Easter reading

The upcoming Easter break will offer opportunities to relax, reflect on the goodness and mercy of God, and finally have time to read! There are many new books to choose from, below are a few to tempt you.

Image: HarperCollins

Lee Westfall has a secret. She can sense the presence of gold in the world around her. Veins deep beneath the earth, pebbles in the river, nuggets dug up from the forest floor. The buzz of gold means warmth and life and home—until everything is ripped away by a man who wants to control her.

You Tube: Epic Reads

Velocity by Chris Wooding

Image:Scholastic

Described as Hunger Games on wheels. Cassica and Shiara live in a harsh outback settlement. Destination: nowhere. But they have a dream. To win the Widowmaker: an off-road rally through the deadly Badlands. It’s their ticket to fame and fortune. Or to the mortuary. 

The truth about Peacock Blue by Rosanne Hawke

Image:AllenandUnwin

The story of a girl who suffers religious persecution as a Christian in Pakistan. Accused of blasphemy, she is thrown into prison. Life in prison is unpleasant, where Aster experiences dangerous and inhumane conditions. Her fight for justice is taken up by her cousin who lives in Australia.

Currently there is a Pakastani woman, Asia Bibi, who is still in jail five years after also being accused of blasphemy. Although a work of fiction, The truth about Peacock Blue will still be thought provoking. 

Nga Tawa 125th Anniversary

The weekend was a trip down memory lane for past pupils of Nga Tawa, and a wonderful opportunity to hear their stories. The display in the library has photos of some of the changes it has experienced over the decades.

The Wanganui Chronicle has a video incorporating some aspects of the weekend. The athletics sports, slipping and bean bagging feature as well.

Go to Video link to view.

International Women's Day

International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

Music has been a vehicle for affirming women and their worth. You Don't Own Me sung by Lesley Gore and recorded in 1963 is a statement about respect and autonomy. These are reflected in the lyrics:

"I don't tell you what to say

I don't tell you what to do

So, just let me be myself

That's all I ask of you"

You Tube: JohanVilchez's channel

A more contemporary girl power song by Little Mix from 2013 is somewhat more provocative in style. The lyrics conveying a more militant theme:

"Sisters we are everywhere

Warriors, your country needs you

If you're ready ladies, better keep steady

Ready, aim, shoot

Don't need ammunition, on a mission

And we'll hit you with the truth

Divas, queens, we don't need no man, salute!"

You Tube: LittlemxVevo

Both songs are designed to inspire and encourage women to stand up for themselves and know their worth. Celebrate International Women's Day with your favourite girl power song.

If you want to go further you can take part in the Pledge for Parity

New books on the shelves

Above is a small selection of the new books that are available to issue.

Everything Everything by Nicola Yoon is one that may interest you.

It is the story of a girl who’s literally allergic to the outside world. When a new family moves in next door, she begins a complicated romance that challenges everything she’s ever known.

Listen to a young lady by the name of Riley Marie as she gives us her review of the story.

You Tube: Riley Marie