Friday 28 June 2013

Super Readers - Emily Reads 'The Blue Balloon'

Emily is our latest Super Reader, sharing the tale of Kipper the dog who finds a blue balloon. This isn't an ordinary balloon, it's indestructible! Well done Emily, lovely reading!
 

Thursday 27 June 2013

Read For My School - We're Prize Draw Winners!

 
In January we entered the year 5/6 reading challenge, Read For My School. Each pupil that signed up received a unique log in code to read books online. When the challenge came to an end 14 pupils had signed up and together had read a total of 132 books! For their hard work they each received a certificate and as a school we were entered into a prize draw... I'm pleased to announce that on Tuesday we received an email congratulating us as one of the winners! Our school will be rewarded with 100 NEW BOOKS! A huge well done and thank you to all the pupils that took part;
 
Abbi Maxwell, Alex Paius, Ali Kinata, Allyson Kinata, Amy Mason, David Sangojinmi, George Lotter, Holly Berry, Leah Webb, Louise Straw, Louise Paius, Sabina Kopkovo, Summer Trinder and Toby Adelowo.
 
The books should arrive in September, so i will keep you updated!

Wednesday 26 June 2013

Challenge Of The Week - Name That Book!

Use the clues to help you name the titles of these books. Good luck!
 
Fairyland is home to seven colourful sisters. Together, they are the Rainbow Fairies! They keep Fairyland dazzling and bright. But when evil Jack Frost sends them far away, the sisters are in big trouble. If they don't return soon, Fairyland is doomed to be grey forever!

Eddie takes care of his uncle's pet for the week while he is off on holiday. This isn't an ordinary pet as Eddie finds out, this one eats fridges and pet rabbits! Events spiral out of control and poor Eddie is desperate for his uncle to return.

From the author of Gangsta Granny and Mr Stink, this is a story about a young boy who is born into a very wealthy family. After realising he can't buy his friends he learns that family and friends are more important than any possessions.

Harry loves Hogwarts School of Wizardry and Witchcraft, especially after the misery of life with his ghastly aunt and uncle. He excels at his craft and his new-found skills unravel some of the mysteries of his own past... and a few surrounding his teachers.

Years ago, a boy transformed the gloomy grey concrete of the neighbourhood with his fabulous shapes and colours . . . until, without warning, he vanished. Most of the scribbles were destroyed and only the his Fan Club kept his legend alive. Then, one night, a strange figure is seen and a mysterious voice heard . . .

ANSWERS:
1. Ruby The Red Fairy, 2. The Dragonsitter, 3. Billionaire Boy, 4. Harry Potter and The Philosopher's Stone, 5. Scribbleboy

Tuesday 25 June 2013

Lots To Do At Harold Hill Library!

During Pine's visit to Harold Hill library yesterday I picked up a few leaflets advertising what's on. If you require any further information drop into the library or call them on 01708 434973.

 
Reading Buddies
Every Tuesday 4-5pm (term-time only, book in advance)
Volunteers are ready and waiting to help improve your child's reading!
 
Baby Bounce
Every Tuesday at 2pm
Baby bounce is for children under 2 years of age. Music and words of favourite nursery rhymes and actions to go with them.
 
Homework Club
Tuesdays between 5-7pm
Support available to assist your child's homework, helping them to choose books and use the internet.
 
Kid's Craft Club
Saturdays 10-11am (term-time only)
£1 for library members and £1.50 for non library members

The library is getting ready for the Summer Reading Challenge, more details will follow nearer the end of the term.

Monday 24 June 2013

Calling All Night Zoo Keepers!

 
This is the final week to hand your completed Night Zoo Keeper Power Manuals into the library. So far 13 pupils have earned a certificate, they will all be entered into the prize draw with the hope of winning one of the following prizes;
 
- A visit from the Night Zoo Keeper along with a set of National Geographic books
- A brand new ereader!
- A real Night Zoo Keeper torch to explore with
- £50 worth of book vouchers
- A family trip to your local zoo or wildlife park
- A limited edition T-shirt!
 
If you still want to take part there are still Reading Manuals available.
 
Good luck!

Friday 21 June 2013

Super Readers - Grace Reads 'Keith The Cat With The Magic Hat'

Grace shares the story of a cat called Keith. When an ice cream lands on his head, the other cats think it's hilarious! Feeling a little bit silly Keith quickly tells the cats that it is really a magic hat. I wonder if the hat will save the cats when a big dog appears?
Well done Grace!
 

Thursday 20 June 2013

New In - Book Requests From Key Stage 2


There have been a few book requests lately from pupils in Key Stage 2.
Having read 'I'm Not A Loser' and the first 'Diary Of A Wimpy Kid', Donovan Wright asked for some more funny books. I picked up a copy of Roderick Rules;


 Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules chronicles Greg attempts to navigate the hazards of middle school, impress the girls, steer clear of the school talent show, and most important, keep his secret safe.

As well as Gangsta Granny and Billionaire Boy;


Ben is 11, an only child and a poor reader, whose ambition is to be a plumber. Every Friday he visits his Granny, while his parents go to watch ballroom dancing, and he hates those dull, smelly, cabbage-dominated evenings. Then he discovers that his Granny isn’t quite what she seems, and life takes a dramatic turn for the better.


Having started from humble origins, Joe’s father is now a billionaire, and Joe has everything he wants, except true friends. To remedy this he enrols at the local comprehensive school, where he learns the hard way that you can’t buy them, and that family and friends are more important than any possessions.

I also had a request from Junior Makina for the next book in the Dark Lord series, he has really enjoyed the first book.


Sooz, a 13 yr old girl from Surrey has become the Dark Mistress of Dirk's otherworldly kingdom, the Darklands. Thanks to the Ring of Power given to her by Dirk, his minions recognise her as their ruler.

Wednesday 19 June 2013

Challenge Of The Week - Name That Author!

Rearrange the letters to reveal the names of these popular children's authors.
 
1. uJail naDonlsdo
One of our Amazing Authors in the Spring Term. This lady has created some fantastic stories, including The Gruffalo and Tiddler The Story Telling Fish.
 
2. kiMc nkInpe
Writer of the Kipper stories, following the life of a little dog. You can also watch character on TV.
 
3. J. K. ioRwlg
Well known for her series of books about a young wizard called Harry Potter and his adventures at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
 
4. ecsFraanc imSno
This author was the most popular back in the Spring Term. She is the creator of a very cheeky young boy named Henry, better known as HORRID Henry!
 
5. ciMhale noeRs
'We're Going a Bear Hunt' is the story we know and love best from this author.

ANSWERS:
1. Julia Donaldson, 2. Mick Inkpen, 3. J. K. Rowling, 4. Francesca Simon, 5. Michael Rosen

Tuesday 18 June 2013

New In - Malorie Blackman Books

 
Our delivery of Malorie Blackman books have finally arrived! We now have the following books on display (as well as extra copies of A.N.T.I.D.O.T.E, Thief! and Cloud Busting);

 
Hacker
MESSAGE. THIS IS THE SYSTEM OPERATOR. WHO IS USING THIS ACCOUNT? PLEASE IDENTIFY YOURSELF... When Vicky's father is arrested, accused of stealing over a million pounds from the bank where he works, she is determined to prove his innocence. But how? There's only on way - to attempt to break into the bank's computer files. Even if Vicky is the best hacker in the world, will she find the real theif before they find her?
 
 
Pig Heart Boy
You're thirteen. All you want is a normal life. But most kids don't need heart transplants. So there's this doctor. He says there's a chance for you. But he also says it's experimental, controversial and risky. And it's never been done before.
 
 
The Deadly Dare Mysteries
In Deadly Dare, there's a new craze at Theo and Ricky's school. Write a dare, put it in the bag and take turns to pick one out. But on the night Ricky does his dare and enters the deserted warehouse he disappears. What secrets does the warehouse hold and how much does new girl Angela know about what happened? Theo needs to find the answers before it's too late...
 
 
Noble Conflict
Years after a violent war destroyed much of the world, Kaspar has grown up in a society based on peace and harmony. But beyond the city walls, a vicious band of rebels are plotting to tear this peace apart. It is up tothe Guardians – an elite peacekeeping force – to protect the city, without ever resorting to the brutal methods of their enermy.

Watch the trailer for Noble Conflict here...
 
 

Monday 17 June 2013

Win a Jeremy Strong Book!

The year 5 Jeremy Strong Book Club are creating a magazine for the library. The magazine will include facts about the author, games, challenges, book reviews and more! As a special feature they will be running a competition from now until the 11th of July. All you need to do is draw a character from one of the Jeremy Strong books. The winning picture will be selected on Friday 12th July, with the winner being awarded a copy of 'My Brother's Famous Bottom'.
 
 
For your chance to win hand your finished picture into the library or pass it on to one of the book club members;
 
Toby, Dara, Gabriella, Raheem, Kingsley or Liam.

Friday 14 June 2013

Super Readers - Ebony Reads 'Hugless Douglas'

This week's Super Reader is Ebony, reading the book, Hugless Douglas. The story follows a little bear who wakes early one morning desperate for a hug. He searches everywhere! Then he meets a kind little rabbit who points him in the right direction!



Thursday 13 June 2013

New In - Picture Books

This week we have had four new books added to our library;

 
Keith The Cat With The Magic Hat
All the other cats laugh when an ice cream lands on poor Keith's head. But he quickly decides it's really a magic hat. His friends are really impressed with his magical abilities, but when his hat falls off his head how will he save them all from a fierce dog? Luckily, Keith soon discovers that magic is still possible even when he isn't wearing his ice-cream hat.
 
 
Superkid
NEVER FEAR SUPERKID IS HERE!
This exciting picture book follows the life of Superkid. Always there to help in times of trouble, saving you from pirates, bullies and plates of broccoli!
 
 
No-Bot The Robot With No Bottom!
From the author of Aliens Love Underpants, this is the story of a robot who leaves his bottom at the park. After realising its missing he searches everywhere, taking on the help of a bear and bird. Finally, he finds what he is looking for in a very unusual place.
 
 
Pirates Love Underpants
All aboard Black Bloom as the pirates go on an adventure to far away lands looking for golden pants. A story packed with sharks in fancy pants, snapping crocodiles and buried treasure!


Wednesday 12 June 2013

Challenge Of The Week - Peace At Last

The challenge this week is to answer some questions about the story, Peace At Last. Our Super Reader, Ellie, read this story back in the Spring term, use the video to help you answers the questions.
Good luck!
 
 
HERE GOES...
 
 
1. Who was the author of this story?
She has featured as one of our Amazing Authors, creating stories for younger and older children. Her best-selling series follow a family of elephants called The Large Family.
 
 
2. The bear family were so tired they went up to bed, but poor Mr Bear couldn't sleep!
Do you know why?

 
3. After being kept awake by Baby Bears aeroplane noises, Mr bear decided to make his way to what room?
 
 
4. It was a little cold outside and VERY noisy! Mr Bear made his way to his car where it was a little more comfortable. He was just falling asleep when... what happened?

 
5. Back in the house Mrs Bear and Baby Bear were fast asleep. Mr Bear returned to his room, snuggled into bed and said?
 
ANSWERS:
1. Jill Murphy, 2. Mrs Bear was snoring, 3. The living room, 4. The sun came up and the birds started to sing, 5. Peace at last!

Tuesday 11 June 2013

Children's Laureate - Malorie Blackman


Last week, author Malorie Blackman was crowned the Children's Laureate 2013-2015. To celebrate her achievement we have put together a display of her books in our library, here you can find out more about the author and use the QR Code to visit the Children's Laureate website.


An order has been placed for more books so I will let you know when they arrive. Until then we have the following books available;

Cloud Busting
Despite his Mum’s insistence, Sam doesn’t want to be friends with Davey, he thinks Davey’s a first class, grade A, top of the dung heap moron. But one day Davey saves Sam’s life and a bond is formed between them. Sam is still embarrassed to be seen with Davey, but little by little he has to admit, when it’s just the two of them, Davey is a lot of fun. But then something terrible happens to Davey. . . Told in verse, in first person, this is the touching story of an extraordinary friendship, that changes two boys lives for ever. An uplifting tale that truly sings out.

Hostage
Blindfolded, alone, no idea where you are or what will happen next. The only thing you know is that you’ve been kidnapped. And it’s up to you to escape. Are you brave enough?

Thief
Lydia’s last thought before darkness closed over her mind was that the strange, swirling storm had trapped her. Would it ever let her go? Fleeing onto the moors when she is unfairly accused of being a thief an extraordinary storm suddenly whirls twelve-year-old Lydia into the future – a computer-dominated future where her home town is ruled by a cruel tyrant. As Lydia struggles to get back to her own time, she discovers she must face a terrible confrontation . . .

A.N.T.I.D.O.T.E
The words exploded from me in a burst of white-hot anger. ‘It’s a lie.’It’s a normal Friday evening for Elliot – until the police knock on the door and tell him his mum’s in serious trouble! A security video clearly shows her breaking into a giant pharmaceutical company on behalf of the environmental action group A. N. T. I. D. O. T. E. Elliot can hardly believe it. His mum’s a secretary, isn’t she? Not a SPY! And even worse – now she’s gone on the run . . .

Clip on the video below to watch a short animation celebrating the success of the author.


Monday 10 June 2013

Capturing Readers Competition Winner

The winner of our Capturing Readers Competition is Aimee Borrell! Here she is reading her school book during a trip to Southend. She was awarded with a £10 book token and a bookmark. Thank you to everyone who entered. We will hold a similar competition during the Summer holidays so look out for that!

Friday 7 June 2013

Super Readers - Ramone and Charlie Share 'The Gruffalo's Child'

We have two Super Readers for you this week, the brilliant Ramone and Charlie! Here they share the story of The Gruffalo's Child, who sneaks out into the deep dark wood to hunt for the BIG, BAD MOUSE! Well done Ramone and Charlie, fantastic story-telling!


Thursday 6 June 2013

New In - Baggy Brown


We have a new book on display today called Baggy Brown, the story of a limited edition bear who was created for Princess Sophinyiniannia of Thingland. Groups from Cedar and Pine listened to the story during their visit to the library, you can hear Lebohang's review of the book here.

 
'No.1 bear is priceless, the first of a thousand special bears made to celebrate the first birthday of the daughter of the King and Queen of Thingland, and the only bear to be presented to the Princess. But when the big red teddy bear machine at Better Bears Ltd chews him up and spits him out he takes a very different route to the Palace, and along the way finds his real name.'
 

Wednesday 5 June 2013

Challenge Of The Week - Complete The Book Title

The titles of the following books have some words missing, can you complete them? There are some clues to help you along the way! Good luck!

 
1. Tiddler The Story ______ ______
This small fish tells the tallest of tales when he is late for school, but one day he is lost in the middle of the ocean after fisherman throw him out of their fishing net. Do his school friends believe him this time? I doubt it!
 
 
2. The Pirates ______ ______
The Jolley Rogers move to Dull-On Sea, next door to Matilda, who can't wait to meet them!

 
3. Hugless ______
This young bear needs a BIG hug, he looks everywhere! Then he finds someone to hug in a deep dark cave... his MUM!

 
4. The Bad Tempered ______
This grumpy creature is in a bad mood all day, picking fights with everyone it comes across!

 
5. The Owl Who Was Afraid Of ______ ______
Little barn owl Plop is the same as every other baby barn owl, except for one thing - he becomes afraid at night, but what is he so scared of?

ANSWERS:
1. Tiddler The Story-Telling Fish, 2. The Pirates Next Door, 3. Hugless Douglas , 4. The Bad-Tempered Ladybird, 5. The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark

Tuesday 4 June 2013

Online Stories For All!

There are hundreds of story books online for you to read and listen to! Click on the reading owl below to visit the website. Here you will find books for children aged 3 to 11 years. The books marked with an e are the ones you can listen to. You can choose Project X books, stories with Biff and Chip in or go for one with a new character, like Christopher Nibble, the story of a guinea pig who loves to munch on dandelions!

Enjoy!

Monday 3 June 2013

Summer Term In The Library

Welcome back! Hope you enjoyed the week off.
 
Like the Spring Term, data has been collected from the Junior Librarian software that the children use to scan their books in and out of the library. Here is what we found out...
 
During the six weeks, before the holiday, 393 books were borrowed from the library. The most popular author was Jeremy Strong, his book BATPANTS proved very popular and was borrowed seven times! 
 
The books that have been the most popular across each term will have a Broadford Award on the front, like the one below. Take a look next time you visit.
 
 
Our top 10 readers, who have borrowed the most books are, Jaseem Miah, Samson Wright, Kieran Dash, Daniel Oluokun, Tommy Overton, Ben Green, Emma Groom, George White, Evan Andrews and Kie Allen!
 
Competitions and Challenges
 
The Night Zoo Keeper Reading Torch will continue, so far nine pupils have completed the challenge. You can find out more here or pick up a reading torch from the library.
 
The Broadford Big Read is still available for Key Stage 2 to take part in, and has now been adapted for Key Stage 1! I had a few requests from pupils in Cedar to create a Broadford Big Read for them too. Instead of six challenges, there are four. Like the KS2 one, they have to complete all the challenges to earn a Bronze Certificate, complete the challenges again for a Silver Certificate and once more to earn a Gold Certificate. Pupils will be informed of the reading challenge when they visit in their groups.
 
The Returning Books Raffle starts again today. Each pupil that returns their library book has their name posted in their class post box, then at the end of the term a winner is selected from each class. Before the holiday there was a total of 151 book returns!