ICCSD Author Visit

       For my practicum class this semester, I was able to spend some time at Wickham Elementary in their library with Mrs. Kunde.    I really enjoyed working with the younger students and I even got to be there when MJ and Herm Auch came to speak in the library.  It was so fun to meet the authors and hear them talk about their books.  They do not just write books for younger students though, we have quite a few of Mrs. Auch's books in our library as well: Ashes of Roses, Guitar Boy, Wing Nut, and Journey to Nowhere.

So Much Closer by Susane Colasanti

  

Colasanti's new book follows Brooke, a high school senior, who moves to New York City for her crush, Scott, because she is convinced that they are meant to be together. She also has to adjust to a new school, make friends, and navigate her way around the city she has always wanted to live in.
     This book is primarily about relationships and I think that some of my Sarah Dessen fans will enjoy the lighthearted story.  My only problem with this book is that the main character, Brooke, was a little undeveloped and I never could quite figure out exactly who she is.  Her personality and interests were changing throughout the novel.  That being said, So Much Closer, is an enjoyable and easy read.

How I Learned to Fly by Dana Reinhardt

     I hardly ever read and blog about books in our library that I do not think are worthwhile books and that somebody will enjoy them.  That being said, this book is something special.  It had great characters, an interesting setting and a wonderful story - I really loved this book.
      Drew Solo used to be named Robin until she was 3, her father died and her mother had her name legally changed to her dad's name.  Since then it has just been her and her mom and the cheese shop they own.  Drew has never made very close friends until the summer when this story takes place and she meets Emmett.  Emmett leads a mysterious life, she does not know where he lives, but only that when she leaves the day-old cheese outside of her mother's shop, he takes it. As she gets to know Emmett better, she learns about him and his story  makes her first true friend. 
      I will save the rest for you to read about if you come check out this book!

'Udderly' Great Farm Books!

  
        Living in Iowa means that most of us know somebody who lives on a farm, have family member's who are farmers or have at least visited a farm.  Farms and farming are part of the unique culture of our state!  Inspired by a new poster from the Walker Art Center, we have created a display of library books surrounding this common theme.  All of these books take place on a farm or feature some aspect of rural culture.  Some of the books you have probably heard of like Dairy Queen and Harris and Me, but the display also features some classics like John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men, and even a fantasy novel How I Live Now. If you are interested in this topic, check out some of these books!