Books and More for Children

Click on links to check the catalog.

Monday, December 29, 2014

The Rainbow Serpent ( Kulipari Novels )

The fight to protect the Amphibilands rages on in the second book of this action-packed, illustrated series by former football pro Trevor Pryce. The Spider Queen and Lord Marmoo of the scorpions still have their eyes and fangs set on the vulnerable home of the frogs, and this time they've got some impressive backup: the Ghost Bats, Tasmanian Devils, and Blue Band Bees. The constant threats from the outside are keeping the frog warriors busy, so while Gee and Coorah hold down the defenses, Darel and the Kulipari go in search of their dreamcasting turtle friend, Yabber. Yabber, once found, insists he knows who holds the key to saving the Amphibilands: the Rainbow Serpent. With some powerful new allies and a destiny greater than he could have possibly imagined, Darel may be able to beat his enemies and protect his home once and for all.The Kulipari series is perfect for fantasy readers not quite ready for the Redwall series.

Check Catalog

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Learn to Program with Scratch: A Visual Introduction to Programming with Games, Art, Science, and Math

Scratch is a fun, free, beginner-friendly programming environment where you connect blocks of code to build programs. While most famously used to introduce kids to programming, Scratch can make computer science approachable for people of any age. Rather than type countless lines of code in a cryptic programming language, why not use colorful command blocks and cartoon sprites to create powerful scripts?In "Learn to Program with Scratch," author Majed Marji uses Scratch to explain the concepts essential to solving real-world programming problems. The labeled, color-coded blocks plainly show each logical step in a given script, and with a single click, you can even test any part of your script to check your logic. You'll learn how to: Harness the power of repeat loops and recursionUse if/else statements and logical operators to make decisionsStore data in variables and lists to use later in your programRead, store, and manipulate user inputImplement key computer science algorithms like a linear search and bubble sortHands-on projects will challenge you to create an Ohm's law simulator, draw intricate patterns, program sprites to mimic line-following robots, create arcade-style games, and more! Each chapter is packed with detailed explanations, annotated illustrations, guided examples, lots of color, and plenty of exercises to help the lessons stick. "Learn to Program with Scratch" is the perfect place to start your computer science journey, painlessly.

Check Catalog

Monday, December 8, 2014

Philippa Fisher and the Dream-Maker's Daughter

Philippa Fisher reunites with her spunky fairy godsister in a sparkling new adventure from the creator of Emily Windsnap.
Philippa Fisher is trying to have a good time on vacation with her parents, but she's feeling lonely. When she meets Robyn, a girl with sad eyes and a strict father, she enjoys the company, but can't help wondering what Robyn and her dad might be hiding. Meanwhile, Daisy, Philippa's best friend (and fairy godsister), sneaks into her former charge's room for a visit, but now has a furtive new mission and must dash away. Philippa longs to uncover the reasons behind her friends' odd behavior, but friendships can be tricky when there are secrets -- and unexpected danger -- involved! Best-selling author Liz Kessler is back with a sympathetic story about navigating between old friends and new, a tale full of mystery, whimsy, and all the magic tween readers could wish for.

Check Catalog

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Following the Tractor

Follow the hard-working tractor on its journey as it ploughs, sows and harvests the fields throughout the course of one year. With a whole host of farm machinery to pore over as well as Susan Steggall's signature subplots - look out for the dog-walking couple in the background - this richly ilustrated book will be read time and time again.

Check Catalog