Burbank are you ready to "Get your Green on!"

Huh, now just what does "Get your Green on!" mean?

Well I sure wouldn't want you to visit the Burbank READS blog and find out would i?

Lĭt / uh / ruh / sē Äw / fĭs

Family Literacy Day: January 27

Every year on January 27, families and communities across Canada celebrate this special day at literacy-themed events coordinated by literacy organizations, schools, public libraries and families. In addition to the thousands of individuals, groups, businesses and families across Canada who have embraced Family Literacy Day, many corporate and media partners have donated time and services to help ABC CANADA get the word out about FLD.

There are some fun family literacy activities and tools to help the whole family learn together.
~ Family Literacy Calendar
~ Fun Family Literacy Activities
~ Family Literacy Tips from A to Z
~ Ten Wacky Family Literacy Ideas
~ Learning While on the Road

The 2008 Cuffies
Children's booksellers choose their favorite (and not so favorite) books of the year. Compiled by Diane Roback -- Publishers Weekly, Jan 19, 2009 for complete list.

Favorite Picture Book of the Year
10 Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes by Mem Fox, illus. by Helen Oxenbury ~ extraordinary but simple—less is more !

Favorite Novel of the Year
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (“absolutely riveting”)
by Terry Pratchett (“funny but deep”)

Most Unusual Picture Book
The Black Book of Colors by Menena Cottin, illus. by Rosana Faria

Funniest Book (tie)
Frankenstein Takes the Cake by Adam Rex; Knucklehead by Jon Scieszka

Book You'd Like to See Win the Newbery Medal
Masterpiece by Elise Broach

Book You'd Like to See Win the Caldecott Medal (tie)
We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball by Kadir Nelson
Wabi Sabi by Mark Reibstein, illus. by Ed Young

Book You Were Happiest to See Back in Print
The Three Robbers by Tomi Ungerer

Book You Were Sorriest to See Go Out of Print
Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey

Check Out a Book @ Burbank Public Library

Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination and Invigorates the Soul by Stuart Brown and Christopher Vaughan - Avery, March 2009

As we become adults, taking time to play feels like a guilty pleasure—a distraction from “real” work and life. But as Dr. Stuart Brown illustrates, play is anything but trivial. It is a biological drive as integral to our health as sleep or nutrition. In fact, our ability to play throughout life is the single most important factor in determining our success and happiness.

Lĭt / uh / ruh / sē Äw / fĭs

Congratulations to James Earl Jones
Recipient of the 45th Annual
Screen Actors Guild LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

SAG President Alan Rosenberg: "James Earl Jones' distinguished career on stage, in film, on television, in commercials and as a vocal presence without peer commands our admiration and respect. His long and quiet devotion to advancing literacy, the arts and humanities on a national and local scale deserves our appreciation."

The 15th Annual SAG Awards will be simulcast on TNT & TBS on Sunday, January, 25 at 8 pm ET/PT. Forest Whitaker will Present SAG’s 45th Life Achievement Award to James Earl Jones.

James Earl Jones narrated the Academy Award Nominated film Enrique’s Story. Enrique Ramirez tells how he came to learn to read as an adult and how it changed his life and the lives of his family. Enriques's Story (1994) can be used to promote your literacy program and motivate learners. Produced by the California State Library for the Families for Literacy, FFL, program. Available in 2 versions: adult literacy or library literacy. Each version is 7.5 minutes long.

Check Out

James Earl Jones: Voices and Silences
by James Earl Jones & Penelope Niven – Scribner, 1993

@ Burbank Public Library

What We're Reading: The Daily Coyote

Last year I seemed to read a lot of World War II stories compared to anything else. This year, however, is the year of animals. From pet cat to pet coyote, there really is no shortage of books about our four-legged friends.

The Daily Coyote has two things I adore - breathtaking descriptions of nature and stunning photography. Shreve Stockton was on her way back to New York from San Francisco when she drove through the red wilds of Wyoming. She continued on to her destination but she was haunted by her experience and finally decided to trade the city for the country. When she started to settle in to the town of Ten Sleep, she couldn't have anticipated the gift of a coyote pup that would change her life forever. Living with Charlie was at times blissful, and other times dangerous. If you think you have a hard time establishing yourself as the boss in a pack of terriers, think how much more difficult it would be with their wild cousin. Stockton discusses her relationships with her neighbors, the land, and the animals who shared her home. It's definitely the best book of 2008 IMHO (in my humble opinion), though it was discovered late.

Teen Anime EXTRAVAGANZA!

This is the 11th year Burbank Public Library will offer its TEEN ANIME FESTIVAL, and we have a lot of treats in store. First of all, our presenter line-up is better than ever. The list of eminent guests (in alphabetical order) includes:

Phil Bourssa (Warner Bros.--Justice League DVD, Spiderman)

Philip Dimitriadis (3D environmental artist)

Joaquim Dos Santos (director of GI Joe)

Taliesin Jaffe (actor/voiceover/producer)

Shaunt Nigoghossian (Film Roman, assistant director on King of the Hill)

Jim Pascoe (new manga author from Tokyo Pop)

Joe Pearson (Crash Bandicoot)

Mark Pudleiner (Renegade Animation Studios)

Chance Raspberry (The Simpsons)

Snakebite (Photoshop artist)

and last but definitely not least...

Charles Zembillas (The Animation Academy, Spyro the Dragon, Jak and Daxter)

Some of our guests will speak, others will offer demonstrations of their art or craft, and several will participate at the end of the day in a portfolio review for aspiring teen artists.

In addition we will (of course) be screening new anime; there will be drawings for some great prizes; we will continue the tradition of a cosplay pageant; and there will be a candy sushi-making demonstration.

This festival is for teens, so the lower limit is 6th grade. Although we do not anticipate turning anyone away, we are asking you to call and make a reservation by leaving your full name (first and last) and telephone number at 818 238-5589. (You will not receive a return call--if you have left a message, please assume you are on the list.) Teens who have signed up in this way will be admitted first.

Please join us at the Buena Vista Branch on SATURDAY, JANUARY 31, from noon to 4:00 p.m.!

White House Blog

Change has indeed come. Check out the White House Blog to read about how it's going to be and what's happening right now and even sign up for presidential updates via email.

What We're Reading: Dewey

First, I suppose I must admit that I am not a cat person. It's not that I don't like them, I just didn't grow up with them. I daily check I Can Has Cheezburger, the site that pairs adorable and funny photos of cats with misspelled captions. Naturally I think they're cute, and I love to cautiously pet an affectionate cat. I'm just uncertain about their ways, and I am nervous about the claws being unsheathed.

That being said, Dewey Readmore Books is no ordinary cat. Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World is the story of a particularly personable feline who made the Spencer Public Library his home after being stuffed into the book drop as a kitten. Gradually, he became a sort of ambassador to this Iowa town and his fame stretched the world over. His love healed many a broken heart. I was a little uncertain about the book at the beginning, honestly - many times I thought to myself, "Oh, that sounds sweet. I guess you had to be there." However, I was drawn in by librarian Vicki Myron's personal story, her descriptions of library life (I suppose I am a little vain...) and the Midwest landscape around her. It's her own response to Dewey that is so touching. If you've ever had a pet of your own, you'll understand exactly her joy and sorrow.

Meryl Streep is set to star in the upcoming movie adaptation, so hurry to the library and pick up the book today. Or, when it's available. You know what I mean - it is a bestseller! Check the link to the catalog - we have copies available in hardcover, large print, and CD audiobook.

New This Week in AskWiki

Economics Basics has very clear and thorough explanations of ecomomic concepts and specifics about the current situation.
Also, in the same vein, is Feed the Pig, wherein a herd of certified public accountants will help you save.
You are needed! California Volunteers will tell you where and how you can offer your services.
Just Hear It will play any song, any artist on your command.
List Universe will show you the Worst Products ever, Poisonous Foods We Love to Eat and Incredible Early Firsts in Photography, to name only a fraction of lists available.

Best Books of 2008: The Shack

It's that time of year again, and your friendly neighborhood librarians are eager to tell you about the best books of 2008. Here is Deniese with a review of her favorite book from last year.

I have been reading The Shack by William P. Young. I also know a lot of people are reading this. At my church, all the women are reading it. My husband read it and loved it. It’s about a spiritual journey that this man goes on after he has experienced the loss of his youngest daughter. He was a religious man and lost his faith in God. God calls him back to the shack where his daughter was murdered and his life takes on a different meaning. His friend wrote the book for him. I guess I’m suggesting it because when I look at the economy and how our world is changing the lives of so many so dramatically and so quickly, a person begins to think, "Where is God in all of this? Where is hope, where is a foundation in which I can rest and feel comfort in the midst of so much chaos?" Maybe it will give some people a renewed sense of life again.

What We're Reading: Physics for Future Presidents

Richard Muller's Physics for Future Presidents: The Science Behind the Headlines is a timely and revealing book, even for those of us without presidential ambitions. He discusses some of the most critical scientific issues of the day and also the common misconceptions about these anxiety-causing topics. For instance, if you're like me, you naturally assume that a nuclear power plant has the potential to blow up like a nuclear bomb. (It won't.) Also, did you know that the natural radioactivity in Denver will likely cause more cancer than those linked to the Chernobyl accident?

In addition to nuclear power, he talks about terrorism, energy, space, and global warming. In the course of reading, you'll learn about the limitations of anthrax, why gasoline is so addictive, the possibility of using an airplane for space travel, and more. In terms of limiting our carbon footprint, you'll find out what we can actually do to make a big difference and why commonly touted solutions may not cancel out the coal plants in China and India. I'd say this is a must-read for everyone. And Obama, you have 10 days remaining, so best get started now!

Breaking News - Author Cornelia Funke to appear at Buena Vista.

Your Burbank Public Library is pleased to announce that noted, bestselling author Cornelia Funke is set to appear on January 24 at the Buena Vista Branch library. Meet the author of the well-loved book, INKHEART, now a major motion picture. Ms. Funke will read from the book, talk about the movie, answer questions, and sign copies of her book.

The film version of Inkheart is set to open in theaters on January 23, and we are lucky enough to host her appearance the following day!

I have read Inkheart [highly recommended], the first in a trilogy followed by Inkspell and Inkdeath, and was very much looking forward to seeing the film featuring Brendan Fraser, Helen Mirren and Paul Bettany. Now, like you, I have an opportunity to meet the author herself. I'll be there, how about you?

Click to visit Cornelia Funke's website.

Saturday January 24 @2 PM (doors open @1:30)

Buena Vista Branch Library 300 N. Buena Vista St. 818-238-5600

What We're Reading: Devil Bones

Devil Bones is the 11th book in Reichs’ series about forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan (also the protagonist of the “Bones” TV show). In this outing, Brennan is called to a scene in Charlotte, North Carolina, and finds a cauldron, a decapitated chicken, animal bones, and the skull of a teenage girl. Is it the scene of a current crime, or of an older, unknown murder? Then a headless body of a teenage boy is found on a lakeshore. An ambitious preacher turned politician ignites a witch hunt targeting devil worshippers and Wiccans in revenge for the two apparent murders.

Described in the book as “five-five, feisty, and forty-plus” the literary version of Temperance is older, more experienced, and for me, a much more interesting character than her counterpart in the television show. This series is still strong and involving and I’m anxious to read about Temperance’s next case, and the turns her personal life will take in book #12.

What We're Reading: The Astonishing Life Of Octavian Nothing

M. T. Anderson has written an extraordinary historical epic for young adults, now complete in the two volumes, of The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation. The first volume was honored with the National Book Award for young people’s literature in 2006. It is everything that great literature should be and stands remarkably alone in a field dominated by contemporary approaches to literature as entertainment: the wish fulfillment of fantasy, breathless action, the graphic novel sops to reluctant readership, or the difficult loves of vampires.

Teens will find the books off-putting, I fear. The prose is deliberately archaic, a style difficult and foreign to the world of the monosyllabic, dude. The historical setting and detail is something about which they are remarkably ignorant and uninterested, the development of the story proceeds at a pace they would find glacial, and the impact of the book grows from the articulate expression of feelings and detailed descriptions of circumstance rather than the rapid concatenation of action and events. It is a credit to the publisher that this work saw the light of day, and though young people may not read and prize it, and I hope I am wrong, this work is remarkable and should find an appreciative readership with everyone who yet values the virtues and rewards of what we now must call traditional literature. The book designer at Candlewick obviously had some affection for the book. The type is set in a commonly used 18th century font, and the jacket artwork on both books is precisely emblematic of the theme. The cover of the second volume employs to great effect a detail from the wonderful 18th century portrait by Joshua Reynolds of “A Young Black.”

Anderson’s story is about a young slave living in Boston during the beginning of the American Revolution. He is the subject of a bizarre and inhumane experiment by a band of Enlightenment scholars who are giving him the classical education of an English gentleman in an attempt to scientifically measure the perfectibility of his race. This premise allows Anderson’s narrator to speak plausibly and tell his story in a remarkably articulate and authentic voice, one that innocently shames his oppressors in their own tongue and idiom. Anderson has mastered late 18th English prose to tell this story. He imitates the construction, cadences and vocabulary of the period, and as a student who has read a fair amount of Augustan age prose, I am astonished by this feat of similitude. That he can write in this style is remarkable, but more than this, he is able to write with great effect, precision and beauty. He is a lover of the English language, and his mastery reminds us of the greatness and possibilities of English prose and, unfortunately, our own comparatively impoverished state of the language.

But for all the imitation of period prose, Anderson’s knowledge of the intellectual currents of the time, the world of ideas in which our national heritage was born, is at the center of this book. It is the hypocrisy of the American patriots, their insistence on freedom for themselves but the demand that this freedom include their right to enslave others that is the compelling theme of this book. Octavian joins a British regiment composed of runaway slaves to fight the colonists, only to be disillusioned by the commitment of the Crown as well to his freedom and equality. In a wonderful parody of the Declaration of Independence, Octavian cynically concludes, “It is a fact easily discernible that governments are instituted to commit the crimes that their citizens require for gain, but cannot countenance committing privately.”

Anderson forces us to look at the ideas that made us a nation, to think about the nature of man and the nature and purpose of systems of government. If the rights of man do not come from the vote of a majority, then from where do they come? What are those rights and how are they secured? Can reason alone produce a just society? All questions that a generation ago were matters of importance to young adults and in previous generations have been the source of renewal and recommitment to democratic ideals and human rights. Literature such as Anderson has written employs historical imagination in a way that allows us to imagine the world of our political origins, and that, in turn, causes us to think about what kind of values we wish to see prevail in our future as a nation. But imagination these days has been hijacked for trivial purposes in the literature written for young people. You would think Anderson’s theme might be a good theme for young adults, that perennial questioning of those things most complacently espoused and fundamental that seems ever to have been the special province and providence of youth. But times have changed. After all, we live in a nation with more liberty and justice than you can shake a stick at, and at long last citizens seem to sincerely believe, and hold dear, that singular notion of our founding fathers that most men are created equal.

What We're Reading: Wednesday Wars

Wednesday Wars, by Gary D. Schmidt, is the winner of the 2008 Newbery Honor Books. It's an amusing story about the adventures of a teenage boy who has incredible insight.

Holling Hoodhood, a seventh-grader in Long Island, New York, has this gift of unintentionally making enemies. It's the 1967-68 school year and every Wednesday afternoon he's stuck with his English teacher, Mrs. Baker, since other students go to religion classes. At the beginning, Holling is given menial classroom duties, but the teacher switches gears and asks him to read a Shakespeare play each month. By analyzing different characters and plots and comparing them to the tumultuous Vietnam era, and to adolescent problems like bullying and authority, Holling learns different life lessons. The strict Mrs. Baker helps him to develop his inner qualities and be true to himself.

Best Books Before 2008: The Queen's Fool

It's that time of year again, and your friendly neighborhood librarians are eager to tell you about the best books of 2008. Here is Nancy with a review of her favorite book read this year, though it was published earlier.

The Queen’s Fool by Philippa Gregory

For those of you who like historical fiction, this is a novel full of richly drawn characters that spans the reigns of Edward, Bloody Mary, and Queen Elizabeth I. Hannah Green, a young Jewish woman of fourteen years old has fled with her father from Spain (and the Inquisition) to London. Her father owns a small printing press and procures rare books for nobility. One day Robert Dudley, handsome, powerful, son of the protector of King Edward, visits the shop and discovers Hannah’s gift of the “Sight", the ability to foresee the future. He immediately decides to bring Hannah to court as a “holy fool” using her sight to advise the dying King Edward, his successor, Queen Mary, and ultimately Elizabeth I. However, Lord Dudley has another task for Hannah – to be his spy at court and report all “activities.” Subsequently, Hannah is drawn into court intrigue where conspiracies blossom, religion is held supreme, and dalliances change like the seasons. She has avoided the arranged marriage her father has committed her to and will do anything for the charismatic Dudley. Ms. Gregory is an excellent storyteller who makes history come alive through her accurate historical research. After I read one of her novels (this being the third one I’ve read – Wideacre and The Other Boleyn Girl) I find myself on the Internet trying to learn more about the historical period of the novel. Here’s a question I’ll pose to you – was Elizabeth I really the Virgin Queen? You can find out the answer in this book. I think you’ll be surprised.