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New & Noteworthy

Events for Children

After-School Activity

3:15pm–4:15pm
Children, Teens/Tweens
Library Branch: Tamarack District Library
Room: Teen/Tween Room
Age Group: Children, Teens/Tweens
Program Type: Afterschool
Event Details:

Ms. Robin has a game, craft, or other activity planned that is geared toward school-aged kids. Registration is not required.

Yoshi Egg Hunt

Jigsaw Puzzle Competition

5:30pm–8:00pm
Children, Teens/Tweens, Adults
Open
Registration Required
Library Branch: Tamarack District Library
Room: Tamarack Room
Age Group: Children, Teens/Tweens, Adults
Program Type: Clubs & Groups
Registration Required

Gather your team and see how quickly you can complete the puzzle.  All teams will have an identical 500 piece puzzle to complete.  Teams can have a maximum of 6 people of all ages.  

Sign up only team captain. This will reserve a puzzle for your team.    

Puzzles may be previously used. 

Ms. Robin's Story Time

11:00am–12:00pm
Children
Library Branch: Tamarack District Library
Room: Tamarack Room
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Storytime
Event Details:

Join Ms. Robin for stories, crafts and learning! Recommended for Infants-PreK and their adults. Registration is not required.

Green Shamrocks- Eve Bunting

Shamrock necklace craft

Disclaimer(s)

This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.

Half Day After-School

12:15pm–1:15pm
Children, Teens/Tweens
Library Branch: Tamarack District Library
Room: Teen/Tween Room
Age Group: Children, Teens/Tweens
Program Type: Afterschool
Event Details:

Ms. Robin has a game, craft, or other activity planned that is geared toward school-aged kids. Registration is not required.

LEGOS- Create your own mini-figure.

Resources for Children

Britannica Fundamentals

Britannica Fundamentals database logo

Designed for Pre-K to 2nd grade, Britannica Fundamentals helps young children play and read as they explore letters, numbers, shapes, animals, and more — all in a fun, interactive way!

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Britannica School Elementary

Britannica School Elementary database logo

Perfect for grades 3–4, Britannica School Elementary makes learning fun and easy! Discover facts about countries, animals, and people, and explore educational videos, games, and hands-on activities.

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Dolly Parton Imagination Library

Dolly Parton Imagination Library database logo

Inspire a love of reading from the very beginning! Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a free book gifting program that mails high-quality books each month to children from birth to age five — no matter their family’s income.

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Explora for Primary schools

Explora for Primary schools database logo

Build strong literacy skills in students from pre-K to 8th grade by offering digital access to award-winning, short-form fiction and nonfiction titles.

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Novelist k-8

Novelist K-8 database logo

Find just the right book by subject, age, awards won, books made into movies, and much more. Read reviews and learn about the author. Create your own reading wish list.

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OverDrive

Lakeland Digital Library database logo

Overdrive where you can enjoy eBooks, digital audiobooks, and magazines from your public library. You can stream titles with Wi-Fi or mobile data, or download them for offline use and read anytime, anywhere.

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Pebble go

Pebble go database logo

For grades PreK–3: Explore animals (including dinosaurs) and social studies with this early literacy tool. Features an easy, visual interface designed for emerging readers.

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Transparent Language

Speech bubble with the words Transparent Language online under it.

Transparent Language empowers you to learn anywhere, anytime, for any language goal — in 100+ languages.

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Book Recommendations for Children

Image for "Honor Flight: Celebrating America's Veterans"

Honor Flight: Celebrating America's Veterans

"A solemn and respectful reminder to younger readers of what was paid and what is owed." --School Library Journal (starred review)

The team behind Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier join forces to create a touching companion book honoring military veterans and the program that keeps their contribution alive.

Located in our nation's capital are monuments dedicated to the service members who fought in the last century's wars. Visitors line up to gaze at the Iwo Jima Memorial, stark against the sky; the solemn Tomb of the Unknown Soldier; the national World War II Memorial with its circle of unity; the Korean War Veterans Memorial; and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, engraved with tens of thousands of names. It is here that the Honor Flight program has brought some 300,000 aging veterans, all of them deserving a chance to see their commitment and sacrifice honored and commemorated. Told in the voice of an anonymous veteran, Jeff Gottesfeld's first-person narrative conveys the emotional impact of a visit that not only encompasses a tour of the monuments but also includes moving tributes from friends and schoolchildren and ends with the kind of welcome home that some of the veterans had never received. Matt Tavares's striking illustrations bring readers close to both Washington's timeless monuments and the veterans whose role in history will never be forgotten. An afterword and notes from the author provide more information for curious readers.
Image for "Seven Million Steps"

Seven Million Steps

From award-winning creators, Derrick Barnes, Frank Morrison, and Dr. Christian Gregory comes the true story of comedian and activist Dick Gregory's remarkable Food Run of 1976.

1 man. 1,011 hours. 3,200 miles. 7 million steps.

What would you do?

In April of 1976, Dick Gregory sets off on a Herculean and grueling two-and-a-half month run. His goal: to raise awareness about the epidemic of poverty and food insecurity in America.

Sleeping in motels and consuming nothing but fruit juices, vitamins and water, he runs from Los Angeles to New York City. And in each city, he stops to speak the truth about injustice. About the plight of the penniless. About the hopeless.

Lyrical text, stunning art, and compelling backmatter come together to ask you--yes you--what would you do if you had a wild idea to stand up for something you believe in? Find out how far Dick Gregory's belief in feeding the hungry took him in this unforgettable story of an incredible journey that still reverberates today.
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Is It Spring?

If one day buds bloom and birds chirp, and the next day a late snow falls from the sky, is it spring Will it ever be spring An evergreen, child-friendly picture book that explores themes of patience, hope, the seasons, and nature by the New York Times bestseller and Caldecott Medalist Kevin Henkes.

A flower in the garden down the street. Birds in the sky. Buds on the branches in the park. It must be spring.

But wait! What is this icy gust of wind Why are snowflakes falling from heavy gray clouds Will it ever be spring Yes, says the sun. Just be patient.

Kevin Henkes, the #1 New York Times bestseller who has been awarded the Caldecott Medal, two Caldecott Honors, two Newbery Honors, two Geisel Honors, the Children's Literature Lecture Award, and Children's Literature Legacy Award, among numerous other honors, has created a masterful and classic picture book that combines an evocative call-and-response text with delicate and lovely illustrations. Readers will be left assured that the sun--and spring--will always come again.
Image for "Forty the Fortune Teller"

Forty the Fortune Teller

A laugh-out-loud funny graphic novel-style picture book about a paper fortune teller left behind at recess who ends up saving the day, by the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Day the Crayons Quit.

What's a fortune teller to do when she's dropped on the ground half-finished when the bell rings to mark the end of recess? Make friends and save the day, that's what! 

In this hilarious graphic novel-style picture book, Forty the Fortune Teller, along with her friends Potato Chip and Basketball convince a team of chewed-up chewing gum to help repair the playground slide so that the kids at school won't get hurt. This story is totally wacky, totally adorable, and a perfect read-aloud for a storytime.
Image for "The Weedy Garden"

The Weedy Garden


This debut picture book from acclaimed and New York Times bestselling author Margaret Renkl--with collage illustrations by her brother, fine artist Billy Renkl--invites readers to observe and wonder about the various inhabitants in the vibrant ecosystem of a wildlife-friendly backyard garden. Features backmatter.

If you were hungry squirrel in the weedy garden, where would you find an acorn If you were a cottontail rabbit, where would you hide your bunnies And if you were a child, sitting still and listening, what would the weedy garden say to you

Margaret Renkl, a beloved regular contributor to The New York Times and two-time recipient of the Southern Book Prize, writes beautifully about our changing natural world. In her debut picture book, she asks questions that draw young readers deeper and deeper into the garden, inviting observation and conversation along the way. Each page turn introduces a new plant or animal friend, buzzing and dancing with quiet wonder. The fine artist Billy Renkl, Margaret Renkl's brother and frequent collaborator, brings the weedy garden to life through his signature mixed-media collages. Includes backmatter with more information about the residents of the garden, eco-friendly gardening tips, and instructions on how to make your own collage art project at home or in school.

With evergreen themes of patience and respect for the natural world, The Weedy Garden will appeal to readers of Plant the Tiny Seed, On Meadowview Street, and Peter Brown's The Curious Garden.
Image for "Houdini's Library"

Houdini's Library

A fresh and fascinating picture book biography about the iconic magician Harry Houdini, an avid book collector who lived and breathed the idea that books are magic, from the author of Caldecott Honor book The Noisy Paint Box.

Houdini is the world's most beloved magician, and he became famous for all of the amazing tricks he accomplished. Houdini knew just how to captivate his audience, whether it was leaping from a bridge or freeing himself from a straitjacket. But in true magician's fashion, he kept a secret so great that not many people knew about, and that was his love for books!

As a young boy in Budapest, Harry learned to read at his father's knee. After the family emigrated to America, Harry grew up to be the amazing Houdini--but never lost his love of reading. He spent the rest of his life collecting all kinds of rare and unusual books, almost entirely about magic. With warm, inviting text and astounding art with miniature models constructed from paper, this extraordinary book opens a new page on the story of Harry Houdini.
Image for "Investigators: Agents of S.U.I.T.: Sew Much Trouble"

Investigators: Agents of S.U.I.T.: Sew Much Trouble

"When I'm faced with a Pilkey fan looking to branch out, this graphic novel is the first book I reach for... If eight books aren't enough, the spinoff series, Agents of S.U.I.T., continues the fun." ―The New York Times

More than four million copies in print!

InvestiGators fans, get ready to dive into the fourth volume of Agents of S.U.I.T. with the weirdest mystery yet!

Someone has stolen the Notorious P.I.G. food truck, and with it, Piggy Smalls’s special BBQ sauce! But before Bongo and Marsha can solve the case, they need to solve the problems they’re having with each other. To help them realize what a great team they truly are, General Inspector decides to split them up. He assigns Marsha to work with Cilantro on a super-secret pilot program, and Bongo to work with Sven on a not so-secret reality competition: "Sew You Think You Can Sew!” 

But here’s the rub: This season includes a chef challenge, and underground sources say Piggy Smalls's notorious sauce was stolen to help one of the contestants win!
Image for "A Fluffle of Bunnies"

A Fluffle of Bunnies

Join the animals and follow the clues in this rollicking, rhyming, nature-inspired whodunit story full of fun collective nouns!

A scurry of squirrels has a mystery to solve-a gray rabbit has disappeared! Picture book readers will delight in the cast of woodland animals (with their collective nouns) and the joys of spring, when the rabbit herself reveals a fluffle of baby bunnies!

Praise for Tap the Magic Tree-

"Although simple in presentation with ample white space, the artwork provides a glorious rendition of the four seasons of a tree. " - Booklist

Praise for The Hidden Rainbow-

"This book is sweeter than honey." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Praise for Bird Watch-

"A peaceful look at nature for little ones." - School Library Journal

Praise for Touch the Brightest Star-

"This exploration of the world at night should be inviting to even the youngest children . . ." - The Horn Book

Vans & Villains

Nancy, Bess, and George embark on an ill-fated cross-country road trip in the twenty-seventh Nancy Drew Diaries, a fresh approach to a classic series.

When George wins an exciting contest from her favorite van life influencers to transport their camper van from Chicago to Los Angeles, she naturally invites Nancy and Bess along to live out her van life fantasies for seven days. 

But things quickly go sideways for the girls, from bad weather to mechanical problems, leading to personality clashes in a small, closed space. Worse yet, Nancy feels like someone is following them. Could someone be trying to sabotage the trip? Or is Nancy so used to solving mysteries that she’s starting to see villains where there are none? 

Nancy had better figure it out quickly if their road trip—and their friendship—is going to survive the chaos.
Image for "The Berenstain Bears Visit the Ice Age"

The Berenstain Bears Visit the Ice Age

Featuring over a dozen prehistoric facts! Get ready for another exciting museum adventure with the Berenstain Bears! This time, they're stepping back in time to explore the wonders of the Ice Age.

From mighty woolly mammoths to the fierce saber-tooth cats, this leveled reader makes it easy for children to sound out simple words and sentences while learning fascinating facts about the past.

Packed with classic charm from the New York Times bestselling series, Visit the Ice Age is a delightful way to spark curiosity and a love for history.
Image for "I Can Say Bye-Bye!"

I Can Say Bye-Bye!

Become your child's best teacher with this fun flap book created by an early speech expert!

Help little ones learn to talk with a simple, interactive approach designed by a speech language pathologist! I Can Say Bye-Bye! features:

  • Large flaps that reveal changing scenes and prompt kids to say "hi!" and "bye-bye!"
  • Rhythm and rhyme to encourage repetition and keep babies and toddlers engaged
  • Adorable photographs that model correct mouth positions and support social-emotional learning
  • and even a mirror to practice waving in!
Image for "Kitten Delivery (Just Like Home, Book Two)"

Kitten Delivery (Just Like Home, Book Two)

Seven purrfect companions are ready to take their next steps.

 

A heartwarming and fun middle grade series from bestselling author Erin Soderberg Downing about a unique animal sanctuary, the full-time family who live there, and the rotating stable of animal guests who will learn what it really feels like to be loved and cared for.

 

Siblings Ruby and Henry have an unusual kind of home life compared to their friends. Their family operates an animal sanctuary with a unique collection of full-time pet residents: a pig, a dog, the world's bossiest cat, two silly goats, and a llama who thinks he's a human. Not to mention, Ruby and Henry's mom is also a vet at the animal clinic in town. Let's just say, when it comes to animals, it's hard for Ruby and Henry's family to say no...especially when they stumble upon a litter of abandoned kittens on the side of the road.

 

With seven new house guests with seven very different personalities, it's only fitting to name them after the seven dwarfs. The hard part is going to be finding good homes for each unique kitten. If anyone can do it, it's Ruby and Henry.

 

But first, they're going to need to keep their new campers feeling safe and well taken care of while they grow big and strong enough to be adopted. And as it turns out, this will be harder than it seems...

 

 
Image for "The Snow Theater"

The Snow Theater

From Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award winner Ryoji Arai comes a gorgeous picture book about a child learning to accept mistakes, while having a magical experience in the wild, beautiful snow.



After accidentally ripping the pages of his father's favorite book, a pensive, heavy-hearted boy leaves his cozy, warm house to ski through the snow. There, in the quiet and the cold, he stumbles upon a small stage that's all lit up--a tiny snow theater, with tiny snow people and tiny ballerinas--that soon transforms into a large snow theater, presided over by the majestic snow queen.



As the boy joins the chorus of snow children, the snow queen lifts up her arms and snow falls and falls and falls, until all the boy can see is white--a snowstorm! And it's at that precise moment that the boy's father, who let his son go off alone but never lost track of him, is there to take his hand as they return home together.



Originally published in Japan and written and illustrated by one of the country's most important picture book makers, The Snow Theater is a quietly enchanting tale about the wild beauty of nature, the powers of the imagination, and the unconditional love of a parent for their child.
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Featured Books

Image for "Exca-Gator!"

Exca-Gator!

He's an alligator . . . he operates an excavator . . . he is EXCA-GATOR!

An adorable picture book perfect for fans of Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site and Crocodiles Need Kisses Too!

In the deepest jungle swamp,
Where the beasties howl and stomp,
From a little swamp home door,
Comes a mighty gator ROAR!

Exca-Gator is so excited for a new day of building and constructing with all of his buds! He may be even a little too excited, when he overestimates his abilities and causes a big old construction site mess. Can Exca-Gator make things right with his friends and save the day?

Told in rhythmic bouncing rhyme from Brooke Hartman and with gorgeous playful art from prolific picture book illustrator Michael Slack, this book is a can't-miss pick for any young readers who love books about construction vehicles and adorable animals.
Image for "Pocket Bear"

Pocket Bear

Thimble-born from tip to toe, Pocket Bear remembers every moment of his becoming: the glimmering needle, the silken thread, the tender hands as each careful stitch brought him closer to himself. Born during the throes of WWI, he was designed to be a mere 3 1/2 inches tall, perfectly sized to fit into the pocket of a soldier's jacket, eyes sewn a bit higher than normal so that he always gazed upward. That way, glancing at his pocket, a soldier would see an endearing token of love from someone back home, and, hopefully, a good luck charm. Now, over a century later, Pocket serves as unofficial mayor of Second Chances Home for the Tossed and Treasured, where stuffed toy animals are refurbished and given a fresh opportunity to be loved. He and his best feline friend Zephyrina, a Maine Coon known far and wide as "The Cat Burglar," have seen it all, and then some. But when an ancient-looking stuffed bear named Berwin arrives at Second Chances, even worldly-wise Pocket is astounded. Berwin, it soon becomes clear, is worth millions of dollars. Part of the first lot of stuffed bears ever created--then apparently lost at sea-- collectors all over the world would stop at nothing to possess him. Pocket knows Berwin's sale could solve many problems for his struggling family at Second Chances. But he also knows Berwin, comically naive and long-sheltered, pines desperately for the things Pocket's already seen in abundance: real life, with all its adventures and trials, and true love, with all its heartbreak and joy. When Berwin ends up at auction, it's up to Pocket and Zephyrina to rescue their new friend from a bleak future, forever trapped in a glass display case. Real life and true love may well await. But so do difficult choices, the hardest Pocket has ever faced. An unforgettable tale of bravery, loyalty, and kindness, Pocket reminds us all that love comes in many forms (sometimes filled with fluff), and that second chances are always possible.
Image for "This Is Not a Sleepy Bear Book"

This Is Not a Sleepy Bear Book

The classic "bear hibernation" story is turned on its head in this hilarious read-aloud full of surprises, perfect for a cozy winter read and story time year-round!

This is was supposed to be a sleepy bear book-a gentle, quiet story. Until Bear opened his cozy, quiet den, only to find-A DJ and a disco ball? Guitar riffs and a booming bass? A random jazz flute?Stop all these shenanigans! THIS ISN'T WHAT HAPPENS IN A SLEEPY BEAR BOOK!

Things only get noisier and more chaotic with every turn of the page. Winking at storytime conventions in a way that'll crack kids up, This Is Not a Sleepy Bear Book combines classic bedtime story tropes with visual, giggle-worthy surprises that offer a memorable twist and a great read-aloud.
Image for "The Snowball Fight"

The Snowball Fight

From the New York Times bestsellers behind Stick and Stone comes a wintry (but warmhearted) ode to the pleasures of a snowy day outside. A humorous, modern-day classic to be shared alongside other winter tales like Sneezy the Snowman and Mice Skating.

One wintry morning, the snow begins and so does . . . a snowball fight!

In her signature verse, Beth Ferry recounts a day spent behind snowbanks and on sleds, while Tom Lichtenheld's cinematic art delights readers with sly and snowy twists.
Image for "The Christmas Sweater"

The Christmas Sweater

From the beloved author and illustrator behind the wintertime classic The Mitten comes an adventurous Christmas tale of a boy and his adorable pug who saves the day with his holiday sweater.

“Brett’s legions of fans will delight in this new Christmastime story, with plenty to pore over in the detailed, wintry illustrations.” —Kirkus Reviews

It’s Christmas morning, and Theo’s Yiayia has knitted his dog, Ari, a special red sweater. But when Ari shows his disinterest in the gift, Theo steps in to show his grandmother just how much they appreciate her kindness. He proposes a hike to Echo Lake, just him and Ari, where he can use his new snowshoes and Ari can sport his new sweater!

The woods are a winter wonderland, and more snow swirls as they hike. But just when they reach the lake, Theo realizes Ari’s sweater has disappeared, along with their tracks and every familiar landmark. Could they have lost Yiayia’s gift and the way home?

Luckily, Ari spots something in the snow that turns out to be a surprising solution to their predicament. And when they get home, they find an even bigger surprise from that amazing Christmas sweater.

Jan Brett’s story of the bond between boy and dog radiates warmth and charm, while her signature border details hint at a final Christmas miracle sure to wow any crowd. The Christmas Sweater is a beautiful tale that’s sure to become an instant Christmas classic in every household.
Image for "If the Shoe Fits (Whatever After Graphic Novel #2)"

If the Shoe Fits (Whatever After Graphic Novel #2)

Graphic novels with a fairy tale twist! The beloved New York Times and USA Today bestselling Whatever After series rolls on in graphic novel format, with an enchanting Book 2 that takes us into the story of Cinderella!

 

Abby and her little brother, Jonah, are ordinary kids...except for one little thing. They have a magic mirror in their basement that sends them into different fairy tales. This time, when the mirror slurps them up, they're taken to the story of Cinderella. And they're determined NOT to mess anything up!

But then Cinderella breaks her foot and her glass slipper won't fit. How is her prince charming supposed to know she's meant for him? And how will Cinderella get her happily ever after?

In order to save the day, Abby and Jonah will have to find Cinderella a job, stay out of jail, and make sure true love finds a way, all before the clock strikes midnight and the chance for a happily ever after is gone...forever!

With vibrant art by illustrator Bethany Crandall, this fast-paced, magical adventure is a graphic novel fan's dream come true!
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Partypooper

It's Greg's birthday--and you're invited to the chaos. In Partypooper, the 20th book in Jeff Kinney's global smash-hit Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, Greg Heffley is planning the ultimate party--for himself.

But when the guest list grows, the decorations flop, and the surprises backfire, this birthday bash turns into a total blowout--just not the kind Greg had in mind.

Packed with cake disasters, family fiascos, and classic Wimpy Kid humor, this book is perfect for readers ages 8-12.

Collect all the books in the #1 bestselling Diary of a Wimpy Kid series: Diary of a Wimpy Kid (#1) | Rodrick Rules (#2) | The Last Straw (#3) | Dog Days (#4) | The Ugly Truth (#5) | Cabin Fever (#6) | The Third Wheel (#7) | Hard Luck (#8) | The Long Haul (#9) | Old School (#10) | Double Down (#11) | The Getaway (#12) | The Meltdown (#13) | Wrecking Ball (#14) | The Deep End (#15) | Big Shot (#16) | Diper Överlöde (#17) | No Brainer (#18) | Hot Mess (#19) | Partypooper (#20)

See the Wimpy Kid World in a whole new way with the #1 bestselling Awesome Friendly books, told from the perspective of Greg Heffley's best friend Rowley Jefferson: Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid: Rowley Jefferson's Journal | Rowley Jefferson's Awesome Friendly Adventure | Rowley Jefferson's Awesome Friendly Spooky Stories
Image for "Minecraft: The Ultimate Collection! (Minecraft)"

Minecraft: The Ultimate Collection! (Minecraft)

Five Minecraft® Step Into Reading level 3 readers are collected in one book for even more action-packed adventures based on one of the world's best-selling video games! Perfect for children ready to read on their own.

Minecraft® is one of the best-selling video games of all time! And now learning to read has never been more fun. Players new and old can join Emmy, Birch, and their tame wolf Byte, as they explore mysterious biomes and encounter scary mobs in this collection of five exciting Step Into Reading Step 3 leveled readers.

Features the stories:

• Survival Mode! (Minecraft)

• Mobs in the Overworld! (Minecraft)

• Escape from the Nether (Minecraft

• The Sky's the Limit (Minecraft)

• Mobs in the Mansion! (Minecraft)

Step 3 readers feature engaging characters in easy-to-follow plots about popular topics for children who are ready to read on their own.

© 2024 Mojang AB. All Rights Reserved. Minecraft, the Minecraft logo, the Mojang Studios logo and the Creeper logo are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
Image for "Llama Llama: A Gift for Mama"

Llama Llama: A Gift for Mama

Llama Llama is determined to find the perfect gift for Mama in this charming Christmas installment of the beloved Llama Llama picture book series!

Merry Christmas, Mama!
What you said was true!
The best part of Christmas
Is spending it with you!

Christmas is approaching fast, and Llama Llama wants to get the perfect gift for Mama! He checks every store, but everything he thinks of just isn't right. Will he ever find the perfect gift for Mama? Or will he realize he had the answer all along?

Complete with short, simple text, festive illustrations, and a reassuring message, this holiday installment in the treasured Llama Llama series is sure to be a perennial Christmas classic that readers can enjoy again and again. The perfect Christmas gift for little ones!
Image for "A Dance with Santa Claus"

A Dance with Santa Claus

Celebrate Christmas with one magical dance with Santa in this adorable picture book from a New York Times bestselling author, the inimitable Sandra Boynton.



"Now everybody's rushing toward Christmas Eve, but I'm quietly waiting. I've got to believe.

It's not about presents. No, here's the cause: I just want to dance with SANTA CLAUS!"



The only thing this sweet bunny child wants for Christmas is to dance the Rock-and-Roll Swing with Santa on Christmas Eve. Will it happen? (Spoiler: Of course!) Sandra Boynton's jaunty lyrics and captivating, expressive illustrations come together in this cozy gift book for the festive season. Based on the magical song (gloriously sung by Zooey Deschanel) on Boynton's Christmas album, Cows and Holly, this lovely picture book is the perfect read-aloud to celebrate Christmas with any little bunny in your life, year after year.
Image for "Ember the Fire Dragon: An Acorn Book (Dragon Hill #1)"

Ember the Fire Dragon: An Acorn Book (Dragon Hill #1)

Best friends Ember the Fire Dragon and Gus the Mushroom Dragon search for a magic jewel in the first installment of this full-color, fantasy adventure series perfect for beginning readers!

 

Pick a book. Grow a Reader!

This series is part of Scholastic's early reader line, Acorn, aimed at children who are learning to read. With easy-to-read text, a short-story format, plenty of humor, and full-color artwork on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and fluency. Acorn books plant a love of reading and help readers grow!

Dragon Hill is in trouble! The magic jewel that protects Dragon Hill has gone missing, and best friends Ember the Fire Dragon and Gus the Mushroom Dragon work together to find the jewel. But they are young dragons and Ember doesn't yet know how to use her fire powers. The two friends follow squirrel paw prints and meet a helpful Tree Dragon. Will they be able to find the magic jewel?

Gus and Ember's adventure is told through five full-color short stories with easy-to-read text throughout! This series is set in the same fantasy world as Tracey West's New York Times bestselling Dragon Masters series, making Dragon Hill a perfect choice for budding readers who aren't quite ready to read the Branches series yet!
Image for "Pocket Potters: Hermione Granger (Little Guides to the Harry Potter Books #3)"

Pocket Potters: Hermione Granger (Little Guides to the Harry Potter Books #3)

Calling Harry Potter fans! Read all about Hermione Granger in the POCKET POTTERS series, the completely collectible, fully illustrated, must-have official guides to all your favorite characters from the wizarding world.

 

What is Hermione Granger's favorite subject? How did she make friends with Ron and Harry, and what does a mountain troll smell like? Find out all this and much more! Follow Hermione through a day at Hogwarts, discover why she loves the library, and learn all about her pet cat, Crookshanks. Get set for spectacular spells, charms, and potions, and lots of Gryffindor house points...

 

Joyfully illustrated, boisterously brilliant, the POCKET POTTERS are collectible, must-have official guides to the Harry Potter books. Whether you are just starting your magical reading journey or you already know your Accio from your Alohomora, each of the POCKET POTTERS is perfect for sharing together or reading independently.
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The 13th Day of Christmas

A partridge in a pear tree? Ten lords a-leaping? Now who would want such gifts? And more importantly--why would they be given? 

Adam Rex investigates in this hilariously heart-warming tale based on one of the best-loved Christmas carols.

Our hero is having a lonesome Christmas away from his true love. So when she sends him a gift, of course he loves it--even if a partridge in a pear tree wasn't exactly on his wishlist. 

Twelve days later, his home is crowded with more birds, milkmaids, pipers, and other guests than he can possibly make sense of. Why would his true love think he'd like this?!

His search for answers transforms the disaster into a source of joy for the whole town--complete with a parade, a circus, and a fundraiser for the school library. By the time his true love gets home, the man finally understands what she's given him: the true meaning of Christmas.

But she has no idea what he's talking about-- the whole thing was a wacky online shopping mixup. All she'd meant to buy was a pair of gold engagement rings. She meant to propose! 

Adam Rex, creator of School's First Day of School and many other beloved books for children, strikes again with this hilarious twist on the classic carol The Twelve Days of Christmas. Sardonic and earnest in equal measures, The Thirteenth Day of Christmas is a hit for any day of the year.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
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Little Boo

Little Boo is the best! Until Little Boo is the worst...Why couldn't Big Boo have a little witch or even a little vampire for a younger sibling? A picture book featuring a pesky little sibling paired with gentle social emotional learning--perfect for Halloween or any time of year when a new baby arrives and brings change.

When the antics of their little sibling start to get to Big Boo, they decide to trade for a friend's younger sibling, Little Howl. At first this seems like a great idea, but soon enough Big Boo finds that the grass isn't always greener and Little Howl is a whole new level of monster. This sweet and humorous story about sibling relationships acknowledges the frustrations but, ultimately, the love that comes with a new addition to the family.
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Visit the Children’s Area

Children's Area Collage showing the children's area and the Magic Desktop

The Tamarack District Library has a Children’s Area that is geared for kids of all ages. We have board books and easy read books within reach of little hands as well as a rotating selection of toys to explore. Two touch-screen computers allow young minds to enjoy exploring technology safely. A comfy couch encourages impromptu story reading while tables allow young artists to take advantage of our coloring pages set out just for them. Don’t forget to check out the calendar for our programs geared just for kids!