Library News

Books, books and more books – yes they are the basic building blocks of the library. Recently, however, I have ordered some that are very different. Books which are pushing the boundaries out and creating interest.
A children’s book called ‘Wonderstruck’ is quite a different read. It is a dual story, one told in black and white beautifully drawn pictures and the other in words. Each intertwine throughout and join very satisfactorily at the end. A real bonus is that this book is 2 inches thick but only takes half an hour to read – what an impression that makes when you tell someone! Worth taking out for that alone!
Another fascinating read are the two crime books by Richard Castle which we have just received, following the exploits of homicide detective Nikki Heat. For those who follow the TV series ‘Castle’, these will come as a bit of a ‘Wow’ but for those who don’t they are still a good read, with a bit of sauciness on the side.
‘Miss Peregrine’s home for peculiar children’ is also pushing boundaries. A fiction story, it utilises old black and white photos to depict the characters described, giving a reality check as you progress through the book.
Another book that is a bit wacky and different is ‘Odd bits’ which is a comprehensive guide to cooking the more under-utilised pieces of a beast such as brains, organs and other unmentionables. Although being a vegetarian, the book left me a bit cold,’ using up bits’ and recycling is a subject very close to my heart.

Revamping old or unwanted books into lampshades, shelves and decorative items is the subject of another new purchase which has really inspired me to creative activities, when I can create some time to do them.

Boundaries are also being extended as the Graphic Novel section is enlarged, not only in the kids section but in the adult as well. Although not to everyone’s taste, graphic novels are a great way to get some non-readers opening up books and can also help improve literacy. For those not enamoured of graphic novels, you will be pleased to know that Martinborough Library is still regarded as the literary fiction centre out of all four libraries in the WLS.

The magazine area is also undergoing a change as we trial different varieties, such as NZ Hunting, Verandah, The Shed and Crème.

Last but not least, for the little ones, we have a new Christmas picture book with the Wonky Donkey man singing ‘All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth’ and it is as good as it sounds! Alongside that is another singing picture book, this time the Topp Twins sing ‘There’s a hole in my bucket’ – yes, the one with Dear Liza, dear Liza (for us oldies who remember the original!).

All in all, the sheer variety of wild, wacky and ‘out there’ books currently in the library is really exciting. Come and see and please don’t be afraid to ask for anything we don’t have. We can only say no but more than likely we will say YES!
Shirley Nightingale