Fake Blood

Gardner, Whitney. Fake Blood. 2018. 332p. ISBN 9781481495561. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

AJ can't wait to grow up. Over the summer, his best friends Hunter and Ivy had amazing experiences and got taller, but AJ still looks the same and didn't do anything special. Another thing that hasn't changed is his crush for Nia. But he might as well not exist, as she barely notices him even though they're in many classes together at Spoons Middle School. Even if she did notice him, however, what could he offer her, a fan of vampires?

Fate intervenes when their new teacher, an elegant man from England, pairs them to work on a group project. They select Transylvania, which prompts AJ to come up with an amazing plan. He will pretend to be a vampire, so that Nia will find him attractive. Unfortunately for him, his plan works too well. Not only is Nia suddenly attracted to him, but it turns out she has ambitions to become a vampire slayer, and she begins hunting him.

But a real vampire is lurking in the shadows at Spoons Middle School. When his best friend Hunter goes missing, AJ must marshal his friends and the girl who wants to kill him to save Hunter from a gruesome death!

The illustrations are crisp, and the story is entertaining. Anyone who has ever tried to attract some unrequited love will relate to AJ's experience and will appreciate his efforts, even if they are misplaced. Fans of graphic novels will enjoy this middle school tale!

The Jump

Morris, Brittney. The Jump. 2023. 256p. ISBN 9781665903981.

Team Jericho is comprised of four exceptional teenagers. There's the puzzle-solving Jax. There's the agile Yas. There's the tech-savvy Spider. Finally there's the skilled cartographer Han, who is autistic and has trouble reading people. Team Jericho is the reigning champion of Seattle's scavenger hunts. However, their community faces imminent danger with the construction of an oil refinery threatening their livelihoods and homes. 

When a clandestine group known as The Order takes over the scavenger hunt forum, offering a prize of immense influence, Team Jericho sees an opportunity. By winning this perilous game, they hope to acquire the power to protect their families and save their city from the impending disaster. Unfortunately, a formidable team of rivals also seek this prize. This high-stakes competition will demand more than just their street smarts and resourcefulness.

Team Jericho navigates the treacherous challenges devised by The Order. Their journey is filled with exhilarating action, intricate puzzles, and nail-biting suspense. They must not only outmaneuver their opponents but also grapple with the ethical implications of their actions and the potential consequences of wielding the influence they seek. As the stakes rise and the danger escalates, Team Jericho must rely on their unique skills, unwavering teamwork, and a deep-seated love for their community to emerge victorious and secure a better future for themselves and their loved ones.

Hydrogen

Hulick, Kathryn. Hydrogen. Part of the Chemistry of Everyday Elements series. 2017. 64p. ISBN 9781422238424. Available at 546.2 HUL on the library shelves.

Hydrogen, the simplest and most abundant element in the universe, plays a pivotal role in powering our world. It's the fundamental building block of stars, fueling their immense energy output through nuclear fusion. On Earth, hydrogen is harnessed in various forms to generate electricity and heat. In fuel cells, hydrogen reacts with oxygen to produce electricity, emitting only water as a byproduct. Additionally, hydrogen is a key component of many renewable energy sources, such as solar cells and wind turbines, where it's used to store energy efficiently.

Beyond its energy applications, hydrogen is essential for numerous industrial processes. It's used in the production of fertilizers, plastics, and other chemicals. Moreover, hydrogen has emerged as a promising solution for reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change. By transitioning to a hydrogen-based economy, we can significantly decrease our reliance on fossil fuels and move towards a more sustainable future.

This series includes:

• Silver
• Helium
• Gold
• Silicon
• Oxygen
• Hydrogen
• Aluminum

Naruto, Vol. 21: Pursuit

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 21: Pursuit. 2007. 216p. ISBN 9781421518558. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Determined to pursue his brother and avenge himself, Sasuke tried to leave Kohona to rejoin Orichimaru's elite squad, a group he encountered in Naruto, Vol. 20. His exit is interrupted by Sakura, who confronts him and declares her love for him. She even promises to follow him into battle if he will allow her to be with him. Sasuke knocks her unconscious and departs the village.

When his absence is discovered the following morning, Lady Tsunade has no choice but to send ninjas after him to bring him back. Unfortunately, all of the high level ninjas are already out on missions or defending the village, so she turns to Shikamaru, a newly minted chunin, to assemble a team to track and retrieve Sasuke. Shikamaru turns to Naruto, Kiba, Neji and Choji. Sakura and Lee both want to join the team, but Lee is still recovering from the recent battles, while Sakura has already failed, and therefore cannot join them.

Chasing Sasuke, Shikamaru's team soon encounters Orichimaru's elite ninjas, the Sound Ninjas, and while three of them carrying an inconscious Sasuke flee, one remains to challenge the team. One versus five is not a fair fight for Shikamaru and his team, who soon find themselves overwhelmed. Can Choji deploy his secret weapon and save them all?

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 22.

What Makes Us

Mittlefehldt, Rafi. What Makes Us. 2019. 352p. ISBN 9780763697501

Eran Sharon, a high school senior passionate about social justice, finds his life turned upside down when a video of a heated moment during a protest goes viral. This inadvertently exposes a dark secret from his past: his father, who abandoned him as a baby, was allegedly involved in a terrorist event fifteen years prior. Suddenly, Eran is labeled as potentially similar to his father, and faces suspicion and scrutiny from his community.

Forced to confront his family's hidden history, Eran grapples with his own identity and legacy. As he navigates the fallout of the viral video, he must grapple with the prejudices and fears within his community, while also exploring his own beliefs and values. 

What Makes US delves into the complexities of family, identity, and the impact of past events on the present, prompting readers to consider the power of perception and the importance of understanding.

The Best Strangers in the World: Stories from a Life Spent Listening

Shapiro, Ari. The Best Strangers in the World: Stories from a Life Spent Listening. 2023. 256p. ISBN 9780063221345.

In The Best Strangers in the World, NPR host Ari Shapiro delivers a moving collection of essays that serve as both a personal memoir and a heartfelt ode to the power of journalism. Shapiro transports readers around the globe using captivating narratives, recounting poignant encounters that range from heartwarming to heartbreaking. He shares intimate experiences, such as accompanying President Obama on Air Force One and tracing the harrowing journeys of Syrian refugees fleeing the Syrian Civil war. 

Shapiro's insightful reflections on his career as a journalist offer a valuable perspective on the challenges and rewards of navigating an increasingly polarized world. The book underscores the crucial role of journalism in fostering understanding and promoting dialogue. By sharing his own experiences and observations, he invites the reader to engage more deeply with the world around them and to seek out meaningful connections with others, even those who may seem vastly different.

With a profound understanding of the divisive forces shaping our world, Shapiro emphasizes the importance of bridging divides and fostering empathy. He passionately advocates for active listening and finding common ground amidst our differences, reminding us of our shared humanity that transcends religion, nationality, and political affiliations. The Best Strangers in the World is a testament to Shapiro's unwavering commitment to "Considering All Things" and his dedication to sharing the stories that connect us all and serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of human connection and the transformative power of storytelling.

Batman: Dark Victory

Loeb, Jeph and Tim Sale, illustrator. Batman: Dark Victory. 2014. 392p. ISBN 9781401244019.

Bruce Wayne began his crimefighting career a year ago, working with Detective James Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent to put a dent in the criminal underworld of Gotham City. But Falcone, the mob boss, destroyed Dent's face and his sanity when he threw acid in the District Attorney's face. Since then, the man that was Harvey Dent has become Two-Face, a criminal mastermind. 

A year later, a criminal known as the Holiday Killer has returned, and individuals connected to Harvey Dent are turning up dead. The suspicions fall on Dent as the killer, but Alfred Falcone, the real Holiday Killer and one of the sons of the former mob boss, is at Arkham Asylum. His sister Sofia Falcone is now crippled and in a wheelchair. On the anniversary of Dent's attack, the Asylum is assaulted by unknown criminals, and every psychotic individual in Gotham escapes. Vicious killers are back on the street, and Batman has his hands full, pursuing Dent while chasing villains like the Joker and Poison Ivy.

Sometimes helped by Catwoman, often hindered by her, Bruce Wayne descends deeper into the role of Batman and slowly loses his humanity as the Holiday Killer strikes once a month. Bruce adopts the orphan son of slain circus performers, and soon Dick Grayson joins him as Robin. As Gotham's villains fight the mob, the body count rises, dead cops are eliminated by the Holiday Killer, and Batman finds himself at a crossroads in his relationship with Dent. Can Batman solve the mystery of the Holiday Killer before the bloodbath spreads further?

Wicked Little Things

Arnold, Justin. Wicked Little Things. 2022. 226p. ISBN 9781739983475.

Sixteen-year-old Dane Craven grew up in the small town of Jasper Hollow, but his mother couldn't wait to get out of there. His family still lives there, however, and he often came to visit his cousins when he was younger. Unfortunately, on his last visit his cousin Grant outed him, and, to avenge himself, Dane made Grant run through the woods wearing a dress. Unfortunately for Grant, he was attacked by a killer wearing a rabbit costume, and though he dialed Dane, Dane did not answer at the time, something he regrets now that Grant has been murdered.

Things go from bad to worse for Dane. Though he sometimes feels like he will burst in flames, and his temper can get the better of him, it's because he's a witch who possesses magical abilities. He's also supposed to be part of a coven of teen girls, who all wear red and are referred to as the Reds. Grant's sister is bitter as her brother's disappearance, and though she suspects Dane and him had a falling out, she doesn't know what really happened between the two of them.

Dane is visited by his familiar, a raccoon named Aloysius who speaks like a British butler. As Dane tries to wrap his head around being a witch, he's also trying to solve Grant's murder, and, as if this was not enough, he's also falling for EJ, a boy his age who works in the local coffee shop. With magic on the loose and a killer lurking, no one is safe in Jasper Hollow, and it's up to Dane and the coven to solve this mystery before it is too late!

The characters are over the top, but the plot moves along quickly and the story culminates in a thrilling confrontation. Dane learns that there are positive elements to his hometown, a place he looked down on before. He learns more about himself, and grows as a person. 

Fans of mysteries and whodonit will love this murder mystery caper and will enjoy watch Dane make mistakes and learn from them.

Aloha Wanderwell: The Border-Smashing, Record-Setting Life of the World's Youngest Explorer

Fink-Jensen, Christian and Randolph Eustace-Walden. Aloha Wanderwell: The Border-Smashing, Record-Setting Life of the World's Youngest Explorer. 2016. 425 p. ISBN 9780864928955.

In 1922, a rebellious 15-year-old French convent student, yearning for adventure, responded to an advertisement posted by an already famous explorer, for a traveling secretary. This audacious young woman soon became known to the world as Aloha Wanderwell. She possessed an uncanny confidence and a burning ambition. She wanted to become the first woman to circumnavigate the globe by car. 

Despite facing immense challenges, including scarce roads, a lack of gasoline stations, and a hostile world largely unfamiliar with automobiles, Wanderwell embarked on this audacious expedition. Equipped with a specially modified Model T Ford and working with a small crew, she traversed continents, encountering diverse cultures and personalities, from the Eiffel Tower to the Sphinx, from Mussolini to a Detroit ticker tape parade. By the age of 25, she had achieved international fame as a pilot, actress, peace advocate, and a pivotal figure in a captivating California murder mystery.

However, this extraordinary tale of global exploration harbors a significant secret. The celebrated Aloha Wanderwell was, in fact, Idris Hall, a Canadian woman who meticulously crafted a persona to fuel her adventurous spirit. Drawing upon a wealth of sources, including diaries, travel logs, films, photographs, and even declassified government documents, "Aloha Wanderwell" unveils the remarkable true story of this enigmatic explorer, revealing the astonishing life and daring exploits of one of the most audacious and captivating figures of the 1920s.

Hellboy Omnibus, Volume 1: Seed of Destruction

Mignola, Mike. Hellboy Omnibus, Volume 1: Seed of Destruction. 2018. 368p. ISBN 9781506706665. 

Summoned through a dark Nazi ritual conducted by the evil wizard Rasputin in December 1944, Hellboy spent time being examined in a U.S. research facility before joining the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense. Now a veteran field investigator, Hellboy goes where dangerous mysteries strike others dead. Through many encounters with mythical creatures, Hellboy and his teammates discover that Rasputin's Ragna Rock conspiracy is alive and well, and that Nazi agents have survived to the 1980s and still seek to use Hellboy to open a portal to the Serpent, a mythical being banished and imprisoned long ago.

From a haunted castle in the United States to a Romanian village and a Scottish site, Hellboy confronts deadly frog humanoids, agents of Rasputin who obey his every order. Other creatures and mythical beings have their own agenda, but all agree that humans must be destroyed for a new world to emerge out of its ruins. Even slaying Rasputin does not remove the threat, as his spirit endures and recruits new servants to free the Serpent. Will Hellboy resist the call of his true nature when presented with the ultimate decision to learn his true origin? 

Fans of graphic novels and paranormal activities will appreciate the complex plot that plays over many chapters, and will cheer for Hellboy to triumph over evil.

The story continues in Hellboy, Omnibus Vol. 2: Strange Places.

The Shadow Sister

 Meade, Lily. The Shadow Sister. 2023. 336p. ISBN 9781728264479.

Casey and her older sister Sutton have never gotten along. Sutton fondly remembers the days when she was the only child. She is judgmental, perfect, and an A student. From church to school to the community at large, everyone loves Sutton. Casey is different. She's nowhere close to perfect, and she hates Sutton just as much as her sister hates her. She can't relate to people who talk about having great relationships with their siblings. She can't believe that people don't see how manipulative her sister can be. She even stole the grandmother's heirloom bracelet Casey received after her death, then threw her own laptop down the stairs and blamed Casey for it so she would have to pay for a new one.

When her sister goes missing, the entire community gets behind the effort to find her and bring her back. Usually, people don't spend much effort on finding a missing Black girl. And in the last few months, three of them have disappeared. Casey is not sad to see her sister gone, but deep down she misses es her a little. Is Sutton gone because of their fight over their grandmother's heirloom bracelet? A bloody shoe is found in the park where Sutton likes to run, and the family fears the worst. A week later, Sutton is found bloodied and disoriented. She doesn't remember what happened to her, her best friends, her boyfriend, or even her childhood. She does remember Casey, however. 

With Sutton back, Casey expects things to return to normal and thinks that Sutton is faking it to get back at her. But when her mood doesn't change, Casey is forced to acknowledge her sister is different. She now hums old spirituals, and she's fascinated by her new fish. Casey begins to dig into her sister's old and broken computer. The more she discovers, the more worried she gets. Her sister was investigating her cheer coach for abusive practices. She lent her boyfriend her car. Then she disappeared on the same day. What terrible thing happened to her sister while she was gone? Where are the other missing girls? Why doesn't anyone seem to care? As Casey delves deeper into the mystery surrounding her sister's disappearance, she uncovers a web of secrets, lies, and danger.

Fans of mysteries will appreciate exploring a dysfunctional family and the sibling rivalries taking place between Sutton and Casey. Told in alternating fashion from Casey's perspective from Sutton's disappearance and from Sutton's perspective prior to her disappearance, the reader will enjoy the suspenseful and thought-provoking narrative.

Uranium

Gardner, Jane P. Uranium. 2018.64p. ISBN 9781422238479. Available at 546.43 GAR on the library shelves.

Uranium, a dense, silvery-white metal, was first discovered by Martin Klaproth, a German chemist, in 1789. He isolated uranium oxide from pitchblende, a mineral found in the Joachimsthal silver mines in Bohemia. The discovery of uranium marked a significant milestone in the field of chemistry and physics, as it paved the way for further exploration of radioactivity and nuclear energy.   

The true potential of uranium as a powerful energy source was not realized until the 20th century. Scientists discovered that certain isotopes of uranium, particularly uranium-235, undergo nuclear fission, releasing immense amounts of energy. This process, known as nuclear fission, is the basis for nuclear power generation. Nuclear power plants harness the energy released during fission to generate electricity, providing a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels.  The same process could also be used to fuel bombs, however, and humanity entered the nuclear age when atomic bombs were dropped on Japan in 1945. 

The use of uranium also raises concerns about nuclear proliferation, vulnerability of plants to environmental hazards like Fukushima or to human error like Chernobyl, and the safe disposal of nuclear waste. Scientists and engineers are continuously working to develop advanced nuclear technologies, such as nuclear fusion, which promises to be a cleaner and more sustainable energy source. By addressing these challenges and advancing nuclear technology, we can harness the power of uranium to meet our energy needs while minimizing environmental impact.

Naruto, Vol. 20: Naruto vs. Sasuke

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto, Vol. 20: Naruto vs. Sasuke. 2007. 192p. ISBN 9781421516554. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Having returned to the village with Lady Tsunade in Naruto, Vol. 19, Naruto is reunited with Sakura and Sasuke. Sasuke is still angry with his injuries, and despite all of her efforts, Sakura is rejected time and again. When he sees Naruto, Sasuke, who's still weak, stands up and tells Naruto that they will settle their differences once and for all. On the roof of the hospital, both ninjas fight to injure and kill, not to demonstrate their abilities. Kakashi, who was also hurt, intervenes, and lectures both on the value of friendship. Sasuke, who's still bent on getting revenge, angrily departs.

Unfortunately for him, Orichimaru has dispatched the Sound Four to capture the boy and bring him back so he can convince him to join his fight. Outnumbered, Sasuke is cornered and must fight to survive.

Meanwhile, Lee also must fight to survive. His injuries are so severe that Tsunade tell him the risks are too great to heal him, and Lee should give up on his dream of becoming a ninja. Determined to fight to the end, Lee discusses the situation with Master Guy, who agrees with Lee that the surgery that could kill him is the only way to go ...

The story continues in Naruto, Vol. 21: Pursuit.

Perfect Girl

Banghart, Tracy. Perfect Girl. 2024. 304p. ISBN 9781250902863.

Unlike her brother, Jessa has always been the perfect girl. She follows all of the rules and is as straight-laced as can be. Her life is laid out in front of her, and everyone knows she will be a lawyer someday. Her brother Josh is the troublemaker in the family, and he's always in trouble. Jessa has had her eyes on Ryan, Josh's best friend, but fearing rejection, she refuses to even approach him. 

Over the last few months, several girls have gone missing in the next state. As her parents are attending the opera in town that evening and not returning until the morning, Jesse convinces them to let her invite her friends and have a sleepover, even if they are not here. Josh will be staying with Ryan. Jesse knows they don't need to worry about her or her friends Kellen, Alexis, and Tiny making trouble or breaking things, but Josh has previously left them with a lasting impression of a party gone bad. 

The four girls gather together for a Buffy the Vampire Slayer marathon, only to experience a loss of power due to a thunderstorm. Josh and Ryan return to the house after getting into a fight with Ryan's parents. Jesse and Ryan are sent to the gas station down the street to call the utility and report the outage. On the ride, Jesse discovers that Ryan likes her but has promised Josh he would not date her out of respect for their friendship. When they come back, the house is empty and dark. 

Looking for her friends, Jesse finds Alexis passed out on the road. She is rescued by David, a senior who lives in the next house down the street. She soon finds herself inside with Alexis, as David's mother, a nurse, ministers to her hurt friend. But all is not well, as she quickly discovers David's creepy side and his mother's insane desire to find him the best wife. Caught in David's trap, Jesse must devise a plan to escape a killer and rescue her friends from certain death.

Perfect Girl is a great mystery, with the killer next door. The characters are realistic, and even if the plot is overly complicated, it is still an entertaining read!

A History of Air Warfare

Olson, John Andrea. A History of Air Warfare. 2010. 522p. ISBN 9781597974400.

 

A History of Air Warfare is a comprehensive anthology that explores the evolution of air power in military conflicts throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Featuring contributions from leading military experts, this book examines a series of key campaigns that marked the field of air warfare, analyzing the objectives, events, and key players involved. Each essay meticulously scrutinizes the role of air power within the broader strategic and operational context of a military engagement or campaign, considering the interplay between political factors and military operations. It concludes with a broader analysis of air and space power in both conventional and unconventional warfare, offering valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of air power across different historical periods.

Beyond a simple celebration of air power, A History of Air Warfare offers a critical and even-handed assessment of its role in military history. It highlights the challenges of joint and coalition warfare, making it a valuable resource for scholars of modern warfare, and air power specialists. Readers who enjoy military history will appreciate the descriptive nature of this book and the thorough analysis of the impact of air power on modern warfare.

Blue Exorcist, Vol. 16

Kato, Kazue. Blue Exorcist, Vol. 16. 2016. 218p. ISBN 9781421590417. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

Following the revelation that Shima was a double, or maybe triple agent in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 15, he has rejoined the Knights and the students at True Cross Academy. Following their battle with the Illuminati and recovering from her injuries, Shura suggests the whole crew take a trip to the baths to relax. With the girls and the boys separated, Shima decides he's going to spy on the girls. Rin wants nothing to do with that plan, but in the process of stopping Shima, the wall separating the two genders collapses, revealing the boys in all of their glory!

Yukio continues to struggle with his secret, a strange fire present in his eyes and a presence that saved him when his life was threatened. Seeking to recreate the circumstances that released whatever possesses him, Yukio puts himself into bad situations, hoping to face enough danger. 

Meanwhile, the leaders of the Knights of the True Cross meet in the Vatican, and they determine that the training of the new Exwires should be sped up to ensure they are available when the conflict with the Illuminati gets worse. Lewin Light, master of lightning, is thus sent to Japan to help train the Exwires. And Bon is determined to become his apprentice ...

The story continues in Blue Exorcist, Vol. 17.

Spy School Goes Wild

Gibbs, Stuart. Spy School Goes Wild. Book 12 of the Spy School series. 2024. 320p. ISBN 9781665934770. 

Following their Alaskan adventure in Spy School Goes North, the spy trainees return to their facility in Alaska. When the Principal of their former school arrives on the island with a secret mission only for Ben, the other recruits and the adults are puzzled, but orders are orders. Ben takes off with the Principal, after an angry parting with Erica. 

On the plane, Ben discovers that the mission is in fact a kidnapping, and that the Principal is in league with Murray to deliver him to the criminal Shang family boss, who is still smarting from his humiliation at the hands of young Ben earlier in the series. Unfortunately for Murray, the Principal betrayed them both, as Shang also wants Murray. The two of them soon find themselves slave laborers in a mine in Botswana, but not before Shang reveals he has plans. Actual architectural plans, for the largest diamond heist in history.

Forced to collaborate with Murray, Ben successfully escapes Shang, only to be betrayed again by Murray. Fortunately, Spy School is not far behind, and together with the crew, Ben will try to stop Shang from inflicting an ecological disaster on the area, and prevent him from despoiling the natural riches of Botswana!

Tales of Ancient Egypt: Myths & Adventures from the Land of the Pyramids

Cook, Hugo. Tales of Ancient Egypt: Myths & Adventures from the Land of the Pyramids. 2024. 160p. ISBN 9781684493807.

Tales of Ancient Egypt is a captivating journey through the rich history of the ancient civilization of Egypt. Moving beyond the familiar story of Tutankhamun, this book delves into a wealth of lesser-known tales, including the daring escape of Cleopatra to meet Julius Caesar and the Cinderella-like tale of a peasant girl who married the pharaoh. The book seamlessly blends historical accounts with fascinating myths, offering a vibrant tapestry of love, betrayal, and royal intrigue.

Beyond the engaging narratives, Tales of Ancient Egypt provides valuable insights into Egyptian history and culture. Readers will learn about the construction of pyramids, the intricate process of mummification, and the role of gods and goddesses in ancient Egyptian society. With its engaging storytelling, meticulous research, and stunning visual presentation, this book is an great introduction to ancient Egypt for young readers, sparking their curiosity and inspiring further exploration.

Maximum Ride, the Manga, Vol. 4

Patterson, James and NaRae Lee. Maximum Ride, the Manga, Vol. 4. 2011. 240p. ISBN 9780759529700. Available in the graphic novels section of the library.

The stability that the flock has gained since Maximum Ride, the Manga, Vol. 3 as they've been living with Anne has been helpful. They've been eating regularly, getting exercise, and even learning at school. But Max is antsy. She feels like it's time to go and not stick around too much longer. Erasers know they're here, and Iggy and Gassy keep bringing explosives to school, getting themselves in trouble. Plus, they're still trying to find more information about their parents, and Nudge comes up with a possibility to break the code. Unfortunately that doesn't pan out, and they're back to square one.

Hunting through the school, they discover that it has only be recently converted into a school, and it seems set up to trick them into a sense of normalcy. Another confrontation with  Ari forces Max's hand, and she tells the flock they have to move. But all of them want to stay, so they can enjoy their first Thanksgiving. A report on television reveal Iggy's parents, who reported he was kidnapped 14 years ago. Iggy is finally reunited with them, only to find out his parents see him as their ticket to wealth.

When the school turns out to be part of the experiment for Max and the rest of the flock, she's not surprised, but when Jeb informs her that Anne is the lead on the project, Max feels betrayed. Fleeing, the flock heads towards Florida, but Max is captured, and a copy replaces her, leading the flock into another trap ...

The story continues in Maximum Ride, the Manga, Vol. 5.

Impossible Creatures

Rundell, Katherine. Impossible Creatures. Book 1 of the Impossible Creatures series. 2024. 368p. ISBN 9780593809860.

Christopher loves to visit his grandfather, on the edge of the world, but he's often been warned not to wander by the lake. Disobeying his grandfather's wishes, Christopher visits the lake, only to find a magical creature struggling in the water. Jumping in, Christopher rescues a baby griffin, something that occurs only in fantasy. Yet the baby is here. Christopher is interrupted by a scrapping young girl who has been nursing the griffin and has been on the run since a murderer killed her grandmother. Introducing herself as Mal, the girl tells Christopher that the griffin comes from the Archipelagoes, a world of islands off the coast where magic still exists. But the magical tree that sustains it all is dying for an unknown reason.

Pursued by the murderer, Christopher and Mal embark on a dangerous adventure to discover what is ailing the tree and rescue the magical creatures that dwell in the Archipelagoes from certain death. Making friends along the way, the two children sail from one island to the next, piercing the mystery of the Immortal and the invader that has attacked the tree. Filled with challenges, Christopher and Mal must outsmart their opponents and save magic so that a world that desperately needs it can survive!

Fans of amazingly well written fantasy books like The Golden Compass or The Hobbit will thoroughly enjoy the world building and the memorable characters of Impossible Creatures. Christopher and Mal are both realistic, with relatable emotions and conversations at appropriate developmental levels. The story is engaging, and the magic does not overwhelm the challenges faced by the characters. If you love fantasy, you will love this book!

Running the Room: The Teacher's Guide to Behavior

Bennett, Tom. Running the Room: The Teacher's Guide to Behavior. 2020. 346p. ISBN 9781913622145.

Running the Room examines the crucial role positive classroom behavior plays in fostering successful learning environments. Effective behavior management is not about punishment, but rather about teaching and cultivating essential social and emotional skills in students. It highlights the importance of creating a calm and respectful classroom where all students feel valued and supported. Recognizing that every child comes to the classroom with unique experiences and needs, teachers must devise a tailored approach to behavior management.

Running the Room provides teachers with practical, evidence-based strategies and techniques for creating a positive classroom culture. Drawing on the expertise of educators worldwide, it offers valuable insights and guidance on building strong relationships with students, establishing clear expectations, and implementing effective classroom routines. By emphasizing the importance of viewing behavior as a curriculum, the book empowers teachers to create a learning environment where both students and teachers can thrive.

Bleach, Vol. 5: Right Arm of the Giant

Kubo, Tite. Bleach, Vol. 5: Right Arm of the Giant. 2005. 192p. ISBN 9781591164456. Available in the graphic novels section of the library. 

Ichigo's encounter with Ishida, in Bleach, Vol. 4 revealed that Soul Reapers were not the only ones who were out there hunting Hollows. Quincies, enemies of the Soul Reapers, also seek to fight Hollows, but unlike Soul Reapers, who hope to release the tortured soul for a peaceful eternity, Quincies aim to destroy those souls as corrupted and irrecuperable, and they don't care what the collateral damage is.

Ishida challenges Ichigo to a contest. He summons a horde of Hollows by spreading bait all over the city, and the one who defeats the most wins the contest. Ichigo finds he has no choice but to participate in this madness, since his friends and family are now likely to become victims of these Hollows.

Meanwhile, both Orihime and Chad have their own experiences with Hollows. Orihime can see them and tries to protect her friends. Chad cannot see them, but he develops a massive weapon on his right arm, which he puts to effective use with guidance from Ichigo's little sister against a Hollow determined to kill her friends....

The story continues in Bleach, Vol 6. 

Orphaned Worlds

Cobley, Michael. Orphaned Worlds. Book 2 of the Humanity's Fire series. 2010. 480p. ISBN 9781841496337. 

The deployment of Brolturan troops on Darien in Seeds of Earth was followed by a stiffening resistance as the humans on the planet sought to defend their home against a ruthless invader. Greg Cameron finds himself the unlikely leader of the resistance defending against mech attacks and assaults from Brotulran troops. A Knight of the Legion of Avatars, an ancient sentient race that long ago merged with machines to transcend the bounds of flesh, reaches Darian and diverts control of a Sendrukan mech factory for its own nefarious purposes. Ambassador Robert Horst, who traveled through hyperspace to meet with the Construct and then on to request the Godhead's help, seeks to transport the Zyradin, an ancient ally of the Forerunners, back to Darien to shore up the defenses of the forest entity that protects the planet and its moon.

When religious fanatics destroy the Brotulran's flagship and land troops on Darien and its moon, the human warship is forced to withdraw. Meanwhile, a group of humans known as the Enhanced have been captured by another human, who serves the Spiral but has devious plans of her own in place. As AI takes control of the Brolturan positions and battle strategy, the Sendrukan ambassador is isolated in a shifting political situation. With forces gathering on Darien, the Legion's ancient evil seeks to escape from its prison deep in hyperspace. Will Catriona's transformation into Guardian thanks to the Zyradin help shift the balance of power?

Helium

Gardner, Jane P. Helium. Part of the Chemistry of Everyday Elements series. 2017. 64p. ISBN 9781422238417.

Helium, a lightweight, inert noble gas, is widely used in various industries due to its unique properties as the second lightest element after hydrogen. Its low density, high thermal conductivity, and non-reactive nature make it ideal for a variety of applications.

In the field of medicine, helium is used in a technique called helium-oxygen therapy. This therapy involves breathing a mixture of helium and oxygen, which can improve lung function and reduce breathing difficulties in patients with respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Helium's low density allows it to flow more easily through constricted airways, making it easier for patients to breathe.

Helium is also essential in many technological applications. Its low reactivity and high thermal conductivity make it an excellent coolant for superconducting magnets used in MRI machines and particle accelerators. Additionally, helium is used in leak detection, welding, and as a carrier gas in gas chromatography. In the aerospace industry, helium is used to pressurize and purge fuel tanks in rockets. Its low density and non-flammable nature make it a safe and efficient choice for this application.

Despite the fact that it continuously escapes into the atmosphere, helium remains one of the most important chemicals in our daily life!

This series includes:

• Silver
• Helium
• Gold
• Silicon
• Oxygen
• Hydrogen
• Aluminum

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Part 1: Phantom Blood, Vol 2

Akari, Hirohiko. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Part 1: Phantom Blood, Vol 2. 2015. 319p. ISBN 9781421578804. In the graphic novels section of the library.

At the end of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Part 1: Phantom Blood, Vol 1, Dio attempted to escape capture by putting on the stone mask, but he was shot several times after jumping through the window and falling to the ground. Presuming him to be dead, one of the police officers reveals he knew of Jonathan's father forgiving Dio's father for stealing his dead wife's ring, and adopting Dio to give him a chance.

But Dio is not dead, and as he raises, his wounds already healing, police officers fire their weapons, but are unable to stop Dio. An epic battle ensues, and Jonathan's incredible efforts and stamina thwart Dio's plans. Despite suffering multiple wounds, JoJo relentlessly pursues Dio through the Joestar manor, and he elaborates a trap that is ultimately successful in catching Dio and killing him.

With the manor in smoldering ruins, Speedwagon and his men take Jonathan to the hospital. Despite his wounds, Jonathan has survived the encounter with Dio, and he is reunited with his childhood love, who nurses him back to health. Under the manor, however, Dio has survived, and when someone comes to retrieve the stone mask, Dio emerges from the ruins and turns him into a zombie. Now a powerful vampire, Dio sets forth to accumulate loyal servants, acquiring Jack the Ripper as his first follower.

Having recuperated from his wounds, Jonathan meets Zippeli, a strange man who has mastered the art of breathing, allowing him to focus strength on specific points. Zippeli volunteers to train Jonathan, because he feels responsible for the stone mask ending up in Dio's hand. Jonathan is a fast learner, and he soon masters most of the techniques Zippeli showed him. On their way to a small town where Dio is rumored to be hiding, they are first confronted by Jack the Ripper, then by Dio himself, who's even more powerful than before!