Wednesday, 9 November 2016

Armistice Day

"Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it"
 (paraphrased quote from George Santayana)

The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.  Every year this day commemorates the moment that hostilities on the Western Front officially ended with the signing of the Armistice. This year marks 98 years since that day.

At 11 o'clock, a two minute silence is observed in remembrance of those New Zealanders who died serving their country in World War One and all subsequent wars.

If you are interested in learning more about Armistice Day, Phillpa Werry has written an excellent book that explains what it is and why it matters.








The World Wars still inspire authors to write stories set in those times. Despite hardship, horror, sorrow and loss, people are still capable of courage, perseverance, kindness, bravery, sacrifice and generosity.
On display are several such novels. In Between shades of gray you will learn about a mother's love for her children and the care she shows to others despite the hardship of being in a Russian work camp. The girl in the blue coat is about a girl who becomes involved with the Resistance in Amsterdam. Stories of the First World War features the experiences of twelve young people during WW1.
You are welcome to issue these or search the catalogue for others.



New Books

Mustang Ride: The adventures of the Wilson sisters in the American West.

You Tube: Wilson Sisters



The art of not breathing: Death, devastation, disintegration, depths of the ocean, free-diving, secrets and a bad boy name Tad.
Reviewed by Publishers Weekly

Image: Usborne



Salt to the Sea: They come from different lands but each of them is hunted and haunted, by tragedy, lies.... and war.
Events like this are being lived out in our times, but this story is set in World War 2. Based on a true story, Ruta Sepetys writes about four young people who board the Wilhem Gustloff, a ship that promises safety and freedom. Listen to her introduce this book in the video below.




You Tube: Penguin Teen


Small great things: Ruth is a nurse in a hospital and experiences a patient who does not want an African-American person looking after her. It is a story about race relations in America. Listen to the interview with Jodi Picoult to hear more about her new book.



You Tube: Book View Now



Concentr8: A madness has taken hold, they are mad for Concentr8. 

Reviewed at GusLitWire

Image: Bloomsbury