The Bookhive

One of my favorite book resources on just about any kind of children's book is The Bookhive. It is a site put together by the Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County. The Bookhive has a number of components to it and is appropriately titled "Your guide to Children's literature and books".

1. A good place to start in search of something to read is that of "Find a Book". There you will find a topic listing of Recently Reviewed books (by a variety of professionals) and Newer Books (a new feature). Most of the book topics are then divided into specific age categories such as: All, Babies, Toddlers, Preschool, Primary (k-3rd grade), Intermediate (4th-6th grade), or Adult/Parent. Once a topic and then category is chosen you can view the book cover, review, possible comments, and "if you like this, then try...".

2. If you are looking to help the creative writing side of a child, try out "Bee an Author". This is a place where you can "Create a 6 page story about Zinger the Bee to view on-line, print to create your own storybook, or email to a friend!". You can also view other kid's stories, if they have made them available for public viewing.

3. There are also a number of fun activities to try as well. You can take a Harry Potter quiz, create a list of your own favorite books, print coloring pages, or bookplates (many created by book illustrators).

4. Needing a quick story to listen to, try their story telling "Zinger Tales".

So, there you have it. I do not have any association nor have I ever been to this library or its branches, but I do admire their web work. Hopefully more libraries will be able to do something similar (of course funding and staffing are always the sticky point).