Next Wednesday (September 10th @ 4 PM) we will be having our first YAAP meeting of the 2008-2009 year. I'm SO excited! We're going to be adding lots of cool stuff this year that I really think everyone is going to find fantabulous.
YAAP, for those of you that are curious, is the Young Adult Advisory Panel. It is comprised of teens in the 8th - 12th grades. YAAP meets once a month and is responsible for making sure that Young Adult programming at the Marshall County Public Library rocks. They also hang out and eat junk food.
Why should you consider joining YAAP? Here are 5 of my favorite reasons:
1. You get a say in what kinds of activities are planned for you and your friends. How am I suppose to know what teenagers consider fun if you don't tell me? I still find the original Nintendo and Super Mario Brothers to be an excellent way to pass an afternoon.
2. You can meet people with similar interests. Do you like books? Do you like hanging out at the library? So do YAAPers! They also like manga and swimming and music and tons of other stuff, because YAAPers are cool people. You should be one.
3. YAAP looks good on college applications. Also, Miss Tammy can write an awesome letter of recommendation.
4. You gain valuable life experiences. No, really, it's a good thing. Learning how to work in groups and how to be comfortable expressing your thoughts and ideas with others is really important.
5. YAAP is fun. Like, real fun. Not just "fun for a library". We eat junk food. We watch random, hysterical YouTube videos. We have inside jokes. Good times.
So, if you're in grades 8-12 (well, not at the same time, but you get the idea), please join us September 10 from 4 PM - 5 PM in the Calvert City meeting room. I hope to see lots of you there!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Saturday, August 23, 2008
The World Is A Vampire
Here's the world's most horribly kept secret: I love vampire stories. Love them. And it's obvious that I'm not alone. Vampire stories have been a staple of American culture for years and years. Dracula, Lestat, Angel, Spike, and Edward. Names that, in our world of pop culture, are immortal. (Ha!)
I recently picked up the short story collection Immortal which features vampire love stories by popular YA authors like Rachel Caine (Morganville Vampires series) and Claudia Gray (Evernight). In the introduction the editor, House of Night author P.C. Cast, pontificates on why it is that young people (and some not so young) are drawn to vampire stories. She comes to two conclusions. The first is the obvious answer: sex. Vampires are sexy. End of story.
Her other theory, however, is quite interesting. She thinks that teens identify with vampires because they too believe that they are immortal. She believes that teens also see themselves as non-changing and being thrust into a world that is both exciting in terrifying in the way that it changes, much like the vampire. Interesting theory. But I'm not buying it.
I think we like vampire stories because they personify the fear we have of falling in love. That whole meeting someone and letting your emotions get the best of you thing? Terrifying. Irrational and terrifying. At least when you're falling in love with someone who has a strong desire to treat you as dinner instead of to dinner, there is a reason to totally flip out.
Plus, you know, vampires are just cool. Do we really need a better reason than that?
I recently picked up the short story collection Immortal which features vampire love stories by popular YA authors like Rachel Caine (Morganville Vampires series) and Claudia Gray (Evernight). In the introduction the editor, House of Night author P.C. Cast, pontificates on why it is that young people (and some not so young) are drawn to vampire stories. She comes to two conclusions. The first is the obvious answer: sex. Vampires are sexy. End of story.
Her other theory, however, is quite interesting. She thinks that teens identify with vampires because they too believe that they are immortal. She believes that teens also see themselves as non-changing and being thrust into a world that is both exciting in terrifying in the way that it changes, much like the vampire. Interesting theory. But I'm not buying it.
I think we like vampire stories because they personify the fear we have of falling in love. That whole meeting someone and letting your emotions get the best of you thing? Terrifying. Irrational and terrifying. At least when you're falling in love with someone who has a strong desire to treat you as dinner instead of to dinner, there is a reason to totally flip out.
Plus, you know, vampires are just cool. Do we really need a better reason than that?
Thursday, August 14, 2008
It's a small world, after all.
Every two years my world gets thrown upside down. Suddenly my entire schedule is completely blown. For 16 days I am glued to the television, foregoing important everyday activities like laundry, reading and, occasionally, even bathing. What could possibly possess me so? Well, it's this little thing we like the call the Olympics.
I am an Olympic fanatic. My heart races every time I hear the Olympic theme song. I obsess over medal counts. I cry my heart out over moving back stories, amazing triumphs, and crushing defeats. I find myself watching everything from gymnastics to curling (it involves ice, a broom, and Canadians). I have even managed to develop a little crush on NBC Olympic expert Bob Costas.
What is it that makes the Olympics so alluring? Is it the sense of competition? National pride? Michael Phelps's abs? While all these things do play their roll, I think for me the real draw is being involved in something so universal. I love knowing that there is some kid in a far away country that is watching the same race as I am. I love that the whole world knows and understands the Olympic experience. I love that for 16 days our big, huge world feels small and homey.
I got the same feeling a couple of weeks ago when Breaking Dawn was released. How cool was it to know that people all over the world were excited about the same book? It was all everyone was talking about, no matter where you went. Or, at least, no matter where I went. That might, however, have had something to do with me being a YA librarian and all. (Btw, if you want to read my thoughts on Breaking Dawn, I've posted my review here.)
I love feeling connected. So, to the Olympic planning committee, all the athletes, and Stephenie Meyer (and Jo, who came before her), I say thank you. Now, I've wasted entirely too much time blogging. I'm certain that I've missed ping-pong or some other great Olympic moment!
I am an Olympic fanatic. My heart races every time I hear the Olympic theme song. I obsess over medal counts. I cry my heart out over moving back stories, amazing triumphs, and crushing defeats. I find myself watching everything from gymnastics to curling (it involves ice, a broom, and Canadians). I have even managed to develop a little crush on NBC Olympic expert Bob Costas.
What is it that makes the Olympics so alluring? Is it the sense of competition? National pride? Michael Phelps's abs? While all these things do play their roll, I think for me the real draw is being involved in something so universal. I love knowing that there is some kid in a far away country that is watching the same race as I am. I love that the whole world knows and understands the Olympic experience. I love that for 16 days our big, huge world feels small and homey.
I got the same feeling a couple of weeks ago when Breaking Dawn was released. How cool was it to know that people all over the world were excited about the same book? It was all everyone was talking about, no matter where you went. Or, at least, no matter where I went. That might, however, have had something to do with me being a YA librarian and all. (Btw, if you want to read my thoughts on Breaking Dawn, I've posted my review here.)
I love feeling connected. So, to the Olympic planning committee, all the athletes, and Stephenie Meyer (and Jo, who came before her), I say thank you. Now, I've wasted entirely too much time blogging. I'm certain that I've missed ping-pong or some other great Olympic moment!
Monday, August 4, 2008
Well, That Was 10 Shades Of Awesome
Picture it: The hot, humid day gives way to a comfortably warm evening. Stars shine in the sky, unhindered by the new moon. And on a volleyball court in a nice city park 10 girls attempt to do the Macarena for 5 Twilight Trivia points. These are the moments I live for.
So, obviously, the Twilight Carnival completely rocked. Counting all those wonderfully wonderful volunteers, we had over 90 people in attendance. Games were played, treasures were hunted, trivia questions were answered, theories were discussed (awesome call, Telle), prizes were handed out, and fun was had. You will eventually be able to see photo evidence of said fun here. ("Here" will become a link once the pictures are available.)
Congratulations to Miranda Lewis, Cassidy Hodge, and Gary Tosh for being the top Points earners at each of the library branches for the Summer Reading Program. Gary Tosh was also the winner of the LCD television that we drew for.
And again I want to thank all the people that came out to help. I so could not have done it on my own. And a super-big thanks to everyone that attended. There would have been no Twilight Carnival without you!
So, obviously, the Twilight Carnival completely rocked. Counting all those wonderfully wonderful volunteers, we had over 90 people in attendance. Games were played, treasures were hunted, trivia questions were answered, theories were discussed (awesome call, Telle), prizes were handed out, and fun was had. You will eventually be able to see photo evidence of said fun here. ("Here" will become a link once the pictures are available.)
Congratulations to Miranda Lewis, Cassidy Hodge, and Gary Tosh for being the top Points earners at each of the library branches for the Summer Reading Program. Gary Tosh was also the winner of the LCD television that we drew for.
And again I want to thank all the people that came out to help. I so could not have done it on my own. And a super-big thanks to everyone that attended. There would have been no Twilight Carnival without you!
Friday, July 25, 2008
T minus one week and counting
This is it, guys. We've anticipated. We've planned. We've bought prizes, stuffed party favor bags, and invented games. We've hypothosized and argued over what will happen. And now the wait is almost over. On August 2nd we finally get our new Stephenie Meyer book, Breaking Dawn, and will celebrate with our end of the summer YA event, the Twilight Carnival.
I'm so excited I can barely breathe.
I've been preparing nonstop for the last couple of weeks. I reread all the books. Then, I started listening to the audio book version. (Which, btw, I'm not really loving. The way the reader pronounces "Bella" makes me cringe.) I've been listening to the playlists for the 3 books constantly. I've watched both of the teaser trailers over and over. I've been reading Stephenie's daily quotes from Breaking Dawn religiously. I'm ready.
OK, so first, the new book. Here's some Miss Tammy predictions (we'll see how that pan out, but I totally called that Harry was a horocrux and that house elves & Neville Longbottom would save the world):
Bella will get changed, but she'll be a very unique vampire. I can't figure out what her "gift" will be, but it's gotta be awesome. I think the most unique thing about her as a vampire will be that she still has a aversion to blood. She won't experience the same burning thirst that the others do because she will still be appalled by the smell of blood. (No, I don't know what she'll eat. I'm just throwing out theories here, people.)
Rosalie will have to make a major sacrifice to save or protect Bella.
Jacob will end up with Leah. (Let the hate mail begin...now.)
Now, the Carnival. It's going to be fantabulous. You should come. Really. The first hour will be devoted to playing games (we've got the LaPush Lob; Jasper's Training Camp; and a Twilight Treasure Hunt), dressing up & getting your picture taken at the Metamorphosis Photo Booth, and just hanging out at the park (staying within the accepted boundaries). Then, around 7:45 everyone is going to start heading back to the pavilion so that we can divide into teams for Twilight Trivia (which is garunteed to the best trivia game in the history of trivia games). At 8:30 we'll conclude the trivia game and start handing out prizes. We've got some really cool stuff, including copies of Breaking Dawn, some super-awesome bookbags, and that LCD TV.
See? Fantabulous.
I'm so excited I can barely breathe.
I've been preparing nonstop for the last couple of weeks. I reread all the books. Then, I started listening to the audio book version. (Which, btw, I'm not really loving. The way the reader pronounces "Bella" makes me cringe.) I've been listening to the playlists for the 3 books constantly. I've watched both of the teaser trailers over and over. I've been reading Stephenie's daily quotes from Breaking Dawn religiously. I'm ready.
OK, so first, the new book. Here's some Miss Tammy predictions (we'll see how that pan out, but I totally called that Harry was a horocrux and that house elves & Neville Longbottom would save the world):
Bella will get changed, but she'll be a very unique vampire. I can't figure out what her "gift" will be, but it's gotta be awesome. I think the most unique thing about her as a vampire will be that she still has a aversion to blood. She won't experience the same burning thirst that the others do because she will still be appalled by the smell of blood. (No, I don't know what she'll eat. I'm just throwing out theories here, people.)
Rosalie will have to make a major sacrifice to save or protect Bella.
Jacob will end up with Leah. (Let the hate mail begin...now.)
Now, the Carnival. It's going to be fantabulous. You should come. Really. The first hour will be devoted to playing games (we've got the LaPush Lob; Jasper's Training Camp; and a Twilight Treasure Hunt), dressing up & getting your picture taken at the Metamorphosis Photo Booth, and just hanging out at the park (staying within the accepted boundaries). Then, around 7:45 everyone is going to start heading back to the pavilion so that we can divide into teams for Twilight Trivia (which is garunteed to the best trivia game in the history of trivia games). At 8:30 we'll conclude the trivia game and start handing out prizes. We've got some really cool stuff, including copies of Breaking Dawn, some super-awesome bookbags, and that LCD TV.
See? Fantabulous.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
It's Not Goodbye
Tonight is the last meeting of the 2007-2008 Young Adult Advisory Panel. Something about that gets me a little verklempt. I mean, I know that nothing much is really going to change. The YAAP will start up fresh in September (September 10th from 4 PM - 5 PM, to be exact). And I'm thinking (or, at least, hoping) that most of my YAAPers will be back. But it's still sad when something comes to an end.
In some ways that first meeting back on October 3rd seems like just yesterday. I remember that we had tons of people show up...so many that I had to pull up extra chairs. And I was so nervous. I didn't know what to say or do. Of course, now I'm as comfortable in our meetings as I am hanging out with my friends, because that's basically what I'm doing. Honestly, my YAAPers are some of the coolest people I've ever known and I'm honored to call them "friend" (and we'll just ignore the part where I'm old enough to be every one's mother).
Once you start looking back, however, you begin to realize how much we've done in a year. We've have popcorn and a movie for Teen Read Week '07; we killed Santa Claus and tried to figure out who did it back around Christmas; we launched this here cool website for Teen Tech Week '08; we had tons of fun with the rescheduled Game Night (after we had a snowball fight the first time around); we had a visit from author/writing instructor Brad Carr; we had the Book Bag Raffle fundraiser that earned us over $700; we planned (and are in the midst of) the Summer Reading Program; we invented the game of Waffle Ball at our Backyard Picnic; and now we're preparing for the biggest event of them all, The Twilight Carnival. We've been all kinds of busy! No wonder I'm so tired. But, honestly, my YAAPers have done tons of work planning all these things and I'm truly grateful for them.
So, tonight we'll conclude the 2007-2008 YAAP. We'll make our final plans for August 2nd and then say "au-revoir" until the Fall. And that makes me sad.
But come September, we're going to start again. And that makes me really excited. I foresee new YAAPers, new friends, new ideas, and more fun. If you're reading this and think that you'd like to be in on all the library fun we cool kids are having, then you need to seriously consider joining the YAAP. The YAAP is open to anyone ages 13-18 (those going into 8th grade - 12th grade). We meet once a month at the Calvert City library and there is always snackage involved. For more information, just send me an email (tblackwell@marshallcolibrary.org) or give me a call (270-395-5745).
And before I sign off here, I want to remind everyone of our upcoming activities. First, there will be a second Pizza and a Movie (& Ice Cream) event this week. This time I'm going to be at Benton from 5 PM - & 7 PM on Thursday, July 17. And, of course, our Twilight Carnival is quickly approaching. More information about the event can be found here.
In some ways that first meeting back on October 3rd seems like just yesterday. I remember that we had tons of people show up...so many that I had to pull up extra chairs. And I was so nervous. I didn't know what to say or do. Of course, now I'm as comfortable in our meetings as I am hanging out with my friends, because that's basically what I'm doing. Honestly, my YAAPers are some of the coolest people I've ever known and I'm honored to call them "friend" (and we'll just ignore the part where I'm old enough to be every one's mother).
Once you start looking back, however, you begin to realize how much we've done in a year. We've have popcorn and a movie for Teen Read Week '07; we killed Santa Claus and tried to figure out who did it back around Christmas; we launched this here cool website for Teen Tech Week '08; we had tons of fun with the rescheduled Game Night (after we had a snowball fight the first time around); we had a visit from author/writing instructor Brad Carr; we had the Book Bag Raffle fundraiser that earned us over $700; we planned (and are in the midst of) the Summer Reading Program; we invented the game of Waffle Ball at our Backyard Picnic; and now we're preparing for the biggest event of them all, The Twilight Carnival. We've been all kinds of busy! No wonder I'm so tired. But, honestly, my YAAPers have done tons of work planning all these things and I'm truly grateful for them.
So, tonight we'll conclude the 2007-2008 YAAP. We'll make our final plans for August 2nd and then say "au-revoir" until the Fall. And that makes me sad.
But come September, we're going to start again. And that makes me really excited. I foresee new YAAPers, new friends, new ideas, and more fun. If you're reading this and think that you'd like to be in on all the library fun we cool kids are having, then you need to seriously consider joining the YAAP. The YAAP is open to anyone ages 13-18 (those going into 8th grade - 12th grade). We meet once a month at the Calvert City library and there is always snackage involved. For more information, just send me an email (tblackwell@marshallcolibrary.org) or give me a call (270-395-5745).
And before I sign off here, I want to remind everyone of our upcoming activities. First, there will be a second Pizza and a Movie (& Ice Cream) event this week. This time I'm going to be at Benton from 5 PM - & 7 PM on Thursday, July 17. And, of course, our Twilight Carnival is quickly approaching. More information about the event can be found here.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Urban Fantasy
I've always known what I like to read, but I didn't know what it was called (which is only mildly embarrassing for a librarian). Apparently, my preferred genre is "urban fantasy". What is urban fantasy? Well, it's when a supernatural or fantasy world occurs within our own world. It's like how Buffy lived in the normal, middle class town of Sunnydale, but had to fight the forces of darkness when no one was looking. Most of my favorite titles can be described as urban fantasy: Twilight (hey, I haven't mentioned Twilight in weeks), Wicked Lovely, The Morganville Vampire series. Even my favorite TV shows are in the same field: Buffy, the Vampire Slayer (surprised, aren't you?), Supernatural (and not just because Jensen Ackles is so darn pretty), and Heroes are all at the top of my list.
So, why is it that I like urban fantasy? Well, I guess it's because I like the idea that there is more going on in this world than meets the eye. Also, I like having the familiar (real world) infused with the fantastical (cute vampires, mischievous faeries, etc.). Urban fantasy mixes things that you can relate to (Bella's incurable clumsiness) with things that you can only imagine (Edward's sparkly skin).
Over the next two Thursdays we're going to be having viewings of an adapted-from-a-YA-book movie that can almost get away with being called urban fantasy. The Golden Compass is set in an alternate universe where children's souls are represented by little animals that travel along with them and polar bears can carry on a conversation. Other than those things (and a few others) the world in which Lyra inhabits looks and feels alot like mid-20th century England. All YA Summer Reading Program participants are invited to join me at either Calvert City on July 10 or Benton on July 17 from 5 PM - 7 PM to watch The Golden Compass and nosh on some pizza (& ice cream). I really hope to see lots of you there. Who knows, with a little luck maybe something truly fantastical will happen.
So, why is it that I like urban fantasy? Well, I guess it's because I like the idea that there is more going on in this world than meets the eye. Also, I like having the familiar (real world) infused with the fantastical (cute vampires, mischievous faeries, etc.). Urban fantasy mixes things that you can relate to (Bella's incurable clumsiness) with things that you can only imagine (Edward's sparkly skin).
Over the next two Thursdays we're going to be having viewings of an adapted-from-a-YA-book movie that can almost get away with being called urban fantasy. The Golden Compass is set in an alternate universe where children's souls are represented by little animals that travel along with them and polar bears can carry on a conversation. Other than those things (and a few others) the world in which Lyra inhabits looks and feels alot like mid-20th century England. All YA Summer Reading Program participants are invited to join me at either Calvert City on July 10 or Benton on July 17 from 5 PM - 7 PM to watch The Golden Compass and nosh on some pizza (& ice cream). I really hope to see lots of you there. Who knows, with a little luck maybe something truly fantastical will happen.
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