“Just the Facts” the nonfiction book discussion group, will be reading Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder, by Richard Louv. “I like to play indoors better ’cause that’s where all the electrical outlets are,” reports a fourth-grader. Never before in history have children been so plugged in and so out of touch with the natural world. In this groundbreaking new work, child advocacy expert Richard Louv directly links the lack of nature in the lives of today’s wired generation – he calls it nature deficit – to some of the most disturbing childhood trends, such as rises in obesity, Attention Deficit Disorder, and depression. This alienation damages children and shapes adults, families, and communities. There are solutions, though, and they’re right in our own backyards. We will discuss Last Child in the Woods on Thursday, April 17 at 6:30 pm.
Café Parlez’ selection for April is The Book of Lost Things, by John Connolley. High in his attic bedroom, 12-year-old David mourns the death of his mother. He is angry and alone with only the books on his shelf for company. But those books have begun to whisper to him in the darkness, and as he takes refuge in his imagination, he finds that reality and fantasy have begun to meld. While his family falls apart around him, David is propelled into a land that is populated by heroes and monsters, and is ruled over by a faded king who keeps his secrets in “The Book of Lost Things.” We will discuss this book on Thursday, April 24 at 6:30 pm. Books are available at the desk, or bring your own copy. Café Parlez is sponsored by the Friends of Plumb Library.
The Plumb Library Knitters meets Mondays at 6:30 pm. All knitters and crocheters are welcome. Chocolate is always served.
Our very own Library Dancing Fairy, Plumbelina, has volunteered to be here every Saturday in April from 1:00 to 1:30 pm. She will do a story/dance program for children ages three and up. Pre-registration is requested. If we have enough interest, she will continue the program until further notice. For all who have requested more Plumbelina, please adjust your schedules so you can participate!
What is Tumblebooks? Tumblebooks is an online collection of picture books, early readers, and short chapter books presented in a format that will attract children and help them learn to read. Click the link on our website – www.plumblibrary.com – and your child will be able to watch short, animated versions of many popular picture books and early readers. The text is highlighted when the line is read aloud, helping emerging readers to recognize the words being read. There are puzzles and games that will also help new readers. Tumblebooks also offers streaming videos produced by National Geographic on a number of topics. You can access Tumblebooks from any computer or device, and kids can use it by themselves. Tumblebooks is provided by the SAILS library system. To learn more about Tumblebooks and how the website works, watch the Library Tour video at http://www.tumblebooks.com/LibraryTour.html or ask the library staff for a demonstration.