Recreation

Children’s New Titles August 2011 (arrived in July)

Audio Visual

Green Lantern. Emerald knights [videorecording (DVD)],
With stories by acclaimed writers including Geoff Johns, Alan Burnett and Dave Gibbons, this DC Universe Animated Original Movie explores the rich mythology of the Green Lantern universe through six interlocking chapters. While awaiting a battle with Krona, an ancient enemy of the Guardians of the Universe, Earth's Green Lantern Hal Jordan, Kilowog, Sinestro and other members of the Green Lantern Corps recount their greatest adventures to new recruit Arisia - everything from tales of the first Lantern to the ominous events that led to the Corps' Blackest Night! The power-packed voice cast includes Nathan Fillion, Jason Isaacs, Elisabeth Moss, Henry Rollins and Arnold Vosloo.
Megamind [videorecording (DVD)], directed by Tom McGrath.
Over the years, Megamind has tried to conquer Metro City in every imaginable way. Each attempt is a colossal failure thanks to the caped superhero known as 'Metro Man,' until the day Megamind actually defeats him in the throes of one of his botched evil plans. Suddenly, the fate of Metro City is threatened when a new villain arrives and chaos runs rampant, leaving everyone to wonder if the world's biggest 'mind' can actually be the one to save the day?
Tangled [videorecording (DVD)], directed by Nathan Greno, Byron Howard.
When the kingdom's most wanted--and most charming--bandit Flynn Rider hides in a mysterious tower, the last thing he expects to find is Rapunzel, a spirited teen with an unlikely superpower--70 feet of magical golden hair! Together, the unlikely duo set off on a fantastic journey filled with surprising heroes, laughter and suspense.
Yogi Bear [videorecording (DVD)], directed by Eric Brevig.
"Everyone's favourite pic-a-nic basket-stealing bear brings his meal-mooching ways to movies in this live-action/CG-animated adventure. Jellystone has been losing business, so conniving Mayor Brown has decided to shut it down and sell the land. Faced with the loss of his home, Yogi must prove he really is "smarter than the average bear" as he and Boo Boo join forces with Ranger Smith to find a way to save the park from closing forever"--Container insert.
Watership down [videorecording (DVD)] /cwritten for the screen, produced and directed by Martin Rosen.,
A small band of rabbits escapes the threatened collapse of their community only to find the same dangers (predatory men and beasts, and a totalitarian state imposed by their own species) in their new domain. Animated.
Alice in Wonderland [videorecording (DVD)], Walt Disney Productions.
Harriet the spy, directed by Bronwen Hughes.
Eleven-year-old Harriet keeps notes on her classmates and neighbours in a secret notebook, but when some of the students read the notebook, they seek revenge.
Harriet the spy [videorecording (DVD)], directe by Bronwen Hughes.
Harriet is probably the most accomplished 11-year-old spy. She dreams of being a writer and her nanny told her to start by writing down everything she sees. It's all in good fun, that is until her friends find her private writings. Now they don't like Harriet much. Can Harriet win back her friends or is she doomed to be considered an outsider, a rejected writer and forgotten spy?
Big birthday! [sound recording].,
Dorothy the dinosaur's travelling show! [sound recording].,
Sharing stories. 2 [videorecording (DVD)], Hi-5.
Ukulele baby! [sound recording].,
Ultimate 100 activity songs [sound recording].,
Ultimate 100 Activity Songs is a 2CD set featuring all time favourite activity songs that encourage children to dance and move while they
Yo gabba gabba! Gabbaland band [videorecording (DVD)],
Sing and dance with the Gabba gang as they start their very own band! After practicing hard, the band is good enough to perform their very first song. In other episodes, everyone creates a piece of art for the Gabbaland art show, experiences different weather conditions, and learns that it's ok to be different.
Allsorts [sound recording], Kath Bee.
Rockabye baby! Lullaby renditions of Elvis Presley [sound recording].,
Chuggington. Rattling rivets [videorecording (DVD)],
Running on time passengers to take hauling loads and pickups to make! As trainees Wilson Koko and Brewster are learning it's a busy life for a chugger but there's always time for some adventures and lots of fun. Choo! Choo! In these six traintastic episodes Harrison's snoring keeps the engines awake; the chuggers play a game of hide and seek and Koko finds a lost puppy. Meanwhile the trainees try to save Puffer Pete from the scrap yard almost ruin Olwin's big photo shoot and actually meet Action Engine when the movie hero steps out from the big screen!
Dora the explorer. Super babies' dream adventure [videorecording (DVD)].,
Frosty friends [videorecording (DVD)].,
Bundle up with your favourite preschool pals in these fun-filled wintertime tales. Join Barney, Bob the Builder, Pingu, Thomas & Friends, and Kipper as they enjoy playful adventures in the snow. Learn the true meaning of Christmas with your best friend, Barney, build a snowman with Bob, go sledding with Kipper, whistle down the tracks with Thomas, and laugh along as Pingu plays hilarious tricks on his friends.
Go Diego go! Diego's Arctic rescue [videorecording (DVD)].,
Diego embarks on the journey of a lifetime to save the baby polar bears! Includes two more action-packed journeys.
In the night garden. Best friends [videorecording (DVD)].,
In The Night Garden, a magical pre-school series, takes children on an imaginative journey to meet a host of wonderfully silly characters living together within a happy and caring community.
LazyTown. Sportacus saves the toys [videorecording (DVD)].,
Milly, Molly. Adventures [videorecording (DVD)].,
Follow the adventures of our two beloved heroines and their friends in a small country town. Each episode has a subtle message about values like honesty, persistence and responsibility. Together, Milly and Molly always have fun as they face the world and its complexities.
Milly, Molly. Helping hands [videorecording (DVD)].,
Follow the adventures of our two beloved heroines and their friends in a small country town. Each episode has a subtle message about values like honesty, persistence and responsibility. Together, Milly and Molly always have fun as they face the world and its complexities.
Numberjacks. Brain gain! [videorecording (DVD)],
"Numberjacks, the super hero numbers, return in these 6 exciting stories solving problems with the help of real children as agents. With lots of adventure, comedy and learning, these fun stories will help children get off to a great start with their maths skills"--Container insert.
Pingu. Pingu the babysitter [videorecording (DVD)].,
Mother and her friend are going out; leaving Pingu the task of babysitting the children. When Mother leaves, the twins are lying peacefully in bed, but as soon as she's gone they begin wreaking havoc around the house. How will Pingu get them back to sleep?
Roary the racing car. Musical mayhem [videorecording (DVD)],
"Join Roary, a bright red, cheeky and energetic single seater, his new Aussie racing mate, Conrod, and their amazing car friends at Silver Hatch Racetrack!"--Container insert.
Roary the racing car. Stars 'n' cars [videorecording (DVD)],
"Join Roary, a bright red, cheeky and energetic single seater, his new Aussie racing mate, Conrod, and their amazing car friends at Silver Hatch Racetrack!"--Container insert.
The Cat in the Hat knows a lot about that! Wings and things [videorecording (DVD)].,
Why do birds migrate? Why do some animals sleep during the day and wake up at night? And where does honey come from? Those are just a few of Sally and Nick's questions about nature. Luckily, The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! As he takes his young friends exploring all around the world, The Cat in the Hat helps teach about bees, birds, and other critters. From the beach to the skies, The Cat in the Hat shows how it's perfectly natural to explore the world. Just as Dr. Seuss helped generations of children to read, The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That DVDs allow young ones to explore nature and science!
The WotWots. Sneak-a-peek chameleon [videorecording (DVD)].,
The WotWots are two fluffy adventurers who have landed in a local zoo and want to learn all they can about the animals who live there. In these eight episodes, the WotWots learn some new dance moves from animals at the zoo. DottyWot finds many animals that have red fur or feathers, and even some that are pink like her. SpottyWot finds a mysterious trail of slime and thinks it must be caused by an animal with a giant tongue.
Timmy time. Timmy's birthday [videorecording (DVD)].,
It's Timmy's birthday and his friends make him a delicious cake. But as the party games begin, Timmy can't resist sneaking away to taste a bit of the tempting cake, then a bit more, and a bit more - what will Harriet say when she finds the cake is just a pile of crumbs? Join in the fun with 8 fun packed episodes.
Waybuloo. Piplings love to care [videorecording (DVD)].,
Waybuloo is about making children happy. Waybuloo shows preschoolers natural and spontaneous routes to happiness through warmth, friendship, co-operation and citizenship - helping children to understand their feelings in a way that no other preschool show has done before. Waybuloo Parenting Tip: Lessons in Caring. Watching Waybuloo has much more than just entertainment value for your child. It also encourages children to become more confident and sociable, as well as good learners. In this selection of episodes, the Piplings and Cheebies show care and concern for others, as well as exploring the consequences of words and actions upon others.
William & Sparkles' magical tales. Volume 1, Magical visitors [videorecording (DVD)],
William & Sparkles Magical Tales is an exciting new live-action childrens series that begins when a magical shooting star lands in an enchanted forest. On board are two captivating characters - Sparkles the Fairy and William the Wizard. The pair is set to delight pre-school children everywhere. Magical Tales is an engaging new series specifically designed in consultation with pre-primary school educators to captivate and entertain the minds of pre-school children through the use of narrative story telling, colour, movement, music, delightful costumes and playful characters that combine to heighten the sensory experience for children. In each episode the audience is invited into the enchanted world of Magical Tales with Sparkles the Fairy and William the Wizard who use their magical talents to solve problems, help their visiting friends and sometimes create mischief.
William & Sparkles' magical tales. Volume 2, Awesome adventures [videorecording (DVD)],
"Zap-a-roo! A travelling star has landed in the enchanted forest, bringing Sparkles the Fairy, William the Wizard and Nooshy & Pozo to a magical land where fantasy adventures come to life. Spa-ling! With a wave of a wand discover the captivating world of "Magical Tales" and join Sparkles and William as they laugh, sing, dance and explore!--Container insert.
William & Sparkles' magical tales. Volume 3, William is a winner [videorecording (DVD)],
William & Sparkles Magical Tales is an exciting new live-action childrens series that begins when a magical shooting star lands in an enchanted forest. On board are two captivating characters - Sparkles the Fairy and William the Wizard. The pair is set to delight pre-school children everywhere. Magical Tales is an engaging new series specifically designed in consultation with pre-primary school educators to captivate and entertain the minds of pre-school children through the use of narrative story telling, colour, movement, music, delightful costumes and playful characters that combine to heighten the sensory experience for children. In each episode the audience is invited into the enchanted world of Magical Tales with Sparkles the Fairy and William the Wizard who use their magical talents to solve problems, help their visiting friends and sometimes create mischief.
Zip and Mac [videorecording (DVD)] : early numeracy series. Volume 3.,
Introduces preschoolers to basic numeracy skills using humour, songs and rhymes. Zip and Mac introduce basic concepts such as measuring, sharing, shapes, height and matching.
Thomas & friends. Series eleven [videorecording (DVD)].,
Adventures of Spot. Series 1 [videorecording (DVD)].,
Whatever he does, Spot's friendly face and jolly personality reassure children that gaining new skills is great fun. Spot enjoys the everyday activities of a young child, playing with his friends, visiting his Grandma and Grandpa and helping his parents.
Angelina ballerina. Super Polly [videorecording (DVD)].,
Angelina Ballerina is the remarkable little mouse who dreams of becoming a prima ballerina. With her friends and family by her side, Angelina follows her dream; learning important life lessons along the way.
Ghost dogs [sound recording], S.P. Gates.
When expert tracker Ellis is sent to investigate stories of greyhound poisoning, he is shocked to come face-to-face with a strange feral boy, and a pack of what seem to be ghostly dogs. Returning to the forest with his animal-mind-reading partner Meriel, he is plunged into danger by the wild boy's lethal supernatural powers, which can freeze a man to death. Ellis's only chance of rescue is Meriel, but she is caught up in reliving her own secret past as a feral child.
I was Jane Austen's best friend [sound recording], Cora Harrison.
In a series of journal entries, Jenny Cooper describes her stay with cousin Jane Austen in the 1790s, and her entrance into Jane's world of beautiful dresses, dances, secrets, gossip, and romance.
The hairy hands [sound recording], Gene Kemp.
When dad decides on a holiday on Dartmoor to unite Tom and Jessica with his future stepfamily, Jessica becomes interested in the wild moor and the strange things which have happened there. The story of the hairy hands especially fascinates her.
Charlie Bone and the hidden king [sound recording], Jenny Nimmo.
Charlie Bone wakes one morning to find the city covered with snow and all the animals gone. Where have they gone? Could the discovery of an ancient mirror, and the movement of the shadow in the Red King's portrait have something to do with it?
The incredible luck of Alfie Pluck [sound recording], Jamie Rix.
Alfie Pluck is the unluckiest boy alive - that's until he eats the chicken containing the highly-sought-after luck gene. Now, no end of people want him for their own devious deeds and crackpot schemes. And Alfie is on the run. Alfie's escape from his pursuers is an hilarious rollercoaster of good fortune and bad, but that's just Alfie Pluck's incredible luck.
The twilight circus [sound recording], Di Toft.
After a summer spent dodging mutant werewolves and mad scientists, Nat Carver and shapeshifter Woody join the Twilight Circus of Illusion and are caught up in a struggle against a black widow vampire and her terrifying hive.
Past eight o'clock [sound recording], Joan Aiken.
All these delightful stories are concerned with sleeping and waking, dreams and nighttime, and around each tale is woven the theme of a familiar lullaby or bedtime song. There are also many memorable characters--helpful crows, a malicious kelpie, Gladiolus the invisible cat and a girl who dreams of her future brother.
Super Soccer Boy & the snot monsters [sound recording], Judy Brown.
Everybody in Middletown seems to have a terrible cold. Professor Mucus is collecting all the snot in big tankers, and claims to be using it for his research into a cure, but Harry Gribble, also known as Super Soccer Boy, is very suspicious. With the help of his special powers, Harry discovers that Professor Mucus is actually responsible for spreading the cold. Worse than that, he has found a way to bring the snot to life in the form of large sticky monsters, able to suffocate their victims, and plans to use these snot monsters to take over the world! It's up to Super Soccer Boy to come up with a way to stop this disaster!
Magic ballerina [sound recording] : six Rosa stories, Darcey Bussell.
Return to the magical world of Enchantia in the captivating second series of Magic Ballerina! Delphie has handed over the Magic Ballet Shoes to Rosa. Rosa knows that her new red ballet shoes are special, but she discovers that they are magical when she is whirled into Enchantia, a world peopled with ballet characters!
The hatching horror [sound recording], Steve Cole.
Astrosaurs are dinosaurs who travel into space, fighting evil. Teggs is their leader, and in this episode he takes some dinosaurs to a new planet ; they are pursued by egg-eating oviraptors.
Prison break [sound recording], Andrew Cope.
Spud is scatty and accident-prone, but good with gadgets. Star is super-smart, and ready to pounce. Together they're Spy Pups, following hot in the paw prints of mum Lara (that's Licensed Assault and Rescue Animal to you). Spud and Star are on a daredevil rescue mission to save Lara from the evil Mr. Big! He's been in prison plotting his revenge and unless the pups can outwit him, Lara is in deadly danger...
The trolls of Sugar Loaf Wood [sound recording], Garth Edwards.
Pursuing rainbows, saving frightened little trees from witches are all in a day's work for Titch and Mitch, but this time it's Mitch that needs saving. The Trolls of Sugar Loaf Wood have taken Mitch prisoner.
Aunt Severe and the dragons [sound recording], Nick Garlick.
Forced to live with eccentric Aunt Severe when his explorer parents vanish, Daniel's problems only increase when he finds four dragons hiding in a tree in her back garden. Before he can help the lost dragons, three of them get captured by the unscrupulous Gotcha Grabber and thrown into his private zoo. Daniel sets out rescue them, but things get complicated.
Wild Robert [sound recording], Diana Wynne Jones.
Wild Robert is a gentle, charming ghost, who is half a magician (on his mother's side). At Heather's summons, he returns after 350 years and is horrified by the antics at his once home, Castlemaine House.
Vlad the drac [sound recording], Ann Jungman.
When Paul and Judy accompany their parents on a sight-seeing holiday in Romania, they are bored stiff until they find a baby vampire under a stone. Is he the last of his kind? They smuggle him into England, disguised as a souvenir, but no sooner have they reached their home than the trouble starts.
Madame Pamplemousse and the enchanted sweet shop [sound recording], Rupert Kingfisher.
It's winter in Paris and Madeleine is having problems at school. A new girl, Mirabelle, is bullying her. Madeleine is too ashamed to ask for help from her friends, Madame Pamplemousse and Camembert, but she's befriended by a woman called Madame Bonbon, who runs an alluring-looking sweet shop. The sweets Madame Bonbon gives Madeleine have the most bewitching effect, at first making her feel much stronger and able to confront Mirabelle. But soon they start drawing her into a strange, enchanted world from which she finds she cannot escape. For Madame Bonbon is really someone else in disguise - an old enemy from Madame Pamplemousse's past, who has come to Paris seeking her revenge.
Arrrrgh! Slimosaur! [sound recording], Alan MacDonald.
Iggy is excited as he sets off with Dad on his first hunting trip. More so when they find a set of footprints too large even for a mammoth. Alongside are a heap of bones and a pool of slime the colour of egg white. Iggy wants to hunt the creature, but Dad is suddenly anxious to get back.
Barnyard hullabaloo [sound recording], Francesca Simon.
Wizard in Wonderland [sound recording], Jean Ure.
When Joel and Gemma receive a note from Junior Wizard Ben-Muzzy the three friends set off on a magical trip. They travel to Wonderland but Ben-Muzzy's spells are as bad as his spelling so trouble is never far away.
A home for Rascal & New tricks for Rascal [sound recording], Holly Webb.
When Ellie names her puppy Rascal she doesn't realise how right she is! The naughty little puppy is soon getting himself and Ellie into all sorts of mischief.
Kitten smitten [sound recording], Anna Wilson.
Bertie Fletcher is happier than a cat who's got the custard when she gets Jaffa, her very own beautiful marmalade kitten. Even Dad seems to have come to terms with the whole pet-owning thing. But then the Meerley family arrive on the scene.

Into Reading

Should I share my ice cream?, Mo Willems.
Gerald the elephant has a big decision to make, but will he make it in time?

Non-Fiction

Sometimes I'm scared, Jane Annunziata and Marc Nemiroff ; illustrated by Bryan Langdo.
Presents some of the common objects and situations that cause fear in children and provides advice on different things that they can do themselves to overcome their feelings of being afraid.
Good-bye bully machine, written by Debbie Fox and Allan L. Beane ; illustrated by Debbie Fox.
Kids learn what bullying is, why it hurts, and what they can do to end it with this fresh, compelling book including contemporary collage art, lively layout, and straightforward text.
Our children Aotearoa = o tatou tamariki, Sue Copsey ; [foreword by Helen Clark].
Seventeen New Zealand children from diverse cultural backgrounds share their lives. Includes a short guide for children to put their own personal profile together. Suggested level: primary.
Trains, written by Philip Steele ; consultant Michael R. Bailey ; [illustrations, Sebastian Quigley, Nicholas Forder].
Uncover the romance of train travel in this eye-catching, hands-on exploration of the Iron Horse. Amazing die-cuts, sliders, and see-through panels bring the details to life as readers see inside some of the world's most iconic trains.
The great race, Kevin O'Malley.
Retells the traditional tale of the tortoise and the hare as a match between the very vain Lever Lapin and Nate Turtle, who is tired of all of the publicity Lever's speed generates.
The really groovy story of the Tortoise and the Hare, Kristyn Crow ; illustrated by Christina Forshay.
Palauan alphabet, Lori Phillips.
Illustrations and text introduces the Palauan alphabet with some basic vocabulary.
All about New Zealand's freshwater wildlife, Dave Gunson.
Introduces a variety of plants and animals that are commonly found in New Zealand's freshwater streams and rivers. Describes characteristics and where each species can be found. Suggested level: junior, primary, intermediate.
Kangaroo and crocodile : my big book of Australian animals, Bronwyn Bancroft.
Following the success of Possum and Wattle, Bronwyn Bancroft has created a companion volume, Kangaroo and Crocodile, a book of Australian animals and landscapes - from eagles to echidnas, geckos to crocodies, from desert animals to creatures of the coral reef.
Tick tock tick tock what's up croc?, Kim Michelle Toft.
Spiky, slimy, smooth : what is texture?, Jane Brocket.
Introduces the concept of texture and how it can be determined through touch, and identifies objects with different types of textures, including fluffy slippers, sticky jam, and spiky cacti.
What Maui learnt about asthma, ko Waka Cookson te kaituhituhi ; illustrations by Daniel Ririnui.
Warrior Maui realises he doesn't feel very well, so he calls upon his Matua Tupuna to help him discover why he is breathless, tired and grumpy. Provides factual information about asthma and how to manage it.
Doggie duties, David and Patricia Armentrout.
Offers advice for those who have dogs as pets on how dogs are pack animals, and discusses veterinary care, cleaning up after a dog, feeding, play, visiting a dog park, bathing a dog, and caring for a puppy.
Kitty care, David and Patricia Armentrout.
Raising rabbits, David and Patricia Armentrout.
The facts on rats, David and Patricia Armentrout.
What's inside? : fascinating structures around the world, Giles Laroche.
Presents a guide to such structures as skyscrapers, stone barns, limestone tombs, and grand castles, discussing how they were built, what they are used for, and profiles of the people who work and live within their walls.
Star Wars character encyclopedia, written by Simon Beecroft.
The What Now big book of fun : comedy, Camilla, gunge and more from the What Now team, [produced by Stephen Barnett].
This big book of fun includes favourite things from the popular television show. Full of photos, comic skits, jokes, games, presenter profiles, things to make and do and sneak peeks behind-the-scenes, this is a book that will make fascinating and fun reading.
I spy spectacular : a book of picture riddles, photographs by Walter Wick ; riddles by Jean Marzollo.
Celebrates the twentieth anniversary of the I Spy series with classic picture riddles and information on the series' history.
1001 things to spot on holiday, Hazel Maskell ; illustrated by Teri Gower ; additional design by Nelupa Hussain ; edited by Anna Milbourne.
All Blacks rugby guide.,
"How did the All Blacks get their name? What are the essential tools an All Black needs? Learn the answers to these questions and more inside this bumper Rugby Guide. Includes simple lessons on technique from your favourite players, and a glossary of rugby terms - so you too can be an expert"--Publisher description.
501 great kiwi jokes, [illustrations by Donovan Bixley].
I am the book : poems, selected by Lee Bennett Hopkins ; illustrated by Yayo.
A book is a wonderful, magical treat. The thirteen poems in this collection encourage young readers to snuggle up with a story and stretch their imaginations, to splash in a sea of tales by day and swashbuckle through chapters late at night. Playful illustrations by Yayo compliment thought-provoking poems by Jane Yolen, Rebecca Kai Dotlich, Naomi Shihab Nye, and others.
Te Puka o te Ra Akaipoppoanga, e tua Kuki Airani no Nu Tireni na Margaret Smith ; tutu na Jennifer Lautusi ; uriia e Ani Maea.
Story presenting the wedding day of a Cook islands Maori bride and groom. Suggested level: junior, primary.
Pili ma siepi = Pili and shapes, [text, Bessie Spencer ; illustrator, M. T. von Reiche].
Illustrations and text introduces various shapes. Suggested level: junior.
O le aso toonai tele : o se tala Samoa mai Niu Sila, na tusia e Sheralynn Tonuu ; o ata na tusia e Ali Teo ; faaliliuina e Eti Alesana Fuimaono McCarthy.
This story gives a picture of a family Saturday morning. Farani is excited because today he is going to take part in his first rugby game. Suggested level: primary, intermediate.
Ko e matai koloa a Mele : ko ha talanoa faka-Tonga mei Nuu Sila, fau e Melenaite Malaeofoou ; ta fakatata e Denise Durkin ; liliu e Atunaisa Vaka.
Mele has just lost her grandmother. Mele misses her very much and often thinks about the special times they spent together. One day, Mele is surprised when she discovers her grandmother's favourite locket in an unexpected place. Suggested level: primary, intermediate.
Ko e ongo tokoua : ko ha talanoa Otu Motu Kuki mei Nuu Sila, fau e Maria Samuela ; taa fakataataa e Andrew Burdan ; liliu e Christine Nurminen.
Story about two young girls, who are meeting each other for the first time (at a concert) although their mothers are sisters. There is a lot of fun and laughter, which brings the cousins closer together. Suggested level: primary, intermediate.
Newton and his falling apple, written by Kjartan Poskitt ; illustrated by Philip Reeve.
Nice day for a war, Chris Slane and Matt Elliott.
A young soldier from rural New Zealand lies about his age and heads off to fight in World War One. At first he and his mates are full of excitement, but then they encounter the horrors of the Western front. Based on the written recollections of Matt Elliotts's grandfather, Cyril Elliott. Partly in graphic format. Suggested level: secondary.
A walk in London, Salvatore Rubbino.

Older Fiction

The empire of gut and bone, M. T. Anderson.
Bent on tracking down the elven Norumbegans in order to save Vermont from an invasion of dream-sucking Thusser, Brian, Gregory and the mechanical troll Kalgrash pass through an interdimensional curtain--to find themselves inside an organic alien body.
The relic hunters, Derek Benz & J.S. Lewis.
Tragedy divides the Grey Griffins, but their united quest to capture Von Strife continues, pitting them against killer clockworks, spider-like beasts, and an army of animated dead as they work together to prevent the building of The Paragon Engine.
The wolf in the wardrobe, Susan Brocker.
When Finn encounters a huge, injured wolf at the scene of a car accident, he knows instinctively he must save her. The wolf, Lupa, has escaped from a cruel circus, and now Finn must figure out how to feed her and hide her from the sinister circus clown who will stop at nothing to get Lupa back. Suggested level: primary, intermediate.
Jade and the hunters, Amy Brown.
At the time, offering to take home the worst behaved pony at the Showjumping Champs seemed like a brave decision. Now, back in Mr White's paddock, too nervous to even mount her five-year-old monster, Taniwha, Jade is feeling stupid. Two years older than Jade, and home from boarding school, Zoe Death couldn't be much more intimidating. But maybe she's right? Persuaded by her friends Becca and Laura, Jade spends the winter holidays on the Deaths' sheep station. Is this the perfect opportunity for Jade to recover her confidence and bond with Taniwha, or a dangerous mistake? The third book in the Pony Tales series, about Jade and her riding adventures.
Nightstorm and the Grand Slam, Stacy Gregg.
It's the final Pony Club secrets adventure for Issie and Storm (book 12) -- can they become the youngest team to win the triple Grand Slam ever? Don't miss the explosive finale to the UK's bestselling pony series. Issie exceeded her wildest riding dreams winning at the Lexington Kentucky four-star trials, but could there be even bigger prizes on the horizon? Her foal, Nightstorm, has grown up to be an incredible sporthorse -- powerful, fast and eager to win, so it's time to put their riding skills to the ultimate test and see if they can complete the hat-trick and win at Badminton and Burghley too!
True (--sort of), Katherine Hannigan.
For most of her eleven years, Delly has been in trouble without knowing why, until her little brother, R.B., and a strange, silent new friend, Ferris, help her find a way to be good--and happy--again.
Junonia, Kevin Henkes.
The week of her tenth birthday, Alice and her parents go to Sanibel Island, Florida, just as they do every year, but this time some of the people who are always there are missing and some new people have come, which unsettles Alice, who wants things to be exactly the same as they alway are.
Wings, Raymond Huber.
For the record : or how we saved Port Bren with cake and other household goods, Ellie Irving.
Luke is a gifted but awkward ten-year-old who is obsessed with world records, and is nervous about starting senior school a year early as 'the swot with the dead dad'. When Luke's tiny, unique Jersey village is in danger of being bulldozed to the ground to make way for a waste incinerator plant, the only way to stop it is by putting the village on the map: by breaking 50 world records in a week. With the help of geeky adjudicator Simon and a colourful cast of oddball village characters, this is Luke's chance to shine, to solve his mum's relationship problems, and to face his biggest fears - with bizarre, extraordinary consequences.
Small as an elephant, Jennifer Richard Jacobson.
Abandoned by his mother in an Acadia National Park campground, Jack tries to make his way back to Boston before anyone figures out what is going on, with only a small toy elephant for company.
A tale of two castles, Gail Carson Levine.
Twelve-year-old Elodie journeys to Two Castles in hopes of studying acting but instead becomes apprentice to a dragon, who teaches her to be observant and use reasoning, thus helping her to uncover who is poisoning the king.
Matchless : a Christmas story : an illumination of Hans Christian Anderson's classic "The little match girl", written and illustrated by Gregory Maguire.
To do : a book of alphabets and birthdays, Gertrude Stein with illustrations by Giselle Potter and an introduction by Timothy Young.
The hidden gallery, Maryrose Wood ; illustrated by Jon Klassen.
Fifteen-year-old Miss Penelope Lumley, a governess trained at the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, takes the three Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place to London, England, and learns they are under a curse.

Picture Books

Animals.,
Dwell Studio good morning, toucan : a lift-the-flap good day book.,
Little book of little puppies, [illustrated by Antonia Miller].
The aunties three, Nick Bland.
KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK. Pack up your games, dismantle your toys, practise your manners and muffle your noise. Straighten your face, where your smile used to be, for coming this way are The Aunties Three! Watch the mayhem unfold as three bold aunts enter the house of three unruly children who try their very best to welcome the guests for tea. Open the door ...If YOU DARE!.
Woof, meow, tweet-tweet, Cecile Boyer.
Presents a humorous account of the differences between dogs, cats, and birds, from the sounds they make, how they behave, and what happens when they all meet.
Harry's hair, written by Jane Buxton ; illustrated by Jenny Cooper.
Harry Brown won't brush his hair. First the birds move in, then a couple of lizards, some chinchillas and who knows what else? Soon Harry is a walking menagerie. His unusual hair makes him the object of some attention and not a little fame, but is this what Harry really wants? Suggested level: junior.
There was an old woman who swallowed a weta, [text, P. Crumble ; illustrations, Errol McLeary].
A New Zealand adaptation of the traditional cumulative rhyme,"There was an old lady who swallowed a fly" in which a woman swallows a weta, a bat, jandals, and more. Suggested level: junior, primary.
Little Kiwi is scared of the dark, Bob Darroch.
It's night and Little Kiwi is out for his first walk with his mother. The only problem is the night is full of scary noises and he doesn't like the dark. Little Kiwi decides there must be a nicer time to go for a walk but what happens when he decides to venture out during the day? On board pages.
Mini racer, Kristy Dempsey ; illustrated by Bridget Strevens-Marzo.
Animals in a variety of fanciful vehicles, including a snail on a skateboard and rabbits in a carrot-car, race over a difficult course with a suspenseful and surprising outcome.
Dog in boots, Greg Gormley ; illustrated by Roberta Angaramo.
After reading "Puss in Boots," an adventurous dog sets out to find the perfect pair of shoes to suit his every need.
Grandma McGarvey surfs the Net, story by Jenny Hessell ; illustrated byTrevor Pye.
Grandma McGarvey is always ready to try something new, so she signs up for "Surfing for Seniors". Even though she's not expecting words like "the Net, Google, Blackberry and mouse", she triumphs in the end and learns to use a computer. Suggested level: junior, primary.
The woods, Paul Hoppe.
Ko Hepa raua ko Tahi, na Maraea Hunia ; na Donovan Bixley nga pikitia.
Tahi discovers the importance of brushing one's teeth when a visit to the dental nurse uncovers a cavity. Linked to level 1 of the reo Maori curriculum in Te Marautanga o Aotearoa. Suggested level: junior.
What shall we call Wibbly's puppy?, Mik Inkpen.
Good morning Mr Pancakes, Chris McKimmie.
It's holiday time for Bee. But first the chooks need their toenails painted, the dogs and cats need their bags packed and Gregor needs enough greens for a week. Then Bee is off to the island. From the strikingly original creator of Brian Banana Duck Sunshine Yellow, Maisie Moo and Invisible Lucy, Special Kev and Two Peas in a Pod comes a glorious celebration of imagination.
Hester & Lester, [Kyle Mewburn ; illustrations by Harriet Bailey].
"When big sister Hester finds her little brother Lester sitting sadly in the forest, she's keen to put things right. Making a little brother happy isn't always easy, even with a very active imagination!"--Back cover. Suggested level: junior.
Hogg, Hogg & Hog, Margie Palatini.
Three pigs achieve success in the big city by making oinking the ultimate in fashion, but their fresh, new idea captures the attention of some friends from back on the farm.
Brother Sun, Sister Moon : Saint Francis of Assisi's Canticle of the creatures, reimagined by Katherine Paterson ; illustrated by Pamela Dalton.
Reimagines Francis of Assisi's 1224 prayer of praise in celebration of God's gifts throughout the universe.
Olivia paints a mural, [adapted by Veronica Paz ; based on the screenplay written by Patricia Resnick ; illustrated by Shane L. Johnson.
This is Lulu : a book about being quite little, Camilla Reid ; illustrated by Ailie Busby.
I want a party! : a little princess story, Tony Ross.
Bored, one day, the Little Princess decides she wants a party! Even though it's not Christmas or even her birthday yet, she sets about organising the best party ever! Except things don't turn out quite as the Little Princess had planned.
Ferret fun, Karen Rostoker-Gruber ; illustrated by Paul Ratz de Tagyos.
Two nervous pet ferrets named Fudge and Einstein try to convince a visiting cat that they are not mouth-watering
Poindexter makes a friend, Mike Twohy.
Poindexter is a very shy pig who, while helping out at the library, meets a turtle who is also shy, and together they read a book about making a friend in four easy steps.
The grouchies, Debbie Wagenbach ; illustrated by Steve Mack.
A grouchy boy learns how to chase away his grumpy moods. Includes a note to parents.
Brian Wildsmith's Cat on the mat and friends.,
The bear and the wildcat, written by Kazumi Yumoto ; illustrated by Komako Sakai ; translated by Cathy Hirano.
A bear lost a little bird, who was his best friend. After the loss, he barely talks to anyone and carries everywhere a little box in which the body of the bird is placed. One day a bear meets a wild cat, and while listening to the cat's violin, he thinks about many memories with his best friend. Suggested level: junior, primary.

Younger Fiction

Cinderella Smith, Stephanie Barden ; illustrations by Diane Goode.
Cast off by her old friends, Cinderella agrees to help a new student deal with the stepsisters she will soon have, and meantime, a former friend tries to prevent Cinderella from dancing the lead in their tap recital.
Bad Kitty meets the baby, Nick Bruel.
Bad Kitty is not pleased when a baby joins her family. Includes fun facts and tips for training a cat to perform tricks.
Dodsworth in Rome, written and illustrated by Tim Egan.
Dodsworth and his duck companion have a lovely time in Rome, even though the duck tries to improve the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and takes all the coins from the Trevi Fountain.
Just Grace and the terrible tutu, written and illustrated by Charise Mericle Harper.
Eight-year-old Grace is excited to learn that her best friend, Mimi, is going to become an older sister, but when both try to be "mother's helpers" for a family renting a house on their street, little Lily likes Grace best, causing Mimi to doubt herself and Grace to form a plan to fix things.
Cody's unexpected catch, Des Hunt ; illustrated by Justine Black.
Cody and Wiri are surprised to find their whitebait is actually redbait and greenbait and purplebait. But bigger surprises are in store when a stranger comes to the beach and their holiday turns deadly. Suggested level: junior, primary.
Do not push, Kyle Mewburn ; with illustrations by Sarah N. Anderson.
"Always obey the rules" Cam's mum tells him but when he finds a big red button in the forest marked "DO NOT PUSH", he pushes with all his might. The consequences are that his mum, dad, teachers, in fact everyone is behaving as if there are no rules to obey. After a frightening day Cam is only too happy to go back to the forest and pull the green lever that says "PLEASE PULL". Will this make everything go back to normal? To be on the safe side he only pulls the lever half the way so he gets the best of both worlds.
Lily gets her wings, Elizabeth Pulford ; with illustrations by Aki Fukuoka.
Tisa and Lily are both trying out for the one place at Angel Academy. Tisa throws Lily's wings out of the window so she cannot complete the flying test. In her attempt to find alternative wings, Lily gets into all manner of trouble before finally winning a place. Suggested level: junior, primary.
Lily has a secret, Elizabeth Pulford ; with illustrations by Aki Fukuoka.
When Lily discovers a kitten in the bushes, she breaks all the rules of Amelia's Angel Academy by leaving the grounds and then hiding the kitten in her room. Lily then has to find a disguise for the kitten before racing off to practise for the concert. Will her secret be revealed? Suggested level: junior, primary.
The secret river, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings ; illustrated by Leo & Diane Dillon.
Young Calpurnia takes her dog, Buggy-horse, and follows her nose to a secret river in a Florida forest, where she catches enough fresh fish to feed her hungry neighbours, even after giving some to the forest creatures she meets on the way home.
Stolen girl, Trina Saffioti ; illustrated by Norma MacDonald.