As the end of the year approaches, our staff at Kensington Park Library have been discussing what favorite books we have read as well as what movies and TV shows we watched in 2018. There are a lot of "Best Of 2018" lists around this time of year, but we didn't limit our list to what came out this year. Our list just had to be what we read or watched this year. Here's some of our favorites!
Loving Vincent. (Movie). This 2018 Oscar nominated film is the first fully painted feature film. It tells the story of the mysterious and tragic death of the world's most famous artist, Vincent van Gogh. The most fabulous part is that the art work in the film reflects van Gogh's painting style and that art work is superb. This movie is part of our newest movie streaming service, Kanopy. If you haven't tried it, don't wait! You can get 10 free movies each month. If you are traveling this month, be sure to take your library card with you. Or enjoy a movie at home.
Feminist Baby by Loryn Brantz.(Board Book). Feminist Baby likes pink and blue, playing with cars and dolls, and the choice to become whatever she dreams. Any child will love this story in rhyme!
Everybunny Dance by Ellie Sandal (Picture Book). I just shared this story at our last Wednesday toddler and preschool storytime, and it was a hit! Kids can dance and sing along to this delightful tale of friendship and inclusion.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle. (Children's Fiction). Meg Murry and her friends become involved with unearthly strangers and a search for Meg's father, who has disappeared while engaged in secret work for the government. Everyone who came out for Kensington Park's afternoon movie of A Wrinkle in Time really enjoyed it and I recommend the movie too! If you've read the first book and enjoyed it, don't forget that it's a series and that we also have it in graphic novel format.
Star Wars Maker Lab by Liz Lee Heinecke.(Children's Nonfiction). Looking for something to keep the kids learning and have fun during winter break? Try some science experiments and maker projects at home! This new Star Wars book has exciting projects to make, like Kyber crystals and Jabba slime!
Out From Boneville by Jeff Smith. (Teen Graphic Novel). I read the first book in this series and I can't wait to read more! I can see why this adventure story with memorable characters trying to combat evil is such a hit with customers.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. (Adult Fiction). Three of us listened to this beautifully narrated story about a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide in occupied France as both try to survive the devastation of World War II.
The Oregon Trail by Rinker Buck. (Adult Nonfiction). My colleague is recommending this to everyone and I can't wait to listen to it too! It's the true story of Rinker and his brother Nick traveling the Oregon Trail in 2011, the first men in 102 years to accomplish the journey. This book reminds me of another favorite travel author of mine, Bill Bryson.
We're always happy to recommend books when you visit the branch. Be sure to tell us about your favorites. Don't forget that we have a wonderful array of e-books and audiobooks you can enjoy free with your library card. We also have a wonderful online service called What Do I Check Out Next which can connect you to our reading experts who'll be happy to give you personalized suggestions.
We've also got some exciting, special programs coming up at the end of the year and the beginning of next year!
With winter fast approaching, you might want to stop by our Creative Knitters Guild events. No experience? No problem! This guild is open to all including those with no experience, beginners and advanced level knitters. Bring your own supplies.
All ages can join us for a viewing of the movie Wonder. It's the incredibly inspiring and heartwarming story of August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who enters fifth grade, attending a mainstream elementary school for the first time. It's rated PG. Bring your own snack.
Excited about the MCPL's 3rd MoComCon comic convention on January 19, 2019 at the Silver Spring Library? If you are interested in entering the art contest, you can drop your entries off at any MCPL branch through Monday, December 31, by 5:00 PM. In anticipation of the main event, we are having a DIY - Create Your Own Superhero event here at Kensington Park for elementary school age kids on Thursday, January 3 from 4:30-5:30 PM. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Kensington Park chapter.
If your child needs homework help, remember we have in person Homework Help events for grades K-5 as well as wonderful online resources for kids and teens.
We look forward to seeing you at Kensington Park! Happy reading, watching, and learning!
Labels: Arts and Crafts, books, craft, Kensington Park, programs and events
