Hayward Teens

Celebrate Teen Tech Week with Manga Tech

2009-02-26T11:19:00.000-08:00

Do you love reading Manga? Why not write it too? We've got a program to help make it easy. It's called Manga Tech and it's happening March 9 through March 13. Here's how it works. Every day after school this week you'll get a chance to use the Tokyopop Manga Creator Software to create your own manga. No drawing required, we've got plenty of character clip art to help you. Here's the schedule of events for the week:

Monday, 3:30 p.m.: We'll teach you how to use the software.

Tuesday, 4 p.m.: Comic book author Oliver Chin will give you tips for creating a graphic novel

Wednesday and Thursday, 3:30 p.m: Come and use the software to create your manga

Friday, 3:30 p.m.: Share your manga, play videogames, cosplay, have snacks.

It should be a lot of fun. Register at the Main Library Children's desk or call 510-881-7945.

You could make a Manga like this (no drawing required):

This program is made possible with a Teen Tech Week 2009 grant from the Young Adult Library Association in partnership with the Verizon Foundation.

Esperanza Rising

2009-02-20T14:35:00.001-08:00

“Esperanza Rising” is a book about a young 13-year-old girl who passes through a lot of suffering, as she has to get used to a new life. Esperanza was a rich girl who lived in a big house with servants. Her dad dies and her evil uncle takes over all of their property. As they are left without nothing they decided to go to the United States. They were used to fancy dresses, a big house, being clean, and not working. As they got to the United States Esperanza’s mom had to work in the fields and they lived in a small room with some other friends. As Esperanza’s mom, was dying she had to start working in the fields to pay for the doctor. JG, 15

New Moon

2009-02-06T16:33:00.000-08:00

New Moon is a new great book written by Stephanie Myer. New moon has new characters and new drama. In the story we learn a lot more about Jacob and his family secret. New moon is mostly about werewolves and why they hate vampires so much. Edward sadly isn’t in the story as much as he was in the last book. When he leaves Bella feels empty on the inside and wants to feel her empty whole by going to Jacob and doing reckless things. While hanging with Jacob she learns his secret and why werewolves even exist. She also finds out that she is being hunted down by Victoria to get even with Edward. Jacob promises to her that she wouldn’t get hurt with all their planning she forgets about her vampire friends until one day Alice comes back to town. Read New moon to find out what happens to Bella does she die or lives? And what ever happen to Edward? Find this all out in the second book New Moon. Krystal, 15

Will You Be Mine?

2009-02-04T09:48:00.001-08:00

As you may know, Valentines day is upon us. Whether you have a love or not, why not use this time to be creative. On Wednesday, Feb 11, we'll be making Valentines cards and heart pillows at the library. We'll have all the supplies, and if you don't know how to sew, don't worry, we'll teach you. The love in starts at 1:30 p.m.

If you're more tech inclined, click here to find out about Tokyopop's Contest to create a Valentine using some of their art. Win Manga and other cool stuff.

News Just for You

2009-01-31T11:26:00.000-08:00

Did you know that President Barack Obama is a left handed, that yellow is the new fashion color for 2009 or that in Nigeria a goat was arrested for armed robbery? These and many other interesting factoids can be found on a new website called TweenTribune.

This is news just for you. That is, if you're a tween. What's a tween you say? It usually covers someone in the 5th through 8th grades.

Click here to check out Tween Tribune

Let us know what you think; leave a comment.

Book Review: Forgetting Something?

2009-01-26T13:23:00.000-08:00

Don't you just hate it when you forget what you were just about to say, or do? Try imagining yourself losing every memory you had in the last four years. Not remembering any of your friends, or anything you used to do or like. That's exactly what Naomi Porter, from Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac by Gabrielle Zevin had to go through when she tripped down the steps of her school. She woke up in the hospital not remembering anything; not her best friend, her sister, or even her boyfriend! And in her journey to remember her past, she also meets a new, mysterious guy, James. If you're looking for a book with lots of humor, yet filled with lots of emotion, then you really ought to read this book.

-Josh, 15

Are You Ready to Enter the House of Night?

2009-01-17T11:30:00.000-08:00

Who said you can never get enough of vampires? Basically every teenager across the country. Vampire novels are sweeping the nation. You may have heard of the popular book series Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, or Blue Bloods by Melissa De La Cruz. If you've enjoyed those, then you are guaranteed the thrill of your life with The House of Night Series by P.C. and Kristin Cast. The first novel to the series, Marked, starts out with your not-so-average teenage girl, Zoey Redbird. Zoey's life is chaotic when she has an ex-boyfriend to avoid, an on and off best friend, a new step-dad, and a mother that barely pays attention to her. As if her life wasn't crazy enough, she becomes marked by a vampyre from the House of Night. Leaving everything behind, she sets off to stay with her grandmother before taking off and start her training as an adult vampyre. Along the journey, she meets new friends; Stevie Rae, the ultimate Kenny Chesney fan, Erin & Shanee, the "twins" thought to be separated at birth, Damien, gay but loyal, and Erik Night, her knight in shining armor. The following novels; Betrayed, Chosen, and Untamed, takes you through Zoey's journey from being an uncomprehensible teen, to a vampyre priestess trainee with powers that turns the House of Night upside down. P.C. and Kristin Cast's House of Night Series makes a big distinction between what a vampire was known to be, and how vampires are seen in the 21st century. Be sure to look out for the 5th addition to the series, Hunted, coming out in March, 2009!

- Stacey, 13

Looking forward to a....New Moon

2009-01-09T10:46:00.001-08:00

For all you Twilight fans, Variety has reported that the release date for the movie version of New Moon will be November 20, 2009. Good News: Taylor Lautner will reprise his role as Jacob.

Are are you excited about the new movie? Leave a comment and let us know.

January Teen Events at The Libraries

2009-01-05T17:14:00.000-08:00

If you are a fan of the anime and/or manga you should check out ANIME WEDNESDAY!. Where you can watch popular anime movies. It is on Janurary 7th at 2PM at the Main Library. (it's on wednesday, of course!)

Wanna make your own ice cream? If you want to, come to the Main Library on Wednesday January 21st at 2PM and LEARN TO MAKE ICE CREAM and eat it. Yum!

Video Games
Grounded? And can't play your video games? Well tell your parents you're going to be a good kid and go to the library; to play games of course. Bring you're favorite games to share with others and enjoy the company. On Wed. January 14 & 28 @ 2 pm in the Main Library's Meeting Room.

By Alex Harmon, Marisa Lomeli & Sinthia Y. Sierra

More Wednesday Fun...Secret Book Boxes

2008-12-15T15:16:00.000-08:00

Have something you want to hide? Come to the library Wednesday and learn how to make a secret compartment in a book. It's easy, it's fun and we have all the supplies. Drop by between 2 and 4:30 p.m. at the Main Library Meeting Room and we'll show you how.

Don't want to make a book box? We'll be playing Guitar Hero too!

Duct Tape Wallets Are Back!!!

2008-11-17T15:52:00.000-08:00

Wednesday we'll be rolling out the duct tape and giving instructions on how to make the coolest of crafts: the Duct Tape Wallet. What? A wallet out of duct tape? How could that be. Yup, that's what we said. Make a wallet, coin purse, or other doodad from a variety of duct tape colors. We'll provide the tape and the instructions. Come to the Main Library meeting room, Wednesday, 2 - 4:30 p.m. for all the fun.

Can't get enough of duct tape wallets? Check out this book for more duct tape ideas: Ductigami: the art of the tape

Teen Programs Move to Wednesdays!!

2008-10-07T16:24:00.000-07:00

Come check us out at our day and time, Wednesday, 2 p.m. We've got plenty going on in October.

Crafty Wednesday, October 15
Come make a locker magnet and play video games too.

Anime / Manga Club, October 22
We'll be watching anime.

Halloween Mask Making, October 29
Don't know what you're going to be for halloween, come and make a mask.

Ask the Presidential Candidates a Question?

2008-09-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

Youth are invited to submit questions for the two presidential candidates. The top questions will be chosen for a video debate that will be aired in October. You have until September 29 to submit a question and can check back to see the top 20 and vote on your favorites.

Check out this site to submit a question: http://debate.waldenu.edu/

Teen Photographers Featured in Local Newspaper

2008-09-17T13:27:00.000-07:00

You might have seen them walking around with cameras during the summer. Now you can check out their work on the first floor of the Main library through October 4. The brilliant photos shot in a radius around the library are part of the How I See It: My Place photography project. Eight local teens participated. They did a fine job.

Summer Reading Winners

2008-08-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

Summer reading ended on Saturday. We're very proud of everyone who participated. You read more than 200 books. Great Job.

Here's a list of the winners:

Grand Prize Ipod Shuffle: Frances
Two movie tickets for most books read: Amacalli (38)
Borders Gift Certificate for 2nd most books read: Marisa (20)
Jamba Juice Gift Card for 3rd most books read: Danielle (16)

Be sure to check earlier posts to read some of the book reviews.

Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist Movie!!!

2008-08-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

One more beloved teen book will be a movie this fall. For those who haven't yet read Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist, you should. Or in October you'll be able to see the movie. Catch a peek at the trailer for the moving by clicking here.

Want to learn more about the book. Check out the review posted on this blog.

Breaking Dawn Party, August 2!!!!!

2008-07-28T17:35:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh

Only Three Weeks Left!!!

2008-07-25T12:07:00.001-07:00

Only three weeks left in the teen summer reading game, Metamorphosis. If you haven't turned in a book review yet, you're missing out on a chance to win great prizes: Gift certificates to Blockbuster and Starbucks, as well as plenty of books, Giants tickets and other Goodies. So what are you waiting for? It's easy. Read a book, write a review, turn it in.

Need something to read? Check out the sites linked at the side of this page, or read a review from someone local below.

Kiss Me Kill Me
By Lauren Henderson

This book was really interesting. I really enjoyed it. It’s about murder/crime & solving it. It sucks at the end. ML, 15

Rainbow Boys
By Alex Sanchez

This book is about three guys who are gay. One of them has a hard time coming out. It is all very good. They have trouble at school, with friends and family. This is a very good book. ML, 15

Ranger’s Apprentice: The Battle for Skandia
By John Flanagan

I really liked this book because it had a lot of action and suspense. Will is the Ranger’s apprentice. (Rangers are a group of elite trackers and archers). Along with his friends, Horace and Evelyn, plus Will’s mentor Halt, the group travels to Skandia to help the Skandians fight a vicious war against the Temujai. BZ, 13

Vegan Virgin Valentine
By Carolyn Mackler

I liked how I really connected with the character Mara and felt like I was almost her. Similarities: good grades, annoying cousins, graduation, and made friends. AD, 12

Twilight Trailer Teaser

2008-07-21T13:35:00.001-07:00

Check out the latest Twilight trailer. Doesn't it make you want to see it more!

Summer Reading Reviews

2008-07-15T11:29:00.001-07:00

There are still five weeks left to turn in a review for the summer reading program. I know you're reading, so all you have to do is write about it. You can find review cards in the Teenspace. We're giving out prizes weekly. Last week's winner got a $10 gift card to Jamba Juice. Don't miss out on a chance to win a weekly prize or the grand prize, an ipod shuffle.

Need suggestions for what to read? Here's a peek of what some of your peers are reading:

Curse of the Bane
By Joseph Delaney

It is so clear and detailed in the features of the demons that it really seems scary at times. And it is thrilling and a good series to read when you grow out of Harry Potter, like the critics say. MH, 12

Flyte
By Angie Sage

I like this book because it is entertaining like the critics say and good book to read for summer vacation. MH, 12

There Will Be Dragons
By John Ringo

It’s a sci-fi book and it’s good too. MP, 16

Tiger Eyes
By Judy Blume

What I like about this story is how I can relate to it. Not in the sense of having a deceased father, but in the way that me and the main character yell at people and have friend troubles. AD, 12

Single White Vampire
By Lynsay Sands

It was fun to see Lucern change form the surly man to a charming, caring man in a week. I could also relate to Lucern, and Kate. The first time I read the book I loved it. Not so much the second time. AS, 16

Book Reviews: Hotlanta and Audrey, Wait!

2008-07-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

Hotlanta
By Denene Millner and Mitzi Miller

Twins Sydney and Lauren Duke have all the right clothes, the right cars, they go to the right school and live in an exclusive Atlanta neighborhood. Their mother is all about appearances too and their step-dad doesn’t have a problem supplying the money for their expensive tastes. The only thing the girls are not allowed to do is keep in touch with their biological father who is in prison. But when Sydney reaches out to him she uncovers a secret that forces her to question everything she knows about her family.

Click here to find Hotlanta in the library catalog

Audrey, Wait!
By Robin Benway

When she broke up with her boyfriend, Audrey Cuttler knew it would be hard, but not this hard. See, he’s in a band and he wrote a song about the break-up called Audrey, Wait, and all of sudden it’s popular and now so is she. People are staring at her on the street, they’re writing about her on message boards, and the paparazzi are on her tail after video appears on the internet showing her making out with a singer from another semi-famous band. Audrey is finding it difficult to live a normal life and all the attention is putting a strain on some of her relationships.

Click here to find Audrey, Wait! in the library catalog

These Books Are a 10...Summer Reading Game Reviews

2008-07-05T09:37:00.000-07:00

Hayward…The First 100 Years
By Eden writers

I have an interest in seeing Hayward's history in a book with pics and in text. I also liked seeing what happened in the US while seeing Hayward. AH, 14

Twilight
By Stephenie Meyer

I like how the writing is so descriptive and easy to understand. The characters emotions are so real you can feel the hatred or love in it through the main character and other characters. NC, 13
Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment
By James Patterson

I love Max! She's really funny and inspired me to write agin when I stppped. I honestly thought she was a guy halfway through the book. DC, 15

The Monster at Our Door
By Mike Davis

I loved this book. I have never read a book that interested me in anything that had to do with medicine or viruses, but this book opened my eyes and within each page I learned something new. FN, 15

Peeps
By Scott Westerfeld

I like this book because it is very enjoyable and fun to read. I also enjoyed this book becasue cal had a lot of guts to go into those dark places. It was also great that Scott gave you tips on how to stay safe and be germ free. AB, 13

Dark Lover
By J.R. Ward

I loved this book because the writer was able to make me feels like I was in the book and that vampires are actually real (not that they aren't. J*O*K*E). SJ, 13

Gossip Hound
By Wendy Holden

I like it because it is a funny story, with quite a few twists, which will always keep you on your toes and not bore you to death like some other books. FA, 17

It's a 10 ... Summer Reading Book Reviews

2008-07-01T18:29:00.000-07:00

Check out these books rated "10" by fellow teen readers in Metamorphosis, the Hayward Public Library's Teen Summer Reading Game. You can play too! Just read a book, fill out a review form, and drop it in the box in the teenspace. From there you're entered to win a weekly prize and a grand prize of an ipod shuffle. Good luck and happy reading.

Princess on the Brink

by Meg Cabot

I like this book because the author, Meg Cabot, explains and tells the story very well and their personality very well. NG

Odd Girl Speaks Out

by Rachel Simoons

I liked this book because it was very comforting. Many girls wrote through stories and poems about being left out and hurting. It helps an "odd girl" not feel as alone. TL

Dragon's Egg

by Sarah L. Thomson

I like this book because Mella feeds, gathers his eggs, and tends to his injuries, for the dragon. NG

Artemis Fowl - The Eternity Code

by Eoin Colfer

I really liked this book because it follows Artemis Fowl as he uses his magnificent brain to outsmart businessmen and fairies in his attmept to gain extreme wealth. NF

The Steps

by Rachel Cohn

I like this book because the author who wrote this book explains that whatever you want you won't get it everytime. NG

Milk in My Coffee

by Eric Jerome Dickey

This book is really good. It is about a guy, Jordan. He lives in Queens. He has a girlfriend, but he is not happy. So when he meets Kimberly who is white, many things happend and Jordan's life changes. ML

Teen Summer Reading Program Winner

2008-06-24T16:31:00.000-07:00

The first winner in Metamorphosis, the Teen Summer Reading Game has been awarded a prize of a $10 gift certificate for Claire's. There's still time to get in on some winning action. The next winner will be announced on Monday, June 30.

So what's this all about?

It's easy. Read a book. Fill out the green review form. Enter it into the Book Review box in the Teenspace to win a prize. New reviews are collected from Saturday through Friday, with a new winner drawn and announced every Monday. Official rules can be found on the review card.

Didn't win in a weekly drawing? Well, you've still got a shot to win the grand prize of an ipod shuffle. All reviews turned in will be entered into that drawing. Read a lot? Prizes will also be given for most books read in first, second and third place.

Good luck and Happy Reading!

Book Review: Samurai Shortstop

2008-06-17T16:11:00.000-07:00

Samurai Shortstop
By Alan Gratz

It’s a time of transition in japan from the old customs to a more modern style, and Toyo, a freshman in high school, is trying to understand why his relatives are so attached to the old ways. Toyo witnesses his uncle commit seppuku - the samurai custom of ritual suicide - and wonders why he did it. Toyo was born into the samurai class, but those traditions are no longer tolerated in society. Instead, he's going to an elite Japanese boarding school where he learns western ways and plays baseball. Nevertheless, Toyo's father insists on teaching him the samurai customs so that Toyo can assist in his suicide. Amidst school hazing, school class struggles, and samurai lessons, Toyo learns to find a balance between the old and the new and at the same time play a good game of baseball. This book is recommended for its healthy dose of Japanese history.

Click here to find Samurai Shortstop in the library catalog

Metamorphosis: Transform Yourself, Read.

Teen Summer Reading Game

Read(a book). Write(a review). Win(a prize). Drawings held weekly!

How I See It: My Place...Teen Digital Photography Project

2008-06-03T18:57:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in photography? How about writing? The library will be hosting an exciting program this summer, where you'll learn all about taking digital photos, uploading them to the computer, editing them with Adobe Photoshop Elements, and then writing about the experience. At the end of the program, your photos will be exhibited in the library and online.

Twenty other libraries across California will be participating in the project. It's a chance to get your voice heard and also earn community service hours. Come to the main library to get an application or for more information contact Shawna at shawna.sherman@hayward-ca.gov.

This project is a program of the California Council for the Humanities California Stories: How I See It campaign conducted in partnership with Califa. It is supported in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian. For more information on the Council and the California Stories initiative, visit www.californiastories.org.

Breaking Dawn, Twilight the Movie...NEWS

2008-06-01T12:35:00.001-07:00

For all those Twilight fans out there, here are the latest happenings in Stephenie Meyer's world:

1. Read the first chapter of Breaking Dawn here:

http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20203238,00.html?iid=top25-20080531-Stephenie+Meyer%3A+Exclusive+book+preview

2. Check out the cover for Breaking Dawn here:

http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/breakingdawn.html

PS: The library will be hosting a Breaking Dawn shower on August 2nd. Stay tuned for more information. Copies of the book will be raffled off as prizes.

3. Catch a glimpse of the trailer for the Twilight movie here:

http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2008/06/01/watch-our-exclusive-twilight-clip-from-the-movie-awards-preshow/

Free Pizza, Giants tickets and more....

2008-05-31T10:48:00.000-07:00

Whatcha going to do this summer? How about play the Teen Summer Reading Game. Come learn all about it at our Pizza Kick-off party June 10, 3:30 to 5 p.m. in the Main Library Meeting Room. At the party we'll explain the reading game, play a little Guitar Hero and test our knowledge of books. Just come and you'll be entered to win prizes including two tickets to a Giants game, books and more.

Book Review: Unwind

2008-05-28T12:18:00.000-07:00

Unwind
By Neil Shusterman

In the second civil war, otherwise known as “The Heartland War,” pro-choice fought on one side, pro-life on the other. Neither side won. Instead, a constitutional amendment called the “The Bill of Life” settled the issue. It stated that human life could not be touched after conception, but between the ages of 13 and 18 a parent could have their child “Unwound” on the condition that his/her life doesn’t actually end. Children chosen for unwinding were usually considered the bad kids, or wards of the state that weren’t wanted anymore. But body parts of the unwound are big business and could have after affects for the new owners. This story follows a group of kids slated to be unwound, but resisting. It's an action packed book with some good discussion of the moral question of where life starts, without ever mentioning the word abortion.

Click here to find Unwind in the library catalog

Go Ahead. Get Over Him. You Can Do It.

2008-05-16T15:20:00.000-07:00

I know it's tough, but you have to move on. What, you need help? Well, check out the book: 30 Days to Getting Over the Dork You Used to Call Your Boyfriend. This step-by-step regime will guide you through each day of mourning with an activity to get you through this rough time. For example, put your ex's name on the bottom of your shoe and walk around for a day. How's that for payback! The book even has a playlist for getting over the five stages of break-up. Check out these cool break-up songs from the book:

No Doubt's Ex Girlfriend
Sia's Breathe Me
Dido's Thank You
Damien Rice's Volcano

Guitar Hero at Tuesday Gaming Day!

2008-05-12T10:19:00.000-07:00

Hey you'all! Come practice your skills with the strings on Guitar Hero 3 for the PS2. Also, newly purchased: Need for Speed for the XBOX. In addition, we still have Dance Dance Revolution and loads of board games for oodles and oodles of fun. Snacks provided for early arrivals.

Forget MySpace; Create Your Own Online Comics

2008-05-06T13:04:00.000-07:00

This is an ideal interaction for me in the library since, you know, we love reading here. But aside from revealing my secret wishes and dreams, I also wanted to let you know about the several cool websites out there that let you create your own comics online. This one was created at a site called Toondoo.

For the most part these sites are pretty easy and free too. At Toondoo, all I did was drag and drop the characters, scenes and props (check the specials area for some cool manga characters). So if you're a little bored looking at everyone's profile on MySpace, why don't you check out some of these sites. And if you know of more, let me know.

Pixton (http://www.pixton.com/)

MakeBeliefsComix (http://www.makebeliefscomix.com/)

Comiqs (http://comiqs.com/)

Toonlet (http://toonlet.com/)

Free Comic Book Day!! Free Comic Book Day!!

2008-04-30T12:21:00.000-07:00

This is the single day when comic book stores (and some libraries) across the county and around the world give away comic books free to anyone who comes into their stores. Crush Comics in Castro Valley and Comic Shop in San Leandro will be participating. So check them out.

We may have some free comics to keep too, so stay tuned for more information. Of course, the library always has free comics to borrow. Check out the wide selection in the teenspace under Dewey number 741.5.

Book Review: Before I Die

2008-04-26T14:01:00.000-07:00

Before I Die
By Jenny Downham

Tessa’s got cancer and it’s not getting better. Knowing she’s going to die, she makes a list of 10 things to do before that fateful day. She’s never had a boyfriend, so guess what’s on the top of her list. But how does she make this happen under the watchful eyes of her protective father? Her friend Zoey can help and soon, she’s checked off number one. But somehow that’s not enough to satisfy the void within Tessa. So it’s on to number two. The tasks on her list are sometimes dangerous, sometimes irresponsible but always thoughtful. Tessa’s illness is something she has to deal with alone -- even with a supportive family -- and this book conveys that feeling well. At such a young age, it may be hard to think of the end of life, but this book makes you wonder: given the same circumstances what would I do? What would be important to me?

Click here to find Before I Die in the library catalog

Calling all Music Fans

2008-04-24T15:09:00.000-07:00

So you always wanted to go to the Coachella music festival in Indio, CA, but it's a little far and there's no way your parents would let you go anyway. Well here's your opportunity to see the concert online. AT&T blue room will broadcast the the live shows here. The fun begins at 12:30 p.m. tomorrow and runs through Sunday.

National Poetry Month: Books Written in Verse

2008-04-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

There are a bunch of books at the library that are written like poetry. Some are written in free verse, and others, like Keesha's House, use specific forms of poetry to write each of the chapters. Reading these books is a good way to get a dose of poetry and fiction at the same time. And since it's National Poetry Month, that's a double good thing.

Here are some of the YA Books we have at Hayward (titles link to the library catalog):

One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies

Sold

Out of the Dust

The Realm of Possibility

Song of the Sparrow

Street Love

Burned

Anime at the Library + Jeopardy Too!!!

2008-04-17T15:04:00.000-07:00

There's an extra Tuesday in April, so we're going to do something extra special. We're going to show Anime. Applause. Applause. After the showing in the meeting room - Tuesday, April 22, 2008, 3:30 p.m. - stick around for Anime Jeopardy. Test your knowledge on Anime trivia and win cool prizes, like posters of your favorite manga characters.

Book Rec: Art for Arts Sake

2008-04-15T12:38:00.000-07:00

The Plain Janes
By Cecil Castellucci and Jim Rugg

Jane was the victim of a bomb attack in Metro City. Her parents are frightened by the city after the attack and they move to the suburbs. Jane is ready for change too. She cuts her hair and colors it black and begins searching for a new set of friends. At her new school, she’s approached by the popular girl, but declines her friendship. Instead, she happens upon a group of outcasts who are all also named Jane. Since she’s having a hard time fitting into the regular school clubs, she comes up with an idea to create art installations in odd places and convinces her new friends to go along with it. They call themselves P.L.A.I.N. (people loving art in neighborhoods). This is a story about what happens when a group of teens start expressing themselves and even start inspiring others. The story is written in graphic novel format.

Click here to find The Plain Janes in the library catalog

Book to Movie

2008-04-12T12:44:00.000-07:00

Several books will be made into movies this year. Be sure to read them here before going to the theaters:

Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (3/16/2008)
Inkheart (3/19/2008)
The Second Summer of the Sisterhood (8/8/2008)
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince (11/21/2008)
The City of Ember (10/10/2008)
Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist (10/3/08)
Twilight (12/12/08)

Movies for these books have been announced but no release dates are set:

Uglies
Maximum Ride, Book 1
A Great and Terrible Beauty

Tuesday Craft: Suede Leather Lacing

2008-04-10T14:21:00.000-07:00

Come make a necklace or bracelet with cool suede leather lacing. Come up with your own design or follow some simple patterns that will be provided. You could make something like this....

The fun starts Tuesday, April 15, 4 p.m., in the main library meeting room on the second floor. Hope to see you there.

Unknowing Criminal or Child Killer?

2008-04-07T16:44:00.000-07:00

Right Behind You

By Gail Giles

The neighbor boy was over at Kip’s house bragging about his new baseball glove. Kip was in a bad mood and just wanted the boy to go away. Frustrated, he doused the glove with gasoline - while the boy was wearing it - and then set it on fire. The fire consumed the boy’s body and three-days later he was dead. Kip is 9-years-old and is sentenced to a mental institution for the crime. Meanwhile, his father is harassed by people in town who think Kip deserves more punishment. After four years, Kip is released and the family moves to Indiana under new identities. Wade starts to build a new life, but struggles to forgive himself for what he did and has trouble keeping his past a secret. The book follows three chapters of Kip’s life from his institutionalization, to life in Indiana and then to Texas, where Wade still struggles to come to terms with what he did. This book tackles questions of sentencing for young criminals and delves into the deep topic of forgiveness. It comes highly recommended.

Click here to find Right Behind You in the library catalog

Oh, James......Twilight Movie Mania

2008-04-01T12:07:00.000-07:00

MTV has a an interview with Ashley Greene, aka Bella, in the upcoming (o when, o, when?) Twilight movie.

Can't get enough? The author, Stephenie Meyer, has a whole page dedicated to the movie on her website.

2008-03-31T10:40:00.000-07:00

The Teen Advisory Group will meet Tuesday, 4 p.m. in the main library meeting room. At this meeting we will discuss what went wrong with the DDR Tournament and how we can make library programs better. Please come and give us your input.

The Teen Advisory Group meets monthly. To join the group, fill out an application and bring it back to Shawna with your parent's signature. Applications will be available at the meeting. Participating in this volunteer group makes you eligible for community service hours.

2008-03-29T13:26:00.000-07:00

Three people attended the first meeting of the teen book group and came up with a name, The R.O.D. (Read or Die) Book Club. We also picked a book. Our first book will be Darren Shan's Lord Loss. If you would like to join the club, read the book and come to our next meeting on Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 4 p.m. Hope to see you there!!!! Any questions? Please see Shawna.

Click here to find Lord Loss in the library catalog

Dance Dance Revolution Tournament Tomorrow!!!!

2008-03-28T11:12:00.000-07:00

Don't forget! The DDR Tournament is Saturday. Think you can dance dance revolution, come show us at the contest that starts at Noon! Prizes will be given for first, second, third and fourth place. Play will be on DDR SuperNova 2. Come at 11 a.m. for practice before the contest starts. Rules of the game and songs to be danced will be announced at the tournament. Hope to see you there.

HAPPY SPRING BREAK!!!!!!!!

2008-03-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

Create Your Own Smiley

2008-03-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Bored with the options for moods on MySpace. Use this site called EZ Smiley to create your own. Pick the eyes, mouth, legs and hair. There are accessories too, like a book! Have fun...

Spring Break at the Library

2008-03-20T12:13:00.001-07:00

The library has a whole bunch of activities planned for the Spring Break week. We hope to see you all here. All activies are in the Main Library meeting room on the second floor. Events are free and open to those aged 12 - 18. If you have any questions ask Shawna.

* Monday, March 24, 2 - 4 p.m.: Game Time
Play XBOX, GameCube, PS2, or board games.

* Tuesday, March 25, 4 - 5:30 p.m.: Teen Book Group
Love to read? Bring your favorite book to this discussion group.

* Wednesday, March 26, 2 - 4:30 p.m.: Ductagami
Come make a wallet or change purse out of duct tape. We've got tons of colors.

* Thursday, March 27, 2 - 4:30 p.m.: Card Games
Come to the Teenspace and learn some new card games.

* Saturday, March 29, 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.: DDR Game Tournament
Think you can dance dance revolution. Come to this event and earn prizes for mad skills. Tournament starts at Noon.

And You Think You Have it Bad...

2008-03-19T09:53:00.001-07:00

A Long Way Gone

By Ishmael Beah

Ishmael Beah lived the life of a normal teenager growing up in Sierra Leone. He hung out with friends and listened to rap music from the United States. Then one day he and his friends were heading to a nearby town to participate in a dance competition when they came face-to-face with civil war. This was in the mid-1990s and rebels were attacking villages: burning them to the ground and killing whomever they could find. Beah would not see his mother and father again and would only be briefly reunited with his brother as he and a group of other young boys roamed from village to village trying to survive. They traveled through the forest at night and scavenged for food where they could. Eventually they would be caught and forced to join the state army as a child soldiers. They lived in camp and were given drugs to numb their feelings and guns to kill when ambushing villages. Beah excelled because he was smart and was also given a chance to get out. Recovering from his experiences wasn’t easy. This is a story of survival through the harshest of circumstances that is told with candor and soul. A must read!

Click here to find A Long Way Gone in the library catalog

Hear the author speak about his life at the book’s website.

Where is Sierra Leone?

Read Manga Online

2008-03-04T18:39:00.000-08:00

For all you manga fans out there, here's a site for you. It's called One Manga and it's got tons of manga scanned for your online reading pleasure. So say you can't get Absolute Boyfriend 5 at the library, read it at One Manga. Hey, you might as well read the whole series, they've got it. There are more than 400 manga on the site, including popular titles like Naruto, xxxHolic and Skip Beat. There are also manga inspired games, a forum for all those heated manga discussions and a chat function. Check it out! Thanks to teenlibrarian.com for the tip!

I want to suck your blood...

2008-02-11T12:09:00.000-08:00

The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod: Eighth Grade Bites

By Heather Brewer

Vladimir Tod’s got a secret. He’s a vampire. Well, actually, half vampire. He lives among the humans and most of them don’t know he’s got a thirst for blood. His parents died in a mysterious house fire three years ago, so now he lives with his mom’s best friend. Only she and his best friend know his secret. Vladimir thinks he’s the only vampire around, but he doesn’t know about the colony of vampires that live not so far away; a colony of vampires that are looking for him. Lately, people in town are turning up murdered and a new teacher in school seems to want to make Vladimir reveal his secret. Suddenly, Vladimir Tod is in danger.

Click here to find The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod in the library catalog

B.E.T.A. Job Training

2008-01-24T15:09:00.000-08:00

Check out the teenspace for flyers about the Bayfair Employment Training Academy, or B.E.T.A. This free program is available for youth aged 14 to 24, who live in unincorporated areas of San Leandro, Hayward and Castro Valley. The program offers free training in how to look for, and work at a job. It's a six-week course at Bayfair Mall. After completing the course you get a certificate that will help you as you approach employers for a job. Ask Shawna for an application. These must be completed 2-weeks before the session starts. The next session is March 31, 2008.

Really liking the same old, same old

2008-01-24T11:08:00.000-08:00

Kiffe Kiffe Tomorrow

By Faïza Guène

Kiffe Kiffe Tomorrow is the story of Doria, a 15-year-old Moroccan girl living in the Paradise housing projects of suburban Paris. Her dad just left her mother to live with another woman in their native Morocco and now her mom has to work cleaning hotels to support them. The diary-like story tells of Doria's encounters with social workers and a psychiatrist, all well-off French people who don't have a clue what her life is like. The book's title comes from a word made up by Doria. She takes the Arabic word kif-kif meaning same old, same old and combines it with the French verb kiffer meaning to really like something. It describes her resiliance during these hard times. The book was written by Faïza Guène, an Algerian immigrant to France, when she was 19. While reading it think of how life in a suburb of Paris, compares to life in Hayward. Is it much different?

Click here to find Kiffe Kiffe Tomorrow in the library catalog

Free Music Online!

2008-01-11T09:43:00.000-08:00

There are a couple of really cool sites that offer free podcasts of trance and progressive house music for those of you who are in to that.

Check out the Gareth Emery Podcast Garethemerypodcast for the latest in dance music. He's a DJ from Southampton, UK. The podcast is like a radio show with an average of 45 minutes of heart thumping beats. A new track is added every two-weeks. Unless your digital music player can play MP4 files, you'll have to download this podcast through itunes.

FabChannel shows free concert videos online.
Find concerts for all different types of music and watch them on your computer.

Three great reads

2008-01-08T14:10:00.000-08:00

The Kayla Chronicles
By Sherri Winston

In middle school, Kayla and her friend, Rosalie, started a girl power group called SPEAK (Sisters Providing Encouragement and Kindness). Now in High School, Rosalie’s got a plan that will really put SPEAK on the map. She wants Kayla to try-out for their high school’s popular jazz dance group in order to expose the group’s practice of allegedly accepting only big-breasted girls. Kayla never stands up to Rosalie, so she says she’ll do it. She’s a gymnast after all and likes to dance. But, in fact, she’s always secretly hoped to be a part of the Lady Lions. Rosalie wouldn’t understand that. It doesn’t fit with her girl power values. So what will Kayla do if she actually makes the group?

Click here to find The Kayla Chronicles in the library catalog

Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist
By Rachel Cohn & David Levithan

Nick’s just finished his band’s set at a New York club and he’s watching the next band play feeling a little sorry for himself because his ex-girlfriend is there with another boy. Then he sees she’s approaching him and he turns to the girl standing next to him, Norah, for help. She agrees to be his girlfriend for five minutes and the two lock in a kiss that changes everything. Yes, it was that good. What follows is an all-night adventure and a little more kissing as the two deal with old romances and the new spark between each other. The book is told from both Nick and Norah’s point of view and gives a good glimpse into New York night life.

Click here to find Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist in the library catalog

Tyrell
By Coe Booth

Tyrell’s got it hard ever since his father ended up in jail for the third time. The 15-year-old, his mom and his younger brother, Troy, are kicked to the street because they can’t pay the rent. Instead of a shelter they end up in a cockroach infested motel. His mom expects him to take care of the family by selling drugs, but Tyrell isn’t about to get caught up in that. He doesn’t want to get locked up like his dad. This story tells of Tyrell’s plan to make money as well as deal with his good-girl girlfriend, Novisha.

Click here to find Tyrell in the library catalog

A Summer Romance

2007-12-26T12:35:00.001-08:00

Someone Like Summer
By M.E. Kerr

Annabel first sees Estaban when he’s playing soccer. Something about him draws her to him, even though she and he are opposites: she tall, blue-eyed and blonde, a well off American with plans for college; he short, brown-eyed and brown-skinned, an un-documented immigrant from Colombia with an uncertain future. He’s the type of guy her dad would hire for his construction business, not the type that he’d ever allow his daughter to date. But date they do. And as they learn about each others culture, their small resort town of Seaview erupts with anti-immigrant sentiment with both sides expressing racist views. This is about their struggle to make their relationship more than a summer fling.

Click here to find Someone Like Summer in the library catalog

Crafty Tuesdays

2007-12-20T12:59:00.000-08:00

Every third Tuesday of the month, at 3:30, we have a craft day for Teens. Come check it out sometime. Below are some shots of the journals that folks made at the last Tuesday craft (names have been blacked out). In January we will be making things out of duct tape. Cool!

An Indian Story

2007-12-15T10:25:00.000-08:00

Keeping Corner

By Kashmira Sheth

Thirteen-year-old Leela lives a charmed life in the highest class of Indian society. Her ba (mom) buys her what she wants and, even though she was married at 10, she looks forward to moving in with her husband's family because she knows they'll be accepting and good. But then her husband dies and as a widow she must endure the custom of keeping corner. After she's forced to wear a special, mustard-colored sari, shave her head and is confined to her house for a year, Leela begins to question her role in Indian society. The story is told against the backdrop of the Mahatma Ghand's social and political reforms, which Leela soon begins to follow.

Click here to find Keeping Corner in the library catalog

An Oldie but Goodie

2007-12-06T13:08:00.000-08:00

Stoner & Spaz

By Ron Koertge

Ben has CP - otherwise known as cerebral palsy. He can't control one side of his body and this makes it difficult for him to relate to people at his high school. He prefers to live in his own world, engrossed in movies. Classmates have taken to calling him Spaz. Then one day he runs into Colleen at the movie theater. She's got problems of her own, namely a raging drug addiction, but the two hit it off. Colleen's one of the first people to talk to him like a normal person. They begin hanging out. Find out if their relationship helps either of them overcome their problems.

Click here to find Stoner & Spaz in the library catalog

Free SAT Practice Test

2007-12-03T15:33:00.000-08:00

Be sure to register for the free SAT practice test proctored by the Princeton Review on Saturday, December 15. This is your chance to take an SAT test without having to pay for it and without having it on your record. The Princeton Review will score the test - even the essay - and give you advice at a follow-up program the next Wednesday.

Register for the program at the Children's desk of the main library or call: 510-881-7945.

Here's the details:

Test: Saturday, December 15
9 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

Strategy Session: Wednesday, December 19
5:30 to 7 p.m.

Both events are at the Hayward Public Library, main meeting room, 835 C Street.

Hope to see you there!

Great book for Middle Schoolers

2007-11-28T12:25:00.000-08:00

If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period
by Gennifer Choldenko

First there's Kirsten McKenna. It's the beginning of the school year, she's gained 30 pounds, her parents are hardly talking to each other and her bff Rory is hanging out with the popular crowd. Then there's Walker "Walk" Jones. He's new to Kirsten's upscale, private school and only one of three African American's there. As they try to adjust to these changes, the two strike up an uneasy friendship, but why does Kirsten's mom gets uneasy whenever Walk is mentioned? Is it because of his race? The story is told from both characters point of view and is sure to shock at the end.

Click here to find If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period in the library catalog

Alameda County Youth Leadership Academy

2007-11-24T10:28:00.000-08:00

Alameda County is holding its 6th annual Youth Leadership Academy starting in December. The Academy is a free, five-session course on County government aimed at high school juniors and seniors. Participants gain leadership skills, learn about public sector jobs and meet county officials. The Academy will meet on various Saturdays from 9 a.m. to Noon at different county facilities.

Find more information about the Youth Leadership Academy at the County's website .

Deadline for applications is November 30, 2007.

The library has a limited amount of applications. See Shawna if you're interested.

Some cool reads

2007-11-19T13:25:00.000-08:00

Check out these great books available from the Hayward Public Library:

Marguex with an X
by Ron Koertge

Margaux would seem to have it all. She's the prettiest girl in her Los Angeles high school. She's got plenty of dates and smarts too, but something is bugging her. The guys she goes out with are good looking, but shallow. And her family life is no better. Her dad, a professional gambler, ruined their relationship when she was a young girl. And her mother, a shopping channel addict, doesn't want to hear about it. Then one day she meets Danny, a boy from school who wears over-sized second hand clothing and is far from the good-looking guys she's usually with, but somehow she finds herself drawn to him. As their relationship develops, Marquax comes fact-to-face the demons of her past that helps her move toward a positive future.

Click here to find Margaux with an X in the library catalog

Hell Phone
William Sleater

Nick wanted a cellphone to call his girlfriend Jen. His mom couldn't be depeneded on to pay the bill on home phone, so with a cell phone he was guarunteed to be able to call her. He saved his money and bought the only phone he could afford. It didn't have caller ID, but Nick figured that wouldn't be a big deal. Except, as soon as he gets the phone wierd people start calling him. One is a crying woman and it sounds like she's in danger. The other is a strange man who seems to know details of Nick's life, like the name of his girlfriend. Then the previous owner calls and tells him the phone is dangerous and he should get rid of it pronto. But Nick doesn't want to let go of it so easy and the once good boy, suddenly finds himself doing some very bad things.

Click here to find Hell Phone in the library catalog