Hey Kids,

Did you know that November 13 is World Kindness Day? It can be hard to show kindness when we're feeling angry or scared, but nothing makes me feel better than finding something nice to do for someone else. So I'm taking a minute today to remind myself to be kind to others. If you're looking for books that might help you show understanding or compassion to someone who needs it, I hope these inspire you. Share them with the grownups in your life and be kind together. If you have your own special kindness books, please share them as a comment below.

Bear Hugs,

Thorndyke

Hey Kids,

There's two fun new series about animals that I'd like to share with you. Each book combines simple clues with photographs, and then you guess the animal. Some of the animals are familiar, but others are strange, and some are easier to guess from the photographs. I would recommend them to anyone who likes guessing games, or who is just beginning to read. You can look up the books under the series titles: Guess What or Zoo Clues 2. If you check them out, don't forget to tell me which ones you guessed.

Bear Hugs,

Thorndyke

Hey Kids,

As a devoted library bear I really enjoy learning about your interests. Sometimes they are straightforward, like cars. Or bears. Or mysteries. But other times you just want to read about both princesses and scientists. At the same time. This can be a tall order, but here are a few recommendations that might fit the bill. 

Bear hugs,

Thorndyke, the Snowflake Princess

Hey Kids, 

Sometimes it's hard to challenge expectations and pre-conceived notions to just be who you are. Read on for many stories about people who defied stereotypes and limitations to be authentic. And don't forget to check out part 2 for even more great books about being yourself.

Bear Hugs,

Thorndyke

Hey Kids,

One of my favorite reasons to read is to discover places I've never been and learn about other people. Particularly in the wintertime I enjoy this kind of traveling, and I always like improving my understanding of the worlds and its people. Africa is a continent, made up of many different countries, that sometimes seems very far away. Try some of these books to bring it a little closer.

Bear Hugs,

Thorndyke

Hey Kids,

I hope you all had a fabulous first day of school. Going to school is a big deal, even if it's not the first time. It can be exciting and fun or a little bit scary with potential problems. I put together a back-to-school playlist of sorts, full of books about the fun of going to school and overcoming whatever challenges might present themselves. Stop by and see me to let me know how your new school year is going!

Bear Hugs,

Thorndyke

Hey Kids,

You might have heard a little something about the sun going dark on August 21. In honor of this amazing event, we have a few out-of-this-world programs coming up in August: a visit from a traveling planetarium (requires registration) and an eclipse viewing gathering (no registration necessary). To prepare for the big day you can also check out some books on this amazing phenomenon. For more information on viewing the eclipse safely, NASA has answers for you. Happy viewing!

Bear Hugs,

Thorndyke

Hey Kids,

I registered for Connect Your Summer and picked up my StoryBox. I decided to decorate my box like a good friend of mine, Bear. You might recognize him.

I had a hard time thinking of a goal. I want to read a lot this summer, but I don't want to make my goal too troublesome to reach. After thinking about it for a good long time, instead of picking a number of books or a number of minutes, I decided I wanted to read with someone every day. 

So if you're in the library this summer, please stop by. Read me a story if you have time. I love all kinds of stories. And don't forget to take a picture with me. You can print a copy for your StoryBox (and one for mine, if you like), or you can share your picture online. Don't forget to tag it #CYSstorybox.

Can't wait to see you all this summer.

Bear hugs,

Thorndyke

Hey Kids,

In the winter months I like to dress in cozy clothes to keep warm. My favorite kind of warm weather clothes are the ones handmade by a favorite person, and some of my favorite stories to snuggle up with are about that cozy kind of creation. Read on for a list of a few knitting stories to share with a loved one. Don’t forget the fireplace and hot tea. 

Bear Hugs,

Thorndyke

Hey Kids,

 It’s my birthday tomorrow. I have most everything I need here at the library, so I don’t need any presents, but maybe sometime during January you could come and say hello. Tell me a bear story, or read me your favorite story about birthdays or cake. A few of my favorites are listed below.

Bear Hugs,

Thorndyke