Totally Tween

Graphic Novels are like Potato Chips

2011-08-29T14:08:00.000-07:00

Graphic Novels, for me, are like potato chips. You can never have just one.

Unless you don’t like the flavor. There are some that are a quick read and some that take a lot of thought. Plotlines and art style differ from series to series, some read from left to right, some from right to left. Some art is very detailed an every page is overwhelming, some have very sparse art and let the reader fill in the details.

I like graphic novels for the same reason I like books. You get pulled into a world filled with interesting people and you get to travel with them as they grow through out the story. And just like with books you get to pick genres and styles of writing/drawing.

I like books with strong characters who to quote author Sarah Rees Brennan “are Flawsome.” (both flawed and awesome.) I like worlds with a ton of history and thought put in even if I’m not reading every little detail about the world, you can tell when the author knows. I like books with adventures and mysteries and fantastical creatures and normal creatures. So I read graphic novels like that too.

You can browse the shelves in the teen area or you can see the whole list by doing a subject search for Graphic Novels in the catalog. And while we have over 2,000 volumes we don’t have everything, which is where Search Ohio (our interlibrary loan program) comes in. Other Ohio libraries are willing to lend books out to you. You just have to ask them.

Miss Amy

How do you teach an old librarian to read a graphic novel? Not easy.

2011-08-29T13:49:00.000-07:00

Our teen MPL librarian Amy Winter offered a challenge to me some months ago, to read a Japanese and American style graphic novel. I took up this challenge because to be frank it is my duty to read what tweens find interesting and keep up with the trends.
Mrs. Winter warned me that I might find this a challenge, but gave me some instructions on how to approach reading one of these novels. Her enthusiasm and confidence in me was infectious, so began to read Black Bird by Kanoko Sakurakoji.

I was completely lost and could not comprehend the flow of the story. I called up Mrs. Winter and said this book is awful. How can these kids LIKE a book like this? It is SO hard to comprehend. Apparently, I was reading the Japanese manga book completely wrong. She explained I had to read the book starting from the back of the book and not to what I assumed was the beginning of the story. The Japanese graphic novels are read from right-to-left direction from upper right corner to bottom left. Comics are read like a standard American/Western Europe fashion from left to right - upper left corner to bottom right.

Well, I still struggled with Black Bird; I found the order of the reading format and placement of the graphics very confusing and even distracting to the story. In effect, it placed me, the reader, on the outer rim of the story, instead of being immersed and one with the characters. A disappoint since I love paranormal romance stories about vampires and demons, which this book had in spades. The characters were like strangers to me, I really didn’t care if Misao, (the female protagonist with the gift of sight, a bride of prophecy whose blood will give power to the demon who claims her) will get her man. Apparently the romantic interest and demon Kyo wants her for his bride.

The book ends without a satisfactory ending in regards to Misao and Kyo complicated relationship. This series goes on for nine more volumes in English and 13 volumes in Japanese language. I wasn’t hooked and I will not be dedicating anymore of my reading time to find out what happened to these two characters. I will chock this up to being a Japanese Manga newbie reader and not to the quality of the story. The writer Kanoko Sakurakoji is popular and has won some prestigious awards for his work.

I then read the American version of manga, in the story titled Pixie: Volume 1 by Mathieu Mariolle. I really liked, liked this book. It is like the comic books of my youth with bright vibrant colors, so different from the black and white version of Japanese Manga art. This fantasy story is about a young prince from the country of Daimoon who has been under the control of his tutor and a father who doesn’t care about him. The two prevent him from dreaming when he goes to sleep. He gets his dream, however, of escaping the palace through the kidnapping by a thief named Pixie.
An accident causes Ael to become unconscious and he starts to dream, which transports the pair to a land in another world. They meet warriors and beasts and find out that Ael can make things happen by just dreaming up his desires.

The first volume is an introduction of the plot and characters. A second volume concludes this fantasy story of magic and adventure. This story is not a manga series without an end. I am tempted to read the second story.

I am glad Mrs. Winter drew me out of my comfort zone and introduced me to a new genre of the written word. She is the lady you need to see, though, if you want a great referral or just to share a review of a book. The woman knows her manga and she loves reading them too!

Checking out,

Mrs. V

Freegal Music is Here! Win a free iPod Shuffle!

2011-02-17T17:22:00.000-08:00

Hey Tweens and Teens,
Come check out this awesome service Mentor Public Library is offering. The only library in Lake County to offer these free, legal downloads. Also you will have the opportunity to win a iPod Shuffle.
Download thousands of recordings by your favorite artists, legally and FREE! In another first for Lake County, Mentor Public Library will offer Freegal - a new service giving you access to recordings from Sony Music’s catalog of artists directly through our website. Library cardholders in good standing can download a select number of Sony Music tracks in the MP3 format each month! Save them on your iPod, burn them onto CDs. They're yours! Learn how to get started using Freegal, or go directly to their site by clicking on the Freegal logo to the left.

Download a free song using Freegal in February and you'll be entered in a raffle to win an iPod Shuffle courtesy of the Friends of Mentor Public Library! Click on any of the Freegal logos or icons, then enter your Mentor Public Library card number. You can download up to three songs each week. The winner will be picked at random on Tuesday, March 1.

Checking out,
Mrs. V

Oliver’s first snow

2010-12-07T17:09:00.000-08:00

Back last June, my family became involved with the Pilot Dog program, which is based in Columbus. My son signed on as a puppy raiser for a school community project. The dog at 12 to 14 months old will be turned over to Pilot Dogs to receive more formal training to become a guide dog for the blind. So we received beautiful, adorable, mischievous Oliver, a yellow Labrador retriever. He was 7 weeks old then and now he is 7 months old…a bigger dog with a puppy-like brain. It is fun to watch him learn and explore his world, which could range from a pile of leaves in the backyard to the dark recesses of the toilet bowl.
Oliver does not have any boundaries. He enthusiastically bounds forward to meet each new experience. One of which, was his first snow. He woke up in the morning with his usual routine of going potty, eating his breakfast and finding ways to get attention. We let him out the back door, he runs outside…crunch…crunch…crunch and a slip across the deck floor. He suddenly stops, looks at his paws in confusion, takes a couple steps backwards, stops, sticks his nose straight in a small drift and snorts in surprise. He can’t figure it out and looks back at me for my reaction. My smile tells him this is fun and THEN he leaps in the air and pounces in the snow. Similar to a fox or coyote trying to pounce on a mouse through the snow for their dinner and then runs in circles like a snowplow gone wild.
Oliver loves snow. He loves the bracing, cold wet sensation on his nose. He loves the sounds he creates as he leaves a trail of paw prints, next to prints left by wildlife that live by the neighboring woodland. He loves how his breathy pants leave little misty clouds in his wake as he explores the fresh scents of squirrels, chipmunks and rabbits. He loves to attack low hanging tree branches and bushes, spraying snow powder upon h is head and back. He loves to try to catch the loosely packed snowballs I throw at him.
I love watching Oliver having fun in the snow. I love his doggy smile. I love that he is a great dog. I love that someday Oliver will help a blind person have the confidence to explore their own world. I love Oliver. I’ll miss him.
Checking out,
Mrs. V

The Christmas tree the highway gave up

2010-12-06T07:15:00.000-08:00

I grew up on a farm, and times were usually lean and we lived off the land. My brother and I were not raised with many luxuries so Christmas was especially a time to look forward to. We might get a new toy or a few clothes that we wanted. We knew not to expect a bounty, but we never felt shortchanged. I guess it was the way we were raised that Christmas was not all about the presents. It was about love and enjoying family time with each other.

But, one particular Christmas when I was about 8 years old, my brother and I were told that Christmas would entail very little presents and we would not be able to afford a real Christmas tree, which was a family tradition. Instead, we would put up the ratty, ugly, used white tinsel tree (which ironically has become trendy these days). We made our usual decorations out of lights, popcorn, cranberries, candy canes and handmade ornaments. I am not sure why this particular Christmas was leaner than others, but I remember feeling a little scared and uncertain

There is a special ambiance in the home during Christmas, a special spirit that infuses the family and your friends. I have always loved it. But that Christmas, there was heaviness in our house. A sadness pervaded the positive outlook and no-quit attitude my parents usually exemplified and I wonder if they were angry that no matter how hard they worked and saved, it just wasn’t enough to get ahead. A parent just wants to make things perfect for their child, and they must have felt powerless in not being able to make that Christmas special.

Two weeks before Christmas, we experienced a blizzard during the night. Beautiful, pristine white snow blanketed the farm. A constant fall of night snow beckoned my father to impulsively wake us up. My mother helped us put on our winter coats and boots to go out into the front yard. I believe it was either midnight or 1 a.m.

Following the rays cast by the front porch light, my father ran through the glistening snow and pelted my mother with snowballs. Soon we were all in a giant snowball fight between the women and the men. Our sheepdog Spot was the referee, trying to insert his body between the warring clans. My mother and father were chasing each other in circles beneath the old, front yard apple tree, laughing like children. Later when we were worn out, we set to work creating snow sculptures of bears, rabbits, a snow family and a tiger laid out along the front yard. What a beautiful, magical night. Afterwards, I am sure when I went back to bed on the couch, my dreams were of our snow sculptures coming alive, dancing joyously beneath the still falling snow. We never did that again as family, but it was enough. A memory I will cherish forever.

The next morning, while my mom went to let Spot out to do his business I heard her gasp and screamed out my father’s name.

“Look outside! There is a tree in the front yard,” she said.

We all rushed to the front yard to see Spot sniffing the greenest, most lush Christmas tree I ever saw. The bright sun revealed that it had rolled down the hill from the highway we lived next to and settled near our snow sculptures. It was still compactly tied up, ready for the Christmas retail season. My father rushed out and carried it into our living room and immediately we were hit with that wonderful scent of fresh pine.

My parents had determined that the tree had come loose from one of the trucks transporting trees to the Christmas tree sale lots. A lost tree finding its way to our front yard never happened before or since. I believe it was a gift from someone up high and I believe my parents thought so too. For their positive outlook came back and I believe that tree to them represented they weren’t alone in their struggle to raise a family and maintain a home.

That Christmas was about finding joy in the simple things of life, be it a midnight festival of snowballs and sculpture or a surprise gift of a lost Christmas tree. Cherish these holiday memories, kids, because there will be a day when those memories will be all you have of your parents and grandparents. Make memories of your own…a simple, lifelong gift for a loved one.

Checking out,

Mrs. V

HELLO…ARE THERE ANY TEENAGERS OUT THERE THAT LIKE CHRISTMAS MUSIC?

2010-11-28T09:22:00.000-08:00

Looking for gifts for my two teenage children and I thought Christmas CDs would be a great gift for my daughter to play at her college. As soon as Thanksgiving Day officially ends I am playing Christmas music. There is also a radio station 95.5 FM FISH of the same mindset. They continually play holiday music 24/7 and beyond Christmas. Even Sirius stations are totally devoted to playing several genres of holiday music.
I know I am not the only one out there that loves continuous Christmas music, but my daughter tells me getting a Christmas CD for a teenager is not great gift idea. Here is a list of upcoming popular music she made me to prove what teenagers are listening to and would like as a present either as a download or a CD rather than a holiday songs.
List by my daughter:

1. Taylor Swift’s album “Speak Now”
2. Rihanna’s album “Loud”
3. Kanye West’s album “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy”
4. Katy Perry’s album “Teenage Dream”
5. Nicki Minaj album “Pink Friday”
6. Mumford and Sons “Sigh No More”
7. Kings of Leon “Come Around Sundown”
8. Bruno Mars “Doo-Wops & Hooligans
9. Kesha’s album “Cannibal”
10. Ne-Yo’s album “Libra Scale”

Now I noticed that our “Glee: the Christmas Album” has 22 holds for 3 copies. With the popularity of Glee, I am going to assume that there are teenagers that would like to have this album. So I checked this out and played it for my daughter. She loved it! Surprising since many of the songs are old-fashioned, before-my-time music. The kids modernized the songs a little, but still retain the original score, bringing back girlhood memories. The album is mostly perky and fun, however there are two songs that will tug at your heart and bring a tear to your eye: Rudolphs’ Misfit Toys “The Most Wonderful Day of the Year” and “O Holy Night.”
It was fun to spend time with her and listen to an album, sharing some of my favorite Christmas music. So I guess this is one Christmas album teenagers would like. Check out Glee’s nonfiction book: Filled with glee: the unauthorized Glee companion
What is great about libraries is you can check these albums out and see if you really like them before you or Mom and Dad purchase them. Review our catalog and request one of these popular CDs and place a hold.
Checking Out,
Mrs. V

The tragedy of loss and learning to move on

2010-11-17T13:08:00.000-08:00

Growing apart is probably one of the hardest parts to growing up. But having your best friend die when you’re both only 13 is one of those great tragedies most of us luckily don’t have to face. In Dear Anjali, by Melissa Glenn Haber, Meredith cannot believe that her best friend Anjali could possibly be dead, so she decides to write her letters every day. Through these letters we get glimpses of depression, anger, and confusion. The letters are written on a typewriter, and also by hand, so there are different fonts in the book to give it a realistic journal-like feel. As Meredith struggles through the months after her friend’s death, she starts talking to and hanging out with the boy she’s had a crush on for years. Through this new friendship it is revealed that Anjali was keeping secrets from Meredith. The secrets aren’t nearly as dramatic as I hoped as a reader, but they were realistic and nonetheless shattering for Meredith. Yet, through these realizations, Meredith is finally able to move on with her life. Dear Anjali was a touching read, and was helped along by its unique format—who doesn’t like a book written entirely in letters. For all you scholars out there, when a book is written in this way, it’s called an epistle style novel. If you want a dramatic story about friendship and moving on, I would give Dear Anjali a try.

Popularity means hanging out with people who make you happy

2010-09-12T12:27:00.000-07:00

I think most kids want to be popular, but I don’t think it means that they want accolades or attention. I think they want to be popular because it is an affirmation that they fit in…that they have friends. Let’s face it eating lunch by yourself in the cafeteria is not a great experience.
Amy Ignatow’s debut novel, filled with humorous back-and-forth notes and sketches of her characters’ plans and desires to become popular, is in a similar style of author Marissa Moss’ “Amelia” books and author Rachel Renee Russell’s “Dork Diaries.” The book really hits the mark on the daily life of two fifth grade girls who are best friends. They partner up and research the successful characteristics of the popular girls at school. The project is called “The Popularity Papers, Research for the Social Improvement and General Betterment of Lydia Goldblatt and Julie Graham-Chang” Their approach is smart, study their subject and emulate them…a sure shot, they think, to the path of popularity. They discover it isn’t so easy and when they do achieve part of their goals, the popularity circle is not what it is cracked up to be and they almost lose their wonderful, quirky friendship in the process.
Reading the “Popularity Papers” brought back many memories of my desire to fit in and how hard it was to break down those social barriers my peers built against me. Basically I wanted to have friends. I moved into a new school district when I was in second grade and already there were strong clichés. I was not a shy child and I was bound and determined to make friends. I figured if I targeted the most popular girls at school and got in the group I would be free and clear…accepted. It wasn’t easy and for most of the year I ate by myself at lunchtime.
One day during recess, there were a group of popular girls playing jump rope…Thwack, Thwack, Thwack…the rope repeatedly hit the asphalt pavement. I watched carefully to see how they performed their jump rope routine and asked them if I could join in. The lead girl of the group told me NO, so out of spite I would just stand and watch. Every school day I asked and every time I was denied and I stayed and watched them. I guess you could say I was also stubborn. But eventually I gave up, but not the desire that I could be just like them…pretty, gregarious and always dressed with trendy clothes. I was neither of these things. I didn’t know who I was or happy with myself.
As I struggled to conform to these girls’ image, my parents were committed to keep me away from conformity. In 6th grade, I wanted to color my blonde hair black because I thought it would make my blue eyes stand out and my peers would suddenly see how beautiful I was. My mother absolutely denied me this opportunity. So as an alternative, I cut my hair. That was a real disaster. I tried to cut it like the Farrah Fawcett 70s hairstyle; instead it ended up being uneven shag. That brought me down lower in the social ladder. It wasn’t till high school, that I finally came into my own and embraced my strengths and found others who were likeminded. I eventually found my own brand of popularity and was very happy.
I would have loved growing up to have had best friends like Ignatow’s characters that were funny, smart, tenacious and best of all loyal to each other. If I had friends like these, I would have really appreciated those qualities that made me unique. Ignatow’s message is to be true to yourself and soon you will attract friends who will share and appreciate your unique traits and make you happy. To quote one of the girls’ oldest sisters, “Your friends should be the coolest people you know.”
By the way, decades later, the popular girl that did not let me play jump rope with them…apologized to me. Seems like all those years of snubbing me, wore at her conscience for many years. It is proof I think that there is a life after school and people do eventually grow up.
Though those were tough times for me growing up, however, I do not regret it. I grew up to become more sensitive to other’s feelings and was more determined to achieve my goals despite the obstacles. I grew up to become a strong woman who respects herself and others. It was worth the long journey, I think, toward “Social Improvement” and “General Betterment.”
Read Ignatow’s book, I will guarantee you will feel better about yourself.
Checking out,
Mrs. V.

Trend Alert!!!!

2010-08-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

A 80s-early 90s trend I am seeing making a comeback has reached MPL...Converse neon shoelaces. They come in all kinds of bright colors and I am told you can get them at our local malls and shoe stores. Now I have seen kids wearing these patterned or neon-colored shoelaces before, sometimes with neon streaks in their hair to match. But what caught my attention is that each sneaker had a different neon color shoelace (pictured above). Is this a fairly recent trend? Don’t know, but thought it was worthy of my Trend Alert tidbit for the week.
Checking out Mrs. V.

How Nicky Flynn gets a life and a dog

2010-08-03T06:46:00.000-07:00

The picture on the cover of this new book “How I, Nicky Flynn, finally get a life (and a dog) “grabbed my attention. . .a picture of a German Shepard’s face and nose is designed prominently on the cover as if the dog is about to give you a giant sloppy doggy kiss. I am glad I picked it out as one of my book reviews. The author, Art Corrivea, successfully conveys the thoughts and feelings of an angry 11-year-old boy struggling with changes in his life. The tone of voice Corrivea gives the character Nicky is “spot on” and believable. Forced to move from a plush suburban home and well-off lifestyle to inner-city Boston with his mother after his parents’ divorce, Nicky becomes an angry boy who treats his mother with disdain and internalizes his fears of attending a new school and a emotionally distant father. Corrivea’s premise to join Nicky with another abandoned and unwanted animal , a former guide dog named Reggie, his mother adopts reveals the vulnerability and strength underneath Nicky’s sarcastic bravado. Solving the mystery of why the former guide dog was placed in a dog pound becomes Nicky’s obsession. Nicky’s journey to cope with the changes in his life, the relationship with his mother and father, and the partnership and growing bond with his dog, make for a great read. However, I was not satisfied with the conclusion given regarding Reggie’s past life as a guide dog and the reasoning behind the decision to place him in a dog pound. Maybe you will feel differently. Anyway, it was really nice to get to know Nicky and learn more about the responsibilities of a guide dog.
Checking out,
Mrs. V.

Tweens get soaked at MPL

2010-07-19T07:26:00.001-07:00

Hello Tweens,

Had a great time at the WaterWorld Games held July 16 at the Read House. Some of you were VERY persistent in getting me soaked with the water balloons and water guns. Next year I am going to make this event bigger and better. About 400 water balloons were depleted within 15 minutes. It was great fun! Below is an article I wrote about the day with pictures that I sent out to various newspapers. Hope it gets published. Some of the pictures will soon be placed on the library Facebook page. Stay cool like Mrs. V.

Tweens soak up the sun at library

MENTOR-Taking a defensive position while standing back to back upon the lawn strewn with balloon fragments, sisters Kristen and Kerri Halick were ready to soak the nearest boy in their vicinity. After depleting their supply of water balloons, each sister was equipped with a fully loaded water gun and they knew how to use them. Someone was going to get wet.
More than 30 tweens attended the Mentor Public Library WaterWorld Games July 16 held at the neighboring Read House. Hundreds of water balloons and water guns were used in an hour-long skirmish.
“It was really fun getting soaked in the hot sun,” Venkat Suru said.
Craig Vandemark also agreed the above 80-degree day made for perfect conditions to soak his opponents.
“It was really fun and I liked the water balloons,” he said.Suru and Vandemark had to constantly look over the backs for one sneaky challenger, Raghav Malik.
“I came here to soak everyone,” Malik said. “The water balloons were the best. They worked really well because water guns only do a little damage.”
By the end of the program, the Halick sisters were able to achieve their common goal.
“We came here to get very wet,” said Kristen.

Trend Alert!!!!

2010-06-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

Hello Tweens,
Some of you already know this….but the Silly Bandz craze has hit Lake County. For the past three weeks I have seen a huge increase of kids coming into the Children’s Department with multiple rubber bands in different colors strung out along their forearms. Then to my surprise they take these rubber bands off and they immediately revert back into a shape.
According to my Google research efforts Silly Bandz is a brand of silicone rubber bands formed to make shapes of animals, objects and letters. They are worn as “tight, tight” bracelets by elementary, middle school and high school students. These “bracelets” come in different shapes, colors and themes and can be found in most drugstores.
Several kids that have come to visit me have worn their whole collection of Silly Bandz along their arms like sleeves. Apparently they are becoming collectible and many kids are trading with other kids for Silly Bandz they don’t have.
I had a conversation with MPL patrons and sisters Anna and Patricia Hadzinski about why they are riding this trend.
“I like them because there are different shapes and sizes and they are really COOL,” said Anna.
Patricia likes to trade some of her Silly Bandz to get “better ones.” One she will not give up is her elephant-shaped Silly Bandz. Anna’s favorites are her cowboy and horse Silly Bandz.
Silly Bandz was first sold online in November 2009 then gained in popularity in Alabama. They moved east that same year. As of April 2010, Silly Bandz sold the bracelets to 8,000 U.S. stores and now they are here gaining popularity.
Well, I see why you like them…let me know if you can find any Silly Bandz that are in the shape of a hamster. Fuzzy might like it.

Checking Out,
Mrs. V

A Little Mouse with a Big Heart

2010-05-21T13:26:00.000-07:00

A Nest for Celeste by Henry Cole
(written for children in grades 3 through 5)

A lonely little mouse living a dull life, weaving baskets within a musty hole, inside a 17th century New Orleans plantation begins an adventure of a lifetime. She meets the famous naturalist painter John James Audubon (April 26, 1785 – January 27, 1851), who is a guest of the plantation owner. From the shirt pocket of Audubon’s thirteen-year-old assistant Joseph Mason, Celeste watches as Audubon kills, paints, catalogues and describes the birds of North America.
The book cover advertises “A Nest for Celeste” as a story about art, inspiration and the meaning of home. However, I believe this story is about perseverance, friendship, and the importance of possessing a compassionate heart. For such a little creature, Celeste makes a big impact on her wildlife neighbors and humans alike.
There are several parallels to Celeste and Joseph’s stories: Celeste lost her family when the crops were harvested and Joseph, a lonely, young boy, leaves his family far behind for two years to travel the country with Audubon. His job is to learn how to paint the backdrops for Audubon’s pictures and learn a trade. After a house cat narrowly misses killing Celeste she finds a temporary home in Joseph’s boot; he later relocates her to his shirt pocket. From this pocket, Celeste witnesses Man’s impact on wildlife: shooting down hundreds of Passenger Pigeons, the killing of other fowl for Audubon’s pictures. Both Joseph and Celeste take these killings to heart and both try to influence Audubon’s methods of painting the perfect picture by suggesting alternatives that end up saving lives.
In one scene in the book, Joseph, drums up some courage and confronts Audubon on his methods. An Ivory-billed woodpecker was shot in the wing by Audubon two days before and dies of his wounds and a broken heart. Joseph is upset when Audubon asks him for pins to secure the woodpecker’s carcass onto a board.
“This doesn’t seem right…” said Joseph.
“What doesn’t,” said Audubon.
“I don’t know…the way we’re doing this, the paintings?” said Joseph. “You are looking to capture its life on paper, but by killing it first? By pinning it to a board? It was so majestic up in that enormous cypress tree…”
Audubon argues that there were plenty of woodpeckers where that one came from and questions Joseph on would he rather hold a live woodpecker while it pecked at his hand during the painting process.
“I am preserving their beauty forever. If I could paint their portraits as well another way I would.” Audubon states.
Joseph leaves the room thinking about his lonely moments since he left his family and wonders if all the other woodpeckers were killed off but one, how lonely would that one woodpecker be flying along the river valley “on an endless and futile search up and down the valley, looking to find another ivory-billed woodpecker?”

Read this thought-provoking book full of many wildlife characters captured within the author’s quaint illustrations and find out how Joseph and Celeste face the challenges of being alone in the world and how their friendship brings love, courage, freedom and...the wonder of “how love can start with something as simple as the gift of a peanut.”
Checking Out,
Mrs. V

Pretty little liars and their dirty little secrets

2010-05-18T15:31:00.000-07:00

I must say I am totally in love with Pretty Little Liars right now. Okay, so I haven’t even finished the first one yet, but I can tell already I’m completely hooked. By the way it starts, with an omniscient voice saying how this perfect setting she’s describing isn’t really so perfect, it kind of reminds me of Desperate Housewives—for teens. And I should warn you this is definitely for the older teen crowd, what with the mature situations, mild drug use, and sexual situations. But it’s the mystery that keeps this so addicting. In seventh grade, five girls are best friends and the most popular in their upper class private school. Then one of the girls--the girl who knows every dirty little secret about the other four—goes missing. Flash forward to 11th grade and the four remaining friends have grown apart. Then they start getting messages from someone reminding them of all their secrets. Who could it be? What should they do? Which designer bag should they buy next? Each question more revealing than the next (except maybe that last one). It’s Beverly Hills 90210 in book form, with a mysterious twist (I’m referring to the original 90210, I must admit I have not seen the remake). Oh! And there’s a show coming out! Check out a copy before you’re the last girl who doesn’t know what’s going on!
~Amanda D.

Puppy to arrive at Mrs. V's house

2010-05-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

At the end of May, my family will be picking up an 8-week-old, male, yellow, Labrador Retriever in the Pilot Dog program in Columbus. My 17-year-old son signed on to be a puppy raiser for a school community service project. The dog will eventually, at 1 year or 14 months old, be turned over to Pilot Dogs so the dog can get more formal training to become a guide dog for the blind.
It has been two years since we last had a dog in the house, so the family is very excited about hearing the patter of little paws in the house again. This is a huge responsibility for my son. He needs to take the puppy to an obedience course when the puppy is 4 to 5 months old. The puppy also needs to socialize with animals, people and be exposed to traffic conditions and other environments.

Once the dog is returned to Pilot Dogs, it begins formal training with professional trainers/instructors. This training typically lasts about five months. As the dogs advance, the training schedules are changed so that the dogs begin training in the streets of Columbus where they learn how to navigate buses, revolving doors, escalators, elevators, and all other conditions the blind may encounter once returned home with their pilot dogs.

The blind student and their dog train together for four weeks and learn to navigate their way through the largest department stores, on and off buses, and across the busiest thoroughfares by themselves.

My son will receive a picture of the dog and his new owner when the dog has graduated from the program. We know that letting go of our new puppy within a year will be very hard, but we are expecting a great experience and many stories to tell. Will keep you updated on the puppy’s progress and any advice on how to raise a puppy is welcome.

Meanwhile, check out our link (just click on the picture) to all the wonderful books we have in our collection regarding guide dogs. I recommend reading Gertrude Chandler Warners’ fiction book “The Guide Dog Mystery”; Stephanie Calmenson’s picture book “May I pet your dog?: the how-to guide for kids meeting dogs (and dogs meeting kids)”; and Glenna Lang’s picture book “Looking Out for Sarah.”

Checking Out,
Mrs. V

Newer Vampire Books

2010-03-19T10:28:00.001-07:00

So you have read the twilight series a dozen times and gone through the list that MPL gave out last year. What Now!?
Well in honor of our New Moon screening on Tuesday, March 23rd, we have compiled a list. Of What?...of the vampire books that were published in late 2009 and early 2010, of course.

(The standard disclaimer applies. Some of the books are good and some are bad. Sometimes it’s just your opinion.)

And now the list:

New Books: (might even be the first in a series)
• Never bite a boy on the first date by Tamara Summers
• Hearts at Stake by Alyxandra Harvey
• Bad Blood by Marianne Mancusi
• I kissed a zombie and I Liked It by Adam Selzer
• Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow
• Eternal Kiss edited by Trisha Telep
• Vamped by Lucienne Diver
• Reformed Vampire Support Group by Catherine Jinks
• Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fanaskey

Latest in the Series:
• Van Alen Legacy by Melissa De LA Cruz (Blue Bloods Series)
• Eleventh Grade Burns by Heather Brewer (Chronicles of Vladmir Todd)
• Hourglass by Claudia Grey (Evernight Series)
• Shadow Souls by L.J. Smith (Reprints) (Vampire Diaries: The Return)
• Thirst Series by Christopher Pike (Reprints)
• Fade Out by Rachel Caine (Morganville Vampire Series)
• Betrayals by Lili St. Crow (Strange Angels Series)
• Royal Blood by Ellen Schreiber (Vampire Kisses Series)

See you at the screening!!

Amy W.

The Love of a Dog

2010-03-17T17:32:00.000-07:00

I miss my dog. I miss her a lot. Though she passed away two years ago at the age of 12 ½ years old, I sometimes still look for her face pasted against the front door window when I pull into the driveway. Sometimes at night I will get out of bed and do a shuffling step to determine where she is laying by my bed so I do not trip. Then I realize she won’t be there and there is no need to be careful.

I have owned dogs all of my life. I presume I will continue to have them until I am too old to take care of them. Life seems easier to handle with a dog by your side. Sometimes I prefer to hang out with a dog than some people I know. They are good company. Dogs do not live very long, but I believe the wonderful, funny memories and the unconditional love they give you far outweigh the heartache of their loss. The lessons they teach are invaluable. I recently watched one of our newest DVD releases we have at the library, “Hachi, a dog’s tale.” The movie is adapted from a true story of a dog born in Japan named Hachiko. Children’s author Pamela S. Turner wrote the story “Hachiko, the true story of a loyal dog” after her visit in Tokyo. The true story is about a dog that waited for his deceased master to arrive at the train station for 10 years.
The film Hachi touches on many elements of Turner‘s story, but the setting takes place in a small NY community. Nevertheless, the story moved me. The devotion and love between a dog and his owner is beautifully portrayed in the film. I have no doubt that the love between Hachiko and his owner was so strong that it was the impetus for a dog to meet the train for 10 years in the hope his owner would be there. Get ready to get the Kleenex out for the children’s book and the film…tears will fall. The story of Hachi brought back some wonderful memories of all the dogs that have passed through my life. Their love I will cherish always in my heart. Yes, I really miss the company of my old dog Babe.

Poem book hits the right chord

2010-03-11T15:56:00.000-08:00

Hello Tween,
I love the rhythm of poetry...the way poems can make the words sing.

I have recently read a new book of original poems called “Dizzy in Your Eyes” by children’s book author Pat Mora that I would highly recommend. There are about 50 poems which convey many universal experiences of tween/teens.
Written in a variety of forms, these poems touch on love for sports and family; admiration for teachers; the loss of a loved one; the giddiness of first love and the pain of heartache. I can guarantee there will be at least one poem for you that will hit the right chord.

My Song
by Pat Mora

So many memories,
and I’m still young.
So many dreams,
my song’s just begun.

Sometimes I hear
my private melody grow,
then the sound vanishes,
but returns, I now know.

I’ve heard my heart break;
wounded, I’ve felt alone,
but slowly I learned
to thrive on my own.

I want to keep learning,
to deepen my song;
in whatever I work,
may my best self grow strong.........

(check out this book and read the rest of Mora’s stanzas for this poem)

Checking Out,
Mrs. V

Register NOW! Poetry and Pizza Night for Tweens

2010-03-04T14:30:00.000-08:00

Hello Tweens!

When I was your age I loved poetry and wrote lots and lots of poetry. The words my favorite poets like Emily Dickinson really seemed to speak to me and reflected the "drama" I experienced in my young life. Funny thing is I can only write poetry when I am depressed...the good ones anyway. It has been many years since I wrote a poem, but every once in a while a stanza or two will creep in my mind and I won't have time to write it down. I might just take a gander at it for this upcoming program at the Main Library Children's Department.

Tweens will have the opportunity to share poems of their favorite poets or read what they have composed themselves inside the Children’s Theater. Song lyrics can also be shared or performed for their peers in grades fifth to eighth grades. Come read a funny, dramatic or sad poem in our intimate, relaxed café setting. Hot cocoa, pop, and pizza will be served. I believe this will be inspiring, so please join me and Mrs. Densmore for a poetic program. Register NOW!

Checking Out,

Mrs. V

New Moon Screening

2010-03-02T08:56:00.000-08:00

Hello Tweens and Teens,

We have a great night planned for all “New Moon” fans! Don't miss the screening of "New Moon" on Tuesday, March 23 starting at 6:00 pm! We'll have refreshments a werewolf would love, games, and prizes. Bring your knowledge of the library and win "New Moon" themed goodies. Limited reserved seat tickets for the two rows are available when checking out 10 YA novels. Bring your receipts to the Adult Reference desk for your ticket and to get first dibs on a poster. All events will take place in the James R. Garfield Room at the Main Library. No registration required; for more info call (440) 255-8811. This movie is rated PG-13.

Hear the Eco! Listen to the Planet

2010-02-24T14:59:00.000-08:00

Hello Tweens,
Whenever I get a spare minute from being a mom and working at the library I read my books or watch movies on my portable DVD player (a fantastic Christmas gift I received two years ago). Lately I have watched animated movies with an ecological bent and subject matter of a planet’s possible biological extinction if mankind or alienkind fail to take care of their planet or each other. There are three movies I would recommend: Science fiction movies “Battle for Terra” and “9”, as well as Barbie’s “Thumbelina.” They are movies with a message that are inspiring and thought-provoking.
Battle for Terra
Mala is a precocious girl living on the beautiful planet Terra, a place where peace and tolerance are celebrated. Unbeknownst to Mala and her fellow Terrians, the last inhabitants of Earth have exhausted the resources of their planet and those of three others. They are now searching for a new home. This Earthforce has discovered that the use of a Terraformer will make Terra habitable for humans. Unfortunately, it will become poisonous for the Terrians. When the Earthlings embark on a hostile invasion of Terra, Mala's father, Roven, is kidnapped. Hoping to save her father, Mala captures and hides Jim, a crashed human pilot. While Mala nurses Jim back to health, the two forge a friendship and a plan that could save both the human race and the planet of Terra. Soon, however, they realize that peace will not be secured unless they can combat both the Terraformer and dark political forces that will stop at nothing in their drive to achieve power for power's sake.
The animation production is beautiful and reveals the “soul” of the Terrians and the Earthlings. There is no bad guy in this film, just two species trying to survive in the universe. This film is about two friends who become ambassadors and peacekeepers over a planet that both species want for their own survival. This graceful and emotional tale is about sacrifices and the healing power of love and friendship.
9
When rag doll 9 first comes to life, he finds himself in a post-apocalyptic world where all humans are gone. It is only by chance that he discovers a small community of others like him taking refuge from fearsome machines that roam the earth intent on their extinction. Despite being the newest member of the group, 9 convinces the others that hiding will do them no good. They must take the offensive if they are to survive and they will need to discover why the machines want to destroy them in the first place. The very future of civilization may depend on them.
There is a certain innocence to these rag dolls, yet their circumstances and imperfections directs them to the same path mankind pursued…a dead end. 9’s hope and courage helps veer the group away from fear and destruction to instead a course of hope and survival. The group puts aside their different philosophies and personal motives to instead come together to battle one of mankind’s most technically fearsome war machine. It is a story of redemption and renewal.
Barbie Thumbelina
Meet a tiny girl named Thumbelina lives in harmony with nature in the magical world of the Twillerbees that's hidden among the wildflowers. At the whim of a spoiled young girl named Makena, Thumbelina and her friends have their patch of wildflowers uprooted and are transported to the city. This movie is about how one self-centered human being can negatively impact the world around them. Can you imagine how much damage can be inflicted by a population? Thumbelina is a feisty little character that will fight to keep her little garden world alive for future generations. This tiny character makes a huge impact on Makena, who underneath that selfish exterior lies a lonely girl striving to achieve her parent’s loving attention.
Check out this adorable movie and the special features where you can play the Flying Fairy Recycling game and Thumbelina's Green Thumb Challenge game.

Let me know if you have any suggestions for me regarding movies or books that convey a similar theme.
Checking out,
Mrs. V

Go for the Gold, Be an Olympic Reader

2010-02-17T16:22:00.001-08:00

Hello Tweens!
I watched the Men's Singles Short Program Figure Skating Olympic competition last night. What a tough sport. Some may think the event is just an artistry and not a sport, but I would definitely disagree. Can you imagine performing triple axles and quads in front of thousands and knowing millions are watching and critiquing your performance in probably the most important event of your athletic career? The strength and power of their technical routines must match the artistic flow and expression of their performance. I would not want to be in their skates. I am sure it is tougher than it looks. Loved the passionate performance of the second place finisher USA Evan Lysacek. The first place finisher Russian Evgeni Plushenko didn't WOW me as much as Lysacek, but he must have had a little something more for the judges.
I was prepared to not like Lysacek, based upon my opinion on some soundbites, that he was arrogant, but when he finished his performance with tears in eyes, I reassessed my opinion. I guess a good athlete needs to be sure and confident about him/her self. One has to be to compete in front millions. These athletes truly care about being the best at what they do, and I guess I can't fault them on being a little proud of a job well done. After all they commit much of their lives to working hard to achieve a goal and when they do they are going to want to crow about it. I respect Lysacek on "walking the talk." I am glad he did well. He made our country proud.

To join the ride to Olympic glory, the Main Library children's department and the branches are conducting a reading incentive program called Go for the Gold! Be an Olympic Reader. Enter a chance to win some official Olympic prizes, t-shirt, pins and a stuffed toy moose with every five books or more checked out. Check out our website for more information. Drawing to be held on Monday, March 1, 2010.

Signing Off,
Mrs. V

Styling hair is an artform

2010-01-30T13:19:00.000-08:00

I came across a beautiful book of about hair fashion illustrated and written by collage artist Terence Lawlor.
The fairytale-type setting takes place inside a palace full of lords and ladies with nothing better to do than pursue the latest trends in high fashion...especially hair fashion.
A monthly contest is held to name the top fashionista...mainly it is between three divas who regulary win the prize. These cold-hearted women were nicknamed by the social set as The Vanities. Their secret to their success and glory was an orphan child with a talent for hairstyling they "adopted."
Read how this orphan teaches the vanities a lesson in how to not be a fashion victim. This adorable Cinderella-like story is visually pleasing accompanied by lilting, humerous rhymes.

Signing Off,
Mrs. V.

Tweens have fashion sense

2010-01-27T11:17:00.000-08:00

Recently went to a local mall and it seemed it had been turned into a venue for fashion week. Boy, do you kids know how to dress up into what I call a real art form, yet each person still managed to maintain their individuality despite the similar fashion sense of the group they were hanging out with.

There was the "scene look," which I am told is only about two years old. Tweens/teens wearing their dark hair in a shag-angle cut, flattened very straight. Their dark, heavy makeup matched the dark clothes accented by bright neon colors. A really rockin' and confident look.

The "preppy and popular" group dressed in light-colored, fitted, cowboyish, expensive brand-name clothing brought a smile to my face. I would describe this group as "flirty, bouncy and bright" wearing their Ugg boots and knit caps.

A crossover group of tween/teens seemed to have taken the best of both worlds and made it their own. One girl wore a long shirt dress, leggings, leg warmers with boots. The ensemble was accented with bright pieces of jewelry and long necklaces. This bohemian look was very pretty and feminine.

Thankfully I only saw two boys wearing those low-riding jeans with their boxers revealed. Dare I hope that fashion fad is on its way out. Anyway, great job kids! You are not only expressive, but fashion forward and I admire your initiative to be creative.

If you would like more accurate observations on current fashion trends check out the Feb/March issues of Girls Life and Discovery Girls magazines in the MPL Main Children's Department.

Checking out,
Mrs. V

2009-12-23T14:40:00.001-08:00

The Mentor Public Library has acquired 5 copies of the New Moon original motion picture soundtrack.
New Moon mania has arrived at my home. My daughter wore the Edward T-shirt she received on her birthday and attended the midnight premiere. She also received for her 18th birthday the New Moon CD. She still continues to nag me about reading the Stephenie Meyer books. I keep planning on reading them, but Life gets in the way. I should really take the time and read them because it is something my daughter wants to share with me. I did see the Twilight movie with her and was surprised that I liked it. Saw it twice actually.
Before I bought the New Moon CD I listened to some of the songs on the soundtrack. I am NOT a fan of Meet me on Equinox by Death Cab for Cutie. This monotonous tune and its chorus “ Everything, Everything Ends” made me wish the song ended quicker than the almost 4 minutes of playtime. I think this song is reminiscent of David Bowies’ songs from the 70s. I wasn’t a fan of those either.
However, the catchy beat of Violet Hour by Sea Wolf and the haunting melody of Slow Life by Grizzly Bear were very unique. My favorite song on the soundtrack was by an artist, fairly new to the scene, Anya Marina. Her husky, raspy whispery voice in Satellite Heart is the perfect accompaniment to the low-key, simple guitar licks. Her lyrics are about love, loneliness and loyalty. You really feel her sadness, but it sounds like the guy is not worth all the anguish.
Satellite Heartby Anya Marina
So pretty/so smartSuch a waste of a young heart!What a pity / what a shamWhat’s the matter with you, man?
Don’t you see it’s wrong/ can’t you get it right?Out of mind and outta sightCall on all your girls, don’t forget the boysPut a lid on all that noise!
I’m a satellite heart/ lost in the darkI’m spun out so far/ you stop, I startBut I’ll be true to you
I hear you’re living out of state, running in a whole new sceneThey say i haven’t slept in weeks, you’re the only thing i see
I’m a satellite heart/ lost in the darkI’m spun out so far/ you stop, I startBut I’ll be true to youI’m a satellite heart/ lost in the darkI’m spun out so far/ you stop I startBut I’ll be true to you no matter what you do/ yeah I’ll be true to you…Oooooooooo
Hey, check out her beautiful video of the song on http://www.newmoonthesoundtrack.com/. Anya Marina’s red, red lips match her red, red nails; a stark contrast to her bleached white hair against the backdrop of orange, red and yellow fall leaves. I just wished she would have cut those long, long bangs to reveal her pretty, pretty face.
Other sounds on the soundtrack are: Friends (Band of Skulls) -- Hearing damage (Thom Yorke) -- Possibility (Lykke Li) -- A white demon love song (The Killers) – I belong to you (New Moon remix) (Muse) -- Rosyln (Bon Iver & St. Vincent) -- Done all wrong (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club) -- Monsters (Hurricane Bells) -- Shooting the moon (OK Go) -- No sound but the wind (Editors) -- New moon (the meadow) (Alexandre Desplat).
REMEMBER TO REQUEST A HOLD ON THIS SOUNDTRACK. It is sure to be a popular item among our collection.

Signing off,

Mrs. V

Get a Clue into history by checking out the 39 Clues adventure series

2009-12-03T11:40:00.000-08:00

For the past few months, I have had young and adult patrons asking for the 39 Clues adventure series books published by Scholastic. The demand has been so high, that I had to find out what the hoopla was all about. So I read the first book of the series, The Maze of Bones. It was published on September 2009 and written by Rick Riordan, author of the Lightning Thief.
The series, comprised of 10 books, are written by various authors to teach history along with the suspense of a worldwide treasure hunt. The intense hunt for clues is conducted by a brother-sister team against a slew of distant competitive cousins within four Cahill family branches: the Lucian, the Ekaterina, the Janus and the Tomas. The four branches are named after the original four children who founded them, and fight each other to find lost clues. Each branch is identified by branch names, and the curves and colors of their family crests.
In the 39 Clues: Maze of Bones brother and sister, Amy and Dan, lose their grandmother to cancer. She was the head of the world’s most powerful family, the Cahills. The siblings are all alone in the world, except for each other and their grandmother’s mangy cat.
Minutes before she died of cancer their grandmother Grace Cahill changed her will, leaving her descendants an impossible decision: "You have a choice - one million dollars or a clue." Everyone from Ben Franklin, Napoleon to Houdini is related to the Cahills, yet the source of the family power is lost. 39 clues hidden around the world will reveal the family's secret, but no one has been able to assemble them. Now the clues race is on, and Amy and Dan must decide what's important: hunting clues or uncovering what REALLY happened to their parents, presumed dead.
The clues in Maze of Bones centers around the life and accomplishments of Benjamin Franklin. I learned about little known historical tidbits of Franklin by following along Amy and Dan’s research about him in order to obtain each clue. Before I knew it, the book was finished. I am now hooked and awaiting the second book to become available from the numerous holds placed on it.
Unfortunately I am too old to win the real treasure hunt and the $10,000 grand prize for young readers. The series combines the 39 Clues interactive website, online gaming, card collecting and activities to help children between the ages of six and 14 win prizes. Books must be purchased in order to collect the clue cards inside.
The 39 Clues card collecting:
At least 10 collectible cards will be released with this series. Every book will contain six. Cards are also available for purchase separately in Card Packs. It is possible to collect just the physical cards, but most people also keep virtual versions of the cards online, as part of their 39 Clues account. The clues can be found by reading the book or checking the site http://www.the39clues.com/.
Participants who find all of the 39 clues and become one of the top 39 point scorers can compete to win the $10,000 grand prize.
These books may potentially be turned into films. That is the rumor out on the street.
For now, checkout the rest of the series in our collection, Book 2: One False Note; Book 3: The Sword Thief; Book 4: Beyond the Grave; Book 5: The Black Circle; Book 6: In Too Deep. Future issues are Book 7: The Viper’s Nest- February 2, 2010; Book8: April 6, 2010; Book 9: June 8, 2010 and Book 10: September 1, 2010.
So start reading and follow the journey of Amy and Dan as they not only learn about the history of the world and their ancestors, but also their growing respect and understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. This story is also about the values of respect, honor, courage and importance of family.
We would like to present a special Tween program based on these series, so any feedback or suggestions on what should be on the agenda would be helpful. I’m thinking of having our own historical treasure hunt.

Signing off,

Mrs. V

Halloween Happings at MPL

2009-10-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Boo!

As Halloween approaches there are lots of fun things to at Mentor Public Library. Let's go in calendar order.

There is a party at the Reed House on Sunday October 25th. This one requires registration so call the Children's department. There is going to be a magic show, live music, and face painting. You can wear your costume if you like. All ages are welcome. (but you have to register.

On Monday the 26th there will be Pumpkin Painting at the Main branch from 3 to 5 pm. The first ten people to arrive will receive small pumpkins to paint. This program is for tweens and teens.

Also on Monday the 26th there is Spooktacular Stories by the Fire down at the LAke branch. This program is for people in grades K through 6 and again registration is required. Join them for tales and treats and hauntingly good time.

On Tuesday the 27th Pumpkin painting will be happening at the Lake Branch from 3 to 5 pm. The first ten people to arrive will receive small pumpkins to paint. This program is for tweens and teens.

On Wednesday the 28th Headlands is hosting the pumpkin painting program from 3 to 5 pm. The first ten people to arrive will receive small pumpkins to paint. This program is for tweens and teens.

Also on teh 28th the LAke branch will be crafting Skeletons in their Bones program. This prgram is for people grades 2 to 5 and no registration is needed. Just show on up between 4 and 5 pm.

On the 31st. (yes, on actual halloween) Headlands is hosting some Halloween Fun from 2 to 3 pm. People in grades K through 5 are welcome to attend. Wear you costumes and play some games, MAke some crafts.

We love Halloween, don't you?

Arrrr! Avast ye scurvy dogs!

2009-09-14T14:20:00.000-07:00

So as we all know, September 19^th is International Talk like a Pirate Day.

Huzzah! So to celebrate there will be a Walk-in Craft (meaning walk in anytime and walk out anytime) of designing your own Jolly Roger (pirate flag you landlubber!). And to make them seaworthy we will have laminating sessions at 3:30, 4, and 4:30.

Here’s a couple examples of what

you could do with a flag.

And if you ‘d like to learn a little more about pirates , you can always check out our pirates books…. Here and Here

Or the Official Talk like a pirate site…. There.

A Few Notes on Dignity From Lynn Hawkins

2009-08-03T16:58:00.000-07:00

Here at MPL we are big on kids, as they say. We have a consistently packed house for story times, terrific staff, an outstanding children's collection, and the very best original children's programming in the area—I daresay, in the state. And it is no accident. Dennis Heritage, Children's Services Manager, began his tenure with MPL on August 1, 1983. A Northeast Ohio native, he attended KSU on an Air Force ROTC scholarship, earning his Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, as a history major. Dennis's background as a children's services librarian includes experience at Kent Free Library and Kanawha County Public Library in Charleston, West Virginia. He also served as Assistant Head of Circulation at Kent Free Library. On his last date at Kent Free Library, the Director received a petition from 75 parents requesting that he stay at the Kent Free Library.
So why am I writing about this? Mr. Dennis will assume "unemployment with dignity," on November 1, 2009. Dennis finds the term "retirement" distasteful and prefers "unemployment with dignity." In our collective mind here at MPL, the dignity part kind of goes without saying, to wit: Employers of Dennis have noted "his sincere respect for each child, the refreshing dedication to the importance of books in a child's life and the top quality of his story times." A 1988 News Herald article deemed him "quite possibly the most patient man on the face of the earth", as they noted his task was "to teach children good listening habits, increase their vocabulary, and instill in their young minds an understanding of the importance and joys of reading." Some of Dennis's "firsts" at MPL include
1st regular story times for school age children (Book Break)1st evening story times1st story times for 2's (Toddler times)1st on staff Notary Public
He has written a children's book, which he will bring to press soon. He is a master of trivia, as well as an Abraham Lincoln aficionado. Most recently he has begun teaching Children's Literature at Lakeland Community College. On a personal note as his Director, I found him to be unfailingly loyal and dedicated to library services, and to the Mentor community and its children in particular. Through difficult budget years of reduced staffing and services, he was invariably among the very first to volunteer for unattractive shifts and in my six years with MPL I never once heard him complain. As he prepares to move on to realize his dreams to be a published children's author and travel to Europe, we know that Dennis has entertained and touched the lives of countless children over his 26 years with the library. As you are reading this, maybe you are one of them! He deserves a rest!
We will miss Mr. Dennis and hope to have him back for some "guest appearances." We are pleased to proclaim Wednesday, September 16, 2009 as "Mr. Dennis Day," and invite everyone to come by the library for a piece of cake and a farewell chat with Dennis. Dennis will spend the next two months turning the reins over to Amanda Densmore, who has been promoted to the position of Children's Services Manager. We are so pleased to have Amanda accept this position. Amanda is a very talented Reference Librarian at the Main Library and has a background in reference and reader's advisory. She is the author of the Mentor's Reader Blog. Amanda is enjoying her time in Children's Services and looks forward to meeting all of our parents and children! I predict that you will find her to be delightful and enthusiastic.
~Lynn Hawkins, Executive Director

BOOM!

2009-07-13T10:39:00.001-07:00

Can you knock down all the points bloxes without letting the sheep fall?
I can’t. Keeping those sheep up there is difficult. Any suggestions?
Yes. The Mentor Public Library added a few more games to their ever growing (though slowly growing) collection. Boom Blox Party is for the Nintendo Wii and you get to throw, snap, fire, and other fun actions to knock down blox, beams, and yes, you can fling the characters around. (I know. I checked!)
The nice thing is you can start with the group game right off the bat. Just one little training session and you are set to go. There is a co-op mode and a versus mode for multi player games. I highly recommend Boom Blox party for any party. Rated for Cartoon violence anyone who can hold a Wii remote can manage to have fun with this game.

Put yourself on the holds list for Boom Blox here!

2009-06-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

With A summer of Creativity starting soon I thought I’d clue you in on what special programs are planned for the first week of Summer Reading.

Music Makin’ @ Main
Tuesday, June 16,
10-10:30 a.m. OR 10:45-11:15 a.m.

A special workshop for preschoolers ages 3-5 with singing, movement and instrument playing!
Registration begins Monday, June 1.

Paws to Read @ Lake
Wednesday, June 17
7-7:30 p.m. OR 7:30-8 p.m.

Read to a gentle dog who is licensed and trained to be a good listener.
Registration begins Wednesday, June 3.

Lunch & a Movie @ Main.
Thursdays at Noon:
June 18, July 2, July 16 & July 30

Bring your lunch & a drink and join us for a feature length movie. Popcorn provided! Children 8 & younger must be accompanied by an adult. It's a Disney movie about a dog. And a cat. And a hamster.
No registration is necessary!

Father’s Day Appreciation @ Headlands
Thursday, June 18, 4-4:45 p.m.

Children of all ages can show dad how much he’s appreciated with some great home made gifts!
Registration begins Monday, June 1.

Hot Off the Presses @ Main
Friday, June 19, 4-5 p.m.

Children ages 7 to 12 years old will create sculptures with newspaper using beads, feathers or paint.
Registration begins Monday, June 1.

Adventure: the pursuit of life -- Daniel Roy

2009-06-01T14:24:00.000-07:00

Now that summer is here, bring on the adventures. Explore the Lagoons, learn how to canoe, play tennis, volleyball, digital art, or Scuba! Yes, all of these adventures and more can be found at the City of Mentor Parks and Recreation. So go and get your adventure on. But if you think it’s just too hot outside to do anything other than sweat perhaps you would like to cool down with one of these adventurous books?

Novels:
Artemis Fowl
Percy Jackson
Alex Rider Series
Graveyard Book
39 clues series
Princess Ben
Hunger Games

How about some books to cause some adventure? Here two great how to books.

The Dangerous Book for Boys
The Daring Book for Girls

Dust off the History Books

2009-05-14T12:34:00.000-07:00

Why does it have to be so dull? I mean I sat through all those history class in grade school and high school. Yet, I can’t remember most of it. It’s just so Dusty. So when my sister told me she needed to brush up on her US History (because she just passed the Jeopardy audition.) I was at a loss of where she could go without falling asleep. Then suddenly I had the Answer.

She could Shmoop!

Do you shmoop?

You don’t!!! You haven’t even heard of it!!! My oh my.

Shmoop is US history without the dust. It covers other topics too but the history part…
My favorite section of the history review is the “why should I care?” part. It tells me exactly how those past events shape my life today. The timeline part is great too. Oh, and a test review section! I kinda feel like shmoop said “How can we get Amy to learn her history” and then stuck it up on the net.

Huzzah for Shmoop!

You should shmoop. Try it!

It’s a Classic!

2009-05-07T12:48:00.000-07:00

What makes a Classic? A book that is totally unforgettable. Some that has enough substance to be more than the latest great book.

Something like these titles:

Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh
The Black Stallion by Walter Farley
From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankwieiler By E.L. Konigsburg
The Bridge to Terabthia by Katherine Paterson
Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
The Golden Compass by Phillip Pullman
Coraline by Neil Gaiman
Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
Spiderwick Chronicles by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black

You know one more thing these books have in common?

All made into Movies.

To build Bridges, Cannonballs, and Tongues.

2009-04-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

Addictive
Physics
Gravity
Collapse
Build
Gooey

A short list of words to describe the World of Goo.

You build towers and bridges with balls of Goo. Millions of Goo balls. But not all at once. And they come in various colors. And they each have their own laws of physics, personality and hey they might even be sleeping. And you have to take into account gravity and weight and the wind. And it’s a challenge. It reminds me of Portal. And that is a good thing. It was short, sweet, and had more to do with puzzle solving than button mashing. (not that there’s anything wrong with a good button masher.)

Oh, and I watched the whole credits for the world of Goo. No, not because my husband has finally convinced me all good little gamers sit through the entire credits. I sat through the credits because before I realized the game was over, so were the credits.

Yes. The world of Goo is made by the 2D Boy game studio. There are 2 boys making video games. And they rock at it. Three cheers for 2d Boys and their gooey goodness.

Take a look and become a follower of the Goo!

World of Goo Gameplay Trailer
Uploaded by 2dboy

Babysitters Club gets Graphic

2009-04-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

Mary Anne Saves the Day: a Graphic Novel by Raina Telgemeier

Day 13 of BEDA

I'm all for graphic novels, but this may be taking it one step too far.

The Babysitters Club series written by Ann Martin has now been adapted to graphic novels. I can't help but wonder, is it really necessary? Martin's books are mostly dialogue and scene development anyways, so I have admit I don't really know if there is a need for graphic art. She also keeps her chapters short and sweet, so again, not so complex we need detailed drawings to help crack the Babysitters code.

Let me know, am I over reacting? How do you feel about turning a series like this into graphic novels?

Divine iPod Intervention

2009-04-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

Day 12 of BEDA

Sometimes you just know there's a greater power out there, and today it was ruling my iPod. Have you ever had one of those days where every song you listened to was part of a personal soundtrack?

Here are the songs and the quotes that mysteriously made it's way to my ears when I had my iPod set to random. Just in case you're building a soundtrack for yourself right now, check out these tunes:

No Doubt's "Hey Baby" from Rock Steady -

"With a stranger in my face who says he knows my mom. And went to my high school."

The Killers "All These Thing's That I've Done" from Hot Fuss -

"I've got soul but I'm not a soldier"

Chiodos "Bulls Make Money, Bears Make Money" from Bone Palace Ballet -

"Your wearing your skin like its too tight"

T.I and Justin Timberlake "Dead and Gone" -

"That part of me left yesterday, the heart of me is strong today. No regrets, I'm blessed to say"

Red Hot Chili Peppers "Love Rollercoaster" from the Beavis and Butt-head do America Soundtrack -

"One, two. One, two, three. I've got a ticket so ride with me"

Trapt "Head Strong" from Trapt -

"Conclusions manifest, your first impression's got to be your very best."

The Year the Swallows Came Early

2009-04-14T07:50:00.001-07:00

Day 11 of BEDA.

The Year the Swallows Came Early by Kathryn Fitzmaurice.

"Things that look just right come undone quicker then the last day of summer" - Kathryn Fitzmaurice

Occasionally you will read a book that not only speaks to your heart but gives you a shocking sense of clarity. I picked up this book because I was bored and it was short and I figured I needed to try to read something that wasn't fantasy for a change. It's good to live in the real world every now and then. It was almost as if fate drew me to this book, which is ironic because in a subtle way Fitzmaurice talks about fate. She shows that there are some parts of life that are unavoidable, but that doesn't mean there isn't a choice.

When Eleanor "Groovy" Robinson is betrayed by the person she trusts most in the world, she begins to see life from a new set of eyes, and those eyes are dark. She perfectly explains the aftershock of a tragedy when she says "there's no way to track time while trying to understand something completely different about a person you thought was someone else." Who hasn't felt that time stands still after huge shock or unexpected change? As the season progresses, Eleanor realizes that betrayals aren't always as black and white as they seem, and neither are her perceptions. The relateability of her struggle to find her place in this new world that fate and choice have created for her makes this a book a real page turner.

This is an amazing story about how one group of loved ones redefine what it means to be a family and having honest acceptance. One of the more powerful debut novels I've read in a long time, this is a book that can speak to any person in a period of change.

Mixing up too much Sir Mixalot

2009-04-13T14:38:00.000-07:00

Any one else getting tired of Sir Mixalot besides me? First, the song. Then, about six years later an episode of Friends where Ross and Rachel are singing the song to their daughter, Emma. Then last month a skit on SNL. Now the Burger King commercial. Seriously, enough already!

Actually, I don't really mind the Burger King one. It's pretty funny, which is why it's the video of the week (if you want to see it, just follow this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5X4TSbGreA). I guess I like it because it's back handedly making fun of SpongeBob even though it's promoting the show. I know I'm the only person in the world who feels this way, but I HATE SpongeBob Squarepants. Well, not him so much as that ridiculous squirrel in the astronaut suit. I have just one question, why is she wearing an astronaut suit when she's under water? If she needs to breathe, isn't a scuba mask a better choice? Seriously!

But really, let's let that trashy song of the 90's fade away. It lost it's luster with me about a decade ago. It's time to move on. Brittany Spears has made enough ridiculous songs this year alone for some good spoofs.

For all the Diary of a Wimpy Kid Fans...

2009-04-13T14:25:00.000-07:00

The Frandidate by Jim Benton

This is a little shout out for all of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid fans out there. (oh, and day 9 of BEDA. I didn't forget, I had technological issues this weekend!)

Meet Franny K. Stein, mad scientist, whose inventions for disaster end up being a disaster. With the same kind of humor you find in Kinney's books, this series is sure to entertain audiences of any age. Benton is a the bridge between the Captain Underpants books and the Wimpy Kid books. It may be a random blend, but it's a well constructed blend. I didn't know kids books could talk about politics and other social issues while still having weird cartoons and pictures every few pages. Now that I've read it, I can't imagine going back.

So if you're looking for a read-alike that doesn't feel like a copy cat, be sure to check out this series.

Step into the Enchanted Forrest

2009-04-10T13:04:00.000-07:00

Dealing With Dragons by Patricia Wrede

Enter day 8 of BEDA and the Enchanted Forrest series, where wizards are wicked and dragons are your best friend.

It’s no secret, I’m a huge fan of stories that play off stuff we know and love. If it’s a fairy tale, all the better. This is a fantastically funny series that isn't afraid of teasing the expected plot line. Wrede is so clever when writing this collection. While the books are the best when read in order, each book is so entertaining you don’t need one to follow the other. But I want to tell you, read them in order. Each book is told through the viewpoint of a different member, working it's way through the generations.

Where women are kings, mirrors have attitude issues, and soapy water (with a little lemon) brings unexpected surprises, this series is sure to provide high class entertainment.

Love Being Haunted by the Black Ghosts

2009-04-09T12:13:00.000-07:00

BEDA Day 7

I know the Twilight soundtrack has been out forever, but I can't seem to get it out of my CD player. Actually, I can't get off the third track. The Black Ghosts has this a-MAZE-ing song "Full Moon" that rocks my socks. I'm addicted to it so I figured, why not make it the song of the week?

I don't know why, but every time I hear this song the word "deconstructed" pops into my head. It isn't really deconstructed. It is a solid and well organized piece. I think what makes me think deconstruction is it's exposure of all its nuts and bolds. This band cleverly tears apart it's components and builds it back up piece by piece. For some reason hearing them lay those parts on top of each other makes the ending so much more powerful then the beginning even though it's basically the same thing. Oh, and to top it off, it has a killer base line. A good base line can make or break a song, and this is the perfect example of how much better the song is because of that line. And the ending has this random bell note that goes back to that deconstructed thing. That note is so unexpected, but after hearing it, you can't help but think it's necessary. If they were to take it out now, the song would be ruined.

Musical logistics not your thing? Don't worry lyric lovers, this song will be right up your alley. Seriously, check this out: "But I don't know where I am and I don't trust who I've been". Stellar.

Want to give it a listen? Check out the Twilight soundtrack today!

Under a Twilight umbrella

2009-04-08T10:48:00.000-07:00

April showers may bring May flowers, but a Twilight umbrella is sure to bring fan obsession to a new level.

Starting April 11, for a mere $25 you can purchase your very own Twilight umbrella. That's right, Robert Pattinson will actually be able to protect you. I know it's not as steamy as when he sucked to venom out of Bella so she could remain human, but I'll take what I can get.

Actually, the company that is putting out the umbrella has a whole bunch of other Twilight goodness, including Edward dolls and life sized cut outs. Now that will warm the chill from any storm!

Get Teen Ink-ified

2009-04-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

I know I'm only at day 5 of BEDA, but already I'm starting to get a little tapped out. Who knew 30 days of creative writing could be such a challenge? I know I can find something interesting to talk about for a month, but sometimes a girl needs some inspiration. So while trying to help myself out today, I visited one of my favorite websites, Teen Ink. To give you a feel for the vibe this site is offering, read their quote of the day by Jack London: "You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club". Nice.

Teen Ink is a magazine where everything is teen made and teen produced. I've seen a few websites where the people who are reviewing books and music are teenagers, like I Heart Daily, but this is one of the few sites that I know of where the things they are reviewing are also created by teenagers. Seriously, everything. Including non-fiction books.

It's about time there was a sight out there that showed what teens are really capable of. What makes Teen Ink even better is that it's not new, they've been around since 1989. Kind of cool that the people who are writing for this magazine today weren't even born when the magazine was launched. It just goes to show that the voice of young people is strong, powerful and continually needs to be heard.

Speaking of being heard, you should read a poem that I found today, "Our Relationship Would Be Easier if You Would Just Play Nice," by Megan B. Gilford. Very powerful. Gilford's voice is fresh and fierce and knocks a lot of modern adult poets out of the water. Think your writing makes Gilford's look like child's play? This website also let's you know what you have to do for them to publish your work.

So if you're looking for a new magazine to follow, check out Teen Ink. You won't be disappointed.

Gossip Girl creating fashion designers?

2009-04-07T18:19:00.000-07:00

Beda Day 4

So I'm sure you've heard the phrase "art imitating life" but what about the other way around?

Much like her character on Gossip Girl, Jenny Humphry, Taylor Momsen is apparently going to be launching her own fashion line in the very near future. I can't help but ask the question, if she wasn't one of the stars of a fashion forward TV show, would she even be interested in being a designer? And if her character didn't design such stellar stuff, would we be interested in her line? I'm the first to admit that I get a lot of my fashion advice from trash TV like everything on the CW and reality shows, but I don't for a second think that the actors are the people who make these decisions. It was really just a fluke that Sarah Jessica Parker had her own sense of style pre-SATC, and because of that I find myself going to the show stylist pages rather then the stars when I want to know what color is in or if I should wear headbands.

But who knows, maybe Taylor knows her stuff. I usually see her on the what to do lists instead of the what to don'ts. I guess it doesn't really matter whose making it as long as GG keeps showing it. Lets just hope Momsen doesn't become a funkified diva like Little J...

Rapunzel's Revenge

2009-04-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

Rapunzel's Revenge by Shannon and Dean Hale

Welcome to the Wild Wild West of Fairy Tales and day 3 of BEDA.

If you know me at all, you know there are three things that I love: music, fractured fairy tales, and Ben and Jerry's Chubby Hubby Ice Cream. And while I tend to go on and on about how great the ice cream is, (Come on! Peanut butter filled chocolate covered pretzels in chocolate ice cream! What's not to love?) nothing is more delicious then taking a story you know and love and changing it to something almost unrecognizable.

That's what we have with this stellar graphic novel. I've been having this long standing debate with friend of mine about whether or not graphic novels should be considered quality reading. She has some doubt. So all of you doubters out there, you need to check out this book. Forget everything you know about fair maidens waiting for a man to stumble against some random tower and save the day. This princess is the key to her own success.

Normally I hate westerns. There's something about all that sand and sun and sweat that instantly makes me head for the showers, and possibly the ice cream isle. But as soon as I saw Rapunzel lasso her braids around a tree in this book to plan her escape, my skin started crawling in the best way. That's right, a hair lasso. James Bond was never so clever. And while it is great to read about it, seeing it beautifully illustrated adds a level of cool that no regular book can.

So in some ways, graphic novels are the fractured fairy tales of the novel world. I'll never get enough of taking something expected and making it cooler. Now if only I could grow out my hair...

Lemony Snicket-isms

2009-04-04T13:19:00.001-07:00

Horseradish: Bitter Truths You Can't Avoid by Lemony Snicket

Day 2 of BEDA.

I love books that are supposed to impart some wonderful words of wisdom or some little anecdotes that are apparently there to make life wonderful. I love them because they are ludicrous. Lemony Snicket gets it right. Instead of writing about the wonderfulness that is right around the corner, he, in is very Snickety way, tells you how to push past the rubbish and keep on trucking. That life doesn't need to be a bed full of roses to get something good out of it. That's the sort of wisdom I can get behind.

Don't believe Snicket is an untapped source of wisdom? Check out this witticism:

"Having a personal philosophyis like having a pet marmoset,

because it may be very attractive when you acquire it,

but there may be situations when it will not come in handy at all."

Genius! So maybe it isn't a witticism, but I think it's safe to say a Snicketism.

30 days of blogging

2009-04-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

I've been catching up on my favorite blogs when I saw the coolest thing from Maureen Johnson. She has committed to blogging every day in the month of April. How awesome is that? So, in a complete groupie movement, I decided I would be a follower and join the BEDA movement. So here it is:

THE RULES OF BLOG EVERY DAY APRIL (BEDA)

1. Blog every day in April.

THE BLOG EVERY DAY IN APRIL MANIFESTO:

I commit to this idea and am determined to create something EVERY DAY in April, including weekends. Every day, I will find something to say. I embrace the reality that there is always something to talk about, if you are willing to take the time to look for it. I, Tina H., from Mentor Public Library, promise to blog every day in April.

Now, in true Tina fashion, I started a little late, so I will actually blog every day until May 3. So I guess I'm taking the BEDAPTED challenge (Blog Every Day in April Plus Three Extra Days).

For information on my bogarted mission, visit: http://maureenjohnson.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-every-day-april.html

The Reformed Vampire Support Group

2009-04-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

The Reformed Vampire Support Group by Catherine Jinks

No doubt about it, the best part about working for a library is seeing stuff before everybody else does. I'd like to say it's being around people, or the free exchange of information and technology, and while all that's well and good, it's really the new stuff. We get paid to be on the cutting edge. In fact, people ship us stuff early, before it's even officially on the market, before they even do the final spell check, so we can get a taste of what's hot before the riots start at the check out counters. Bet you didn't know being a librarian instantly makes you VIP.

I just finished the coolest book of 2009 because of this pseudo-celeb status; The Reformed Vampire Support Group. It's due to come out mid-April. If you think you know vampires, you need to read this book. While Twilight makes the land of the undead seem intriguing, stealth, and sexy, Jinks shows you the side of vampires that won't make it to the romance section. Senior citizen vampires with walkers, vampires with mothers, and vampires with anxiety disorders entertain you from cover to cover as these characters are brought together through group therapy to thwart their desire to kill. No vampire book is complete without a little lycanthrope, and the werewolves in this book are just as hilarious and demented as the blood suckers. Throw in a little accidental staking and a spontaneous road trip and you have a recipe for success, along with a new found thirst for mortality.

Ready for some therapy? Get on the request list today!

Seether crawls out from under the covers

2009-04-04T06:25:00.000-07:00

This week I have been laid up with some HORRIBLE sinus disgustingness. (Oh, haven't you heard? When you're sick you can make up words). I don't know about the rest of you, but I hate being so sick that you can't do anything but watch daytime law shows who all have some sort of "shocking" DNA baby-momma-drama revelations. It causes a person's mind to wander in circles like a stationary bike.

Speaking of going around in circles, is anyone else a little done with the Flo Rida cover "Right Round"? It totally rips off that 80's song "You Spin Me Round" by Dead or Alive. Great groovin' tune, but really, who are you fooling? Nothing original there except the scandalous lyrics.

Don't me wrong, I love a good cover, but call it what it is; somone else's. I firmly believe you can make a remake special and sometimes re-doing something is neccessary. When I shoot pool I call it the red-head-re-do, which I suppose really only applies to me, but there people who can do it right. There are bands who really know how to apply a fresh sound. Take "Careless Whisper". Seether, who I have loved way before that Amy Lee girl ever did, recreated a George Michael classic. I sort of wish that I could have heard this version first because it is so, so good. I can actually see them never dancing again, just standing there like melancholy wall flowers *sigh*. Mediocre song retold by a fantastic artist = great cover.

Sometimes really great songs are redone by even better artists. There is nothing like a music icon paying homage to a not-so-distant masterpiece. Think about the Johnny Cash remake of the Nine Inch Nails song, "Hurt". If his version doesn't make your heart ache, then no loss ever will. And I will never forget when I went to a Motely Crew concert and they opened up their show with System of a Down's "Suite-Pee". Midgets and clowns never seemed so right.

So here's for not covering up the good stuff, but for reinventing it, making "Careless Whisper" the song of the week.

It’s History, only not…..

2009-04-02T11:38:00.000-07:00

April brings rain and history. Well, history in story form. It’s Historical fiction month here at MPL and of course we have suggestions for you. Did you really need to ask?

Novels:
Octavian Nothing by M.T. Anderson
The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbel Bartoletti
Miss Spitfire by Sarah Elizabeth Miller
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Al Capone Does my Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko
In darkness, Death by Dorothy Hoobler
My brother Sam is Dead by James Lincoln Collier

Graphic Novels:

Maus : A Survivor’s Tale by Art Spiegelman
Peace Maker by Nanae Chrono
Laika by Mick Abadzis
300 by Frank Miller
Ruse by Mark Waid
Samurai Champloo by Masaru Gotsubo

Steinbeck's Ghost

2009-03-27T09:20:00.000-07:00

Steinbeck's Ghost by Lewis Buzbee

"Rule number one when saving the world: always have cookies" - Lewis Buzbee

Here is a very recent historical fiction novel that plays homage to a man who helped create public libraries in the United States: John Steinbeck. A few years ago, Salida Regional Library, the first public library system in America, almost had to shut it's doors forever because of financial problems. Sounds familiar, right? This book tells the story of how a community united together to fight against its destruction. The fight is led by a young man named Travis who had the courage to stand up for what is right. We see how one person really does have the ability to make life altering changes in his community, especially if we can push fear aside and take a chance. It's even more vital when the choice is not easy and the odds are stacked against you. After all, isn't that the truest definition of success?

Talk about your library lovers book.

White Lies never hurt any one

2009-03-27T08:16:00.001-07:00

"Tell me lies, tell me sweet little lies" - Fleetwood Mac

Finally, a band with class.

I was watching David Letterman the other night, when I saw the greatest band play. It was kismet. I was meant to see that performance. I never watch Dave; I'm a Jay/Jimmy/TMZ girl. But OMG! I may be flipping to CBS more often.

Usually I'm disappointed when a band gets some cred before they are even a blip on my radar, but not this time. Not only were the band members foxy, the music rocked. And the band rocked it out. I don't know what was better, the sultry Doors-ish sound they had, or the fact that everyone was wearing suits, even the drummer. It's nice to see a band that can class it up, both is artistic style and fashions style.

Normally I pick a song of the week, but White Lies is too good to be picky. I downloaded the album from iTunes, and it is one amazing song after another. So instead of a song of the week, I invite you to listen to the album of the week.

They are in a class all of their own.

They say McDonald's are everywhere...

2009-03-24T06:57:00.000-07:00

They say McDonald's are found everywhere in the world, and while that's true, when you look at their ad campaigns it's almost as if they are selling a different product. I'm sure by now everyone has seen the Filet-o-Fish commercial. For some reason it is a fan favorite, and I see that commercial more than I see my reflection. If you love that commercial and think the ad people know there stuff, then check out what McDonald's runs in Japan. Both are about the sandwich. Tell me, is it really the same?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UKLncvGxQ8

Standing at a creepy Crossroads

2009-03-24T06:17:00.000-07:00

The Crossroads by Chris Grabenstein

I'm a scaredy cat. A big, huge baby. I don't handle suspense well and am so the person who will flip to the end of the book early to see if a character is still around. Yeah, I know, ridiculous, but having that pit-in-the-bottom-of-your-stomach fear is a rush that I love to hate. It's my own personal horror-coaster.

So when I picked up Grabenstein's book and saw this creepy tree on the cover, of course I couldn't walk away. It was like the cover was calling to me. The tree reminded me of one outside my parents house on West 84th that would bang againsy my window for no apparent reason. That house was nuts, with cold pockets and creepy sounds everywhere. Possessed by the memory of that place, I flipped open the cover and the first sentence sent shivers down my spine: "Have you ever seen a face hidden in the bark of a tree and known that the man trapped inside wanted to hurt you?" Creep-py! And I hate to admit it, but yeah, I have felt that way. It's why I can't do haunted houses.

But wait, it gets better. The main character lives on West 84th. No need to do a double take. My old street. My old tree. The rest of the book was one random coincidence after another. Street names, store names, character names. All things from my past but with a crazed ghost floating around. I wanted to put it down, but I was so horrified I couldn't. This is a book about a haunting, and I think it's safe to say, it haunted me.

Want to be haunted? Check it out. Since all good ghost stories should be read out loud, be sure to get the audio.

Battling for Miss Independent

2009-03-18T14:08:00.000-07:00

Ne-Yo or Kelly Clarkson.... Ne-Yo or Kelly Clarkson...

Yesterday I was cruising downtown to see the parade when the Ne-Yo, "Miss Independent" song came on. I really dig that song. I can't listen to it and not head groove a little. So while I'm rocking out St Paddy's style, I realized that the little computer on my car stereo said Kelly Clarkson, "Miss Independent". Weird, but I figured it was a glitch or something. Not exactly. That satellite link must have just been early because the very next song that came on was Kelly Clarkson's version of women who can do their own thing their own way, her "Miss Independent".

First off, who knew? Had it not been for my car stereo, I may have never noticed. Now that I have though, I have just one question. Why didn't the independent Clarkson get upset when Ne-Yo bogarted her song title? It seems a little shocking that a woman who wrote a song about standing up for herself and being her own person wouldn't want to stand up for her title. Now I'm not saying Ne-Yo stole anything. Miss Independent is a someone popular phrase, and the songs sound totally different. His is more fun, dancy, and appreciative, while hers is about angst, betrayal and despair. Not the same at all. But still. There's a lot to be said about a name.

So this week it is a battle of the Miss Independents for the song of the week. Give them a listen and let me know, which lady takes the cake?

You thought you knew suburbia...

2009-03-16T06:25:00.001-07:00

Tales from Outer Suburbia by Shaun Tan

Missiles in every yard, an alien as a foreign exchange student, blind reindeer. Just your every day suburban neighborhood. It's the land of Make-Believe that would give Mr. Rogers a panic attack.

I'm not the biggest sci-fi gal. I'm more of a fantasy fan. But it is the flavor of the month, so I figured, why not, I'll give it a go. I love getting my flavor fix because I always find a treat I didn't expect. This author had me so enraptured by these short stories that as soon as I closed the book I was looking for Tan's earlier stuff. And the art! A-MAZE-ING! I keep going back to the story about the foreign exchange student...it sure would explain some things.

Want to enter Outer Suburbia? Check it out.

Dying for more Edward? Watch Twilight for free

2009-03-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

So I'm a genius. Despite the fact that I have been counting down the days for the Twilight movie to be on DVD, I just realized today that I forgot to pre-order it. Stellar.

Luckily for me, on Wednesday, March 25, MPL is having a special screening of the movie at the Main Library. And it's free. I am so excited. Because as happy as I am to take the Cullen's home with me, I really, really, really like seeing Robert Pattinson's face projected on the big screen.

If you love all things Twilight as much as I do, stop by on March 25 at 6:30. There's no registration needed to get lost in this amazing movie. Again.

My sister said it best, "I really want Bella to be a vampire already!" Well I really just want to see this movie again!

An America Next Top Model shocker!

2009-03-14T12:04:00.000-07:00

This past Wednesday most horrendous, unspeakable, and evil thing happened on America's Next Top Model. It was makeover day and *gasp* Tyra cut off the hair of one of the contestants! OMG!

Bleh! Every season it is the same thing. Tyra cuts someones hair off because she "loves their bone structure" and every year these girls are surprised and devastated that it happened. Have they never seen ANTM? It's the same every year. Two girls go short, two go blond, one goes red and white girls learn how painful it is to wear weaves.

I don't know, maybe it's because of my fabulous Jay Leno chin, but I dig short hair. I have never burst into tears because a cut wasn't quite what I expected. And let me tell you, I have had some wicked styles over the years. I want to be trendy, so I try the fads. My life is a 50/50 split of good cuts versus bad cuts. I should mention that I grew up during the days when perms were hot, so if that doesn't tell you about some of the disastrous photos that have been taken of me, I don't know what will. I would have killed to have a fashion icon like Tyra Banks tell me how I should style myself. She may be annoying, but she knows her stuff.

As much as I gripe about this episode every season, I do love it. It's the only time during the cycle that I look at those girls and think I've got more going on then they do. Talk about a shocker!

Falling into Garth Nix

2009-03-09T22:02:00.000-07:00

The Fall by Garth Nix

Imagine that you live in a world completely encased in darkness because a magical Veil blocks out the sun. The world is so cold and destitute that the land is covered in ice. They only way to destroy the Veil is to dismantle the Keystones that keep it in place found at the top of a castle's towers. Oh yeah, and that castle has a room for people to be punished, called the Hall of Nightmares. Ever wonder it would be like to not be able to wake up from your worst dream? Talk about punishment.

If you think your life is rough, check out this series. The Seventh Tower books were recommended to me by a guy who knows the difference between good fantasy and a wonderfully consuming story. Nix creates a world so complex and intriguing that you actually get chills as you read them.

Want to climb the towers? Then check this series out.

One Tree Hill is not lying!

2009-03-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

One Tree Hill has been playing the good stuff!

This past Friday was my birthday, so I treated myself right by catching up on some quality trash TV. You know, Gossip Girl, America's Next Top Model, Make Me a Supermodel and my new fave, One Tree Hill. I know OTH has been around for years, but I never was able to catch it. Once I checked out the boxed seasons sets I became obsessed, and now my TiVo is on overdrive.

Much like these other pseudo-soap operas, I think it's the music that takes it to the next level. I swear that once I heard Carolina Liar's "Show Me What I'm Looking For" come on into some unnecessarily dramatic scene with Payton, Lucas, and a doctors office, I got a little choked up. There may have been some tears, I'm not gonna lie. Good music will do that to you; it makes even the most ridiculous scene seem fantastic. Talk about knowing your audience!

So the song of the week is the song that had me reaching for the tissues.

Jimmy Fallon on Late Night

2009-03-08T12:16:00.000-07:00

If you love SNL, then you are like me and are thrilled to see Jimmy Fallon taking over Conan O'Brien's place on Late Night. The video of the week is the opening segment of his first show, and I have to say, I love the classy funny vibe Jimmy's giving off.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7t2AYbisOc

Miraculous Journey of Edward Trulane

2009-03-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

"Miraculous Journey of Edward Trulane" by Kate DiCamillo.

The heart breaks and breaks

and lives by breaking

It is necessary to go through

dark and deeper dark

and not to turn

- Stanley Kunitz

I was visiting some friends of ours at Fairfax when someone recommended I review Edward Trulane. I love this book, and I'm glad they brought it to the front of my mind.

I could tell you that the reason why this book is so exciting is that you watch a toy bunny go all over the world, or that I'm fascinated by the fact that people can be connected to one another over generations by a solitary item. Or maybe confess that as a kid I secretly thought my stuffed animals were alive and couldn't let the unicorn be next to the elephant on my bed because, well, you know, they had "issues". But really, I think this book is rocks beause of the poem that starts off the whole book. It says it all.

It is necessary to go through the hard stuff to get the good stuff. One is not mutually exclusive to the other. And deep down, we all love it. There's a reason why people watch dramas. I was talking to a friend last week who told me that he thought my life story was really interesting and that on some level he was jealous. And the whole time he said it, I was thinking how I was jealous of his life story. I think its safe to say that everyone who reads this book will be a little jealous of Edward's story. We all want to be taken on an adventure.

So thanks to my Fairfax friends for helping me get refocused. As always, I love hearing suggestions on what book I can't live my life not knowing, so please keep them coming.

That is my necessity for going through the dark.

Is Ryan Seacrest crossing a line?

2009-03-07T08:54:00.000-08:00

They say it's a fine line between love and hate, but it's an even finer line between censorship and non-censorship.

I was driving into work today listening to Top 40 with Ryan Seacrest when the Katie Perry song, "Hot and Cold" came on and I noticed that a line was missing. Normally, when a word is deemed "inappropriate" for whatever reason, radio stations just switch it out for another one. But today, they just skipped an entire line. At first, I thought I wasn't paying attention, but then I noticed the same thing happened to Rihanna and T-I's "Live Your Life". You have to be kidding me, Mr. Seacrest!

I don't know what it is about this that has me so riled up. I know I'm a little biased since fundamentally libraries don't censor. We believe that it is your right to read what you want, and listen to what you want. We rejoice that we live in a nation built on freedom of speech and Right to Read weeks. It's what libraries are all about. But on the other hand...I get it. Somethings should not be shared with everyone all the time. It's not just that I don't want a bunch of 4 year olds hearing dirty words on the radio. That creep factor pops up everywhere. I still get uncomfortable when I'm watching a movie with my dad and two people kiss. The devils advocate in me gets how somethings should not be experienced with your dad. I'm just saying!

Someone told me this week that devils advocates aren't really advocates, they are just people who like to argue. I hate to be that girl, but I think this issue warrants discussion. So here's my question, how far is to far on the censorship scale? Would you rather hear an altered word in a song, or a song that has a whole phrase taken out? Is there really a lesser of two evils?

Aliens Attack At Mentor Public Library!

2009-03-05T11:32:00.000-08:00

Do I have your attention now? Bad news, my friend. The Aliens aren’t attacking us. We are attacking them. Well, the books they are in. It’s Science Fiction Month at good old MPL.
Have you said hello to an alien lately? Or maybe you are more of a “What if computers were fused with our brains?” kind of Reader. Or maybe “Deadly Virus sweeps through the world!” is your cup of tea. Any Way you like your sci-fi is fine with us.

Here some of our suggestion for you:

Dangerous Days of Daniel X by James Patterson
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Saga By Conor Kostick
Genius Squad by Catherine Jinks
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
H.I.V.E. by Mark Walden
Maximum Ride by James Patterson
Dragon and the Thief by Timothy Zahn
Feed by M.T. Anderson
House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer

Graphic Novels
Any and Every Super hero novel done by Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, etc….
Neon Genesis Evanglion by Yoshiyuki Sadamoto
Dragon Drive by Ken-ichi Sakura
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind by Hayao Miyazaki
Full Metal Panic by Tomohiro Nagai
GetBackers by Yuya Aoki
Serenity by Joss Whedon

For more Info about Sci-fi check out the display in the Teen area and pick up a book mark or two.

Edgar and Ellen are really Rare Beasts

2009-03-03T08:29:00.000-08:00

Rare Beasts by Charles Ogden

You know you're in for a delightfully decrepit story when you open a book and the main characters live in a house called Schadenfreude (which is a German word that basically means that you get a rush from watching other people suffer. Think CBS's Survivor). I have to admit, I kind of enjoy seeing how the bad people devise their master plans. My mind just can't bend that way, so seeing their plans in motion sets my nerve on edge. That's why I love 24.

This series had me jumpy from the get go. Have you ever read the Lemony Snicket books? Think about an entire series based around the villainous relatives that the Baudelaire children are forced to live with. Pure, delightful evil. In Ogden's books, Edgar and Ellen are twins whose sole purpose is to find new and ingenious ways to torment their neighbors. They make you're worst enemy seem as sweet as candy. You have to experience their horror for yourself. Without giving too much away, all I can say is you do not want to be in a game of hide-and-seek them!

Watching the downfall of these siblings is unbelievably entertaining. Who said schadenfreude was a bad thing?

Right for a Reason

2009-03-01T23:38:00.000-08:00

"I hate to say I told you so. I do believe I told you so" - the Hives

Remember the other month when I told you to check out this hot new prog-rock band, Ruled by Reason? I'm pretty sure I said it just a matter of time before the world caught on and they would start making waves. Well, it's good to know my music instincts are right. I just got word that this amazing band is opening up for Mushroomhead March 7 at Peabody's. Ruled by Reason has rocked my socks since day one, and it's fantastic to see them playing with the greatest metal band to come from Cleveland.

That's what we do here, we discover and uncover the things that deserve to be exposed. So if you see, hear or read something that's worthy of some extra attention, let us know. We love being on the cutting edge. And we are thrilled to be see our friends tear it up with Mushroomhead.

MPL on Facebook

2009-03-01T23:31:00.000-08:00

Can't get enough MPL? Looking for new ways to see the great programs we offer? Then visit us on Facebook. With interactive discussion boards and news alerts, you can always be in the know with the latest information, music, and events.

If you love being in the know, then you're already a fan. Follow this link to make it official.

Touched by the Veronicas

2009-02-25T12:53:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard a song that gives you a sensory memory?

I am all about that Veronicas' song "Untouched". It's not just because it has a rockin' beat. It's not just because there is no way you can sing to the chorus and not shake your head like a wanna be 80's punk rocker (go ahead and try, I dare you). I love that this band is two sisters singing their hearts out. That song totally takes me back to when I was ten years old, dancing in my parent's living room with my sister.

Every time I hear it I flash back to this Paula Abdul song "Two Steps Forward". Back in the day, when MTV played videos and not reality TV, that song's video had Paula and a cartoon fox dancing with each other. At the time, my sister had an imaginary friend Robin who just so happened to be a fox. Not the "oh my he's hot" kind of fox, but the actual red tail, four legged critter fox. So of course after we saw that video we HAD to dance like it. She was always Paula and I was always the fox (kind of prophetic, since I'm so foxy! *cough*). It is one of my greatest memories, rocking out with my sister.

I know there is nothing musically similar between these two songs, but I love how hearing these sisters sing makes me think of my sister. I think it's really cool that they not only make good music, but they still have fun with each other. They make me remember a simpler time, when dance contests really did rule the world.

I may have to call my sister for a little dance off....

All American Rejects cover Spears' "Womanizer"

2009-02-18T16:58:00.001-08:00

I have just one word for you: accordian.

The All American Rejects have done a hilarious rendition of Brittany Spears' "Womanizer". Have you ever wondered how Brittany gets her hits? She buys them. No, it's true. Before any of you Spear's fans start yelling and telling me that she has a gift, hold up. Pop artists notoriously don't write their own music. Brittany Spears doesn't, Rihanna doesn't, Mariah Carey doesn't, Jessica Simpson doesn't. There's nothing wrong with it, it's just not theirs. For the most part, they hire someone to make write their music, and then they find a way to make it their own. It's not to say that what they do doesn't require skill. If their music fell into different hand's you'd be hearing something completely different.

That's what the All American Rejects are doing here. They are showing us that the pop pizazz isn't found in the words, it's found in the show. And there is nothing to reject about the show this band is putting on.

Follow the link to check out this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzJVpkTTrVo

Does This Book Make Me Look Fat?

2009-02-18T16:36:00.000-08:00

Does This Book Make Me Look Fat? Stories about loving - and loathing- your body edited by Marissa Walsh

What does that song by John Mayer say? You're body is a wonderland? That's for sure. Some day's I wake up and am having the best hair day ever, where my skin is fantastic and my lashes look long and luscious. Other days I want to put a bag over my head and walk around in pj's. For those of you never really know what side of the mirror you are waking up on, this book's for you.

This book is great collection of short stories written by a bunch of people, both men and women, who are either loving or loathing their bodies. Some stories will make you laugh until you cry, others will just make you cry, but either way, you are in for a great read. Besides, who doesn't love a short story? I may not always have time for a 300 page novel, but I can usually squeeze 4 pages of fun into my day.

If I'm not selling this book, and the title isn't enough to make you run for your library card, let me show you their dedication. It was written by none other then the biggest diva ever, Miss Piggy herself: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and it may be necessary form time to time to give a stupid or misinformed beholder a black eye".

Enough said, enough read.

Judging Coraline

2009-02-14T10:52:00.000-08:00

Being the time of love and romance (Happy V-day, by the way) I know it's socially appropriate to be saying we like what's within, and that image isn't everything. That is good advice for people, but I have to admit, I totally judge a book by it's cover. But I mean actual books and actual covers. It's my firm philosophy that if a publishing company doesn't want to invest money for an interesting cover, then they probably don't have much faith for the content within.

My love of the superficial is what attracted me to Neil Gaiman's Coraline. I discovered this book at an outlet bookstore about five years ago, and I'll be honest, if it wasn't for the creepy image of girl holding a candle I probably wouldn't have given it a second glance. What sold me on it, (quite literally, in fact, this book is in my personal collection) was the craziest review printed on the back cover from one of my all-time favorite authors, Terry Pratchet. He said, "this book will send a shiver down your spine, out through your shoes, and into a taxi to the airport". There was no way I could pass up a book with that review!

A little love goes a long way, and I'm really glad to see the movie industry showing some love to Neil Gaiman. It's about time someone realized how fantastically creepy his work is and made something into a film. Talk about paying it forawrd, thanks to the film launching, they just releaser the Coraline graphic novel and audio book.

I'm doing my part to spread the joy. I am going to this movie in a matter of hours and am stoked. I am so pumped I re-read the book this morning. I'm dying to know if the movie's look matches the book.

Barack Obama "If You Voted For Me" Spoof

2009-02-13T09:23:00.000-08:00

Be prepared for the
FUNNIEST VIDEO EVER!

I love that we live in a nation where we can poke a little fun at people. Did you see Barack Obama dancing on Ellen? I think we were all a little surprised that he couldn't give Justin Timberlake a run for his money. That two-step-side-step is tricky. Seriously though, he wasn't bad, but he sure didn't have mad skills.

The video of the week pokes a little fun of the Pres and his love for Beyonce.

Oh, oh, ohhhh, oh, oh, o, oh, oh, ohh, oh, oh, ohh....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PqI12R8YNU

Take home a Grammy

2009-02-13T07:52:00.000-08:00

I got so lost in my disgust for Chris Brown's actions before the Grammy's that I completely forgot to talk about the Grammy's themselves! Ugh, I need to get him out of my head! Talk about a waste of energy.

I was really glad to see Jennifer Hudson rock the house with her performance, and even more happy to see her take home a Grammy. Take that Simon! But the thing I was the most happy for was to see Adele win Best New Artist of the Year. I love her sound. It is classic but still really fresh. I am crazy for her song, "Right as Rain" and I don't know about you, but I need to be refreshed. This song is uber refreshing. It's just as Fleetwood Mac says "when the rain washes you clean then you'll know". The line may be dated, but it is so true.

So get your vibe washed clean, and if afterwords if you feel nostalgic about this year's Grammy's, check out these other 2009 winners:

Album of the Year: Raising Sand by Robert Plant and Alison Kraus

Best Rap Album: The Carter III by Lil Wayne

Best Rock Album: Viva la Vida by Coldplay

Best Country Performance by Duo or Group: "Stay" by Sugarland

Best R&B Album: Jennifer Hudson by Jennifer Hudson

Best Instrumental Performance: "Peaches En Regalia" by Frank Zappa

Best Metal Performance: "My Apacolypse" by Metalica

Best Solo Rock Performance: "Gravity" by John Mayer

Best Alternative Music Album: In Rainbows by Radiohead

Best Pop Vocal Album: Rockferry by Duffy

Best Pop Instrumental Performance: "I dreamed there was no war" by the Eagles

Best Contemporary R&B Album: Growing Pains by Mary J. Blige

Best R&B Song: "Miss Independent" by Ne-Yo

Best Female R&B Vocal Performance: "Superwoman" by Alicia Keyes

Best Compilation Album from a Motion Picture: Juno

Best Score Soundtrack Album for Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media: The Dark Knight by James Newton Howard and Hans Zimmer

Best Electronic Dance Album: Alive 2007 by Daft Punk

Best Long Form Music Video: "Runnin Down a Dream" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Best Short Form Music Video: "Pork and Beans" by Weezer

Best Female Country Vocal Performance: "Last Name" by Carrie Underwood

Flavor Challenge

2009-02-12T07:05:00.000-08:00

Any one else want to take the Flavor Challenge?

Read at least two books that are the flavor of the month.

What is the Flavor of the month?!

Well… MPL is picking a different genre of books each month to highlight in displays in the main lobby and in the Teen area. February’s Flavor is of course Romance. Lucky for us Teen books have quite the variety of flavors with the flavor of the month. So I can read a great funny book like Son of the Mob, or paranormal Vampire Kisses, or even pick up the beautiful art in Nana and still be reading within the Flavor of the Month.

Here are some other suggested titles to try this month:
Fiction:
Nick and Nora’s Infinite Play List by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan
A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

Graphic Novels:
Paradise Kiss by Ai Yazawa
Kare Kano by Masami Tsuda
Tail of the Moon by Rinko Ueda

Book banning Chris Brown? I think not!

2009-02-11T06:39:00.000-08:00

What is wrong with people!?!

96.5 KISS FM has joined Wrigley's by giving Chris Brown the boot. I think this is fantastic, but apparently their are plenty of people who disagree. Every time I hear people calling the radio station and complaining, all I can think is, are you kidding me? Here's the thing, if you still want to listen to a man who made his girlfriend unconscious, that's your business. If his being in jail doesn't at all make you think less of his music, I guess on some level I get it. One doesn't necessarily have something to do with the other. Seriously, no one really cares that Lil Wayne has gone to jail a thousand times. What bothers me about all the gripping I'm hearing is that people are bothered that a radio station is taking a stand.

A competing new station has said that KISS is just trying to boost their ratings with this controversy. I seriously doubt it since Clear Channel has a history of not playing shady people before (does anyone remember their stance on R. Kelly?) but even if they are, so what? They are a private company. It's their choice to play what they want.

Some random listener actually compared KISS to book banning. You have got to be joking. I'm just going to assume that's because that genius doesn't understand what book banning actually is. Just because one radio station decided not to feature an artist isn't the same as a government preventing people from purchasing books or regulating ideas. KISS has not suddenly created a law saying that you can no longer access Chris Brown from iTunes, or by his CD from Target, or even check him out from us. They are just saying they aren't going to help this guy get rich and famous. Correct me if I'm wrong, but don't they selectively choose what music they play? When we don't hear Mastodon or ZZ Top on their station, do we think they are infringing on our civil liberties? NO! They have the right to play what they want, or not play what they want. That's what happens with private companies. The only people they need to rectify their playlist to is their sponsors and themselves.

And if it is some big advertising stunt, I say good for them. How can any one think taking a stand against domestic violence as a marketing tactic is a bad thing? I can think of far worse.

What do you think? Has KISS taken it too far? Are you still listening to Chris Brown?

Kicking Chris Brown to the Curb.

2009-02-09T16:21:00.000-08:00

I think everyone knows why Rihanna and Chris Brown didn't make it to the Grammy's this year. As much as I want to talk about how despicable and horrendous I find Chris Brown's behavior to be, as much as I want to say that I will NEVER listen to his music again by choice, I am going to refrain myself. Instead I want to say good job to Wrigley's Gum.

As soon as they found out what went down yesterday, they stopped running Brown' s "Doublemint" commercial. I'm glad that Wrigley's thinks that bite marks only belong on their gum, not their spokespersons girlfriend. It's nice to see a company who wants their reps to be decent people. They want their image to be sold by a person who is worth looking at. It's about time we saw a business look out for humanity and not just their profits.

I wasn't a gum person before, but now thanks to their morality I will be. I didn't know major corporations still cared about individuals and are willing to say that violence is not the answer. Now that's what I call Doublemint Fun.

Chewing the fat on Jessica Simpson

2009-02-07T08:25:00.000-08:00

Does anyone else think that Jessica Simpson is getting a bad rap?

I know she's not the smartest, funniest, or most talented person to walk the earth, but of all the things she isn't, fat is one of them. There has to be a serious problem with our world when a woman who tops at 135lbs has gossip websites and style experts calling for gastric bypass surgery. Seriously, if we hadn't seen her in her Daisy Dukes, this wouldn't even be an issue. The gossip around her is disgusting and complete lunacy. There is no big mystery to what happened here. She's not depressed, she's not going through a crisis, she a woman who no longer feels the need to starve herself to feel hot. Correct me if I'm wrong, but she is still smaller then Marilyn Monroe, and isn't Mar still a fashion icon for women every where? And isn't a major reason why women deprive themselves from a healthy lifestyle is so that they can attract a man? I don't see Tony Romo having a problem with her figure, so perhaps, World, men aren't nearly as shallow as society wants them to be.

Let's tell it like it is. Having some curves is not the same thing as being fat. Jessica Simpson is no Santa Clause, so let's stop pretending this is some great tragedy. The only thing tragic aboutJessica Simpson is that she thinks it's trendy to wear Mom jeans.

The Pussycat Dolls are making me a hater

2009-02-06T07:39:00.000-08:00

I think the Pussycat Dolls are making me a hater.

Seriously, lately I've been noticing how that I've been flippin for things that talk about hate. I just finished this amazing book, Hate That Cat, and I have to admit I was digging the angst. I really think this started when I really began liking the song "I Hate This Part".

I kind of hate that I like that song. I am so not a big fan of the Pussycat Dolls. I have never been into groups that are together because a producer told them to be. While I boycotted Making the Band on MTV, I thought it was absolutely ridiculous that there was a TV show on the CW for the Next Pussycat Doll. What is even more ridiculous that the "winner" isn't even really one of the Dolls, so what did she win exactly? It makes my blood boil that music is more of a business of being a show then making good music. The Pussycat Dolls are the truest form of that business. I think music should be written by the people performing it. I think music should be performed by people who have been together for more then a second. And I really think music should be performed by people wearing more clothing then a bathing suit. Call me crazy but I will never understand the relationship between pleather and good vocals.

But yet here I am, downloading the single and turning up the volume to full blast every time "I Hate This Part" comes on. Never before has a song said so simply how I feel about the end of a relationship. I hate it. And I love this song for saying what I can't, even if deep down I hate myself a little for starting to dig this band.

Fall in love with a little hate

2009-02-06T06:20:00.000-08:00

Hate That Cat by Sharon Creech

Ever heard the phrase "poetry in motion?" Sharon Creech is moving poetry to the next level. This book tells the story of Jack, his teacher, and a cat that he despises. He has good reason to hate that cat; it is the example of all of the cruminess that is in his life. The cat is nothing but trouble. What makes this book more then just a story about a boy and his rage is how it is told. At first, it looks like a diary, but then you realize each dated entry is a poem. Really, really cool poems.

Creech is an author who knows how to reinvent the obvious. I knew she wrote good stuff after reading her Newberry Medal winner Walk Two Moons, but I can't help but feel Hate That Cat knocks Moon out of the water. It transcends the typical limitations of the novel and makes you think that perhaps poetry isn't just for weird people who were beret's and dress in black. As an added bonus, at the end of the book Creech gives a list of other great finds poetry-wise that are equally as interesting.

Do you think poetry should be heard and not read? This novel also comes in audio book form. Be sure check out either and fall in love with a little hate.

Shaking it with Metro Station

2009-01-29T17:39:00.001-08:00

So the artist of the week is one that has been blowing up my iPod for a few months now. I'm not gonna lie, I am a more then a little obsessed with Metro Station. I completely dig that they have this 1980's electronica vibe to them that makes me want to shake it (I kind of set myself up for that one!). I'm not joking. I probably shouldn't be admitting this, but it is more then a little possible that I have had dance parties at my apartment with my one year old niece to "Seventeen Forever". And when I say with my niece, I actually mean alone by myself. Or both. Semantics.

Anyways, I just now realized that one of the members, Trace Cyrus, is actually the brother of Miley Cyrus. Who knew? Everyone, apparently. Does that family have the gift or what? Is there a single Cyrus who doesn't have a platinum album?

So the song this week I'm featuring is one of their lesser known treasures, "Kelsey". Hop on over to our MySpace page if you want to see a side of Metro Station that gives "Shake It" a run for it's money.

I heart I Heart Daily

2009-01-29T16:41:00.001-08:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you feel like everything you are doing is leading you to some small step to a great discovery? Welcome to my day.

I had a customer come up to me and ask me if I knew anything about who created roller blades. Being a person who will only run if there is a fire, exercise isn't my thing and of course I was clueless. So I visited my favorite website ever, Word Book Online. From there I found began my journey into Wonderland. I followed some random link to this invention website, http://www.brenda-inventions.blogspot.com/ventions.blogspot.c om/, which by itself wasn't really exciting but the link on THAT sight was. It showed me what people in Mentor were checking out web wise that day, and at the top of the list was my ever beloved http://www.rea dergirlz.blogspot.com/. I'm glad I followed the yellow brick road to my fave page because, like always, they led me to the mother of all coolness: htt p://www.iheartdaily.com/

What is I Heart Daily? It is this amazing website where every single day they keep you in the know about what is happening. Celebrities, fashion, music, books, movies, you name it, they talk about it. I know, I know, it sounds very familiar to the fabulous page you are currently reading, just with more entries right? Here's the kicker. It is the "they" that makes this site amazing. "They" are teenagers and college students. As a relatively young person (cough), I really like being in the know from people who don't have to ask their kids what's hot but actually wear it themselves. Want a bonus? They are nice! With a tag line like "You'll never hear about the stuff we hate, just the stuff we heart", how can you not love them?

And I do. I heart I Heart Daily.

BTW, in case were wondering, roller blades (aka in line skates) were originally created in 1760 by a man named James Plimpton. I also heart stories with compete, full circle endings!

2009 is the Year of Science

2009-01-25T13:17:00.000-08:00

Everyone likes to celebrate accomplishments, and 2009 is the year to do it.

Our ever so informative friend from circulation, Eric, has told me that 2009 marks the anniversary of some really cool accomplishments of the science world. I knew that February 12 will mark the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birthday, but I did not know it marked the 200th anniversary Charles Darwin's birth. In fact, this is just the beginning of awesome anniversaries of science. 2009 also shows us, among other things, the 400th anniversary of the first time Galileo used his telescope.

So in celebration of the amazing achievements we will be celebrating in science this year, here are a list of some books that may help get you in the mood.

Simon Bloom, the Gravity Keeper by Michael Reisman

Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa

Footprints in Time by Petru Popescu

Evil Genius by Catherine Jinks

Shift by Charlotte Agell

Double Helix by Nancy Werlin

Lost Time by Susan Schmid

Stellar Science Projects about Earth's Sky by Robert Gardner
Galileo Galilei and the Science of Motion by William Boerst

Serving up the feel goods

2009-01-24T11:03:00.000-08:00

How is it that Ellen DeGeneres always knows what's I'm thinking? The video pick of the week is a car commercial I saw on her show this past week while I was cooped up on my couch with a sore throat. Watching daytime television is the best part of being sick after taking four hour naps without anyone judging you. Ellen shows the coolest random videos.

We serve many things here at the library: people, books, music, the feel goods. This video cracks me up because for all the things we do dish out, there is one thing we don't. It pokes a little fun at those who just don't quite get what we're about at MPL. Here's hoping that it puts as big as a smile on your face as it did mine!

Want to smile? Check out our MySpace page!

I need a Paper Route

2009-01-20T06:55:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love a little electronica?

Paper Route is the band of the week. Never heard of them? I'm not surprised. I sort of came across them by accident. I Googled something wrong and bam, music to my ears. Talk about a happy accident. They have this wanna be 80's flash back vibe with a little mellow techno thrown in. Very nice. As far as I can tell, this band is on the newer side. I've only been able to track down the EP's from iTunes and occasionally on a website. I think they're from the UK. So while it may be hard to get your hands on a hard copy, it is definitely worth a trip to our MySpace page to check them out.

"You Kill Me" is the perfect song for anyone who has had their heart a little roughed up by someone they love, but they don't want to whine about it. Sometimes love sucks, but it's not worth the time or energy to gripe about it for a hundred years. This song will not bring you to tears, it will not speak to your soul on some primal level, it's just a good little piece that says "wow, this sucks".

We've all been there. It's almost as common as the paper.

A frog Walked into a library

2009-01-19T10:33:00.000-08:00

A frog walked into a library and asked the librarian what she would recommend." How about this sir?" asked the librarian, showing him Toad of Toad Hall. " Reddit, reddit," said the frog.
{{Chuckle}}

So in these dark at noon winter days of hum-drumness, here’s a nice little list of funny books to perk you wallflowers right up.

Books:
Son of the Mob by Gordon Korman
Repossessed by A.M. Jenkins
Hoot By Carl Hiassan
Girl, 15, Charming but insane by Sue Limb
Angus, Thongs, & Full-frontal Snogging by Louise Rennison
Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
I am the messenger by Markus Zusak

Manga/comics:
Inubaka by Yukiya Sakuragi
Dramacon by Svetlana Chmakova
Case Closed by Gōshō Aoyama
Hayate the Combat Butler by Kenjiro Hata
Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson

Step aside, Webster, there's new help in town

2009-01-19T09:08:00.000-08:00

I think we all can agree that homework is not too much fun. In fact, I may even say that I hate it a little. I think the only thing I dislike more then homework is exercise. It is a necessary evil, but why does it have to be so boring?

Here's a website that is sure to take the dull out school stuff: www.wordia.com

So much cooler then your average resource tool, Wordia is a video dictionary. (You don't need to read that twice. It really says video dictionary. How cool is that?) I'm one of those people who needs to see it to believe it, and this site lets you see it, say it, live it. It takes the guess work out of those random definitions, and can make the grunt work a little more exciting. Not only is it entertaining, but it is accurate.

So next time you're stumped, don't get frustrated, get entertained. I do. Maybe homework isn't as bad as I thought...

Silversun Pick-me-Up with a Tegan and Sara Twist

2009-01-13T06:12:00.000-08:00

"I've been waiting for this moment all my life, but it's not quite right" - Silversun Pickups

This week we're having a double helping of the song of the week. This week needs it. Have you ever had those weeks when your brain is in a funk? When you keep forgetting things you want to ask your friends because you just feel blah? That's been my week so far. I needed to clear my brain, so this morning I took my sure fire pick-me-up; indie rock.

I don't know what it is about indie rock that has me singing along at the top of my lungs. I don't know why singing at the top of my lungs boosts my mood. It may be because I grew up in the angst days of Alanis Morrisset, but deep down I know there are other angry rockers out there besides me. And indie isn't angry. It's too pretty to be angry. Seriously though, raging it out until your head gets clear is not a bad way to release stress. The Silversun Pickups are the perfect band to take you on a ride to clarity. They have a weird sound. They are just off enough to make them interesting, but not so interesting that you have to concentrate to enjoy them. Their level of off is the perfect music description of a good funk. Go to our MySpace page and listen to their song "Lazy Eye" and you'll see why this band is indie rock at it's finest. Words can't describe. It is easy bliss.

And I don't know why more people don't like Tegan and Sara, or for that matter have even heard of Tegan and Sara. I fell in love with them when they wrote "I Was Walking With the Ghost". In fact, that has been at the top of my shuffle for a few years now. This new song, "The Con," (which you can hear on our MySpace page), has me flipping for them all over again. I would tell you to get on the band wagon, but first we need to make a band wagon. Help me create a cultural phenomenon.

Get over funks the indie way, with a Tegan and Sara twist.

Heck yeah!

2009-01-06T13:28:00.001-08:00

Heck: Where the Bad Kids Go by Dale E. Basye

Have you ever wondered what happens to good kids who do bad things? I like the bad guys to suffer as much as the next guy, but I've always wondered what happens to a good person who makes a few mistakes. According to Basye, not all crimes are created equal, and Heck is the place to sort that stuff out.

While this book was definitely not written for the older folks, similar to Harry Potter it can really be enjoyed at any age. It is funny, quick witted and you don't have to be a Dante fan to get a kick out of this story (however, for those of you who are, this books gives the D man some props). It pokes fun at all of those boring "masterpieces" you read in school that talk about death. For heavens sake, if you pardon the pun, the main characters are named Milton and Marlo! Paradise Lost, anyone?

For all of you who think there should be an upside to afterlife, this book is for you. It is definitely not of this world.

Who knew something so minimal could be so cool?

2009-01-06T12:38:00.000-08:00

This is going out to all the music nerds out there.

I was having a conversation with Eric from circulation (you may recognize him as one of those smiling faces you see at the checkout counter) when he showed me an area of music I had never experienced; minimalism. You know those paintings of big red and blue squares at the art museum that has everyone saying "I could do that"? Think about that for your ears and you have minimalist music. Basically, this movement takes one concept and changes it slightly, over and over again. It's kind of like when the blinker on the car begins to match to the beat of the radio. For a few moments, they fit each other. I love those moments. While I would argue that this music was the beginning of the techno movement, some would argue it reminds them of nature. Either way, it is way cool.

Even if you don't like the music, you should most def check out the video we have on our MySpace page of a musician playing a duet by Steve Reichs called "Piano Phase" all by himself. That's right. Two pianos at the same time by the same man. It doesn't get better then that. This video is the perfect one to launch our latest feature; video of the week. It's about time we gave you a festival for the eyes.

Glad we like more then pop rock and want more minimalism? Check out these composers:
Philip Glass
John Adams
John Tavener
Arvo Part
Henryk Gorecki
Steve Martland
Michael Nyman

2009 New Years Resolution

2009-01-02T09:35:00.000-08:00

Our goal at Mentor Public Library is to continue to bring you the freshest information about books, music and movies. We want to thank all of our readers for making 2008 fabulous, and we promise to work tirelessly over the next year to bring you things we hope will inspire you the way you inspire us. As always, please send us your feedback so we can continue to provide you with what you'd love to see.

Check out a hilarious version of our resolution with the latest video on our MySpace page.

Happy New Year!

Want more Coheed and Cambria? You got it!

2008-12-30T09:50:00.000-08:00

OMG!

How do they do it? How can Coheed and Cambria continue to amaze me?

So I had Ms. Amy from Young Adult go on a mad hunt for the Coheed and Cambria graphic novels and while she hasn't found them yet (don't worry, we're still looking!), she managed to discover the sheet music for their fourth album, "No World for Tomorrow". Brilliant! This is why it's good to have a librarian for a friend. They can find anything, even the weird stuff. I practically skipped to the hold shelf to pick up my copy. Wait, that's not all. I know all of you musicians out there are wondering what could be better then that, but let me tell you! Apparently, Guitar Hero even has one of their songs as a game option. Even the musically untalented (like myself) can tear it up Coheed style. Who knew? I am so stoked!

Okay, I know I am more then reasonably excited about these developments, but seriously, Coheed and Cambria rocks my socks. This may be the highlight of my week.

Want your socks rocked? Check them out!

Beyonce "Knowles" the single ladies

2008-12-29T11:46:00.001-08:00

All the single ladies, all the single ladies...

I have to do it. There's no way to avoid it. I have to feature Beyonce's track, "Single Ladies", which you can hear on our MySpace page. I know that I usually display music that is complicated or underground, but sometimes the song that needs to be added to the rotation is the simple stuff, the stuff you dance to. I fell in love with Chris Brown because of one single line in one single song ("Look what I can do with my feet") and sometimes that's what music should be; randomness.

However this week's song is not completely random. I was inspired by three specific things. The first was an awesome GNO with my two cousins who are twelve and thirteen that have thankfully filled me in on a ton of Jonas Brothers/Miley Cyrus drama. These single ladies dig this tune. The second reason why this song is this weeks must play is honor of my niece, Phoebe, who turns one today. I kid you not, every time the song comes on, she starts shakin' it. Just imagine a baby doing a serious head nod to the beat while she gansta leans in her car seat. She even brings out the sideways thug point with her hand. It is HI-larious! But most importantly this song is getting its props as we approach the mother of all unreasonably, ridiculous romantic holidays. I don't know why New Years has turned into a couples holiday. Everyone has to change the calendar whether they have someone when the ball drops or not. Beyonce's okay with the singles, so why isn't Rockin' Eve?

So let's hear it for the single ladies (and guys) who know their worth no matter what. The people who are funny, thoughtful and good friends. The people who know how to ring the new year in style. Let's face it, if you are reading this blog on a regular basis, then clearly you have fabulous taste.

And if you like it, then you should put a ring on it. Or at least put us in your favorites.

Don't bury Charlie Bone!

2008-12-28T10:02:00.000-08:00

Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo

The other day and I saw the Twilight movie, again, and had my first viewing of the newest Harry Potter movie that will be released next year. (The trailer looks fantastic, by the way. Check out our MySpace page to get a sneak peak) Every time I see Harry Potter, I feel a little bit sorry for this fantastic series that got lost in the shuffle; Charlie Bone. Don't get me wrong, I love the Potter books probably more then is healthy. I was the person who waited in line at midnight to get the books on the day they were released, I still go to the midnight showings of the movies, and it is more then possible (cough) that I had my sister buy me a time turner for Christmas a few years ago. But in the mystical magic that is the Harry Potter phenomenon, Nimmo's fabulous series of books got overlooked.

Similar to Harry, Charlie is a boy who mysteriously discovers his magical powers and is sent off to a school for gifted students. Aside from them both having a father who died under questionable circumstances, this is where the similarities end. Charlie's gift is that he can communicate with people through photos. I used to think that if I had a supernatural power I would want it to be time travel or mind reading, but after the Bone books, I'm starting to rethink the photo thing isn't a bad gig.

Looking for something to listen to while your doing the dishes? This series also comes in audio book form. So for those of you who loved Harry Potter and are looking to fill the void now that the last book has been published, check out the Charlie Bone series. It's worth digging up.

Tugging String

2008-12-19T13:16:00.000-08:00

A tugging string : a novel about growing up during the Civil Rights era by David Greenberg

I LOVE this book!

One of the more ingenious historical fiction books in a long time, David R. Greenberg presents a memorable story about growing up in the Civil Rights era. Not only does he tell a powerful story of twelve-year old Duvy, which in and of itself is a fantastic tale, but it's the presentation of historical information that really makes this book a gem. This is historical fiction re-invented. Instead of bombarding you with facts in the story, Greenberg uses footnotes to fill you in what was happening in the 1960’s. It's almost as if he's assuming he has a smart audience and uses the footnotes to fill in the gaps rather then trying to stuff a decade into the plot. Not everyone needs to have history spelled out for them, and Greenburg seems to respect that. Being able to choose when you want to be taken away from the story for a history lesson really makes the read enjoyable. Another bonus feature to this book is that he also includes numerous real life photographs from the time period.

Own Robert Pattinson

2008-12-19T07:57:00.001-08:00

Can't get enough Twilight? Coming in spring of 2009, look forward to the launch of the Twilight Dolls!

Seriously, these dolls look a little weird, but somehow I know I'll be one of the first to buy them. I always thought I could use an Edward Cullen figure in my life, and apparently all I need is to fork up the cash to get him. I find it more then a little interesting that Edward's doll looks so much like Robert Pattinson, while the Bella doll is not really a match for Kristen Stewart. Really though, how obsessed with this series am I that I notice?

I want to give a little shout out to the people who leaked this fantastic information, my favorite blog, http://www.readergirlz.blogspot.com/.

It's not to late to see what the buzz is about! Request your copy of Twilight today!

Concert karma holiday style

2008-12-19T07:05:00.001-08:00

'Tis the season for bragging rights.

By the mother of all things random, I have excellent concert karma. About three years ago, my friend and I went to Akron to see the Trans Siberian Orchestra. After a fabulous show, my friend and I waited in line for over an hour to have them sign our programs. In fact we were the very last people to go through the line. As we left, they started wrapping things up, and we heard the creator, Paul O'Neill, mention that they were going to head over to this restaurant across the street. My friend, an Akron native, turned to him and said, "I'm sorry to bother you, Mr. O'Neill, but I have to tell you, that restaurant is terrible. You'd be better off going to the grill around the corner". To make a long story short, this is how I chilled with TSO.

We became their pseudo tour guides for the night, and after four of the best hours of my life, we exchanged email addresses and contact information. I would have thought that would have been the end, but still to this day every time they come to the Cleveland/Akron area, someone gets in touch with us. I email back and forth with their light guy all the time. They treat me and my friend like more then just crazed fans. In fact, Paul O'Neill sent me a congratulations card when my niece was born last December. Oh yeah, and he has given my friends son a hundred bucks each Christmas since. So in appreciation to the coolest group of rockers that like to get down holiday style, the song of the week is "Wish Liszt" by TSO. Check out our MySpace page and see the awesome video of a Christmas light display featuring this amazing song.

Want to rock out this Christmas? Request a copy of their CD!

Happy Holidays!

K-Rock, what are you thinking?

2008-12-19T06:15:00.001-08:00

I don't know if anyone has checked out K-Rock 92.3 lately, but there have been some serious changes. In protest to the excessive amount of talk radio that has been added to their competition, they have eliminated all of their DJ's, with the exception of their morning show. That's right, no more Mighty Eight at Eight, no more Rachel Steele, no more Verlane. Just music and the occasional commercial. On principal this is not a bad idea. FM stations should be about the music. However, a little talk is not a bad thing. It heightens the overall music experience. I like to know when a new album is being released, what the inspiration for the song was and which bassist is leaving which band. Also, because they have more time to fill, the station has expanded their play list. Again, not a bad idea, but the day you turn on an alternative radio station and the Counting Crows comes on, that's the day you invest in an iPod. Seriously, K-Rock, what's the deal? Music fans, tell me, do you agree? If you don't maybe you can explain their reasoning to me. Either way, I'd love to know.

Forget being in the know, be ahead of it

2008-12-10T12:25:00.001-08:00

As you may or may not know, I like to keep my ear to the pulse of the underground music movement in Cleveland. Back in the day, I used to hit up the old Peabody's downtown to see Mushroomhead. This was back before they got "discovered" and were ruined by great reviews and conformity. This was also a time when mosh pits were a response to music, not a desire to get your face elbowed. Sigh...enough of my trip down musical memory lane. I still like to know what's hot before everyone else does. I like saying to people, "Oh yeah, I've been listening to them for years." I'm a little bit of a snob that way. On that note, let me introduce you to a stellar progressive rock band, Ruled by Reason.

This band is so new to the scene that their songs don't have names only numbers. They haven't gone to the recoding studio yet. It's worth a listen, though. I found out about this group because I work with Chris Glavac, the bassist. He is unbelievably cool, and then when we started talking music I realized he had fab taste. Seriously, check out their MySpace page and look at their friend list. The list of bands is amazing. And this band is amazing. If they don't blow up the prog rock scene, there is be no justice in the world. I do want to give you a heads up that this band is not for the faint of heart. It is intense, heavy, deliciously beautiful metal. Those brave pop rock listeners what are looking to push the envelope are in for a shocking, unexpected treat. Check out our MySpace page and you'll see what all my hype is about.

Sleigh Ride with Relient K

2008-12-10T11:52:00.000-08:00

Love the holiday's but getting a little tired of the same old seasonal cliches? Seriously, how many times can we hear Mariah Carey sing "All I Want for Christmas is You"? If you're like me and want a fresh sound to the holiday's, then check out this hilarious video by Relient K of a classic holiday tune, "Sleigh Ride". You can either follow the link above or check it out on our MySpace page. The intro is a little long, but when you get to the part where snowmen start spitting out giant sized snowballs, it's totally worth it! Nothing says "Happy Holidays" like giant sized snowballs!