Crash - January 9th

GET READY TO ROCK WITH GUITAR HERO WORLD TOUR!!
Oh yes, we have in our possession one brand new Guitar Hero World Tour Band Edition! Drums, bass, guitar and vocals - can you handle it??!! Get a band together and sign up at the front desk if you would like to compete. Bonus points will be given for bands with guys and girls, so try and mix it up. If rocking out isn't your thang, we'll have the Gamecubes set up....bring your extra controllers.
We'll be cooking up some tasty treats, so come on down, January 9th, 5:30-7:30.

Our Top Ten Teen Books of 2008

As the year draws to a close, it's time for us to jump on the year-end list bandwagon. Here is a list of our favorite books written for teens for 2008.


Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
When high school student Clay Jenkins receives a box in the mail containing thirteen cassette tapes recorded by his classmate Hannah, who committed suicide, he spends a bewildering and heartbreaking night crisscrossing their town, listening to Hannah's voice recounting the events leading up to her death.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
In a future North America, where the rulers of Panem maintain control through an annual televised survival competition pitting young people from each of the twelve districts against one another, sixteen-year-old Katniss's skills are put to the test when she voluntarily takes her younger sister's place.
Graceling by Kristin Cashore
In a world where some people are born with extreme and often-feared skills called Graces, Katsa struggles for redemption from her own horrifying Grace, the Grace of killing, and teams up with another young fighter to save their land from a corrupt king.
Little Brother by Cory Doctorow
After being interrogated for days by the Department of Homeland Security in the aftermath of a major terrorist attack on San Francisco, California, seventeen-year-old Marcus, released into what is now a police state, decides to use his expertise in computer hacking to set things right.
The Unspoken by Tom Fahy
Six teens are drawn back to the small, North Carolina town where they once lived and, one by one, begin to die of their worst fears, as prophesied by the cult leader they killed five years earlier, and who they believe poisoned their parents.

The Opposite of Invisible by Liz Gallagher
Artistic Seattle high school sophomore Alice decides to emerge from her cocoon and date a football player, which causes a rift between her and her best friend, a boy who wants to be more than just friends.
The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart
Sophomore Frankie starts dating senior Matthew Livingston, but when he refuses to talk about all-male secret society that he and his friends belong to, Frankie infiltrates the society in order to enliven their mediocre pranks.
The Latent Powers of Dylan Fontaine by April Lurie
Fifteen-year-old Dylan's friend Angie is making a film about him while he is busy trying to keep his older brother from getting caught with drugs, to deal with his mother having left the family, and to figure out how to get Angie to think of him as more than just a friend.
Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott
After being abducted when she was ten and abused for five years by her kidnapper, Ray, Alice's only hope of freedom is in death, but her only way to achieve such an escape is to help Ray find the next girl for his collection.
Sweethearts by Sara Zarr
After losing her soul mate, Cameron, when they were nine, Jennifer, now seventeen, transformed herself from the unpopular fat girl into the beautiful and popular Jenna, but Cameron's unexpected return dredges up memories that cause both social and emotional turmoil.







Agree/Disagree with our list? Leave your favorites of 2008 in the comments!

Jewelry Making!

Back by popular demand! Join instructor Melissa Nappi and create dazzling designs with beads and wire. Make earrings, necklaces or bracelets. Don't forget, Christmas is coming up -- make beautiful gifts for family and friends. Or keep them for yourself. We won't tell.

THURSDAY, DEC 11TH @ 4:30P

Book Review -- The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart

Frankie returns to her elite boarding school her sophomore year to find herself out of the Geek Club and "in" with the seniors. She sits with them at lunch, goes to their parties, and they think she is adorable. Frankie loves being adored and hates being thought of as "adorable". She wants to be respected and thought of as their equal. When she is excluded from their all-male secret society, Frankie decides to take matters into her own hands. Chaos ensues as Frankie masterminds pranks around campus, proving she is more intelligent and cunning than them all. So many pranks and so many consequences.

Frankie won't stop until the boys acknowledge her distinction. Will Frankie ever be "one of the guys"? Or even a girl that can keep up with the guys? Or will her ambition result in dire repercussions for all?

CR@SH

Our next CR@SH will be on December 5th, featuring Mario Kart for Wii. The fun starts at 5:30pm.

Pizza Taste Test Winner!

On Thursday, November 13th we held our first pizza taste test and it was lots of fun! We tried pizza from three local pizza shops -- Gino's of Carle Place, Papa John's and Mario's. After much deliberation, the winner by overwhelming majority was PAPA JOHNS! Our teens said Papa John's pizza was "delicious", it had "good sauce", "very cheesy", and "just right". We might have to try this again next year and see if Papa Johns can keep their best pizza in town title!

Book Review - Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott

This is the saddest, most disturbing book I have read in a long time. It's the story of a girl named Alice. She has been Alice for five years. Before her, there was another Alice. That Alice is gone now, her body washed up in the river. Both girls were abducted by a man named Ray when they were just young girls. Too afraid to escape him, afraid he would kill their families as promised. Forced to do unspeakable things with him, to him. Alice has a short shelf life. Once she gets too old, she knows Ray will cast her aside, just like he did to the last girl. But Ray has given her an opportunity to find the next girl, the new girl. The girl that will take Alice's place, will free her from her suffering.

This book is not for everyone. It is the kind of book that sticks with you, even when you put it down. It is terrifying, because as you read it, you know that somewhere out there is a girl just like Alice, and a man just like Ray.

Book Review -- The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Katniss lives in District 12 in an area of the world that used to be called North America, before the war. Now this area is comprised of 12 Districts and the Capitol. Life is hard in District 12, but sixteen-year-old Katniss has managed to put food on the table to feed her mother and little sister since her father died in a coal mining accident years ago.

Each year the Hunger Games take place at the Capitol. Two people, one girl and one boy, from each district between the ages of and 12 and 18 are selected at random to compete in this competition. No one is safe from being selected. When Katniss' little sister is selected in her first eligible year, Katniss immediately volunteers to take her place. Because no one from District 12 ever wins the Hunger Games. And if you don't win, that means you are dead. There can only be one winner, one survivor.

Katniss knows that losing will bring her own death, and possibly mean starvation for her family is she is not around take care of them. Can she outwit and outlive the other 23 contestants, including Peeta, the familiar baker's son from District 12? Will she kill another human being in order to survive?

Find out in this super suspenseful novel!! This is a serious action packed page-turner! I think this story will appeal to readers of any genre. It's got action, romance, suspense, humor, philosophical debate and more.

Book Review - The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong

Chloe turns fifteen and everything changes, she dyes her hair, gets her period, and starts seeing ghosts - all in the same day. Oh yeah, all of this happens at school. Needless to say that her principal and teachers think that she has had a mental breakdown. She is forced to go to the Lyle House, a mental institution for teenagers. She doesn't want to see ghosts, but when she gets Lyle House she realizes that not only can she see ghosts, she can summon them. Also, all of the other teens at Lyle House seem to have special gifts as well. After one of the girls is forced to leave the house, transferred to another institution, Chloe starts to see her spirit. This is when Chloe realizes that not everything is what it seems at Lyle House. She is in danger there. Find out if she can escape before it is too late.

This was an excellent scary story. If you liked Twilight, Blood and Chocolate, or Wicked Lovely you will like this.

Book Review - Black Box by Julie Schumacher

Elena has always saved her older sister Dora from everything, including herself. She is the one that takes care of her older sister, so she is a little confused and sad when Dora is diagnosed with depression and is committed to a group home. Elena doesn’t know how to save her this time. When Dora does come home, Elena wants to make sure that she is ok and does not slide down into the black box of depression.

This was a great story of a family dealing with depression and how it affects everyone. Elena is left to fend for herself once Dora is diagnosed and she doesn’t know how to deal with it. Find out if she can save Dora or if Dora goes too far. Excellent read!

Pizza Taste Test!

Is there a more perfect food than pizza? Gooey cheese, crisp crust, delicious sauce - a slice of heaven! But who has the best pizza in town? Join us for a blind taste test of the local offerings, and see who serves up the best slice. You might find a new favorite! YOU MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE FOR THIS PROGRAM. Space is limited, get a move on, you don't want to miss this one!

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 13 5p-6p

Twilight Poster Giveaway

We have three Twilight movie posters to give away! HOTNESS! But you've gotta work if you want this poster on your bedroom wall. Send Ali an e-mail explaining why you'd like to spend an eternity with either Jacob or Edward. The three best responses win. Contest is open to Westbury/Carle Place teens only. Contest ends November 21st.

email: aliblau AT westburylibrary.org

CR@SH!

Our next CR@SH program will feature Pokemon Battle Revolution for Wii! Plus Gamecubes, Crafts, Food and Fun.

NOVEMBER 7TH @ 5:30PM

Cr@sh Winner!!!

Congratulations to Christopher Cordova for winning the Guitar Hero tournament on October 10th! He received a $20 gift certificate to Game Stop. Chris won the previous Guitar Hero tournament this past May as some of you may remember.



Do you like to play video games? Want to win a cool prize? Come battle it out with Pokemon at the next Cr@sh on Nov 7th.

Not into video games? There will be snacks and crafts too. Come chill.

Manga Program -- Oct 16 @ 4:30

Come learn how to draw your favorite graphic novel characters or create your own! Already an artist? Improve your skill!

Sign up at the circulation desk!

Are You Ready for Twilight!?!?!?!?

Book Review - Secrets of My Hollywood Life: Family Affairs by Jen Calonita

This is the third book in the popular "Secrets" series. In this book, we get an inside look at teen superstar Kaitlin Burke's life while shooting her hit television show Family Affair. Her long standing feud with co-star Sky Mackenzie takes a back seat when new cast member Alexis decides she wants to be made the next "It Girl" - and she is going to make her way to the top, even if it means trampling Kaitlin and Sky on her way up. While Kaitlin must figure out a way to keep her top spot on Family Affair, she is also trying to be a regular teen. Juggling driving lessons, planning for her future, homecoming dances, and walking the red carpet in designer gowns is all in a day's work for Kaitlin.

This was my favorite book in the series so far. I loved how evil the character of Alexis was, and how Kaitlin and Sky had to work together to save each other. The insider Hollywood secrets throughout the book are always entertaining. I look forward to more!

Book Review - Coraline (the graphic novel) by Neil Gaiman

Coraline and her parents move into an apartment building where Coraline encounters some eccentric neighbors. Her parents are always too busy for her so she goes off exploring in the woods in the surrounding area daily--until it begins to rain and she's not allowed outside. Her mother suggests she explore inside the house. This seems like a boring idea to Coraline until she opens a door that used to hide a brick wall and finds that she can walk through the darkness to an identical apartment on the other side. On the other side she finds everything she knows to be just a little bit different. Her parents are there... but they have buttons for eyes and pay too much attention to her. The neighborhood cat is there but he can speak and warns her to go home. Her eccentric neighbors are there, but something is not quite right about them. Coraline does return home but does not find her real parents there. Two days go by and no sign of them. She knows she has to return to the other apartment in order to rescue her parents from her "other mother". In a daring challenge, Coraline agrees to put her own self at stake in exchange for the lives of her parents and the souls of ghostly children she finds in the other mother's closet. Can she outwit the other mother in time to save everyone?

This book was scary! Coraline proves to be a brave young girl who shows great independence and strength to win the fight for her family and do the right thing. The illustrations in this graphic novel superbly complemented the storyline. Try reading the book and comparing it to the action in the graphic novel.

Need Homework Help?

Try using Live Homework Help powered by Tutor.com. All you need is your library card and a live tutor will help you through your troublesome subject. The link is located under Helpful Resources and also on the Westbury Library Homepage

Cr@sh -- Fri, Oct 10th @ 5:30

Chill out and cr@sh!
Back by popular demand, we will be battling it out in Guitar Hero

There will be a tournament for the chance to win a cool prize
Come to play or just hang out~
there will be snacks and crafts too!

Book Review - Generation Dead by Dan Waters

What would happen if dead teenagers started coming back to life? They were able to go to school and sit in class, except they were zombies. How would you feel if the zombies were going to your school?
Phoebe goes to the school with the highest zombie population. She stays away from them, except one "living impaired" person catches her eye. He interests her; but what will happen if she started dating him? Would everyone be okay with that? No - some people hate it and are willing to do anything to stop them.
Great story that will keep you interested!

Book Review -- The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson

Jenna knows her name is Jenna Fox because that is what her parents told her when she woke up after the "accident". She knows they are her parents because they told her that too. She doesn't remember Boston, where she grew up, or why she and her mother moved to California two weeks ago right before she woke up from her coma, while her father remained in Boston.

Her mother says her memories will start coming back. Jenna thinks it's strange that she is still only drinking nutrients and not allowed to eat solid food. She can remember details of the French Revolution and recite 19th century poetry word for word... but she can't remember that she was a ballerina or that she loved the color blue. Her parents have ominous nightly phone calls. She is compelled to do whatever her mother tells her even when she does not want to.

When she is allowed to go to a charter school nearby, she begins to notice other peculiarities about herself. She is beginning to believe her parents are hiding something from her and... that she may not be who they say she is.

This book will prompt some heavy thought on the values, morals, and ethical practices in society. It is an intriguing story that I could not put down.

CR@SH - Fri Sept 12 @ 5:30

Chill out and crash!
We'll be playing Wii sports tennis and bowling
have an extra wii mote? Bring it along!

Come to play or just hang out~
Snacks and crafts too!

Scrapbooking Program!!!! Sept 18th @ 4:30

Organize all your great summer photos into a decorative album using scissors, stickers, cool paper and more!

Bring your photos with you or bring your digital camera and we’ll print them for you!

Sign up at the front desk!

Teen Zone Opens September 2nd

It's back to school and the Teen Zone will be open starting the first day September 2nd. Welcome back!

Laptops, games, DVDs, music, fun. Open Mon-Thurs 2:30-4:30 to teens in grades 7-12.

Book Review -- Evernight by Claudia Gray

Looking for something to read in order to satisfy your vampire cravings now that you've finished the Twilight Saga? Then Evernight may be for you!

Bianca is barely sixteen when her parents uproot her from their home to Evernight Academy -- a secluded boarding school where both her parents have accepted teaching positions. She tries to make her disdain for this move clear to her parents by running away in the early hours of the morning on the first day of school. However, her rebellious escape is interrupted by Lucas, a mysterious boy she encounters in the woods during her flight. His charm and rationale convince her to return to Evernight and deal with being an outcast -- the school is overrun with rich, popular, "in" kids.

Bianca falls for Lucas. Lucas falls for Bianca. Both are hiding a secret. Whose secret is more dangerous? And to make matters worse, Bianca's parents do not approve of Lucas, and there is another boy vying for Bianca's affection.... not to mention Raquel who thinks there might be something evil stalking her(and she might be right).

This book is full of suspense and unexpected plot twists -- and there are laugh out loud parts too. A good filler while waiting for Stephenie Meyer's next vampire story.

Summer Reading Winners!

Congratulations to our Metamorphosis Summer Reading winners, Temoria Mughal and Scott Kahl! Both received a $50 gift certificate to the Roosevelt Field Mall! Temoria read a total of 41 books this summer and Scott read a total of 20! Way to go!

Summer Reading Weekly Raffle Winner!!

Congratulations to Vayola Justinien for winning the final weekly raffle of the summer -- a $15 gift certificate to Target! Way to go Vayola!

Book Review -- The Patron Saint of Butterflies by Cecilia Galante

Agnes and Honey are best friends growing up on a religious commune in Connecticut. Neither of them have ever been outside the commune perimeters because their leader, Emmanuel, forbids it to protect them from sin. All that changes when Nana Pete shows up for an unexpected visit. She hears rumors about a special room where children endure punishment. When Agnes' little brother Benny is accidentally injured, Emmanuel refuses to get him professional medical treatment. Nana Pete decides to make a break for it with Honey, Agnes, and Benny on a journey that will change each of their lives. Agnes, a devoted "Believer", does not agree with what they are doing and schemes to return to her parents at the commune, although Honey is thrilled to be free from the confines of the commune and struggles to make Agnes realize their good fortune. There are several surprising twists along the way and the suspense of whom will succeed, Honey or Agnes, will keep the pages turning.

CR@SH Tournament Winner!

Congratulations to Jose Alvarado for winning the Super Smash Brothers Brawl tournament!

Summer Reading Weekly Raffle Winner!!

Congratulations to Joshua Nickerson for winning a $15 gift certificate to Dunkin Donuts! Way to go Joshua!

End of Summer Reading Wrap-Up Party!

Hey Everyone!
This is just a reminder to complete at least 3 book reviews and give them in at the front desk before August 15th. You will be invited to our wrap-up party to be held on August 15th - as long as you have completed those reviews. Some of you are very close - don't forget.

Summer Reading Weekly Raffle Winner!!

Congratulations to Toyosi Awotorebo for winning a $15 gift certificate to Cold Stone Creamery! Way to go Toyosi!

Chill out and CR@SH!

Friday, August 8th @ 4pm.

We will have a Super Smash Brothers Brawl tournament on the Wii -- come to play or just hang out. There will be cool crafts and snacks too!

Have a new game? Bring it with you! (nothing M rated, please)

Book Reviews by Teen Readers

Flawless by Sara Shepard
Rating: 5 bugs
"This book was the bomb like tick, tick. I recommend the whole series." Anonymous

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Rating: 5 bugs
"The book is brilliantly written and I thought it is interesting how a terrible crime is told through the eyes of 2 children." Ryan D.

Tears of Tiger by Sharon M. Draper
Rating: 5 bugs
"This book gets 5 bugs because it is such a down to Earth book. Everything written in this book is capable of happening if real life. It shows how teens also have many things to face." Anonymous

Summer Reading Weekly Raffle Winner!

Congratulations to Temoria Mughal for winning a $15 gift certificate to Dunkin Donuts! Way to go Temoria!

Want to win cool prizes? Sign up for the Summer Reading program at the library!

The Latent Powers of Dylan Fontaine by April Lurie

Since Dylan’s mom split with his art instructor, his doctor dad is spending more time at the hospital with patients and his older brother Randy is spending more time stoned with his band. Dylan is trying to keep himself together and his family intact, but it seems that drama he can’t control is constantly making it hard for him to do so. Like when he gets arrested when someone mistakes him for his brother and slips him a bag of pot. Or when his best friend Angie decides to film his every move for a short film she is making. Or when the varsity basketball coach he is trying to impress is led to believe Dylan is a criminal cross-dresser.

Dylan finally decides to take a few risks in life since playing it safe has not been working for him. Spontaneity seems to suit him; he is getting closer to Angie and his musical and artistic talents are improving. But, Dylan’s life is not empty of drama for long. Can Dylan hold it together long enough to get the girl and save his family?

This story is full of laughs, and the reader will be rooting for Dylan all the way. His flaws, insecurities, and perseverance make him a realistic, admirable character.

Summer Reading Weekly Raffle Winner!

Congratulations to Khadijah King for winning a $15 gift certificate to Target! Way to go Khadijah!

Want to win cool prizes? Sign up for the Summer Reading club!

DKI Acting Academy

Do friends call you a drama queen or king? Do you like being the center of attention? Interested in becoming an actor?

Check out the Acting Academy for Teens. August 4 & 11 @ 4 pm. Sign up at the front desk.

Book Review -- Artichoke's Heart by Suzanne Supplee

Sixteen-year-old Rosie has always been overweight. Finally, after enduring years of consistent pestering from her nosy aunt and ridicule from her classmates, she resolves to lose the weight. It is not easy for her to stop her indulgences -- food was always there for her when her mother was not. But as Rosie sticks to her diet and exercise regime, she discovers a lot about herself, her mother, and their relationship. She also manages to find a true best friend, a boyfriend, and the guts to stand up to the "Bluebirds" -- the clique of girls who have made fun of her since third grade.

Rosie's character is honest and funny. Readers can easily relate to Rosie's insecurities, including the struggle with her body image and the relationship between her and her mother.

CR@SH recap!

Congratulations to AshleyVillanueva for winning the DDR tournament at CR@SH on July 11th!

Want to win a cool prize for playing video games?
Come compete at CR@SH on August 8th in the Super Smash Brothers tournament! Snacks and crafts too!

Week One Summer Reading Winner!

Congrats to Scott Kahl for winning a $15 Cold Stone Creamery gift card this week! Way to go Scott! Want to win cool prizes? Sign up for our summer reading club!

Ceepy Crawlers Winner!

Congratulations to Quentin McCauley for guessing the number of Creepy Crawler worms in the jar!

CR@SH

Crash

July 11 and August 8
4pm

Chill out and Cr@sh. Play videogames on our multiple systems. Make and take craft projects. Loads of food and fun!

Book Review - Violet on the Runway by Melissa Walker and Braless in Wonderland by Debbie Reed Fischer

Are you a fan of TV shows like America's Next Top Model?  Can't get enough of Teen Vogue?  Do you love fashion, glamour, and glitz?  Then try one of these great books -- similar but different stories about girls finding their way in the cutthroat modeling world.

First - the similarities.  Both girls, Violet in Violet on the Runway and Allee in Braless in Wonderland, never in a million years thought they had the looks to be a model.  Violet, super tall, lanky and plain, is stunned when a model scout discovers her while she is working her after school job at the local movie theater.  Allee can't stand models and thinks fashion is just for girly girls like her little sister Sabrina, and is discovered quite accidentally when escorting her to casting call.  But both girls are quickly absorbed into the modeling world - for Violet it is runway modeling in New York City, and for Allee it is commercial and print/catalog work in Miami.  Two very different cities, both filled with drama, backstabbing models and roommates and a great inside look into a captivating scene.

Try both books this summer (but if you have to pick just one - I liked Violet better)

Reviews by Teens

Temoria M. wrote the following about Deep and Dark and Dangerous by Mary Downing Hahn:
Rating - 4 out of 5 bugs
"I think so because like her other scary stories, this one was no less. It also kept the thrill and suspense of the characters and their actions going. You wanted to keep reading till the end."

Anonymous wrote the following about You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah by Fiona Rosenbloom:
Rating 3 out of 5 bugs
"Interesting book. Showed teen conflicts - like first crush and first kiss. Proved that friendship is way more important than a boy. 3 thumbs up!"

Summer Reading Club

Hey Everyone - Our summer programs are just getting started. Don't forget to sign up.

If you haven't already done so - sign up for the Summer Reading Club. You have the chance to win prizes and be invited to the End of Summer Reading Wrap-Up Party. You must submit at least 3 reviews to be invited to the party. Don't miss out - sign up at the front desk.

Wingspan Yoga for Teens

Wingspan Yoga for Teens
July 7 & 14th @
4:30pm

Join yoga instructor Julie Weiss to discover the many joys of yoga. Teens will build strength, flexibility, and self-confidence through yoga postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Yoga is fun, challenging, and helps you learn about the most important subject...You!

Please wear comfortable clothing, bring some water, and a yoga mat if you have your own. Extra mats will be available if you need to borrow.

Book Review - Kissing the Bee by Kathe Koja

Dana and Avra have been best friends throughout high school. As the end of senior year approaches, Dana and Avra are still inseparable, but they have an addition to their group -- Avra's boyfriend,Emil. Dana never told Avra that she was in love with Emil too, and it is becoming harder and harder for her to be around the two of them. Avra has plans to run away after prom to escape her insufferable parents, and it is assumed that Emil is going with her. But lately, it doesn't seem like Emil wants to leave town...or Dana. Avra always said if anything ever happened to her that Emil and Dana should carry on. Carry on what? Will Dana do the "right thing" like she always does? What is the "right thing"?

This was a great story and a quick read.

Summer Reading Program

Teen Summer Reading Program
Get ready for summer at WMPL!
This summer's theme is Metamorphosis @ Your Library. Sign up for summer reading between June 30 and July 7 and enter to win a raffle prize. Great programs and fun activities all summer long!

Cooking Class

Cooking Class

July 28

4pm

Think you have what it takes to be a top chef? Learn how to make delicious nachos, a tasty treat for you and your friends!

Teen Advisory Group Meeting - CANCELED!

Thursday, June 12, 4:30
New members welcome! We need YOU to share your thoughts and opinions about the Westbury Library. Give us your feedback about our collection of books, movies and music. Tell us what kinds of programs you want to see. Discuss important issues affecting your library. Earn volunteer credit!

Guitar Hero winners!

Congrats to our Guitar Hero 3 tournament winners, Erik Langert and Christopher Cordova. Erik and Christopher both won $20 Gift Cards for Game Stop.
Want to get in on the fun? Come to our next CR@SH program, July 11th at 4pm. We'll have a DDR tournament on the big screen.

Book Review - Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr

If you love Twilight by Stephanie Meyer, you are going to love this one as well!

This book was a great " good vs. evil" story. The thing is - you do not really know who belongs to which side. Aislinn is not like other teens, she can see things that other people can't. Her mother and grandmother have the same ability. She can see faeries. She has to pretend that she can't - you do not want to catch the attention of one of the fey. However, one is attracted to her and wants to make her his queen. She wants nothing to do with him. She needs to make them go away, however she makes a big mistake that ties her to the Summer King forever. She can lose her mortality and everything that she loves - including her new boyfriend, Seth. All because of a game between the fey. Find out if she can escape the Summer King or if her life is doomed.

This was a great, quick read.

Summer Reading Wrap-Up

Summer Reading Wrap-Up
August 15
5pm

Read and review three books this summer and you’ll receive an invitation to our end of the summer pizza party. Prizes and raffles too!

DKI Acting Academy

DKI Acting Academy

August 4 & 11

4pm

Presented by Drama Kids International. Explore your acting abilities through drama activities! Improve your speaking, acting and auditioning skills, or just come to have a good time.

Jewelry Making!

Jewelry Making
July 25 @
4pm

Learn how to make beautiful earrings and necklaces using beads and wire. Give them as gifts or keep them for yourself. Let your creativity run wild!

Pedicure Party

Thursday, June 5, 4:30
The weather is getting warmer and that means one thing – flip flops and sandals! Get ready to show off your toes! Learn how to pedicure and decorate your toes. Everyone will receive their very own pedicure kit to keep. Space is limited to 15 teens, sign up at the front desk.

Book Review - The Market by J.M. Steele

Oh my goodness, I LOVED THIS BOOK!

Kate is the kind of girl that tends to blend into the hallways during her four years of high school. Not popular, but not un-popular. Smart enough to get into Brown, but not hot enough to grab the guys attention. She has a close-knit group of friends and they have a great time together, but they aren't scoring invitations to parties hosted by The Proud Crowd, the resident popular clique in their New Jersey town. Until one day Kate DOES get invited to a Proud Crowd party, and finds herself face to face with hottie Will B, who whispers oh-so-sweetly "You were always the one I couldn't see". That same night Kate learns about The Market, an on-line stock exchange where girls are considered commodities and traded according to their value. There is real money at stake too, and it's not chump change. The winner of The Market will earn $25,000 at the end of the school year. So imagine how Kate must feel when she is finds out that she is number 71. 71 out of 140 girls. This comes as a crushing blow to Kate's ego, and after discussing it with her pals, Kate and her friends decide to do something about it. She is ready to make herself over in any way to increase her stock, and hopefully earn the big bucks at the end. Of course, they all realize how awful and disgusting it is to rate girls, but there is something so alluring about manipulating the system that Kate can't resist. And once she starts her transformation, from Kate to Kat - from boring J.Crew denim jackets to sexy thrift store mini-skirts- from late nights at the diner to late nights meeting up with Will B. in her parents hammock - Kate can't resist. She sinks deeper and deeper into The Market.

Of course, this kind of story has been told before: rags to riches, Ugly Ducking turns into the beautiful swam, geek turns into the prom queen - but the story is so good I hardly noticed. A definite must read!

Welcome Marisa!

The YA department has a new staff member! Marisa D'Agosto joined the YA Department of the Westbury Library this week. That means we have THREE super cool teen librarians here - just for you! She can help you find great books to read, locate resources to help you with your homework and school projects, or tell you about upcoming programs here at the library. So if you see Marisa around, make sure to say hello and make her feel welcome!

Book Review - A Little Friendly Advice by Siobhan Vivian

Is there such a thing as being TOO good of a friend? What about a friend that cares so much about you, your pain becomes her pain, and she would do anything to keep you from hurting - even if it meant hiding the truth from you. Would you want a friend like that?

Beth and Ruby have been friends forever. And it was Beth that helped Ruby sort out all her feelings when Ruby's dad left years ago. It was Beth that guided Ruby through the part of her life where everyone thought she was weirdo because she couldn't speak. It was in Beth's room that Ruby found solace when she and her mother had to move out of their big house and into a tiny one. Sleepovers, pizza parties, Halloween parties, birthdays - these were all things that Beth and Ruby shared. Slowly, they let others into their tight friendship. First it was Maria, boy crazy and fun loving. Then it was Katherine, a senior, whose own family was falling apart too.

Then on Ruby's sixteenth birthday, a surprise visitor shows up. Her father. Just when Ruby thought she had gotten over his abandonment of her and her mother, he walks in the front door with flowers, wishing her a happy birthday. Beth thinks Ruby should just forget all about him, for what kind of father could he be. And when Ruby's dad leaves a note for Ruby, Beth does what she thinks is best. She hides the note from Ruby, even though her dad really wants to talk to her and make amends.

I really enjoyed this book and the characters, especially Ruby. She is quirky, intelligent and insightful. This book does a great job of showing what can happen when you are so close to someone, all you want to do is protect them.

CR@SH - May 30th

Our next CR@SH will be May 30th. Get ready to rock out with Guitar Hero! Show off your shredding skills and win cool prizes. Gamecubes too! As always, we will have crafts for the non-gamers and food for all!

Book Review - The City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

The City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Clary is at a club in NYC with her friend Simon when she spies a good looking boy following a beautiful girl into a storage area. She is a little disappointed that he wasn't interested in her and starts to turn away. Then she watches two other boys follow the couple into the storage area. These boys have weapons and Clary is scared. She follows them and watches as they kill the other boy. She goes to run, but she is stopped. The body is no longer there. It has disappeared in front of her eyes. She is just introduced to the Shadowhunters that had just killed a demon. They are as shocked as she is that she was able to see any of what was going on.


Follow this adventure into a world of demons, vampires, werewolves, and the people that hunt them. Great fantasy read and I am looking forward to reading the sequel.

For all you Sarah Dessen fans

Click here to read a cool article about Sarah Dessen. Her newest book is Lock and Key, and yes, we have it!

Last Day of the Teen Zone

The Teen Zone will be closing for the rest of school year on Wednesday, May 14th. But don't worry, we will re-open next year on the first day of school.

Teen Book Club

May 1^st – Teen Book Club – 4:30pm

Discuss the latest in teen lit! This month's book is Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher.

When high school student Clay Jenkins receives a box in the mail containing thirteen cassette tapes recorded by his classmate Hannah, who committed suicide, he spends a bewildering and heartbreaking night crisscrossing their town, listening to Hannah's voice recounting the events leading up to her death.

Pick up the book starting April 10^th, then join us for snacks and discussion on May 1^st.

Book Review - The Unspoken by Thomas Fahy

Spooky....

This is the story of six children that were forced to be part of a cult by their parents. If they spoke out against the leader or did anything wrong they were severely punished. The cult leader seemed to know their worst fears. These six children escaped by burning the compound down. However, all of the adults were killed. Once the authorities figured out what had happened, the six children are separated and sent to live with foster parents. After five years they are brought together one of the survivors has died, by drowning, yet his body is found nowhere near water.

This happened to be his biggest fear. When the others meet at his funeral things start to happen, one by one they are killed - in the manner that they feared the most. Someone survived the compound fire, but who? Who is next on the list?This book was very creepy. You do not know what to expect or who to suspect. Very good scary story.

Book Review - Prom Kings and Drama Queens by Dorian Cirrone

Emily Bennett wants to make a big impact during her junior year. She has a lot she wants to accomplish - become editor of the school newspaper, finally get revenge on the Clausen twins for ditching her in junior high and to get Brian Harrington to notice her. Brian Harrington is literally the boy next door, and Emily has had a crush on him ever since his family moved in. When Emily takes a little car ride to find out what mysterious activities Brian and the other basketball players are up to, she winds up getting herself wrapped up in some criminal misadventures. In order to keep her reputation and her criminal record clean, Emily must partner up with her school newspaper rival, Daniel Cummings. In addition to their shared community service duties, Emily and Daniel are forced to work together on a story about the junior prom. All this time with skinny, thrift store shopping Daniel is taking her away from spending quality time with hottie Brian, who it seems, actually LIKES HER.

This is a great, fast-paced romantic read. Set it South Florida, it is a perfect book to read while looking forward to summer days on the beach.

Book Review - The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

Helmuth is young when Hitler comes to power in Germany. He is excited and feels that Germany will improve. He is happy to join the Hitler Youth. However things start to change and Helmuth begins to doubt the sincerity of Hitler and his goal for a great Germany. In Nazi Germany it is illegal to listen to foreign radio or read foreign books. You are watched and monitored by the Gestapo. Family members are reporting other family members as enemies of Germany. Innocent people are beaten until they admit to a crime that they didn’t commit. Helmuth can’t stand it and feels the need to do something. He begins to challenge the government, what he does is treasonous. He can be killed for what he does. He takes a stand with dire consequences.

This is an excellent book that is based on a true story. One boy in Hamburg, Germany needed to try to change things. One person can make a difference. It has a little bit of a slow start, but it is all the more compelling because it is based on a true story.

Book Review - Bone by bone by bone - Tony Johnston

This is a great historical fiction that takes a look at the South during the 1950's. At this time, you aren't allowed to be friends with just anyone. You are supposed to associate with people that look like you. David and Malcolm are best friends. They do everything together. They explore their town in Tennessee and just want to be left alone. Everything is fine until David's racist father realizes that the two boys are friends. From that point on, things change. David's father tells David - If Malcolm enters the house, he will kill him. David doesn't understand why it is such an issue. David is white and Malcolm is black. Their friendship upsets many people, including the KKK. People are so threatened by it that they are willing to hurt these two boys - just for being friends. Find out what happens when Malcolm has no choice but to enter David's house. Will he survive?

The book shows how a child's innocence about the world is crushed by those closest to him. How you can be strong enough to change and be different. Excellent story about friendship, family, and doing what is right.

CR@SH!

Crash Friday, April 11th @ 5:30
Cr@sh featuring Nintendo Wii! 
Plus, play games on 2 Gamecubes and Playstation 2!
Bring your own games and controllers so the fun lasts
all night long (no M Rated games, please)
Enjoy Crafts, food, and fun!

Raffle Winner!

Congratulations to Jenna Eliasoph from Carle Place Middle School - the winner of the iPod Shuffle! Way to go Jenna!

Jenna and many others attended our Presidential Election Party on Thursday, April 3rd. We watched a great film called 18 in '08, which is all about the importance of the youth vote in the upcoming presidential election. If you missed the program, but still want to check out the film, it has been added to our circulating collection. Check it out today, and get out and VOTE in 2008!

Book Review - After by Francine Prose

School shootings like those at Columbine and Virginia Tech are terrifying, and the fictional catalyst in this captivating and often frightening book by Francine Prose. A school shooting has occurred at Pleasant Valley High. In the aftermath of the shooting, nearby Central High School hires a grief and crisis counselor, who is hellbent on preventing a similar incident at Central. Slowly, changes are made. First, no one can wear ANYTHING red to school. That includes the red AIDS awareness button that a girl named Stephanie wears to honor her dead brother. And one day Stephanie doesn't return to school. Tom and his friends are worried about the changes, which at first seem to just pose an inconvenience, but take on a more sinister tone as days go by. Daily assemblies, metal detectors, locker searches, random drug testing....every day the students' freedoms are being taken away and school is beginning to feel like a prison. Soon, students are being shipped off to boot camp, supposedly to cure them of their bad behavior before they turn into the next school shooter. But the students never return, and the parents don't seem to mind. In fact, it seems like the daily e-mails from the grief counselor are brainwashing all the parents. Tom realizes he must take action, before he is the next one shipped off.

I thought this book started off a little bit slow, but once you get into it, it is like a roller coaster ride right through the very end. Evil principals, mind control, paranoia--they all make for a great read!

Book Review - Candyfloss by Jacqueline Wilson

Which parent would you choose to live with, your mom or your dad? Really think about, would you want to make that decision? Floss is put in the position of having to choose between living with her mom or her dad. Her parents have been divorced for a while, she was unhappy about it, but it was working out. During the week, Floss lived with her mother and her mother’s new husband, Steve and during the weekend she lived with her father. Floss always wished that her parents would get back together, but the wish dies a terrible death when her mother announces that they will be moving to Australia. Floss will have to leave her father. What makes it worse is that her father does not have the money to visit Floss in Australia. Now here is the decision, live with her mother or father? She decides to live with her father and her mother is crushed.

Now she is dealing with snobby girls at school that are spreading rumors about her. They are saying that her mother has abandoned her. They say that she smells. There are even threats about calling child protective services on her father; that he is not taking care of her properly. So who would you choose? Find out what happens to Floss and her family after she makes her decision. This a great story about a girl dealing with the divorce of her parents.