Library has monsters, aliens and ghosts, oh my!

Published 12:00 am Sunday, October 12, 2014

Halloween is right around the corner and that means a whole lot of spookiness is sure to be had. What better way to get in the holiday spirit than to spend time with your child at Rowan Public Library where you will discover children’s books from the scary to the not-so-scary to help get everyone in the holiday mood.

If your child loves monsters and spooky tales, definitely check out “Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich” by Adam Rex. This book is a series of short poems that is sure to have your child laughing and giggling. How could you not after reading about the invisible man that gets a haircut, the mummy who won’t go to his eternal rest without a story and some cookies and the Godzilla that pooped on My Honda. This is a book not just meant to be read for Halloween but to be shared all year long. The comical illustrations alone are an attention grabber. ”

What is it about aliens, extraterrestrials and visitors from outer space that have kids so intrigued? Discover some stunning secrets in the book “Alienology: The Complete Book of Extraterrestrials” by Professor Allen Gray. The Professor will take you on a fascinating mystery tour of a world where space creatures mingle with earthlings. This book will enlighten you on the location of many alien worlds, alien biology (because who wouldn’t want to learn about that), their technology and how to identify aliens living right here on our planet.

If sitting around a camp fire telling ghost stories sounds like a great time, definitely check out “The Revolt and 28 More Original Uwharrie Ghost Stories” by Fred T. Morgan. Morgan is a true believer in ghosts and has written some spine tingling stories based in North Carolina. This book is not for those who mind a little heart racing excitement.

If you prefer more mystery and history and a little less scary, you may want to check out “The Devil’s Tramping Ground and Other North Carolina Mystery Stories” by John Harden. Quite interesting is the historical mystery surrounding Peter Stuart Ney, the mysterious schoolmaster of Rowan County. Was he a supreme imposter or a renowned Marshal of France?

Why is it that some of us enjoy stories that have the power to frighten us while others do not? Have you ever thought about the science behind it? The book “Are You Afraid Yet? The Science Behind Scary Stuff” by Stephen James O’Meara takes a look at this interesting topic. This unique book uses comic-book style panels and brief facts to investigate the science behind the what, why and how of everything scary. Learn about the things that have frightened people for centuries, and uncover the truth behind UFOs, vampires, King Kong, haunted houses and more.

Don’t forget to check out these howlin’ good children’s books at Rowan Public Library this season!

Book Chats for children at South branch: Oct. 23 for grades 3 and 4, both 4:15 p.m. Children in grades 2-5 may participate in Book Chats at South Rowan Regional Library in China Grove. Registration is required and space is limited. Please call 704-216-7728 for more information.

Computer classes: Computer Basics, Oct. 14, 7 p.m., and Oct. 30, 9:30 a.m., both at headquarters. Registration is required by calling 704-216-8242. If you’re new to computers or if you’ve never felt comfortable with them, Computer Basics covers the very basics. Classes are free. Sessions are about 90 minutes long. Dates and times at all locations are subject to change without notice.

Teen program: All programs 5:30-7 p.m. South, Oct. 14,; East, Oct. 20; Headquarters, Oct. 21. Teen programs are for middle school and high school students. Light refreshments for teens included.

Fall Photowalks: Headquarters, Oct. 18, 10:30 a.m.; East, Oct. 21, 5:30 p.m.; South, Oct. 23, 5:30 p.m. Dust off the camera, lace up your walking shoes, and join us. Aspiring photographers of all ages and skill levels are invited to join us for one, two or all three walks planned. Please bring your camera (even if it’s on your phone) and wear comfortable clothing. In the event of inclement weather, the Photowalk will be canceled. Spaces are limited; register online at www.rowanpubliclibrary or call 704-216-7841 for more information.

Adventure Club: Headquarters, Oct. 25, 11 a.m. Adventurous hands-on science-based activities and projects for all ages. This month’s theme is create your own lava lamps. Call 704-216-8234 for more details.

Book Bites Club: South Regional (only), Oct. 28, 6:30 p.m., “Dracula,” by Bram Stoker. Book discussion groups for adults and children meet the last Tuesday of each month. The group is open to the public and anyone is free to join at any time. There is a discussion of the book, as well as light refreshments at each meeting. For more information, please call 704-216-7841.

Friends of Rowan Public Library Annual Book Sale: Headquarters. Members only, Oct. 31, 6-8 p.m. Not a member yet? Buy a $10 annual Friends of RPL membership at the door and gain admission. Most items $2 or less. Call 704-216-8240 for more information. Open to public Nov. 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Nov. 2, 1-4 p.m.; Nov. 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Displays for October: headquarters, NAMI by Peggy Mangold, Family Crisis/Domestic Violence, Bonnie Link; South, miniature doll houses by donna Deal and Terri Correll; East, Alpha Beta.