworld. The official Minecraft : Guide to the Nether & the End will teach you how to navigate the alien terrain, battle the native mobs and find rare blocks and items. With insider info and tips from the experts at Mojang, this is the definitive guide to survival in the Nether and the End”–Back cover.

 

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 syndeticsWho says Women Can’t be Doctors?

The inspiring and highly recommended story, life and achievements of Elizabeth Blackwell, the first female doctor – and certainly not the last- doctor in America. This book also describes the limited career prospects available to women in the early nineteenth-century, the opposition Blackwell faced while pursuing a medical education, and her pioneering medical career that opened doors for future generations of women. A Librarian’s choice all the way!

 

image courtesy of sydnetics
Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls.

What if the princess didn’t marry Prince Charming but instead went on to be an astronaut? What if the jealous step sisters were supportive and kind? And what if the queen was the one really in charge of the kingdom? Illustrated by sixty female artists from every corner of the globe, Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls introduces us to one hundred remarkable women and their extraordinary lives, from Ada Lovelace to Malala, Amelia Earhart to Michelle Obama. Empowering, moving and inspirational, these are true fairy tales for heroines who definitely don’t need rescuing. Another Librarian’s choice all the way!

 

image courtesy of syndeticsVisual guide to grammar and punctuation.

Get to grips with grammar and punctuation with this simple clear visual guide. Supports curriculum teaching for ages 6 and up.

 

 

 

6 New Non Fiction on gaming, animals and improving your memory.

Katie

Hey kids! More hot new junior non fiction for your reading pleasure. This blog post features books where the gaming theme continues, books that can help improve your memory and heart-warming stories about inspirational animals and humans that have made their mark on the world. Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsGame on! : video game history from Pong and Pac-man to Mario, Minecraft, and more.

The gaming theme continues. This book is your one stop shop to the gaming culture and history of video games that ranges from Pong and Pac-Man to Mario, Minecraft and much more. “A middle-grade nonfiction book about the history and impact on pop culture of video games”– Provided by publisher.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsHow to remember (almost) everything ever.

Can you remember the names of every player on your favorite football team, yet still manage to forget what day it is? This book reveals how your memory works, explaining cool tricks and skills that can help to train your memory to remember everything–ever!

 

 

http://www.wcl.govt.nz/easyfind/?hreciid=|library/m/wellington-carl|0001220245 Big book of animals : a LEGO adventure in the real world.

Lego and animals rolled into one fun book! Go wild in the animal kingdom with a host of LEGO minifigures. Young readers will meet the coolest creatures out there and watch the minifigures put the fun into facts. You’ll find great building and play ideas as well. Ideal for lego fans.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsRadiant child : the story of young artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.

Jean-Michel Basquiat and his unique, collage-style paintings rocked to fame in the 1980s as a cultural phenomenon unlike anything the art world had ever seen. But before that, he was a little boy who saw art everywhere: in poetry books and museums, in games and in the words that we speak, and in the pulsing energy of New York City. Now, award-winning illustrator Javaka Steptoe’s vivid text and bold artwork echoing Basquiat’s own introduce young readers to the powerful message that art doesn’t always have to be neat or clean–and definitely not inside the lines–to be beautiful.

image courtesy of syndeticsSwimming with sharks : the daring discoveries of Eugenie Clark.

An inspiring true story about Dr. Eugenie Clark aka the “shark lady”, who despite discrimination, became one of the most inspiring scientists in the world and whose revolutionary thinking and research changed the way society viewed marine wildlife.  Overall a fantastic read and ideal for marine biology projects and homework. Great for children aged 5 to 8.

 

image courtesy of syndeticsMoto and me : my year as a wildcat’s foster mom.

If you have a weakness for cats and baby animals – like I do, then this is the book for you! This is the story of an orphaned serval cat named Moto. Determined to nurse the kitten back to health and help him learn, grow, and return to the wild, Suzi did everything she could think of to be the best serval mom she could be. She had a little bit of help from a couple other people who had some experience with orphaned wild animals, but for the most part, it was just her and Moto out there, figuring things out based on Suzi’s experience observing animal rescues and her instincts about the animal’s needs. Overall a heart warming story with a happy and satisfying ending!

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.