Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Summer Reading Challenge 2008

Watch House Cross 'Summer Reading Challenge' is a great way to encourage your kids to read over the summer. The challenge is suitable for all reading levels.
...Here's how the challenge works

Pick up a challenge booklet in the library, fill in your details, especially your name & phone number, members aged 6-13yrs may enter

Read any six books by the authors & series listed below

Every time you borrow a book your booklet will be stamped

Return your booklet at the end of the summer to enter a draw for great prizes

For a chance to win extra prizes submit a review of one of the books you’ve read

Enter as many booklets as you like, just keep reading !!

If you need help choosing a book just ask library staff about the best reads


Authors & Series

Get Reading & Good Luck !







Saturday, May 17, 2008

The Alchemist - For Free!

Paulo Coehlo has just released a free digital version of his classic novel 'The Alchemist' Use the widget below to read it.

Visual Resources Online


The Association of College and Research Libraries have compiled a list of visual resources online.
You can access this list at the following url;


http://www.ala.org/ala/acrl/acrlpubs/crlnews/backissues2008/may08/visualresources.cfm

Friday, May 16, 2008

Children's Book Awards

The Bisto Book of the Year Awards
Shortlist 2007-2008


The Bisto Book of the Year Awards Shortlist was announced on March 26th.
This year's list features ten exceptional books which are now in the running for the most prestigious Irish children's book awards.
The CBI Bisto Book of the Year Awards are presented annually in recognition of excellence in writing and illustration.
The winners will be announced on May 22nd 2008.

The Alchemyst by Michael Scott
A fantasy adventure narrative that follows the destiny of 15-year-old twins, Josh and Sophie Newman, who are the subjects of an ancient prophesy. Of its kind but different, this flamboyantly stylish work succeeds in weaving a mesmerizing and energetic plot around a structurally impressive mythological framework. Although intertextually complex, it is a story whose vivid descriptions of worlds and events enable the fantasy and the realism to connect.

Published by Doubleday Children’s Books



The Black Book of Secrets by FE Higgins
A work that contains the dark secrets of the inhabitants of the remote village of Pagus Parvus . Subtly reminiscent and worthy of a writer like Dickens, this strikingly original and superbly plotted tale introduces readers to two of the most memorable literary protagonists of recent times, apprentice Ludlow Fitch and pawnbroker Joe Zabbidou. Grim but not pessimistic, this is uncommon storytelling, offering a liberating but hopeful exploration of the complexities of human nature.

Published by Macmillan Children’s Books



Discover Art by Jessica O'Donnell
A unique and aesthetically pleasing publication that introduces its readers to the impressive collection of art exhibited at Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane. In a clear and lively style, this well-researched work manages not only to inform its readers about modern and contemporary art history but also to present its information in a way that children will enjoy by suggesting fun activities and practical projects to fire the imagination.
Published by Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane




Gaiscioch na Beilte Uaine le Caitriona Nic Sheain agus Andrew Whitson
Gaiscíoch na Beilte Uaine: athchóiriú ar sheanscéal Gaeilge atá sa leabhar gleoite seo faoi ghaiscíoch a n-éiríonn leis an bheilt uaine a bhaint amach. Leabhar álainn é: tá saibhreas foclóireachta agus an frásaíochta ann, agus mar sin tá insint dheas réidh ins na scéalta a oireann don atmasféar draíochtúil a chothaítear tríd an leabhar, ach is í an obair ealaíne buanna móra an leabhair seo - tá gach leathanach sa leabhar maisithe le léaráidí ar ábhar suntais, sprid, agus blasta. Mheallfadh an scéal páistí agus daoine fásta chun é a léamh arís agus arís eile.

A retelling of an old Irish story about a warrior who, to prove himself a worthy suitor, must complete a number of trials. Although it enchantingly tells its story through a verbal text that poetically imbues the narrative with a magical atmosphere, it is the distinctive and quintessential character of the visual text that makes this picture book a beautiful work of art. This is a story that will continue to be retold as it is read and reread by both children and adults alike.
Published by An Snathaid Mhor


The Last of the High Kings by Kate Thompson
A work of fantasy that centres on the choice Jenny, daughter of JJ Liddy, must make between a life in the world of humans and a life in the world of Tír na nÓg. Distinguished by the psychological depth of its characterization, its impressive use of dialogue, and - above all - the ease of its storytelling, this is fiction that not only explores the complexities of family life in an unsentimental and honest manner but also emphasizes the fact that fantasy, at its most accomplished, exists in a symbiotic relationship with reality.
Published by The Bodley Head



The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd
The detective story of brother and sister Ted and Kate's attempt to solve the mystery of their cousin Salim's disappearance. Enthralling at the level of story, this convincingly written narrative draws the reader in with its beautifully stylish and textured language, its clever and light use of symbolism, and its unpatronising humour so as to emphasize the importance of connecting with others in life. A traditionally structured novel, this is a sustained and fully realised thriller for young readers.
Published by David Fickling





The Thing With Finn by Tom Kelly
The story of a young boy named Danny and his journey of self-discovery in the aftermath of the death of his twin-brother Finn. Cathartic and redemptive, this incredibly courageous narrative is told with such sensitivity that it manages to poignantly sustain pathos through moments of great humour. To journey through this layered narrative – in the company of a character who is sure to haunt the imagination long after the book has been read – is to recognise this unique publication as a modern classic.
Published by Macmillan Children’s Books




Titanic 2020 by Colin Bateman
A futuristic tale that chronicles the adventures and discoveries of stowaway Jimmy Armstrong, aboard a new, and supposedly unsinkable, Titanic. Though it convincingly develops relationships between its central characters through episodes of humour and sadness, this well-conceived narrative is characterized, chiefly, by the adventurousness of the twists and turns in its plot, the subtlety of its cultural and literary references, and the innovative nature of its storytelling. Published by Hodder Children’s Books



The Way Back Home by Oliver Jeffers
A picture book that tells the story of the relationship between a boy and a friendly Martian, who meet after the boy crash-lands on the moon while flying his aeroplane. The stylish quality of the illustration is the principal characteristic that defines this aesthetically pleasing literary artefact. Told from a child’s perspective, and developed through the structural dualism of strangeness and familiarity, the work’s deceptively simple verbal and visual texts are an enchanting celebration of the transformative power of the imagination.
Published by Harper Collins Children’s Books



Wilderness by Roddy Doyle
A work that tells the stories of brothers Tom and Johnny, on an adventure-holiday in Finland, their half-sister Gráinne, at home in Ireland, and their respective mothers. Poetically weaving together alternating but parallel narratives, this is a work that concerns itself with both physical and psychological journeys into wildernesses: those places and situations where one confronts desolation and truth. Categories of adult and children’s fiction aside, this is a rarity in publishing: a novel in the true sense of the word, a work that transcends itself.

Published by Scholastic Children’s Books

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

CBS Sexton St. Visit Library

Earlier this morning 40 1st year students from CBS Sexton St. visited the WHC Library. They were split into 2 groups; One group were given a tour of the library floor, they were shown how we organise the books to make them easier to find, and they were shown what we have to cater for their age group and interests. The other group were at workstations in the PC Room and were shown how to search our catalogue online, how to search for information online and also how to use the Web application Google Earth.

Monday, May 12, 2008

New Non-Fiction for Teenagers!

Writing Down the Days: 365 Creative Journaling Ideas for Young People
by Lorraine M. Dahlstrom, M.A.


Down with boring writing assignments! Here's a year's worth of alternatives - fresh, interesting, and fun. Each day's entry starts with a fact-filled introduction so young writers learn something new. Each features a person, place or event that gives special meaning to that calendar day. And each proves that writing dosen't have to be dreary or dull.
Many assignments include addresses, phone numbers, and websites that lead to more information.
Lorraine Dahlstrom, M.A. earned her master's degree in learning and human development. She's been a secondary English teacher for more than 25 years.




Down & Dirty: 43 Fun & Funky First-Time Projects & Activities to get you Gardening

by Ellen Mastoon


Wherever you have dirt - your yard, an urban balcony, or anywhere else - you can discover the pleasures of getting down and dirty. Ellen Zacho's 43 no-experience-required projects inspire you to dig in, have fun, and help things grow. Isn't it time to bring a little more green into your world?






Xtreme Music Series



The Xtreme series provides a funky and fresh teaching method for beginners through a series of easy-to-follow lessons, exercises, true stories and superstar tips. Whether it be electric guitars, drums, Djing or singing, our team of Xtremists are here to guide you, advise you and test you - and make sure you have fun along the way!


The Lonely Planet Gap Year Book

Given the choice between stressful exams or job interviews and the endless white sand of an Australian beach, what would you choose? Be the first in your family to go around the world, teach children English in Africa, tend baby jaguars in Bolivia, study film in New York.









The Power to Prevent Suicide: A Guide for Teens Helping Teens

by Richard E. Nelson, Ph.D. & Judith C. Galas

This practical book also explores the reasons why someone may want to take their own life, offers advice on the warning signs, explains when and how to seek help, and encourages teens to get their schools and local communities involved in suicide awareness and prevention. An intelligent and insightful volume, it acknowledges that teenagers do recognise when someone is deeply troubled, and care enough to reach out and help.



Write Where You Are: How to use writing to make sense of your life
by Caryn Mirriam-Goldberg, Ph.D.

As a teen, Caryn Mirriam-Goldberg found hope, insight, and strength through writing. Today as a creative writing teacher, she helps her students explore the many benefits of writing.

By putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) you can express your true feelings, understand yourself better, create and re-create yourself, dream wide and deep, know you're not alone, and feel more alive. A nd that's just for starters.

Leap onto the blank page where anything is possible!


Readymade CVs: Sample CVs for every type of job

by Lynn Williams

A good CV is an essential tool in the survival kit of every job hunter. It shows that you have the necessary qualities and qualifications that potential employers are looking for, and improves you chances of getting an interview.

This fully revised edition of Readymade CVs makes the task of preparing a CV much easier. It shows you what information to include and what to leave out, how to present your CV and how to make a great first impression. There are even more easy-to-read sample CVs for a wide variety of jobs, ready to be adapted to your individual circumstances, and advice on overcoming common CV problems; what to put on your CV if you've just left school; CVs for specific jobs; CVs for tricky situations.

This edition also includes the latest information on online CVs and electronic job-hunting as well as useful lists of action words and positive phrases to make your CV really stand out.

Saturday, May 10, 2008

Home Composting


A Home Composting demonstration will take place
in WHC Library on Wednesday the 28th May 2008 at 11.30am.

Composting is a simple and cheap way of reducing waste going to landfill. Up to 30% of waste in your bin can be composted. By getting involved with Home Composting you will be actively helping the environment.
To find out more join us on the 28th of May.

All Welcome
Admission Free
Tea & Coffee will be served.



Presented by Sinead McDonnell, Environment Awareness Officer, Limerick City Council



Library Association of Ireland AGM - WHC Library


The AGM of the Public Libraries’ Section of the Library Association of Ireland took place on the 30th April at Watch House Cross Community Library, Limerick City.

The AGM was be followed by a tour of Watch House Cross Community Library, by Patricia Cusack, Executive Librarian & Sinead Hourigan, Assistant Librarian.

Library Association Webpage - http://www.libraryassociation.ie/

Friday, May 9, 2008

WHC Library Book Club


Watch House Cross Library Bookclub, had its first official meeting on April 25th. The club which meets on a monthly basis has been organised by library staff in conjunction with the Community Coordinators who are active in St. Munchins parish.

Members have a diverse range of interests and tastes which should lead to some interesting book choices over the coming year. The first book chosen was ‘The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas’ by Irish author John Boyne, the book was thoroughly enjoyed by all but also provoked some lively debate between members.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

New Non-Fiction Titles in the Library

Marilyn Monroe: A Life in Pictures

by Verlac Editions



Icon, legend, actress, star - all these words can be used to describe Marilyn Monroe and yet they simply do not do her justice, because she was so much more. Norma Jean has inspired and created more headlines than any other movie actress - yet her marriages, affairs and life choices all distract us from the talent of this very beautiful woman. Part of the successful "Life in pictures" series, this book presents Marilyn at her very best. Following her from toddler to teen, to one of Hollywood's best-loved celebrities, we gain a unique insight into her life, loves and career. Over 160 pictures represent impressive iconographic research, including personal photos, images from national archives, private collections and press agencies - some not published before. Famous quotes on and from Monroe further reveal the thoughts of her closest friends, collaborators and admirers. This is both a unique collection and a visual reminder of why Marilyn has endured as one of our most fascinating and best-loved Hollywood stars.


Surfing the World

by Chris Nelson and Demi Taylor
Transworld Surf Magazine (USA)
"This book deserves a place on your coffee table - or better yet, in your bag as you board a plane... "
HuckMagazine (Pan Euro)
Great read...one of the most enjoyable and well put together surf books to be published in the last few years. "
Coldswell"A definitive must have for anyone serious about surfing"

Best Loved Poems

edited by John Boyes

This glorious celebration of classic poetry features verse from around the English-speaking world. Carefully selected and divided into themed sections, the poems encompass the wealth of human experience - love, death, youth, old age, nature, travel and humour are all included in works that range from the 1500s onwards.
A comprehensive range of time-honoured poetry from the British Isles, America, Canada and New Zealand, the collection embraces the famous and the not so famous, from Blake and Wordsworth to Adeler and Wyatt, ANd includes over 170 other poets.
From Coleridge's fantastical Xanadu or the battlefields of John McCrae, to the ominous croaking of Poe's raven, this is a wonderful collection of poems containing the great and the good, the funny and the tragic, and everything in between.



Cancer is a Word, Not a Sentence

by Dr. Robert Buckman

A six-step, practical guide that helps you through the first few weeks following diagnosis. Cancer is a Word, Not a Sentence is a straightforward guide to life after diagnosis. It explains what your diagnosis actually means, what the tests are about, what the future holds, how to judge the treatment options open to you, how to cope with the side effects, and the inevitable ups and downs you experience following treatment. Dr Buckman focuses on the day-to-day: how to talk to your partner, children and friends, and how to communicate with your medical team. There's even a section addressed to those close to you who 'just don't know what to say.' His informed, no-nonsense approach offers reliable and essential facts and advice for everyone dealing with a diagnosis of cancer.



Bible John's Secret Daughter: Murder, Drugs and a Mother's Secret Heartbreak
by David Leslie


There was one partner the pretty young women who danced away the 1960s in Glasgow's Barrowlands were desperate to avoid: Bible John, so named because he quoted scripture to his victims. He was being hunted for three brutal unsolved sex murders, and each of his victims had been picked up after a night at the famous dance hall. Police were still investigating the first terrifying murder when Hannah Martin was raped on her way home from the Barrowlands. When Bible John struck twice more, Hannah confided to friends that his description matched that of her own attacker.


The next shock came when Hannah discovered she was pregnant. Her distraught father banished her from the family home and forced her to give her child up for adoption. She would never see her daughter again, but in a bizarre twist three decades later, an investigation into the infamous World's End murder would result in Hannah's daughter discovering the identity of the mother she never knew. Tragically, the news came too late for them to be reunited but it set her on a course to uncover the shocking secrets of her mother's life. Did Hannah know Bible John? What did Hannah Martin reveal of her baby's father?


How did she then become a member of a multimillion-pound drug-smuggling gang? Why, after expecting a huge bounty, did she die in poverty? The answers are all here in Bible John's "Secret Daughter".



The Complete Book of Hairstyling
by Charles Worthington


This indispensable and comprehensive hair bible from celebrity hairdresser Charles Worthington is a must-have accessory that no girl should be without.


Charles Worthington is one of today's most influential and creative hairdressers. He has twice won the title of British Hairdresser of the Year, as well as numerous other awards, and owns five world-class London salons and a super-salon in New York. Charles's award-winning product ranges are sold worldwide. His work is featured in Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire, and he makes regular television appearances on ITVs This Morning.

Make Up
by Marie Claire

192 pages of beauty lessons, ranging from the most basic to the most sophisticated, that will teach you to make yourself up like a pro and make the most of what you've already got!
Celebrity make up artists share their secrets with you...
Oliver Echaudemaison (Guerlain)
James Kaliardos (L'Oreal Paris)
Bobbi Brown (Bobbi Brown)
Giorgio Armani (Georgio Armani Cosmetics)
Terry (by Terry)



Dr. Montessori's Own Handbook: A Short Guide to her Ideas and Materials
by Maria Montessori

This is the book that Maria Montessori wrote in response to requests from thousands of parents and teachers. A short, illustrated guide to the use of the Montessori classroom materials, it shows how to set up a 'children's house' - an environment for learning where children can be their own masters, free to learn at their own pace.
Frames for lacing and buttoning, geometrical wooden insets, sound cylinders, sandpaper letters, coloured numerical rods: these are familiar features of any Montessori classroom, whether in the pioneering days or today. Dr. Montessori explains how to use these materials with preschool children to stimulate their powers of observation, recognition, judgement and classification.
These self-correcting learning tools are the original 'teaching models' for young children. Inherently logical and aesthetically pleasing, they were designed to hone the child's visual, auditory, and tactile perceptions. Dr. Montessori stresses that each child approaches the apparatus differently. The role of the adult, whether teacher or parent, is to let the child experiment, perceive his own mistakes, and run his own risks in learning.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Cross - Crib - Eucharist Exhibition at WHC Library






Franciscan Friars of the Renewal present
the Cross - Crib - Eucharist exhibition at WHC Library.
The exhibition was launched on Thursday, 24th April at 6:30pm.
The exhibition runs from 24th April to the 17th May 2008.

For more info contact Bro. Martin at 061-458071.