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Check out our new 'zine! (...literally)

2012-02-23T18:55:00.003-05:00

It's here!

It's here!

We are SO excited and proud to announce that the first issue of Bridges, our teen art and literary 'zine is finally here! And just as we promised, it's full of fantastic poetry, artwork, photography, and short stories by Cherry Hill teens like you.

But wait, you are thinking, How shall I access this great resource of local teen art and writing? Not to worry, dear reader. All you have to do is come to the Children's Desk at the library, we have copies just waiting for you to check them out! Stop by anytime!

P.S. Also keep your eyes peeled for an online version of this issue to be posted on our website and blog in March!

Say what you really mean this Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T11:24:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day, NOISE readers!

We here at CHPL recognize that many Valentine's Day cards you find in the store can be overly sentimental or awkwardly suggestive in nature. It can be hard to find something that truly expresses your feelings for that special someone. Never fear -- we've found a few cards that get straight to the point (and let you keep your street cred -- bonus!)

For those who take a literal approach to things. From some ecards.

Any vampire lover (or Joss Whedon fan) would be smitten after receiving this one. From etsy seller FaithHopeTrick.

Lame puns AND Harry Potter? Be still, my heart! From Yenniper.

For that special someone who you'd travel across time and space for. This is my personal favorite. From this tumblr.

Enjoy!

Roundup: Ongoing Programs & Events

2012-02-09T19:28:00.002-05:00

Want to get involved at the library? Join one of our clubs! No experience or special equipment necessary -- and did I mention they're all 100% free?

All of these programs meet at least once a month, every month. For specific meeting dates in this month, click here to view the library events calendar.

Teen Activity Board - Middle School/High School
Local teens -- we want to hear your voice! Earn community service hours and help with book lists and purchases, plan and run events for young children and tweens. (There are two separate boards: one for middle school and one for high school.) - Meetings held every other week -

The Danger Diabolique Comic Book Club
Addicted to comics, manga and graphic novels? Come hang out, snag cool freebies, enjoy some snacks, and find out what's coming up in the world of comics! - Meetings held every other week -

Writer's Block
Calling all aspiring novelists and poets: find new inspiration, talk to fellow writers, and get feedback on your writing. Writer's Block members are also the editors and designers of our literary 'zine! - Meetings held every other week -

Anime Nite
Easily our most laid-back program! Come chill out with us in the library basement as we pop in a great anime series or movie, eat some snacks, and (sometimes) work on some anime-related crafts. Come early to vote on which movie we'll watch! - Meetings held once a month -

Dungeons & Dragons
Transport back to the time of myth and explore a fantasy realm in this monthly 3-hour session of battling, puzzle-solving, and monster-slaying. Newcomers and veterans welcome! - Meetings held once a month -

And the winners are...

2012-01-23T13:58:00.000-05:00

Michael L. Printz Award for excellence in literature written for young adults

Winner:

Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley

Honor Books:
Why We Broke Up by Daniel Handler
The Returning by Christine Hinwood
Jasper Jones by Craig Silvey
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

Yalsa Award for Excellence in Nonfiction

Winner:

The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery by Steve Sheinkin

Honor Books:
Sugar Changed the World: A Story of Magic, Spice, Slavery, Freedom and Science by Marc Aronson and Marina Budhos
Bootleg: Murder, Moonshine, and the Lawless Years of Prohibition written by Karen Blumenthal
Wheels of Change: How Women Rode the Bicycle to Freedom (With a Few Flat Tires Along the Way) by Sue Macy
Music Was It: Young Leonard Bernstein by Susan Goldman Rubin\

William C. Morris Award for a debut book published by a first-time author writing for teens

Winner:

Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley

Honor Books:
Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson
Paper Covers Rock by Jenny Hubbard
Under the Mesquite by Guadalupe Garcia McCall
Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

Click here to view all of the winners from the 2012 ALA Youth Media Awards!

It's awards season again!

2012-01-17T16:27:00.001-05:00

What's your pick for best book of 2011?

...Oh, you thought we meant movie awards season? Hmm, we'll save that thought for another post. No, we're talking Printz, people! The winner for the best YA book of last year will be announced on Monday, January 23! That's less than a week away! So what do *we* think will win? It's anyone's game; plenty of great books came out this year -- but here are a few we think could be worthy of the honor!

Chime by Franny Billingsley
Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
Paper Covers Rock by Jenny Hubbard

Everybody Sees the Ants by A.S. King

Shine by Lauren Myracle

A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Between Shades of Gray Ruta Sepetys

Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma

Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley

Blink & Caution by Tim Wynne-Jones

How to Save A Life by Sara Zarr

Interested? Come visit us and check one of these buzz books out!

Staff Pick: How to Save a Life

2012-01-11T17:32:00.008-05:00

Summary (from Amazon):

Jill MacSweeney just wishes everything could go back to normal. But ever since her dad died, she's been isolating herself from her boyfriend, her best friends--everyone who wants to support her. And when her mom decides to adopt a baby, it feels like she's somehow trying to replace a lost family member with a new one.
Mandy Kalinowski understands what it's like to grow up unwanted--to be raised by a mother who never intended to have a child. So when Mandy becomes pregnant, one thing she's sure of is that she wants a better life for her baby. It's harder to be sure of herself. Will she ever find someone to care for her, too?
As their worlds change around them, Jill and Mandy must learn to both let go and hold on, and that nothing is as easy--or as difficult--as it seems.

I picked this book out after a fellow librarian hyped it up as her pick for the best book of 2011, and I definitely understand why she did. How to Save a Life is a stirring read that is heart-wrenching at times but ultimately hopeful.

Read this book if: you’re in the mood for something introspective that might make you cry, depending on your state of mind that day. You heart will ache for the suffering and anguish that Jill (who recently lost her father) and Mandy (who's been abandoned all her life) are going through.

Skip it if: you’re looking for a light-hearted love story. Though there are some swoon-worthy romantic moments, this book is really about grief, relationships, and family.

Reviewed by: Melissa

For your convenience

2012-01-05T19:34:00.000-05:00

Hey NOISE readers! Just a quick note to let you know that we've added some brand new book recommendation lists to our "Book Lists" sidebar!

Check them out:

Clean Reads

Boarding School Books

Sports Reads

And if you're looking for something new to read but you're not sure how to find it, come visit us at CHPL!

YA Series Gifts for your Bookish Buddies (or your bookish self)

2011-12-10T10:56:00.004-05:00

We scoured the internets to bring you the Actual Stuff from some of our favorite YA book series. We here at CHPL would be thrilled to receive any of this swag in our stockings this year!

Tessa's Clockwork Angel (via Etsy seller hebelmet)

Curse Workers Protection Amulets (via Etsy seller hebelcurseworkers)

The famous Marauder's Map! (via Hot Topic)

Bella Swan's wedding necklace (via Hot Topic)

St. Vladimir School Crest Hoodie (via Arcane Vault)

Katniss' Mockingjay Pin (via Amazon)

Staff Pick: Beauty Queens by Libba Bray

2011-11-19T12:15:00.000-05:00

From Amazon:

Teen beauty queens. A Lost-like island. Mysteries and dangers. No access to emall. And the spirit of fierce, feral competition that lives underground in girls, a savage brutality that can only be revealed by a journey into the heart of non-exfoliated darkness. Oh, the horror, the horror! Only funnier. With evening gowns. And a body count.

Many have compared this book to Lord of the Flies, and while the premise is pretty similar, I saw Beauty Queens as YA's answer to Mean Girls. Never has a book so accurately portrayed the strange land known as "Girl World." Bray offers a riotous commentary on consumerism, pageant culture, and gender norms.

Loved: The diverse and fully fleshed out cast of characters; the surprise appearance of a merry band of hot British pirates; "Let Me Shave Your Legs Tonight, Girl" (by the once-world-famous boy band Boyz will be Boyz),

Loved to Hate: Taylor Renee Crystal Hawkins, aka Miss Texas, the self-appointed leader of the plane-wrecked girls; Ladybird Hope (a stand-in for a certain former governer and hockey mom from Alaska, maybe?)

Reviewed by: Melissa

Attention all artists, writers, poets, and creative thinkers!

2011-10-25T15:26:00.005-04:00

Remember that time you wrote that thing in English class and you thought, ‘Hey, this is actually pretty good, I should show it to someone’? Submit it to Bridges!

Remember that time in math class, when you were supposed to be learning quadratic functions, but instead you drew a hilarious caricature of your math teacher? Submit it to Bridges!

Remember that time you submitted a short story, poem or piece of artwork to Bridges? No? Then you should! Right now!

Are you between the ages of 13 and 18? Do you know how to put words or lines together to form nice artwork, coherent poems or decent stories?

Submit these coherent words or pretty lines to Bridges, the Cherry Hill Library’s new teen art and literary zine, today!

***

That's right, CHPL is starting up a literary 'zine for teens. We want your stories, essays, comics, artwork/photography (must be black-and-white), and poetry! Our first issue will debut in Winter 2011, so start sending your stuff in now!

Submission forms are at the Cherry Hill Public Library Youth Desk, but you can also e-mail your submissions to bridgeszine [at] gmail [dot] com. Check out the Bridges website for submission guidelines and more information!

Staff Picks: New Releases

2011-10-13T19:39:00.000-04:00

Looking for a good read? CHPL has got! You! Covered! We've hand-picked our favorite new fall releases, check them out! (...literally...)

A girl wakes up in skeleton face paint slumped over a subway seat, with absolutely no memory of how she got there. Sure, before she went to rehab this would have been just another Sunday morning. But when she sees the words "HELP ME" drawn into her chest, she knows there's something strange going on. Miss Melissa says, "Like The Hangover, but not funny."

What would you do if you had the house to yourself for six months -- no parents, no rules, unlimited funds? Hot tub parties? Junk food for breakfast? Adopt that kitten you've always wanted? If you answered "all of the above!" you may want to read this book -- you'll find a lot to love in the plucky narrator.

We here at CHPL absolutely loved Julie Halpern's Into the Wild Nerd Yonder and have been waiting for this one! Miss Melissa says: "Any book that starts out in a mental institution sounds good to me!"

We don't even know what this book is about, we just had to include it because it is the most awesome book cover EVER. (Just kidding, it's about a college student who loses his way after the death of his father -- until a foursome of adorable angels arrives, who will stop at nothing to help him achieve his DESTINY.)

Goodreads reviewer #1 says: "This book was beautifully written. The ending will STUN you." Goodreads reviewer #2 says: "I hated everything about this book except the cover." This sophomore novel from Nova Ren Suma has been stirring up controversy since its release...which side will YOU take?

Fall Fun at CHPL

2011-09-12T19:19:00.009-04:00

This fall we're all about books, geekery, and a bit of Serious Business. Check out what's on our event calendar this September!

The Danger Diabolique Comic Book Club: Addicted to graphic novels or manga? Come hang out, snag cool freebies, enjoy some snacks, and find out what's coming up in the world of comics! Thursday 9/8 AND Thursday 9/22. 6:00-7:00 PM in the Craft Room.

Writer's Block: Calling all aspiring novelists and poets! Writer's Block is a place to find new inspiration, talk to fellow writers, and get feedback on your writing. Writer's Block members are also the editors and designers of our literary 'zine! Wednesday 9/14 AND Wednesday 9/28. 6:00-7:30 PM in the Craft Room.

Acting Up: Join us for some fun improv and acting! Play games, perform skits and act a fool! (P.S. No experience needed! :P) Wednesday, 9/21. 6:00-8:00 PM in the Craft Room.

Anime Nite: Anime and candy sushi: could there be a better combination to de-stress in the middle of your busy week? We think not. Tuesday, 9/27. 6:00-8:00PM in the Multicultural Room.

Dungeons and Dragons: Transport back to the time of myth and explore a fantasy realm in this classic tabletop game. Local Dungeonmaster Matt Brinn leads an epic 3-hour afternoon session of battling, puzzle-solving, and monster-slaying. Newcomers and veterans welcome! Saturday 9/17. 1:30-4:30 PM in the Craft Room

College Prep Series: College App season is upon us! We’ve teamed up with KAPLAN to bring you these workshops and practice tests:
Financial Aid 101 - a one-hour workshop about the basics of applying for financial aid. Thursday, 8/29. 7:00-8:00 PM.
ACT & SAT Practice Tests - full-length, proctored exams that will show you what to expect in a test environment. ACT: Saturday, 10/8. 11:00AM-3:00PM SAT: Saturday, 10/15. 12:00-4:30PM.
ACT vs SAT- a one-hour workshop outlining the similarities and differences of these two college entrance exams. Thursday, 10/27. 7:00-8:00 PM.

Register for all of these events today! Just click here.

Summer 2011 Recap!

2011-09-01T19:32:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone who came to our programs, helped with kids programs, manned the Summer Reading desk, and visited to borrow books and chat! We hope you enjoyed Summer 2011 as much as we did!

HUGO

2011-08-03T14:13:00.001-04:00

That's the new name of the page-to-screen adaptation of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which will be directed by the legendary Martin Scorcese. I have to admit I was hesitant when I heard they were making a movie of the book, but this trailer looks kind of awesome! It's set to premiere in November 2011 -- what do you think? Would you go see it?

Shocking Revelations: A Short, Short Story by the Writers Block Crew

2011-07-28T17:32:00.001-04:00

This story has it all: deception, underwear models, a cameo by the President... but I'm getting ahead of myself. This is what happens when 10 teen writers (and one teen librarian) create a story sentence by sentence. Behold:

A guy stuck in a nuclear facility with no escape was busy fixing the hole in his dress when...

his suicidal half-brother's cousin ran into the room with a knife!

The cousin's jaw dropped, and the knife slid from his hand.

"Merry Christmas to you too, RuPaul!" he screamed.

"Tyra, you're not kidding anyone anymore!"

But Tyra continued to spread the gospel of "smize" to wannabe Top Models all over the country.

However, the President decided that "smize" were to be deemed illegal because he could not make his own eyes smile.

This decision cause him to reminisce on his days as a model when he was fired due to the aforementioned inability to make his own eyes smile.

Whenever he tried, he ended up making other people's eyes smile instead of his own -- thus ending the President's underwear modeling career.

Depressed by this, he attempted to kill Harry Potter, but died when a rampaging Hyperbole [editor's note: inside joke.. you had to be there?] bit off his head, because everyone knows that Harry Potter WON'T FREAKING DIE.

Written by Mason W., Michael C., Marissa C., Gigi L., Patricia S., Sarah K. Ms. Melissa, Ambar S., Maya J., Sarah K., and Julia D.

OH. EM. GEE.

2011-07-20T15:00:00.001-04:00

We are DYING over the new Hunger Games "motion poster." What do you think of it?

Awesome Alert!

2011-07-16T10:50:00.004-04:00

Fans of Holly Black's The Curse Workers trilogy, check this out!

Etsy seller Hebeldesign has created a special line of rings, pendants, and charm bracelets inspired by objects from White Cat and Red Glove -- books set in a world where curses are real and bare hands are deadly weapons. We think they fit perfectly with the edgy, dark, and mysterious tone of the books!

The Con Artist Bracelet, $46.00

The Resurrection Diamond, $74.00

Protection Amulets, $28.00 each

Aren't they awesome?? A little pricey, but worth the splurge if you're a die-hard fan!

9 days until IT ALL ENDS!

2011-07-06T11:26:00.004-04:00

Have you started the countdown too? We're feeling bittersweet about the end of the Harry Potter universe. (Pottermore can't come soon enough!) The only cure for Harry Potter withdrawal is MORE HARRY POTTER, obviously! That's why we're having a 2-day Movie Marathon event in the days leading up to the big premiere!

Movies 1-3 will be shown on Wednesday, July 13. Movies 4-6 will be shown on Thursday, July 14. Both events will take place in our Conference Center, and will begin at 11 AM. Bring a friend -- no registration required! Don't miss the chance to see the whole story played out on our big projection screen!

Staff Pick: The Last Little Blue Envelope

2011-06-29T15:52:00.003-04:00

Slideshow created by Melissa

You Are Here: SUMMER

2011-06-22T19:10:00.002-04:00

School's out, and three glorious months of freedom stretch out in front of you. So what's the plan? Sure, you've got that family trip to the Grand Canyon, and you agreed to babysit your cousins on Wednesdays. But where do you really want to go this summer? Well, we've got a just a couple of options for you!

You Are Here: Hogwarts

Is a trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter out of the question this year? CHPL has the next best thing: A Hogwarts Party complete with an epic trivia battle where your Harry Potter knowledge will be put to the test! Also: we'll head out to the Quidditch pitch for some friendly competition. Winner takes the House Cup!
Monday, July 11 6:00-8:00 PM

You Are Here: The Zombie Apocalypse

You knew this day was coming! The undead have risen, and no place is safe -- except for CHPL! It's time to put all those months of survival training to the test. How long do you think you'll survive in our sudden-death game of Humans vs. Zombies?
Wednesday, July 20 6:00-8:00 PM

You Are Here: District 13

Ever wonder what it'd be like to be a Tribute in the Arena? Why wonder when you can find out for yourself? We're holding our second CHPL Hunger Games, with challenges inspired by the actual Hunger Games -- and in our version, there can only be ONE Victor!

Monday, July 25 6:00-8:00 PM

You Are Here: Camp Half-Blood

Do you have near-superhuman strength? Ever find yourself randomly comprehending Ancient Greek? Then you, like Percy Jackson, may be a demi-god, and you, like Percy, probably have many mythical creatures chasing after you! Escape to Camp Half-Blood, where you'll discover your ancestry, train for battle, and feast on blue food!
Wednesday, August 3 6:00-7:30 PM

You Are Here: Rosewood High

Who is A? Where is Ali, really? Is there anyone in Rosewood High that you can actually trust? Do you think you have all the answers? If you do, or if you just love the intrigue and deception of Sara Shepard's Pretty Little Liars series, you will not want to miss this night of trivia, games and mystery.

Monday, August 15 6:00-7:30 PM

With so many places to go this summer, you might just have to bail on the Grand Canyon! You can start the adventures by registering on our online event calendar.

**All of the above events are being held in the Conference Center in our basement**

May Brings Murder, Mysteries & More!

2011-04-29T16:31:00.000-04:00

In honor of "Get Caught Reading Month" we at CHPL have compiled a list for you of our most compelling mysteries, true crime and forensic science reads.
Check 'em out!

Newer Titles - Fiction:

All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab

After the death of his ex-girlfriend Carly, northern California high school student Neily joins forces with Carly's cousin Audrey to try to solve her murder.

The Big Splash by Jack Ferraiolo

Matt Stevens, an average middle schooler with a glib tongue and a knack for solving crimes, uncovers a mystery while working with "the organization," a mafia-like syndicate run by seventh-grader Vincent "Mr. Biggs" Biggio, specializing in forged hall passes, test-copying rings, black market candy selling, and taking out hits with water guns.

Black Rabbit Summer by Kevin Brooks

When two of sixteen-year-old Pete's childhood classmates disappear from a carnival the same night, he is a suspect, but his own investigation implicates other old friends he was with that evening--and a tough, knife-wielding enemy determined to keep him quiet.

Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann

Seventeen-year-old Kendall, who suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder, lives with her parents on a potato farm in a tiny community in Montana, where two teenagers go missing within months of each other, with no explanation.

Elixir by Hilary Duff (yes, that Hilary Duff)

Clea Raymond, a talented young photojournalist who has spent her life in the spotlight, and her best friends, Rayna and Ben, travel the globe trying to unravel a centuries-old mystery that could reveal her soul mate's identity and the secret of her father's disappearance.

Fall for Anything by Courtney Summers

As she searches for clues that would explain the suicide of her successful photographer father, Eddie Reeves meets the strangely compelling Culler Evans who seems to know a great deal about her father and could hold the key to the mystery surrounding his death.

The Lying Game by Sara Shepard

Seventeen-year-old Emma Paxton steps into the life of her long-lost twin Sutton to solve her murder, while Sutton looks on from her afterlife.

Trash by Andy Mulligan

Fourteen-year-olds Raphael and Gardo team up with a younger boy, Rat, to figure out the mysteries surrounding a bag Raphael finds during their daily life of sorting through trash in a third-world country's dump.

Theodore Boone by John Grisham

With two attorneys for parents, thirteen-year-old Theodore Boone knows more about the law than most lawyers do. But when a high profile murder trial comes to his small town and Theo gets pulled into it, it's up to this amateur attorney to save the day.

True Crime, Forensic

Science, & More - Nonfiction:

The Black Dahlia: shattered dreams by Brenda Haugen

Seventeen real girls, real-life stories: true crime by Seventeen Magazine

An Unspeakable Crime: the prosecution and persecution of Leo Frank by Elaine Marie Alphin

Who Killed My Daughter? by Lois Duncan

The Year We Disappeared: a father-daughter memoir by Cylin Busby & John Busby

The Zodiac Killer: terror and mystery by Brenda Haugen

Crime Scene: the ultimate guide to forensic science by Richard Platt

The Dark Game: true spy stories by Paul B. Janeczko

The Medical Examiner by Toney Allman

Police Lab: how forensic science tracks down and convicts criminals by David Owen

Coming Soon!

Every Bone Tells a Story: hominin discoveries, deductions and debates by Jill Rubalcaba

How They Croaked: the awful ends of the awfully famous by Georgia Bragg

Spies of Mississippi: the true story of the spy network that tried to destroy the civil rights movement by Rick Bowers

Teen Pick: Hourglass

2011-03-16T15:01:00.000-04:00

Imagine being crazy. No, worse than that, imagine knowing you are crazy. Imagine waking up every morning, knowing that you are missing more than a few marbles, seeing things that you know aren’t there. It sucks right? For the past five years, this has been Emerson’s existence. Emerson sees dead people. That sounds bad, but they’re not ghosts or anything, more like apparitions. Emerson and her brother have tried everything to get rid of the visions, but nothings worked. In a last ditch attempt, Emerson’s brother has called in one last consultant from a organization called Hourglass. Emerson says she’ll give it one more try, but when the person they send is barely any older than her she knows it’s just another phony. That is until she finds out that he can see the weird visions too.

Hourglass by Myra McEntire seems like another paranormal romance novel at first glance. Orphaned teenage girl who thinks she’s crazy? Check. Handsome and mysterious young lad? Check. Suffocating amounts of teen angst? Nope. Wait, what? You’re telling me this novel is missing the key component of all paranormal romance novels? Yep, that’s right.

The thing that makes Hourglass stand out from the rest of the books on the paranormal romance shelf at your local Barnes and Nobles is not its super swoony plot line or supernatural creatures. It’s the fact that if you take away the paranormal aspect it’s full of characters you adore or, at the very least, relate to. Emerson isn’t some sort of beautiful, graceful model-type. She’s short, strong and can flip people twice her size over her shoulder, not because of magic, but because she trained. Michael isn’t dark or angsty. He’s actually a pretty normal guy. He’s funny, nice and at times, he can even be - wait for it - awkward. The thing that makes Hourglass stand out period, is that when you add the paranormal back in you get an brilliant book with an unbelievable plot.

Myra McEntire’s Hourglass is funny, engaging, intelligent and all the other things you want your books to be (unless you want your books to be sucky, in which case, you're out of luck). If you’re a fan of shows like Doctor Who or books like When You Reach Me, you’ll enjoy this book. If you’re a fan of strong female characters, you’ll enjoy this book. If you’re a fan of memorable one-liners, you’ll enjoy this book. Basically, what I’m trying to say is this: you’ll enjoy this book. Read Hourglass by Myra McEntire.

Hourglass will be released on May 24, 2011.

Advanced Reader Copy reviewed by Maya J, 8th grade

Teen Tech Week: Book Trailers!

2011-03-10T19:40:00.000-05:00

It's Teen Tech Week, which means all of this week's teen programs have a techie-themed spin. At TABs U-Nite, teens competed in the Fastest Text contest, answered technology-related trivia questions, and competed in a high-school vs. middle-school game of Sheen or Gaddafi? (The victors? Middle school!)

Finally, we created book trailers for some of our favorite books using Animoto, a free slideshow creation program. Check them out!

Paper Towns by John Green:

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling:

Teen Tech Week: Short Story Tweets!

2011-03-10T17:15:00.000-05:00

At Writer's Block this week, we talked Twitter and blogs. What is a blog? What kinds of blogs are out there? Why might an aspiring writer want to start one? Then we wrote some Short Story Tweets -- that is, short stories that are only 160 characters long. Needless to say, it was pretty difficult to write anything intelligible in so few words, but we tried our best! Here they are for your enjoyment:

By Maya J:
Yellow is a color. It is very bright. I had a yellow ball. It rolled out into the street. A car came. I was very scared. The man swerved and swore at me. Yellow.

By Gabrielle M:
Once upon a midnight (Wait! I can't use that. Damn Poe!) there was a girl, a girl who was prompted to write a 160 character story. She was unable, so this is it.

By T.J. S:
"Hello." No answer. The black door taunts me with its golden knob. I step closer, feeling a terrible revelation coming. Knock knock. "Hello." I say. Nothing.

By Savannah M:
Once upon a time, I had to write a really short story and I couldn't think of anything. I thought and thought and thought, but never came up with anything. So sad.

By Julia D:
The once was a unicorn name Bob. He lived in a kingdom under the sea. One day, a zombie came, and a fight ensued. Obviously, Bob won by using the power of rainbows. (OK, even though this one was over 160 characters I had to share it just for the Zombies vs. Unicorns reference!)

Also by Maya J: Imagine you are sitting in a car. The car is not moving. Do you get out & push? Call for help? Yes? Wrong answer. There's a serial killer behind your car. Oops.

By Sarah K:
This is a pretty short story because it ends right here. (Well played, Sarah K. Well played.)

Teen Pick: The Perks of Being a Wallflower

2010-12-23T20:22:00.001-05:00

Charlie just needs someone to talk to. Someone who listens and understands and doesn't try to sleep with people even if they could have. And he finds someone, a person he only ever refers to as "friend." He tells them everything through the letters he writes. Through these letters we watch Charlie as he goes through his freshman year. We're there, helping him to deal with his grief after his best friend Michael commits suicide, leaving Charlie all alone when he starts high school. We're there when Charlie makes his first friends, Patrick and Sam. When he falls in love for the first time. When he learns that all it takes is the right song to feel infinite. Most importantly, we're there as Charlie begins to grow up.

I suggest this book to anyone who feels they can handle it. Charlie and his friends don't just sit around playing board games or frolicking in fields. They smoke. They drink. They act like real people with real flaws. In some ways that's one of the best things about the book. You can imagine Sam and Patrick as people you know. Charlie, who is awkward, bookish, and terrible asocial is in some ways the type of person I imagine myself to be. But if you can handle the adult themes that appear in this novel every now and then, read it. Don't hesitate, run to the library and pick up a copy. The Perks of Being a Wallflower isn't the type of book you forget. It's not the type of book you regret reading or never finish. It's the type of book that makes you think, the type of book that makes you feel. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is the type of book you want to read.

Reviewed by: Maya (8th grade)

Staff Pick: Dash and Lily's Book of Dares

2010-12-01T15:23:00.000-05:00

Dash and Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

It is the week before Christmas. You are in your favorite bookstore, and you come across a red journal. Inside is a list of questions along with a dare. Do you dare to take the challenge from someone you don’t know? In this holiday story, set in New York City, two young teens take this challenge, and by doing so, they write back and forth in a way of getting to know one another. But to find the journal each time, Dash and Lily dare each other to do things that they would not normally do. This is a good story about discovering oneself while discovering a new friendship. I was cheering for these two the whole way!

Reviewed by: Jacquie

Teen Pick: Witch and Wizard

2010-11-24T13:23:00.002-05:00

Reviewed by: Sarah K (8th grade) for Writer's Block

The book Witch and Wizard by James Patterson attracted me for many reasons. The excerpt from the book on the back cover appealed to me, it was exciting and made me want to read more. James Patterson is also one of my favorite authors, and his quote,"This is the story I was born to tell. Read on, while you still can..." compelled me to read also.

My initial reaction for this book was that it was a good, exciting book that tells of two siblings, Wisteria and Whitman Allgood. As the story progresses, you discover they are both witch and wizard, hence the title. They uncover the powers as the book progresses, and they fight to rescue their parents from the New Order, a government that obviously doesn't have the people as a first priority.

I really like this book because it has loveable characters; Wisty, who is a rule-breaker, and Whit, who is perfect. I also liked how each chapter is from either Wisty or Whit's perspective.

If I owned this book, I would definitely read it again. I would recommend it to someone who likes fantasy-adventure.

***
Writer's Block meets twice a month in the CHPL Craft Room on the second floor. Participate in writing prompts and games, learn tips and tricks for improving your writing, and share your work with others. New members are always welcome!

Staff Pick: The Black Book of Secrets

2010-11-09T12:45:00.010-05:00

The Black Book of Secrets
(The Sinister City series Bk #1)

By: F.E. Higgins*

Are you a fan of The Last Apprentice series or Harry Potter? Try picking up The Black Book of Secrets. The Black Book of Secrets is dark, mysterious and a complete page turner. On the very first page we meet the main character, Ludlow Fitch, waking up to find his mother, father and the horrible tooth surgeon, Mr. Gumbroot, trying to strap him down in a dental chair in order to pull out his teeth to sell for money. Ludlow narrowly escapes and runs away to the safe and quiet little town of Pagus Parvus...

... But things are not quite what they seem and the people of Pagus Parvus each have their own dark secrets. This book will keep you hooked until the very last page, a must read for grades 6 & up. Reviewed by: Michelle

*Also check these other titles in The Sinister City series: The Bone Magician, & The Eyeball Collector.

Teen Pick: Monsters of Men

2010-10-27T13:58:00.003-04:00

Monsters of Men by Patrick Ness

War makes monsters of men. If you've read the other books in this series you've heard it before and now you get to see just how true it is.

Monsters of Men starts off with a bang, almost literally, wasting notime starting off where the last book ended: with the beginning of the Second Spackle war. It's up to Todd and Viola to save the New World as
war ravishes the planet once more. Tough decisions have to be made as once more Todd and Viola are separated as Todd stays back to watch over the Mayor while Viola gets to the settler ship. Does Todd let the Mayor go in hopes he'll lead the army. Should Viola launch a missile and start a full fledge war in order to save Todd? And most importantly, which side will come out the victors?

Monsters of Men was an exciting read. Like the second book in the trilogy you get to see the story through both Todd and Viola's eyes, narrated in such a way that you feel like your there inside their heads as these things happen. The difference is in this book you get a unique perspective, seeing things through the eyes of the Spackle Todd let free in the last book, 1017. Characters die and unexpected decisions are made. If you liked the rest of this series, you'll definitely enjoy Monsters of Men. It manages to stay well-paced and interesting throughout the entire book, moving in unpredictable ways.

It introduces new characters you can't help but fall in love with, such as Bradley and Simone and sheds a whole new light on ones we've met numerous times. All in all, Monsters of Men was a great conclusion to an amazing series, managing to tie up all loose ends in a clear and well thought through way, unlike some books *COUGH* Mockingjay *COUGH*.

Advanced Reader Copy reviewed by: Maya (8th grade) for Writer's Block

***
Writer's Block meets twice a month in the CHPL Craft Room on the second floor. Participate in writing prompts and games, learn tips and tricks for improving your writing, and share your work with others. New members are always welcome!

Staff Pick: Dear George Clooney, Please Marry My Mom

2010-10-20T20:31:00.005-04:00

Violet's TV-director dad has traded a job in Vancouver for one in Los Angeles, their run-down house for a sleek ranch-style home complete with a pool, and, worst of all, Violet's mother for a trophy wife, a blonde actress named Jennica. Violet's younger sister reacts by bed-wetting, and her mother ping-pongs from one loser to another, searching for love. As for Violet, she gets angry in ways that are by turns infuriating, shocking, and hilarious.
When her mother takes up with the unfortunately named Dudley Wiener, Violet and her friend Phoebe decide that they need to take control. If Violet's mom can't pick a decent man herself, they will help her snag George Clooney. - from BarnesandNoble.com

The verdict: Fans of Georgia Nicholson’s hijinks will enjoy main character Violet’s wit and endearing (if not a bit self-centered) point of view. In fact, they might actually prefer her to Georgia – she’s less boy-crazy and more grounded. Even as Violet tries her best to intimidate her mother’s new boyfriend and meddle in her love life, she remains likable and even funny. Fun fact: Author Susin Nielsen was a writer for the classic Canadian series Degrassi Junior High!

Reviewed by: Melissa

What's On Display?

2010-10-09T10:47:00.002-04:00

In honor of LGBT History Month, the Youth Services Librarians did a display of Young Adult LGBT literature! Here are some choice selections from the display:

Kissing Kate by Lauren Myracle

The kiss is no peck on the cheek, and therein lies the rub. Since the fateful event, Kate has been cold to her friend. At first Lissa misses Kate dearly, but gradually, through personal insights derived from some new and unexpected friendships (and forays into new-age dream therapy), she finds the strength to confront both Kate and her own sexual identity.

Call Number: Y Myracle, L.

Gay America by Linas Alvenas

From colonial times, to the Victorian period and beyond, author Linas Alsenas demonstrates how, within one century, gay women and men have gone from being socially invisible to becoming a political force to be reckoned with and proud members of the American public living openly and honestly.

Call Number: YNF 306.76 ALV

Transparent by Cris Beam

When Cris Beam moved to Los Angeles, she thought she might volunteer just a few hours at a school for gay and transgender kids. Instead, she found herself drawn deeply into the pained and powerful group of transgirls she discovered.

Call Number: YNF 306.7 BEA

Hero by Perry Moore

Thom Creed, the gay son of a disowned superhero, finds that he, too, has special powers and is asked to join the very League that rejected his father, and it is there that Thom finds other misfits whom he can finally trust.

Call Number: Y Moore, P.

Debbie Harry Sings in French by Meagan Brothers

When Johnny completes an alcohol rehabilitation program and his mother sends him to live with his uncle in North Carolina, he meets Maria, who seems to understand his fascination with the new wave band Blondie, and he learns about his deceased father's youthful forays into "glam rock," which gives him perspective on himself, his past, and his current life.

Call Number: Y Brothers, M.

Want more? Of course you do! Come to CHPL for tons more books on display, a brochure with even more recommendations, and on October 13 at 6 PM, a special LGBT edition of Not Your Momma's Book Club (Grades 6 and up welcome).

***
Are you struggling with, or do you know someone struggling with an LGBT-related crisis? The Trevor Project is the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among youth. Their 24-hour helpline is just a phone call away: 1.886.4.U.TREVOR.

Visit the It Gets Better Project on YouTube to see thousands of real people -- including some celebrities -- tell their stories and sound the alarm on homophobic bullying.

Sequels and Series for the Fall

2010-09-16T18:18:00.002-04:00

September 2010 Releases:

9/21 - Twelfth Grade Kills (Book 5 in The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod) by Heather Brewer

9/28 - Torment (sequel to Fallen) by Lauren Kate

9/28 - Monsters of Men (Chaos Walking: Book 3) by Patrick Ness

Released October 5, 2010:

Sugar and Spice (Book 3 in the L.A. Candy series) by Lauren Conrad
Thirst #3 by Christopher Pike
Crescendo (sequel to Hush, Hush) by Becca Fitzpatrick

Released October 12, 2010:

The Scorch Trials (sequel to The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Beautiful Darkness (sequel to Beautiful Creatures) by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

The Lost Hero (Book One in the new series) by Rick Riordan

Released October 26, 2010:

Ghost Town (Book 9 in the Morganville Vampires series) by Rachel Caine

Misguided Angel (Blue Bloods: Book 5) by Melissa de la Cruz

Summer 2010 Recap Video

2010-09-16T17:32:00.002-04:00

Special thanks to everyone who came to our programs, helped with Children's events, and manned the summer reading desk. Summer 2010 was a success thanks to you :)

Attention all Local Teen Bands!

2010-08-11T18:56:00.006-04:00

We're having our End of Summer Bash on Sunday, August 28 and we're looking for a few good acts for the Teen Band Showcase! If you're interested, e-mail Teen Librarian Michelle Yeager.

Staff Pick

2010-08-10T12:30:00.004-04:00

Fat Vampire by Adam Rex

Ordinary high schooler Doug Lee had never imagined he'd be turned into a creature of the night. But if he'd had to, he definitely wouldn't have expected vampire life to be so unsatisfying. First of all, walking into the sun just makes him sunburned, not sparkly. Second, turning into a bat may sound like a cool way to make an exit, but for Doug it means leaving his clothes behind and waking up somewhere naked. Third, he's constantly thirsty for human blood, but finding a steady source of it in his suburban Pennsylvania town (well... a source that doesn't involve luring innocent girls to their death) is proving difficult. And to make matters worse, being immortal and unchanging means that he'll have to spend eternity in his chubby, awkward teenage body. But Doug's life is about to get even more complicated, because he's attracted the attention of a band of vampire "hunters" desperate to slay something -- anything -- and they're hot on his trail.

Judging this book by its cover (and the blurb on the back), I expected a quick, funny read that would take jabs at paranormal romance series like Twilight and The Vampire Diaries. But this book is more serious and dark than its title lets on. Fat Vampire definitely has a sense of humor, but it'll make you stop and think more than it'll make you laugh out loud.

Reviewed by: Melissa

Make a Difference: Water Aid

2010-07-13T13:10:00.007-04:00

Did you know?

884 million people in the world do not have access to safe water. This is roughly one in eight of the world's population.
2.6 billion people in the world do not have access to adequate sanitation. This is almost two fifths of the world's population.
1.4 million children die every year as a result of diseases caused by unclean water and poor sanitation. This amounts to around 4,000 deaths a day or one every 20 seconds. [source: wateraidamerica.org]

WaterAid is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to helping communities gain access to safe, clean water, and we're raising money to help the cause! If you want to earn some community service hours by helping plan and organize a fundraiser that will bring sanitary water to a community in need, then join us tomorrow, Wednesday July 14, from 6-8 PM in the craft room.

You can learn more about WaterAid America at their website, http://www.wateraidamerica.org.

Six-Word Memoirs!

2010-07-01T17:48:00.000-04:00

I Can't Keep My Own Secrets: Six-Word Memoirs by Teens Famous & Obscure

From your brains to our blog -- here's a selection of the six-word memoirs that Cherry Hill middle schoolers wrote at our school visits!

I followed my MIND, I got grounded.

Life: It's funny because it's true.

I'm trying to do something AMAZING!

Be courageous and take many risks.

I like to sleep whenever, wherever.

I am secretly a super ninja.

No matter what, I'm something major.

Shattered expectations, didn't pick them up.

No Mom, I won't practice violin!

Never give up, keep moving forward.

I'm not what people see me as.

My life is a total comedy.

Dream, dream, dream, dream, dream, believe.

Staff Pick

2010-07-01T17:32:00.001-04:00

The White Cat by Holly Black

Imagine a world where people have the power to change your emotions, your memories, your luck, with just a touch of their hands. That’s the world Cassel Sharpe lives in. Cassel is the youngest in a family of curse workers but he has no such abilities. Unable to fit in with his family of magical criminals, Cassel’s worked hard to build a normal life for himself. Well, as normal as he can, considering he killed his crush, Lila when he was fourteen. But that was years ago, his family covered it up, and now Cassel is almost ordinary. But then a sleepwalking incident gets Cassel kicked out of his boarding school and he has nowhere to go but home. There, he starts to believe someone is stealing his memories. But how do you solve a mystery when you can’t remember what it is?

This thriller has both mobsters and magic; you won’t want to miss it!
Reviewed by: Alia

Books on the Big Screen: a summer update

2010-06-24T20:42:00.002-04:00

So many YA books are being made into movies lately! Here's the latest ~~gossip~~ news we dug up on the book-to-movie front:

1) The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman has apparently been optioned for production by 1492 Pictures, the production company run by Chris Columbus (who directed the first two Harry Potter movies -- and Home Alone!). Word on the street is that unlike the last adaptation of Gaiman's Coraline, which was filmed in stop-motion, The Graveyard Book will be live action.

2) Beastly's release date has been pushed back from July 30th to... wait for it ... March 28, 2011! That's quite a delay! Officially, the reason for the change is to prevent competition between Beastly, starring Vanessa Hudgens, and Charlie St. Cloud, starring Zac Efron. But we think there might have been another reason.

3) Warner Bros is making a movie version of I Am A Genius of Unspeakable Evil and I Want to Be Your Class President, which we reviewed here at NOISE Online! No director yet, no casting news, and no release date, but we'll keep you posted.

4) It's official! Miley Cyrus is set to play Janie Hannagan in the movie adaptation of Lisa McMann's Wake. Exciting news, but do you think she can pull off Janie's troubled personality? Hmmm....

Finally, here are some trailers for some YA book-to-movies that are coming out this summer (the ones that don't have to do with wizards or vamps, anyway):

Flipped (based on the book by Wendelin van Draanan)

Legends of the Guardians (based on the Guardians of Ga'Hoole series by Kathryn Lasky)

Summer Preview

2010-06-10T18:46:00.007-04:00

Here's just a taste of what's coming up this summer @ CHPL:

June Highlights

The Lightning Thief Release Toga Party

Free movie viewing of The Lightning Thief, a toga competition, prizes and more! [Wednesday, June 23 @ 6 PM]

Countdown To Eclipse Party

Trivia, games, and refreshments, all Twilight-themed. Don't miss it! [Tuesday, June 29 @ 6 PM]

July Highlights

Blogging And Podcasting: Rants and Raves

Write or record a review of your favorite book -- you'll be featured right here at NOISE Online! [Monday, July 26 @ 6:30 PM]

Pretty Little Liars Murder Mystery Party

After you've solved the mystery, stay to watch the new episode of Pretty Little Liars. [Tuesday, July 27 @ 7 PM]

Craft-tastic Summer Series

Join us for summer-themed DIY projects on these days: 7/7, 7/21, 7/22, 7/29 @ 6:00 in the Craft Room

August Highlights

Food For Thought: Food, Inc.

We'll be viewing and discussing the documentary Food, Inc. You'll never look at food the same again! [Monday, August 16 @ 6 PM]

First Annual CHPL Hunger Games

Think you've got what it takes to be a Victor? Show us what you've got and you might win a copy of Mockingjay. [Monday, August 23 @ 6 PM

End Of Summer Teen Band Showcase II

Get one last day of fun in before the summer ends! E-mail Michelle if you want your band to be showcased! [Saturday, August 28 @ 1 PM]

Intrigued? This is just the tip of the iceberg! Check out our calendar in the sidebar to see all of our events and programs this summer.

Staff Pick: Pinocchio, Vampire Slayer

2010-06-10T17:22:00.002-04:00

reviewed by: Melissa

Teens Make NOISE: Calling All Twilight Haters!!!

2010-05-25T12:42:00.004-04:00

reviewed by Sabrina G.

Do you hate the Twilight series but like the genre of vampires? Welcome to my world. Interview with a Vampire by Anne Rice is classic tale about a 300 year old vamp revealing all the dirty details of his life and what it means to be a vampire. The best part of the novel is that the author does not romanticize the life of a vampire. It shows that a vampire can be dangerous and how much they are superior to the Human race. A young reporter found a vampire from the 1700s in a bar. Surprising the vampire, Louis wanted an audience with entrancing him in his life of sensual murder, lies, and addiction.

***

We're posting musings and book reviews that our teens wrote at the Book Blogging event @ CHPL on May 22. If you want to contribute to NOISE Online, follow us on Facebook to find out about future events like these, or just write a review and e-mail it to Michelle.

Teens Make NOISE: An Abundance of Katherines

2010-05-25T12:10:00.003-04:00

reviewed by Maya

"What is the point of being alive if you don’t at least try to do something remarkable?”

Colin Singleton is a washed child prodigy who has had nineteen girlfriends – all named Katherine. When the Katherine the Nineteenth – or K-19 for short – breaks up with him, Colin and his best friend Hassan set off on a road-trip to cure Colin’s broken heart and in search of Colin’s ‘eureka moment.’ The thing that will finally get Colin the credit he needs. Colin and Hassan end up in the middle of nowhere and with a mission: to prove the Theorem of Underlying Katherine Predictability, which can graph the outcome of all relationships past, present and future.

This book is a hilarious bend of hilarious jerks, quirky characters and one amazing road trip. Fans of any of John Green’s books will love an Abundance of Katherines.

***

We're posting musings and book reviews that our teens wrote at the Book Blogging event @ CHPL on May 22. If you want to contribute to NOISE Online, follow us on Facebook to find out about future events like these, or just write a review and e-mail it to Michelle.

Teens Make NOISE: Book Withdrawal

2010-05-25T12:07:00.003-04:00

by Patricia S.

After months of school, practice, homework, and getting home when the sun had gone down, I hardly had any time to read books. So you know that feeling of “Wow, I can’t put this book down! Just a couple more pages…” Yeah, I forgot what that felt like. So, I forgot what the last good book I read was. I even forgot what it felt like to open a good book. I opened up a novel and the first thoughts that popped into my mind were:

“Hey, the words in this novel aren’t too bad!”
And
“So this is what it feels like to read the first page of a book!”

During my time away from libraries and book stores, I hardly realized what I was missing. Then, upon entering the library and seeing the shelves lined with books, their pages and covers tempting me, I realized I was word-hungry. My mind was missing the euphoric feeling of being pulled into a story, and my eyes yearned to run over words and spend hours taking in stories.

After a couple months of book withdrawal, I’m ready to go back on the hunt for a good, captivating story.

***

We're posting musings and book reviews that our teens wrote at the Book Blogging event @ CHPL on May 22. If you want to contribute to NOISE Online, follow us on Facebook to find out about future events like these, or just write a review and e-mail it to Michelle.

Teens Make NOISE: Cake Decorating Saves Lives!

2010-05-25T11:53:00.006-04:00

Reviewed by Nicole R.

“Do this!’ I command myself. Clenching my jaw , I dig my hands under Glimmer’ s body, get a hold on what must be her rib cage, and force her onto her stomach...”

Katniss Everdeen lives in a dystopian world. But, in this world, the Capital takes your children and puts them in…the Hunger Games. This is no ordinary game. In this game they put your children, between the ages of 12 and 18, in an arena to kill each other. Katniss must choose between love and life.

The Hunger Games is a book written by Suzanne Collins. If you like the book The Giver you will love this. This book let me believe in books again.

**

We're posting musings and book reviews that our teens wrote at the Book Blogging event @ CHPL on May 22. If you want to contribute to NOISE Online, follow us on Facebook to find out about future events like these, or just write a review and e-mail it to Michelle.

Like it or not...

2010-05-18T11:07:00.010-04:00

...it's prom season!

As usual, CHPL's got you covered! We handpicked these books (all available in our YA Fiction collection) to get you pumped up for the big night.

21 Proms edited by Daniel Ehrenhaft

Maybe you have prom fever. Take it to the next level and pick up 21 Proms, an anthology of prom nights ranging from perfect to forgettable to horrendous, written by an all-star cast of authors, including Cecily Von Ziegesar, Lauren Myracle, and Daniel Leviathan.

Prom Nights From Hell edited by Meg Cabot

Maybe you have prom anxiety. We recommend Prom Nights From Hell. After reading about these five paranormal prom nights (involving vampires, the Grim Reaper, and wishes gone awry) you'll hardly flinch at your date's lame dance moves.

24 Girls in 7 Days by Alex Bradley

Maybe you're only going because your mom wants to take pictures of you. A tame but enjoyable spin on the boy-meets-girl plot (more like boy-meets-girl-and-another-girl-and-another-girl!), 24 Girls in 7 Days is the perfect prom romance to warm your jaded heart.

Prom by Laurie Halse Anderson

Maybe you think it's way overrated and/or needs to die a fiery death. Meet Ashley, main character of Prom. This book's spot-on humor and high school drama is a satisfying read for anyone who just doesn't ~~think they~~ care about prom.

Staff Pick

2010-05-04T13:54:00.001-04:00

“How is it that someone becomes a dork? Are they born that way? What makes some people like punk music and Denny’s and other people like costumes and Dungeons and Dragons? And where do I fit into all of this?”

This is what sophomore Jessie Sloan contemplates as her two best friends turn punk and chase after boys, while she is happiest listening to audio books and sewing skirts. Into the Wild Nerd Yonder by Julie Halpern takes a humorous look at high school social cliques and friendships. Highly recommended!

Reviewed by: Jaclyn

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 9!

2010-05-04T13:40:00.008-04:00

But you knew that, right? Stumped for a gift idea? Need a present QUICK? We're making Home-made Bath Salts for Mom at CHPL!
Join us in the Teen Area on Saturday, May 8th from 2 PM - 3:30 PM- we'll provide all the materials.

Staff Pick: Before I Fall

2010-04-27T10:54:00.008-04:00

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?
Before I Fall is the story of a revelation. The narrator, Samantha Kingston, learns, by living her last day on earth seven times, how she would answer those questions.

Check out the book trailer -- one of the best I've ever seen. (Reviewed by: Melissa)

Upcoming Sequels and Series

2010-04-20T11:15:00.023-04:00

A sequel to Shiver? The final Hunger Games book? It's gonna be a great summer! Take a look at all the new installments to these popular series, coming to the library this summer and fall:

Book #5 in The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod:

Twelfth Grade Kills, Heather Brewer - 9/16

Sequel to Shiver:

Linger, Maggie Stiefvater - 7/20

Book #4 in The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel:

The Necromancer, Michael Scott - 5/25

***

Book #3 in The Hunger Games:

Mockingay, Suzanne Collins - 8/24

Book #3 in the Gone series:

Lies, Michael Grant - 5/4

Sequel to Hush, Hush:

Crescendo, Becca Fitzpatrick - 11/16

Band Showcase Pics!

2010-04-16T10:06:00.002-04:00

Teen Book Drop is here!

2010-04-14T15:14:00.007-04:00

Thursday, April 15
5 - 7 p.m. (drop-in)
Upper Level, Teen Area

Don't forget! Tomorrow, April 15 is Operation Teen Book Drop! Help spread awareness of the pure awesomeness that is "Teen Lit" in your own community! Pick up a FREE book, personalize your own unique book plate and drop it in a random spot in your community for someone else to find! Also join the Readergirlz after-party online at 9 p.m.!

Staff Pick

2010-04-13T10:59:00.008-04:00

Fans of John Green and David Levithan's works will not be disappointed by their new collaboration, Will Grayson, Will Grayson, the story of two Chicago teens who share a name in common, but not much else.

However, when a chance encounter at a very unlikely (and extremely awkward) location brings the two Will Graysons together, their lives begin to intertwine and tangle, resulting in a story about love and friendship that is hilarious, touching and faaaabulous!

There's a lot to love about WGWG. First of all, the book is incredibly funny and had me laughing out loud in public places. At the same time, though, I was swept away by the characters' inner lives, and I felt connected to the narrators, often flip-flopping over which WG I liked the best. I even grew to like Tiny Cooper, the larger-than-life (and flamboyantly gay) best friend of Green's Will Grayson. And did I mention there's a musical involved? For my part, I couldn't quite get on board with the ending, but it didn't take away too much from the overall effect of the book. (Reviewed by: Melissa)

P.S. Hey Nerdfighters! If you'd like to hear a much more articulate and handsome (what?) synopsis, here's co-author John Green himself in a video about WGWG that he made for Amazon.com:

Click on the picture to visit the video's page.

Candy Wrapper Crafts

2010-04-07T18:23:00.013-04:00

Feeling crafty? We're doing Candy Wrapper Découpage @ CHPL on Saturday, April 10 from 2PM-4PM! We'll have clay flower pots, framed mirrors, and more. Stop by and turn trash into a totally unique and conversation-starting trinket!

Check out these other crazy ways you can turn discarded candy wrappers into art:

[image source: http://bit.ly/9dLrLk]
Candy Wrapper chair!

[image source: http://jesssteinitz.blogspot.com/]
Candy Wrapper Wreath!

[image source: http://bit.ly/bOHwQZ]
Candy Wrapper Bracelets!

(I used to make these. Ahh, the memories.)

[image source: http://bit.ly/a8pozN]
Candy Wrapper ... Dress?

Er... it's pretty cool to look at, but seems like it'd be extremely uncomfortable.

[image source: http://bit.ly/4vw56U]
Candy Wrapper Purses -- these are ridic!

Who knew trash was so versatile?

Staff Pick

2010-04-06T09:51:00.004-04:00

Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

Peep-O-Rama!

2010-04-02T15:01:00.000-04:00

Check out some of the peep-o-ramas our teens built yesterday!

Teen Peep Event 4.1.10

Attention Twihards!

2010-04-01T19:36:00.005-04:00

Stephenie Meyer recently announced the title and release date of her Bree Tanner spin-off novella: It's called The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner and it's due out on June 7, 2010. Additionally, from the release date until July 5th, fans can read the book for free by going to www.breetanner.com.

According to its item page on Amazon.com, the novella will tell "the devastating story of Bree and the newborn army as they prepare to close in on Bella Swan and the Cullens, following their encounter to its unforgettable conclusion."

Hmm, what do you think? Are you excited? Beyond ecstatic? A little underwhelmed? Or are you over it?

[img source http://bit.ly/a1u3cw]

Peep-O-Rama!

2010-04-01T11:22:00.004-04:00

Don't forget! Today we are making "Peep-cicles", Peep Candy Sushi and building Peep Diorama's!

What's a peep diorama you ask? Check out these from Washington Post's 2010 "Peep Show" contestants!

*image used taken from SeriousEats.com

Spring Break Events

2010-03-30T10:53:00.008-04:00

Staying local for Spring Break?

CHPL's got you covered!

Tuesday, March 30

2PM - 4PM

STIX & FLIX

Get your knit on while watching a good movie on our big screen! Beginners, experts and crocheters welcome! Bring your yarn and needles, we'll supply the movies and snacks!

Lower Level, Multicultural Room. Movie will be voted on at the start of the program.

Wednesday March 31 5:30PM - 7:30PM

Anime Night

Come watch anime while perfecting your origami skills!

Lower Level, Conference Room.

Thursday, April 1 2PM - 3:30PM

Peep-o-rama!

Ever heard of the Washington Post's Annual Peeps Show? We're having our own Peep diorama-building contest too! We'll also be making chocolate-covered peepsicles and other fun stuff.
Upper Level, Teen Area. Supplies provided.

Friday, April 2 4PM - 6PM
Game Day
Hang out at CHPL while playing your favorite board and video games!

Lower Level, Conference Center

[img source www.ocls.info]

Staff Pick

2010-03-30T10:39:00.006-04:00

How To Say Goodbye in Robot by Natalie Standiford

There's one thing that Bea Szabo knows for sure: she and Jonah Tate aren't just friends.

But they're not boyfriend-and-girlfriend either.

She thinks.

I loved how real Bea and Jonah's relationship was -- no happily-ever-after endings here, and definitely no Prince Charmings. Their friendship is so offbeat, from how they treat each other to the things they do: calling into a late-night radio show, re-creating scenes from famous movies, attending "Parties for the People of the Future," and following clues that could unearth a secret from Jonah's past. With these two, anything goes... right up until the end.

Quirky, funny, suspenseful, and heartbreaking at times, How To Say Goodbye in Robot by Natalie Standiford is a perfect love story for people who hate love stories. (reviewed by: Melissa)

Save The Date!

2010-03-25T16:05:00.006-04:00

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Our first ever Teen Band Showcase will be held Sunday, April 11 in our Conference Center.

Doors open @ 2 pm.
Admission is FREE!

We'll also have:

Name That Tune
Music Trivia
Gift Card Raffles
Concession Stand Fundraiser (for future teen events!)

Bands interested in playing future showcases should contact Teen Librarian, Michelle Yeager at myeager@chplnj.org with your band's name and a link or attachment to your music.

We Need LEGOS!!

2010-03-03T17:17:00.005-05:00

CHPL Children's Department is in need of new and used LEGOs to start a Kids LEGO club. Why not pass on your love of LEGOs to the next generation while cleaning out your closet!?

Donations can be dropped off @ the Youth Services desk during normal business hours. For more information contact Meghan MacLauchlan at 856-903-1229.

2010 Operation Teen Book Drop

2010-03-03T16:48:00.003-05:00

Stay tuned to see what CHPL will be doing on April 15!

Movie Review: The Lightning Thief

2010-02-16T16:01:00.003-05:00

Rick Riordan’s novel The Lightning Thief is so full of fast-paced action and plot twists that it would seem destined to make a great movie. After reading the whole Percy Jackson series, I couldn’t wait to see Chris Columbus’ movie adaption. Unfortunately the movie was a disappointment. Major plot points from the book were skimmed over or cut out all together. For example, the big prophecy about Percy is never even mentioned! Instead the plot focuses on the kidnapping of Percy’s mother by Hades. The result is a movie that lacks the mystery and depth of the books. The movie does have its high points. Despite not having the world’s greatest dialog, Logan Lehrman does a decent job playing Percy and the special effects are really cool. Still, I was left wishing that the writers had stuck closer to the book rather than turning the movie into a generic fantasy with Greek gods. 2.5 of 5 stars Reviewed by: Alia

Operation: Cell Phones for Soldiers...a Success!

2010-02-01T15:24:00.006-05:00

The Final Counts are in! Cherry Hill Public Library and Cherry Hill High School EAST teamed up for two months, successfully collecting 147 cell phones for the non-profit organization Cell Phones for Soldiers. The phones are sent to ReCellular, which pays Cell Phones for Soldiers for each donated phone – enough to provide an hour of talk time to soldiers abroad. That means we've raised enough money for soldiers to talk to their friends and families for 147 hours!

To find out more about Cell Phones for Soldiers or to donate a phone Click Here!

Staff Pick

2010-02-01T14:41:00.004-05:00

Bliss by Lauren Myracle

Bliss doesn’t quite mind when her hippy parents leave the commune she’s grown up on. She could easily get used to the cushy life at her grandmother’s house in a ritzy Atlanta suburb. When she starts Crestview Academy all she wants is to make some new normal friends. But not all of the girls at Crestview are as normal as they seem. Someone has a dark obsession and soon Bliss finds herself mixed up a deadly power struggle. If you are looking for a truly creepy read, Bliss will leave you satisfied! (YA Fiction) Reviewed by: Alia

CALLING ALL TEEN BANDS!!!

2010-01-27T11:50:00.006-05:00

We are looking for a few good local bands to play @ CHPL on Sunday, April 11 to help kick off National Library Week!

For more information, please contact Teen Librarian, Michelle Yeager at myeager@chplnj.org or

856-903-1232.

Logan Lerman Talks to Teen Vogue!

2010-01-06T12:26:00.006-05:00

Check out what Logan Lerman had to say to Teen Vogue about his upcoming role in Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief coming to theaters on February 12!

Haven't read Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series yet? Check out a copy or reserve a copy from CHPL today! Simply click here to search for these titles:

Book #1: The Lightning Thief

Book #2: The Sea of Monsters

Book #3: The Titan's Curse

Book #4: The Battle of the Labyrinth
Book #5: The Last Olympian

Reading not your thing? Why not try an Audiobook!?

Staff Pick

2010-01-05T12:46:00.005-05:00

I am a GENIUS of UNSPEAKABLE EVIL and I want to be your CLASS PRESIDENT
by Josh Lieb

Picture the movie Rushmore meets Artemis Fowl - that's this book. It's darkly funny at some points and fantastically silly at others. Everyone in Omaha thinks that 12 year old Oliver Watson is a loser. Not that Oliver cares what other people think. You see, Oliver is really an evil genius with a secret evil empire that has made him the third richest person on earth! But when Oliver’s father challenges him to win the school election, suddenly what other people think becomes important. Can Oliver win over his classmates and rule his empire all while keeping his identity a secret ? It’s a lot harder than you might think! Reviewed by: Alia (YA Fiction)

Staff Pick

2010-01-05T12:13:00.009-05:00

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Hey Team Jacob, this is the book you wish Twilight was! Sam is a werewolf who spends only a shorter and shorter time each year as a human. For years, Grace has loved Sam from afar as her yellow-eyed wolf. When she meets him in human form it is love at first sight. But it can't last. Sam’s transformation is controlled not by the moon, but by temperature, and winter is right around the corner. As the weather gets colder, Grace and Sam must fight to stay together. You’ll want to curl up under a warm blanket to read this romance. You can almost feel the chill in the air as the temperature drops and Grace and Sam’s situation becomes more desperate. Reviewed by: Alia (YA Fiction)

....And look for the sequel this Summer!

Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

Expected release date: July 10, 2010

Record your own Pod Cast!

2009-12-28T14:22:00.005-05:00

Wednesday, December 30
2-3:30 p.m.
Upper Level, Craft Room

Drop by anytime between 2-3:30 p.m. armed with your
favorite book(s) and we'll show you how to record your
very own Pod Cast to be posted here on Noise Online!

Game Day!

2009-12-26T11:34:00.004-05:00

Play your favorite video games on our Big Screens! Got a new game for the holidays? Let's test it out! While you wait for your turn, we'll also have Apples to Apples, Twister and other board games galore!

When: Sunday, December 27

Time: 2 - 4 p.m.

Where: Lower Level, Conference Center

Puppies, Puppies, & more Puppies!!!!

2009-12-26T11:24:00.003-05:00

Didn't get the puppy you asked for, for Christmas? Check out these adorable puppy videos!!

Coming Soon...

2009-12-21T18:44:00.013-05:00

Check out what the New Year has in store!

Heartless: Pretty Little Liars #7

Release Date: 1.19.2010

Drama High: Culture Clash

Release Date: 1.26.2010

Sweet Little Lies: L.A. Candy #2

Release Date: 2.2.2010

Eleventh Grade Burns

Release Date: 2.9.2010

Gone: Wake Series #3

Release Date: 2.9.2010

*release dates may change

TEEN CHRISMAHANAKWANZA CELEBRATION!

2009-12-08T16:56:00.005-05:00

Sunday, Dec. 13
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Upper Level, Craft Room

Mark your calendars for our first ever Teen Chrismahanakwanza Celebration! Join us for hot chocolate, S'mores & more...including a Gingerbread Bread House Competition!

A little mockingjay told me....

2009-12-08T15:53:00.011-05:00

Book #3, The third and final chapter in THE HUNGER GAMES TRILOGY has a release date!! According to Barnes & Noble, the book rumored to be titled THE VICTORS will be released August 24, 2010!!! The final cover art has yet to be revealed...but we will definitely be keeping our eyes peeled for you! In the meantime, you still have time to catch up on the first two bestselling books - check out previous reviews by our staff below:

The Hunger Games (#1) by Suzanne Collins
Imagine being on a reality show much-like Survivor, but instead of the nation watching you battle it out for money they are watching you battle for your life. There are no tribal meetings, no voting for friends or enemies. And alliances? Well, they are always short lived. In the Hunger Games all bets are off and there can only be one winner who goes home alive. From the author that brought us the Underland Chronicles, this is a must read for grades 6-12.
(YA Fiction) Read by Michelle

Catching Fire (#2) by Suzanne Collins
Suzanne Collins, author of New York Times Bestseller The Hunger Games, does not disappoint with the much anticipated sequel Catching Fire. Set to be released September 1, I was lucky enough to get my hands on an Advanced Copy and devoured it in two days flat. Katniss and Peeta may have found a way to bend the rules of the hunger games, but they did it by rebelling against the Capital. Now there are rumors of uprisings in nearby districts and President Snow is not happy. Filled with action, suspense, humor and of course a messy love triangle, Catching Fire should be on everyone’s fall reading list.
(YA Fiction) Read by Michelle

Lightning Thief

2009-12-03T13:03:00.003-05:00

The Lightining Thief, the first title in Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson & the Olympians series is slated to hit theaters Februrary 12, 2010!

Staff Pick

2009-12-01T16:18:00.015-05:00

LIAR
By Justine Larbalestier

Micah admits on the very first page that she is a Liar. She has lied about being born a boy, she has lied about her father being an arms dealer, and she had lied about not being romantically involved with fellow student Zach. That is until Zach mysteriously turns up dead and the police start to question Micah about her involvement in his murder. From this moment forward Micah swears to tell us (the reader) only the truth of what really happened and who she really is. In the end it is up to you to decide whether Micah is telling the truth or if she is a Liar. Make sure to read this along with your friends; you’ll want to discuss what is real and what are lies. Justine Larbalestier (Scott Westerfeld's wife) did an awesome job with this book; it's one of the best books I've read in a long time. Definitely check it out.

Recommended for grades 8 and up. Video & Review by: Michelle (YA Fiction)

Teen Pick

2009-11-25T11:21:00.009-05:00

Check out a book trailer by one of our teens!

Teen Podcast

2009-11-07T15:01:00.003-05:00

Minerva Clark Gets a Clue - posted by Maya J.