Website Review: Bystander Revolution

BYSTANDER REVOLUTION is a website offering advice about things individuals can do to defuse bullying and help change cultural attitudes.

The website explores “simple acts of kindness, courage, and inclusion anyone can use to take the power out of bullying.”

The Videos section features short, informational videos by well-known public figures like author John Green and access Lily Collins. Be sure to start with the overview video featuring thoughts from 28 contributors. Videos are categorized by types of advice, problems, and solutions. A search tool provides access to the video content.

Three sections of the website are designed to help users get started. The Find Solutions area focuses on written advice and tips. The Start a Discussion area provides video playlists and discussion questions. The Weekly Stand area shares how one action each week can have an impact. The Challenges area focuses on using social media for change.

The Help section provides immediate assistance along with other resources to help answer questions.

Social media links including Facebook and Twitter for up-to-date information and resources. Downloads and merchandise are available for those that would like to extend the campaign.

Librarians will find this website useful in planning anti-bullying campaigns. Consider using the videos to jumpstart classroom discussions. Create an interactive display featuring a video playlist or feature the weekly stand ideas in your school.

To visit the website, go to http://www.bystanderrevolution.org/.

Book Review: The Not-So-Faraway Adventure

THE NOT-SO-FARAWAY ADVENTURE by Andrew Larson is a heartwarming picture book telling the story of a child and her grandfather who plan a trip to the beach together.

Theo enjoys exploring her grandfather’s trunk full of photographs, maps, postcards, and other items from his many adventures. For her grandfather’s birthday, she plans a trip to the beach where they have an adventure together.

The simple, colorful illustrations effectively capture the day-to-day activities of Theo and her Poppa drawing readers into the story.

From the memory trunk and map making activity to the family beach adventure, librarians will find this multi-generational book appeals to young readers. The engaging story provides endless opportunities for classroom discussions and activities.

To learn more about the author, go to http://andrewlarsen.ca/.
To learn more about the illustrator, go to http://ireneluxbacher.com/.

Published by Kids Can Press on April 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Momotaro Xander and the Lost Island of Monsters

MOMOTARO XANDER AND THE LOST ISLAND OF MONSTERS by Margaret Dilloway is a fantasy about a boy who discovers his legacy and sets off on a journey to find his place in the world.

This first book in a new middle-grade series tells the story of a mixed race eighth-grader with a talent for drawing. Xander’s ordinary life is thrown into chaos when his father disappears. Xander soon finds out that he comes from a long line of Japanese warriors called Momotaro and must discover his talents to save his friends and family.

Librarians will find this book to be popular with middle grade fantasy fans, particularly those who enjoy the works of Rick Riordan. It’s also a good introduction literature focusing on Asian characters and Japanese legends. Choong Yoon’s illustrations will appeal to readers who enjoy manga. Consider a literature circle that also includes the Percy Jackson books and Sea of Troll trilogy.

To learn more about the author, go to https://margaretdilloway.com/.

Published by Disney-Hyperion on April 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Youth.Gov

YOUTH.GOV is a U.S. government website designed to help educators and others create, maintain, and strengthen youth programs.

A joint project of agencies across the government, the website explores 26 youth topics from after school programs to suicide prevention. Clicking a topic from the list leads to a starting point for information related to the subject or issue. Links are provided to agencies, announcements, data sources, departments, feature articles, hotlines, programs, publications, resources, technical assistance, tools and guides, videos and podcasts, and websites. Web badges and social media tools are provided to share information.

The Youth Voices part of the website focuses on how young people can be change makers in their communities. Examples of teen change makers are provided as well as the chance to nominate youth. The Young Engaged 4 Change area of the website is designed specifically for youth and focuses on change makers. It provides opportunities and tools to help young people explore important topics and get involved in their communities.

The website provides funding search tools that can be used to seek out grants and other approaches to funding youth programs. The collaborations section includes profiles of those involved with initiating, implementing, and sustaining youth programs. The evidence and innovation area of the website provides examples of evidence-based programs and information about the need to build an evidence base. Finally, the website provides search tools for accessing youth information by keywords, agencies, departments, and topics.

Librarians will find this website useful when working with activities that bridge classroom and community projects.

To visit the website, go to http://youth.gov/.

Book Review: The Hunt for the Secret Papyrus

THE HUNT FOR THE SECRET PAPYRUS by Geronimo Stilton is an exciting mystery set at the New Mouse City’s Egyptian Museum.

Part of the “special edition” series, the adventure focuses on the mystery of the black papyrus. This ancient document is supposed to reveal the secret of eternal youth. Newspaper reporter Geronimo Stilton sets out to solve the mystery of the black papyrus and write an article for his newspaper.

The special edition book’s colorful illustrations and visual format will be particularly attractive to reluctant readers. While this book contains the fun highlighted words found in all the books, it also contains other interesting two-page spread visuals, diagrams, and other illustrations that will appeal to readers.

After the end of the story, the book includes a mini-mystery adventure titled The Cat Gang, jokes, and other information including a map of Mouse Island.

Librarians will find this book to be a popular addition to their growing collection of Geronimo Stilton books. Readers will particularly enjoy the full-color illustrations and additional features of this special edition. Use the author/series website to jumpstart library and classroom activities. Readers can play games, learn about characters, and even create their own comic.

To learn more about the author and series, go to http://www.scholastic.com/geronimostilton.

Published by Scholastic on March 29, 2016. ARC courtesy of Scholastic.

Website Review: GirlsHealth.Gov

GIRLSHEALTH.GOV is an informational website focusing on the health and well-being of girls.

Sponsored by the Office on Women’s Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the website’s tagline is “be healthy, be happy, be you, beautiful.”

The information sources are divided into the following sections: body, fitness, nutrition, illness & disability, drugs, alcohol & smoking, your feelings, relationships, bullying, safety, your future, and environmental health. Each section provides an easy-to-understand overview and sub-pages exploring key ideas. Many of the pages include testimonials or experiences of teens that will be of interest to youth.

In addition to the major sections, users can also try quick quizzes, use interactive tools, and explore lists and tips. A search box provides an easy way to locate information by topic.

The website also links to social media. The Twitter feed contains links to youth health topics of interest across government websites. The Pinterest board contains short articles and images related to popular topics.

Librarians will find this website to contain useful information for teens taking health classes along with teens who have questions about specific topics related to personal issues such as relationships and bullying. Teachers will find the self-contained sections match well with health science topics such as fitness, nutrition, and environmental health. The website is also useful for addressing up-to-date topics such as Zika virus.

To visit the website, go to http://www.girlshealth.gov/.

Book Review: Let's Go to the Hardware Store

LET’S GO TO THE HARDWARE STORE by Anne Rockwell tells the delightful story of siblings who accompany their father on a trip to purchase tools and supplies.

After moving into a bigger house, the family realizes repairs need to be made. Two children and their father visit the local hardware store to gather supplies. Along the way, the siblings learn about different types of hammers, screwdrivers, and other building supplies. When they arrive home without one item from their list, they head back to the store again for another adventure.

Regardless of whether children live near a small town hardware store or a big name brand megastore, librarians will find many children empathize with the story. The colorful illustrations and many visuals depicting hardware products in the store will stimulate lots of classroom conversation. Create a display featuring the book along with some of the tools described in the story. Or, build a makerspace station devoted to construction and repair projects.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.annerockwell.com/.

To learn more about the illustrator, go to http://www.melissaiwai.com/.

Published by Henry Holt, an imprint of Macmillan on March 22, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: USGS Water Science

The Water Science School from the USGS provides easy-to-understand information exploring all aspects of hydrology.

The website includes pages focusing on the topics of water basics, water properties, water cycles, surface water, ground water, water quality, and water use. In addition, there’s an activity center, picture gallery, questions/answers, and water glossary.

A teacher resources page links to informational resources, activities, and even a class play.

Of particular interest are the resources related to the water cycle. The entry page contains a printable poster featuring key concepts related to the water cycle. Clicking the Interactive Diagram takes users to a clickable visual focusing on definitions and examples. These interactives are available for beginners, intermediate, and advanced learners.

Librarians will find this website to be an excellent resource for both students and teachers. The website would be useful for online informational reading activities focusing on the science of water. Many of the materials can be printed for use in classroom activities, displays, and bulletin boards.

To visit the website, go to http://water.usgs.gov/edu/.

Book Review: Girl in the Blue Coat

GIRL IN THE BLUE COAT by Monica Hesse is a compelling historical fiction mystery set in Amsterdam during WWII.

In 1943, Hanneke works in the black market trading goods. When one of her clients asks Hanneke to find a Jewish teen she’s been hiding, Hanneke isn’t sure whether to help or not. However, she soon becomes immersed in the world of the resistance as she tries to solve the mystery of the missing girl.

Librarians will find this historical mystery to be an excellent addition to the growing number of books exploring black market workers and the resistance during WWII. The fascinating characters and fast-paced mystery will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

One of the best books of 2016 so far. Don’t miss it.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.monicahesse.com/.

Published by Little Brown, an imprint of Hachette on April 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Mo Willems

The MO WILLEMS website celebrates the books of popular children’s author Mo Willems.

The author’s website is divided into sections that explore the author’s book characters, books, and writing activities.

Visit the Go Mo! to explore a website specifically designed for children that contains book information, fun games, an art gallery, videos, and an adult page. Featuring Willems’ beloved characters, the audio-enhanced games are age-appropriate and engaging for young children.

Visit the Pigeon Presents! website to enjoy information and activities focusing on Willems’ popular pigeon characters. Users can play games, read about books, learn about book characters, and explore teaching materials. This website also links to the new Elephant and Piggie Thank-o-Rama website that provides an introductory video, thank-you spinner, drawing video, and worksheets for printing.

Visit Mo’s Blog for up-to-date information about the author’s recent activities and upcoming books.

Visit Mo’s FAQs! for fascinating insights into the author and his works. These FAQs provide a wealth of ideas for teaching with Willems’ books.

Visit Get Mo’ Stuff! for links to cool books, videos, toys, posters, and other materials that would be useful in creating an author display in the library.

Visit The Pigeon “Tweets” to follow the author’s tweets. Youth will enjoy following the many adventures of this fascinating author.

Librarians will find this website to be an outstanding resource for introducing primary grade children to the idea of author websites. The easy-to-use format and abundant videos and activities will help youth connect the author to his works. It’s also a nice way to provide relevant examples of social media including Twitter and blogs to children.

To visit the website, go to http://www.mowillems.com/.

Book Review: My Kind of Crazy

MY KIND OF CRAZY by Robin Reul is a contemporary fiction, young adult novel exploring the friendship among teens.

When Hank accidentally lights Amanda’s lawn on fire, Peyton is the only witness. This event sets up a story of teen friendship and evolving relationships. The combination of dark humor and interesting characters will keep readers interested.

Librarians will find that the author’s balance of humor and authentic, timely issues such as mental illness and abuse will be of interest to many young adults. Teens who enjoy stories about friendship and teen romance will enjoy the ride.

To learn more about the author, go to http://robinreul.blogspot.com/.

Published by Sourcebooks Fire on April 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: The Haters

THE HATERS by Jesse Andrews tells the story of a group of teens who escape jazz camp and go on tour with disastrous results.

In this coming-of-age work of contemporary fiction, Wes and his friends hate jazz band camp along with many other things. The three musicians jump at the chance to play an amazing show despite the trouble it will cause.

Librarians will find that Andrews’ snarky characters and unusual brand of humor will appeal to today’s youth. Young adults will enjoy the many music references and a band road trip theme. The combination of witty lists, chunks of dialog, and other non-traditional literary approaches will engage reluctant readers.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.jesseandrews.com/

Published by Abrams-Amulet on April 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Drive It Home

DRIVE IT HOME from the National Safety Council is a website intended to help keep teen drivers safe.

The Teen Driver Risks section provides ideas to encourage safe driving. The Get Involved section focuses on ways to help new drivers reduce their risk. The Digital Driving Coach section provides an online library of safe driving tips. Each one-page handout explores a different topic. The Media section provides access to over a dozen short, informative videos along with fascinating infographics. The Resources section includes research, presentations, quizzes, and other information. The Blog focuses on short informational items related to safe teen driving. Social media resources including Twitter and Facebook connections.

Librarian will find this resource useful in planning safety activities for teens and their families.

To visit the website, go to http://driveithome.org/

Book Review: The Inn Between

THE INN BETWEEN by Marina Cohen is a spooky middle school mystery set in an eerie Victorian hotel in the Nevada desert.

When Quinn and her best friend’s family stop for the night at a creepy hotel, strange things begin to happen. An unpredictable elevator, mysterious hotel guests, and disappearances are just the beginning. When Quinn and her best friend try to escape from the hotel, they realize that the hotel is much more than just an overnight destination.

Librarians will find the book popular among middle grade students who enjoy mysteries filled with twists and turns. Although scary enough to keep readers on the edge of their seats, the plot uses suspense rather than horror to keep the adventure interesting.

To learn more about the author, go to http://marinacohen.com/.

Published Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan on March 22, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Scrapkins: Re-Thunk

SCRAPKINS: RE-THUNK by Brian Yanish provides engaging activities and easy to follow directions for creating fun projects from common household materials.

This visually appealing book contains dozens of activities that involve using materials that people often throw away such as empty milk cartons, cereal boxes, and bottle caps. In addition to providing detailed instructions for creating instruments, puppets, and toys, the book also contains lots of other activities to maintain interest and spark creativity.

Librarians will find this nonfiction book to be popular with children who enjoy arts and crafts. Place the book in a maker space containing the raw materials necessary to create some of the projects. Display the results in the library to highlight the arts and crafts section of the library.

Go to the Scrapkins website at http://www.thescrapkins.com/ for lots more ideas.

Published by Henry Holt, an imprint of Macmillan on March 29, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: I Witness

I WITNESS from the USC Shoah Foundation is a website containing over 1,500 video testimonies, multimedia activities, and digital resources focusing the Holocaust and other genocides.

The Watch section provides users with video clips, activities, terms, graphic organizers, and related topics. Students can select from 50 different topics such as Anti-Jewish Laws, Civil Rights in America, and Labor/Concentration Camps. Or, conduct a name or subject search to find resources.

The Activities section provides tools youth can use to build videos, word clouds, and other projects based on the program’s themes. Each activity includes standards, grade level focus, and time to complete the activity. Users can identify mini-quests, info-quests, and video activities in a variety of subject areas.

The Share section contains project news and announcements. It also provides an area where students can view projects created by other youth. Students can share their projects with others.

Librarians will find this website to be an excellent resource for both students and teachers working on history and social studies projects. Consider participating in the Witness Video Challenge that inspires positive change in communities.

To visit the website, go to http://iwitness.usc.edu/

Series Review: Explore My World

The EXPLORE MY WORLD series by Becky Baines helps young children learn about the world around them.

Featuring a wide range of topics, each informational book contains facts and reflective questions to get young children thinking.

DOLPHINS provides a look at the world of dolphins including their characters, habitat, life cycle, and what they eat. It defines key concepts, provides a labeled diagram, and introduces the idea of marine mammals.

PLANETS defines the concept of planet and provides a map of planets. Using age-appropriate language and examples, the book helps children better understand Earth and how other planets are alike and different from Earth.

Librarians will find this series to be an excellent way to introduce informational reading to young children. With many books in the series to choose from, ask students to explore a book of interest and share their questions. Use the books as part of a buddy reading program with older children who might share their interest in science topics.

Published by National Geographic Kids on March 8, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Every Kid in a Park

The EVERY KID IN A PARK website connects youth, parents, and educators with the parks and other recreational sites around the United States.

Fourth graders and their families can access America’s natural wonders and historic sites for free! This website takes children through the process of getting a free pass.

The How it Works section takes youth through the process of getting a pass, planning a trip, and hitting the road.

The Get your Pass section involves fourth graders in playing a game, parents in learning the rules, and educators in accessing passes for whole classes. Regardless of whether students are able to visit parks, the game is a fun way to help youth explore the many outdoor opportunities available.

The Plan your Trip section connects students to websites where they can explore parks and other sites, learn about where to stay, and find out about outdoor safety. It also links to places children might want to visit in each state.

Librarians will find this website to be an excellent way to jumpstart discussions about the value of exploring the great outdoors. Place this website in a display that includes books focusing on nature and outdoor exploration. Be sure to include the many National Geographic Kids books available on this topic.

To visit the website, go to https://www.everykidinapark.gov/.

Book Review: Green City

GREEN CITY by Allan Drummond is an informational picture book exploring how one community survived a tornado and rebuilt their community.

Based on a real event, this inspiring picture book tells the story of the small town of Greensburg Kansas was struck by a tornado. When the community began planning for reconstruction, they decided to build in an environmentally sustainable way including reclaimed lumber, wind-resistant buildings, and green energy sources.

Sidebars throughout the book highlight key elements of green construction and sustainable building practices. The book concludes with an author’s note, tips for going green, and source notes.

Librarians will find this book to be an excellent introduction to the idea of sustainable communities. Use this book as a springboard for inquiry-based learning. Ask youth to explore an aspect of green construction of interest. Provide access to books focusing on specific practices such as alternative energy sources to jumpstart their investigations.

To learn more about the author, go to http://allandrummond.com/

Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux, an imprint of Macmillan on March 15, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: MIT's App Inventor

MIT’s APP INVENTOR is a website for teaching and learning how to build mobile apps for Androids.

The website contains field-tested tutorials that beginners can use to learn programming and app development.

The website is divided into two sections: Learn and Teach.

The Learn section provides access to a “course in a box”, video tutorials, a book, and other learning materials.

The Teach section section contains useful resources to help teachers design courses and modules that use the App Inventor software. It contains lesson plans, teaching ideas, and lots of suggestions and examples.

Librarians will find this to be a useful resource for technology teachers developing instructional materials related to programming. It’s also a great website for students who want to learn on their own apps. Computer clubs and after-school groups may also benefit from the resources at the website.

To visit the website, go to http://www.appinventor.org/.