Archive | June, 2022

A Confidence Building Picture Book: Zuri Ray Tries Ballet 

29 Jun

In Zuri Ray Tries Ballet by Tami Charles and illustrated by Sharon Sordo, Zuri is an adventurous kid that is always willing to try new extraordinary things, but not ordinary things. She loves trying these new adventures with her BFFD (best friend from diapers) Jessie Colon. Jessie decides that they should try ballet camp and Zuri is especially nervous to take this adventure on. When the girls are in ballet class the instructor tries to teach the girls the five basic steps of ballet but Zuri just can not catch on as quickly as Jessie. Zuri wants to quit until her dad and the instructor encourage her to be herself. The instructor tells Zuri, “ You don’t have to move or look like everyone else to be a dancer.” This really boosts Zuri’s self esteem and gave her confidence on returning back to class. This Juvenile Picture book is perfect for teaching young children to be confident in who they are and in anything they pursue.  This book is now in the New Juvenile Picture Book section at the Grand Street branch and other BCCLS locations. 

Written By:
Vanetta Rivera
Library Assistant 
Grand Street Branch 

Tags: , , ,

A Highly Recommended Terrifying Read: The Devil’s Whispers

22 Jun

Haunted castles conjure an image of long, dark hallways, pillowing curtains, and shadowy figures from the corner of your eye. They are the perfect setting for any gothic novel and even better if one is seeking a little horror as well.

This is what The Devil’s Whispers by Lucas Hault sets up for us. We are introduced to British Lawyer, Gerard Woodward, who is summoned to the dreary castle to attend to the last affairs of the castle’s lord, Ferdinand Elvin Mathers. 

The narrative is provided to us in multiple perspectives, Gerard’s journal, Nathan Connolly’s notes, letters, and diary entries from different characters. They help to set the tone of the book and allow us to see the perspective of each of the characters. It’s one that’s not often used, but one that adds an interesting twist. The one drawback to this, however, is that some of the sections are broken up a bit too short and as a result, some readers may feel pulled out by reading a diary entry that’s only a few sentences long.

Then there’s the tone of the book itself, from the start we are shown first hand the type of story we are in for, the creep factor slowly building up and with a tension that carries itself well through the story, the ghosts and ghouls as terrifying as they are meant to be.

For those seeking a terrifying read, The Devil’s Whispers is one that comes highly recommended. Hoboken residents can borrow an ereader or iPad with The Devil’s Whispers ebook along with titles for our book discussions and many popular bestsellers. The ereaders are great when you are travelling, but still want to bring along a HUGE selection of reading materials. Just stop by the reference desk on the second floor of the main branch to check one out or learn more.

Written by:
Lauren Lapinski
Access Services Assistant

← Older Entries