Children

The 2024 Golden Polar Bear Award

Jon S. — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 18:29:16 +0000

The Library's Children's Department staff recently celebrated their favorite picture of the year by voting in the inaugural Golden Polar Bear Award. This represents a special children's picture book that staff love and want to recommend to patrons. This year's winner is listed below, as are some honorable mentions!

2024 Golden Polar Bear Award Winner

Drawn Onward

by Daniel Nayeri and Matt Rockefeller

Described as "a palindrome of grief and hope," Drawn Onward tells the story of a grieving young boy who follows a hero's quest to find closure from his mother's premature death. Children's staff described the book as having "beautiful illustrations, excellent visual story-telling, and fantastical but grounded in real-world relatable struggles." Another staff member said, "This picture book has beautiful and intricate artwork that continued to wow me throughout the story. The themes of heroism, healing, and hope were inspiring and entrancing." The imaginative tale "shows how the power of fantasy can be an important tool for understanding our own lives." Recommended for ages 4–8.

Honorable Mentions

Emergency Quarters

by Carlos Matias and Gracey Zhang

Ernesto is finally old enough to walk the six blocks to school without his parents! Every day, his mother tucks a quarter in his pocket so he can use a pay phone "for emergencies." Ernesto's resolve is tested as his friends pressure him into spending the quarters on baseball cards and arcade games. The city comes to life in Gracey Zhang's colorful artwork, and Carlos Matias crafts a charming story about responsibility in a time before cell phones. Recommended for ages 4–8.

Here & There

by Thea Lu

Dan the café owner has never left his small seaside hometown. Aki drifts through the sea, never staying in one place for too long. Both men live lives that are lonely at times lonely, yet at other times lively and fulfilling. This sparse and poetic picture book is a grounded exploration of home, travel, and the similarities we share with people from all around the world. Recommended for ages 5–9.

Spider in the Well

by Jess Hannigan

A kind but overworked newsboy breaks the shocking news to the townspeople of Bad Göodsburg: Their beloved wishing well is broken! When the newsboy is sent to fix the well, he discovers a spider living down there. Together, they hatch a plan to restore justice upon the greedy townspeople who treat the newsboy poorly and make selfish wishes. This delightful picture book is a funny take on classic folktales, where even the underdog hero isn’t above committing some light blackmail to gain respect from the self-centered townspeople. Cute, simple illustrations with bright neon colors will keep children’s eyes glued to the page. Perfect for fans of the fractured fairytales of Jon Skiezcka and the amusing absurdity of Mac Barnett. Recommended for ages 4–8.

Want to read about more staff favorites from the past year? Head over to the 2024 MCPL Children's Staff Favorites booklist to check out many more recommendations!

Get Ready for Kindergarten with These New Reads

Ginny H. — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 16:29:40 +0000

Starting kindergarten is an exciting milestone for kids! Reading any of these picture books to your child will help them strengthen their early literacy skills and dispel some of their before-school anxiety.

Bitsy Bat, School Star

Kaz Windness

Bitsy Bat is ready to make friends on her first day of school, but when the lights are too bright and her classmates tell her she’s doing everything wrong, Bitsy has a five-star meltdown. With the help of her parents, Bitsy finds ways to make herself more comfortable at school and show her classmates that everyone’s star shines a little differently. This cute story of an adorable bat reminds kids that unexpected challenges at school can be overcome with a little support and self-reflection. A final page about autism encourages readers to find ways for every neurodivergent child to thrive in school.

Pockets For Two

Lindsay Ward, illustrated by Brizida Magro

On the first day of school, a young girl is nervous about making friends until she meets a friendly face. They instantly bond over all the treasures they can keep in their pockets. Though this quietly playful book seems as though it's a simple ode to pockets, its message is clear. There are friends to be made and they will see and understand all your likes and dislikes, the things that make you scared and the things that make you excited. Together, you will collect treasures and memories to keep with you. This cute and stylistically pleasing book is perfect for any child who might be a little nervous about making a friend at school.

The Queen of Kindergarten

Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

MJ Malone is excited for her first day of kindergarten! When she wakes up, her Momma gives her a crown, proclaims her the "Queen of Kindergarten," and teaches her the three rules of being Queen: brighten up every room, be caring and kind, and always be helpful. This sweet picture book is bursting with colors just as lively as its main character, MJ. With great examples of what a kindergartener does during the day, it's sure to make your child excited to begin their own school year.

Ready for Kindergarten

Bethany V. Freitas, illustrated by Maja Andersen

Whether a child is excited or nervous about their first day of school, this encouraging book shows them that they’re all ready for kindergarten! Children are reminded that they already have the skills they need to be successful in kindergarten, like using their imagination and knowing their name. The bright pictures show diverse families getting ready for school, which will help kids recognize their own morning routines. A fun and helpful tool to promote kindergarten readiness!

Looking for more stories about going back to school? Check out the Let’s Talk about Starting School booklist or ask a Library staff member for more recommendations!

Let's Talk About Starting School

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Celebrate the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse with the Library!

Paula G.O. — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:23:00 +0000

What is a Total Solar Eclipse?

The 2024 total solar eclipse is happening on Monday, April 8! A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely covers the face of the sun. Five phases will occur during this event:

Partial eclipse begins at 1:49 PM: The moon becomes visible over the sun's disk.
Total eclipse begins at 3:04 PM: The moon covers the entire disk of the sun, and observers are now within the moon's umbra, the darkest part of the moon's shadow.
Totality and maximum eclipse at 3:06 PM: The moon completely covers the disk of the sun. Only the sun's corona is visible. This is the most dramatic stage of a total solar eclipse. At this time, the sky goes dark, temperatures can fall, and birds and animals often go quiet. The midpoint of time of totality is known as the maximum point of the eclipse.
Total eclipse ends at 3:08 PM: The moon starts moving away, and the sun reappears.
Partial eclipse ends at 4:22 PM: The eclipse ends as the moon leaves the sun's disk.

How to Safely View This Event

Never look directly at the sun without proper eyewear! To safely view a solar eclipse, you need to wear protective eclipse glasses or viewers, or project an image of the eclipsed sun using a pinhole projector to view it indirectly.

The Monroe County Public Library will have a limited quantity of free eclipse viewers available to the public starting March 11 at all Library locations. They will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. One eclipse viewer per household.

Citizen Science Initiatives

Eclipse Soundscapes Project (Record what the environment sounds like during an eclipse)
Sun Sketcher (Help NASA track Baily’s Beads with your phone)
Solar Eclipse Safari (Help record animal behavior during the eclipse)
GLOBE Observer Eclipse data (Help NASA track the effects of the eclipse on the atmosphere)

Eclipse Events

Although all MCPL locations will be closed on April 8, to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime occurrence, the Library will have a variety of free programs for all patrons leading up to the eclipse.

Eclipse Events Calendar

…Ready for it? Extend Your Own Eras Tour with These Taylor Swift-Inspired Ideas

Aubrey D. — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 15:32:20 +0000

Her Eras Tour broke worldwide record ticket sales, and more recently, her documentary broke the box office. That’s right; we’re talking about the pop culture phenomenon herself, Taylor Swift. Lately, it seems like you can’t look at a single screen without seeing Taylor’s face. And until she makes her way to Indianapolis in fall of 2024, screens are all local Taylor fans are going to get. Luckily, she’s been all over the news with her record-breaking album sales and sold-out arena tours. Even sports media is taking advantage of her stardom to boost their views and merchandise sales!

Here are a few ways to get your Taylor fix and keep your “Taylor Era” going!

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour is Out Now

Put on your coziest cardigan and gather your besties because Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour is in theaters now! At nearly three hours long, the movie is a tribute to her entire discography, inviting fans to sing and dance along to every song. Get ready for an immersive, live concert experience from the convenience of your local movie theater at a fraction of the price.

Attend IU’s Free Taylor Swift: The Conference Era

Hosted by the Indiana University Arts & Humanities Council, Taylor Swift: The Conference Era, seeks to gather Swifties and Swifty-adjacent thinkers for a meeting of the (master)minds focused on examining pertinent topics through the lens of sold-out stadium star Taylor Swift. There will be keynote talks, panels and workshops with over 30 national and global scholars. There will even be a Taylor Swift-themed artist market! The free event will take place at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater on November 3 and 4, with adjacent events at First Thursdays and the Cook Center for Public Arts & Humanities. Want to get more involved? They’re accepting volunteers!

Try Book Recs from Library Staff

Swifties from every corner of the Library came together to recommend books and graphic novels inspired by all ten of Tay’s records. Separated by album and era, our booklist picks are further divided into recommendations for adults, teens, and children! Browse the illustrated PDF booklet we created or scroll through the booklist on our website.

Of course, you can check out all of the featured books from the Library, but you can also stream all of Taylor’s albums on Hoopla immediately with no waitlists! Listen and read and make sure to let us know what you think of the pairings. Tag us @mcplindiana with your recommendations, too!

Join us for Friendship Bracelets (Taylor’s Version)

Missed out on trading friendship bracelets with other Swifties? Patrons are invited to drop in on Saturday, October 21, from 12–2 PM at the Downtown Library to make Taylor Swift-themed friendship bracelets to trade with friends and other fans. Make bracelets, have some snacks, and chat with other fans about your favorite Taylor Swift songs and eras. Age 6 and up.

Free Period Products Now Available at the Library

Paula G.O. — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 14:49:03 +0000

Approximately 86% of people reportedly start their period in public without the supplies they need.* The Library has selected the vendor Aunt Flow to bring free period products to patrons to help address period poverty, equity, and inclusivity within the community.

We believe that period products should be freely available and accessible to increase the wellbeing and comfort of all patrons. Many libraries and other public spaces are currently participating in this initiative, and MCPL is excited to continue these efforts in Monroe County.

Aunt Flow dispensers can be found at five other Indiana libraries, as well as 135 additional libraries across the country. Dispensers are available in restrooms at the Downtown Library, Ellettsville Branch, and Southwest Branch. The dispensers are ADA compliant and use a push button to distribute the products, which are made of 100% organic cotton. Learn more about Aunt Flow’s mission here.

*Free the Tampons, National Research Study, 2013

Additional information and resources:

Button Pusher

Kim B. — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 16:41:55 +0000

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Tyler was the kind of kid who couldn't sit still at school and couldn't explain why he was acting the way he did. But when he started a new medicine called Ritalin, he was able to pay attention in class and focus. At the time, he hadn't heard the term "Attention Hyperactivity Deficit Disorder" (it was actually called Attention Deficit Disorder when he was growing up), but that's what he was experiencing.

This autobiographical memoir of one kid's experience growing up with ADHD is such an eyeopening read. Throughout it, we not only get the story of Tyler's struggles with ADHD, but the story of his rocky home life with a parent who experiences adult symptoms of ADHD. Peppered throughout the story, Tyler offers information about ADHD, what happens in brains with ADHD, how the medicine affects the brain, and some history on ADHD as a diagnosis.

I loved reading Tyler's story! It held my attention the whole way through, and the informational elements were carefully explained and hit the story at the perfect time. I'd recommend this book to anyone interested in mental health education, growing up in the 1980s-1990s, ADHD, or anyone who loves to read great books! This book is recommended for ages 10–14.

Reviewed by Kim B., Children's Librarian.

Great MCPL Kid’s Bake Off

Aubrey D. — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 16:27:14 +0000

The first Great MCPL Kid’s Bake Off is a wrap! We challenged 17 children to make their best book-inspired dessert. The catch? They had to include a mystery ingredient–beet root powder!

Each participant received a kit that included measuring spoons, beet root powder, some suggestions for baking books, and a copy of The Complete Cookbook for Young Scientists: Good Science Makes Great Food: 70+ Recipes, Experiments, & Activities to keep.

According to children’s librarian Kate Duneman, the participants had two main charges in creating their dessert–to use the secret ingredient and to tie in a book they’ve read, by decoration or taste.

“While I enjoyed seeing the different ways kids used the mystery ingredient, I think my favorite aspect was the literary tie-in and how wildly creative people were with it,” Kate said.

Some of the books and stories that inspired the desserts included The Day the Crayons Came Home by Drew Dewalt, Snow White, Wings of Fire: The Lost Heir by Tui T. Sutherland, The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter, Pinkalicious! by Victoria Kann, and Fablehaven by Brandon Mull.

With so many creative submissions, our children’s services staff had a tough time choosing a favorite. After deliberating, Amelie’s ocean-themed cake was selected as the winner! Inspired by Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series, the red velvet cake featured blue candy waves decorated with Zeus’ lightning bolt and a trident.

“The waves on top are made with isomalt,” Amelie told us. “I’ve never used isomalt before, but it was really fun to shape and I like how the waves look. Isomalt comes from another kind of beet, sugar beet!”

Amelie’s use of isomalt helped their submission stand out. “It really impressed me that kids could try out and use these techniques that many adults can’t even master,” said children’s librarian Ginny Hosler. “I am so proud of and inspired by the kids of Monroe County!”

To view photos of all of the amazing submissions, check out this Flickr album. Make sure to read the photo descriptions, which include details kids shared about their desserts, including the books that inspired the creations.

Did you miss out on registering for the Bake Off or our recent Chopped program? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook to learn about future programs like these.

Miss Quinces

Kim B. — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 22:50:21 +0000

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Sue (Suyapa) does not want to have a quinceañera where she'd be required to wear a poofy dress and dance around, so when her mom surprises her by having planned one and invited guests during a family trip to Honduras, Sue isn't happy. That is, until she makes a deal with her mom: 1 quinceañera for 1 overnight sleep camp with her friends. However, preparing for the celebration takes a tragic turn when Sue's beloved grandmother passes away suddenly.

I love this sweet (and sad) coming-of-age graphic novel. I especially loved seeing Sue gain some of the independence she desperately craves while making connections with her family and her heritage. Recommended for readers ages 8–12.

Reviewed by Kim B., Children's Librarian

Graphic Novels & Manga

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Miss Quinces

Pony

Kim B. — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 22:22:31 +0000

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When Silas's father is taken away in the middle of the night by a group of outlaws who seem to mistaken him for someone else, Silas knows he has to do something. With his best friend, a ghost named Mittenwool, Silas heads out to rescue his pa while riding his beautiful bald-faced pony. Will Silas be able to rescue his pa? And what's so special about his pony? Read this book to find out!

I didn't know too much about this book before I started reading it and thought it would be a horse story more than anything else, but there is so much more going on here; it kept me guessing and surprised me! I also loved the daguerreotypes leading each chapter and feel these and the discussions of photography throughout the book would make this a great read for anyone interested in photography and history! Recommended for readers age 10 and up.

Reviewed by Kim B., Children's Librarian

Both Can Be True

Ginny H. — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 13:53:41 +0000

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Ash is a middle schooler who loves music, is a synesthete who can see sounds, and is figuring out their gender identity after being bullied at their last school for being a “flip flop freak.” It doesn’t help that Ash’s dad is putting more and more pressure on them to just choose a gender and “stick with it.” Then Ash meets Daniel at their new school. Daniel is a photography fan, kind, in-tune with his emotions, scared his parents are going to get a divorce, and mourning the loss of his dog. When Daniel saves an older dog who is about to be euthanized because the owner doesn’t want to care for the elderly dog, their worlds collide and suddenly, Ash and Daniel are pinned together in this mission—save Chewbarka at all costs.

This unapologetic look at the real struggles and triumphs that are a part of middle school life is funny, poignant, and emotional in all the right ways. While the book contained a few missed opportunities of verbalizing and giving a direct challenge to transphobic behavior, overall it showcased a very realistic experience that a LGBTQ+ child might go through and can be a fantastic conversation starter on taking up the space you deserve and claiming your own identity.

Fans of the realistic fiction genre, Alex Gino’s Melissa (George), or the Sunny Series by Jennifer L. Holm will find relatable moments in this book. Readers who are especially sensitive to the concept of animal euthanasia may want to proceed with caution. Suggested for ages 9-12+

Reviewed by Ginny H.

Living With Viola

Ginny H. — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 16:23:23 +0000

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Livy is starting at a new school and that's just the tip of the iceberg for her! She's growing anxious about making friends and fitting in when she feels different because of her culture as well as family expectations for her to achieve great things. Then there's Viola. The little voice in her head that tells her she's not good enough and that no one likes her. Sometimes Viola's voice is so loud that Livy has trouble expressing her own. She has to find some way to live with Viola.

This fun and funny graphic novel gives life to the concept of anxiety by featuring it as a real figure (Viola) in which Livy can interact with. Negative self-talk, worries, and feelings of overwhelming pressure plague Livy on a daily basis, but as soon as she asks her parents for help, she begins to feel relief as she learns to coexist with her anxiety.

Fans of Raina Telegemeier's Smile Series or Cece Bell's El Deafo will love the humor, real-life scenarios, and relatable characters. Recommended for ages 8-12.

Graphic Novels & Manga

I Love You Because I Love You

Kim B. — Sat, 02 Jul 2022 17:28:50 +0000

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This children's picture book contains simple, poetic words but it expresses powerful emotion. The beautiful illustrations depict diverse characters experiencing the joys and security that unconditional love offers. I recommend reading this book with someone you love just because you love them.

Reviewed by Christa S., Senior Information Assistant

I Love You Because I Love You

Shirley & Jamila Save their Summer

Kim B. — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 18:21:50 +0000

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Jamila has to find a way to avoid going to boring old Science Camp and spend more time shooting hoops! So when oddball Shirley Bones offers a deal that will keep Jamila out of camp, Jamila jumps at the offer. There is only one problem - Shirley is weird. But soon, Jamilia realizes that Shirley isn't just weird, she's a detective! The two girls set out to solve the case of the missing gecko and save their summer!

This book is a wonderfully fun mystery with a lovely tale of friendship. If you fall in love with Shirley and Jamila like I did, then be sure to take a look at the sequel Shirley & Jamila's Big Fall.

Fans of books about friendship like Shannon Hale's Real Friends and for fans of mysteries like Kate Petty's The Leak: For the Love of Truth.

Recommended for ages 8-12.

Reviewed by Kim B. Children's Librarian

Graphic Novels & Manga

Mystery

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Shirley & Jamila Save Their Summer

Tween Space Mural Contest

Mandy H. — Wed, 25 May 2022 17:30:26 +0000

Have you heard of our Tween Space? The Tween Space at the Downtown Library is a place where kids ages 7–12 can hang out, explore crafts and other activities, enjoy pop-up programs, work on homework, or play!

Later this summer, a local artist will be revamping the Tween Space walls with a cosmic mural. We’re calling on kids ages 7–12 to help with the design! Draw the dots of your own imaginary stars (no more than 10), the lines between them, and an outline of the figure or object the group of stars represents. Your constellation might be selected to be included in the new Tween Space mural!

A constellation is a grouping of stars that forms the base of a recognizable shape, usually an animal, mythological character, or object. Well-known constellations include the Big Dipper, Orion the Hunter, and the constellations of the Zodiac.

From June 1–30, you can find and print the submission form here (PDF), or pick one up in the Tween Space. Completed forms can be dropped off at the children’s information desk at the Downtown Library by July 1. For questions or more information, contact Kate Duneman at kduneman [at] mcpl.info.

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read

Ginny H. — Mon, 16 May 2022 19:27:42 +0000

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Mary, born into slavery in 1868, loved watching the birds fly free in the sky while she worked in the fields. She wanted to be free too! But she had to keep working. No time for rest. No time to learn. Even when Mary and her family were freed from slavery she still had to work hard.

One day, Mary was given a Bible, but all she could see were squiggly lines! Mary became determined to learn to read but there was always work to be done and a family to raise. Late in life, Mary said, "No more waiting! Time to learn!" You'll be amazed to learn Mary's age when she finally learned to read and became truly free.

This true story definitely shows that you are never too old to learn. I love how this book is full of hope and the vibrant collage illustrations by Coretta Scott King award winner, Oge Mara, really help tell the story in this amazing picture book biography. There are even real photos of Mary on the front and back covers.

Recommended for ages 4–8 but all ages will love this story of resilience and determination.

Reviewed by Tressa R.

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read