With summer in full swing, this may be the perfect time to introduce kids to a new hobby. The library is a great resource for books about crafts, cooking, sports and many other hobbies. In addition to these books, be sure to ask the librarian about hobby-related DVDs.

Cool Crafts With Old T-shirts

by Carol Sirrine

Capstone Press, 2010

For ages 9-12

This title is part of the Green Projects for Resourceful Kids series. The author not only discusses the value of recycling, but also offers clever ideas on how to make new items from old T-shirts. Nine craft ideas are provided, with the best of these being a braided chew bone for dogs, a tote bag, a pillow and a scarf. Skill levels vary; the scarf, for example, uses a finger weave, which might be easier for children who have experience in knitting. Some crafts require ironing or a few stitches with a needle and thread, so it might be best for an adult to help. The introduction includes a brief history of the T-shirt, along with terms that will help with the craft instructions. A glossary and suggested book and Internet resources are listed at the back. Kids who are interested in recycling should check out the other books in the series, which instruct how to create crafts from old wallpaper, CD cases and jeans.

A World of Food: India

by Anita Ganeri

Clara House Books, 2010

For ages 8-12

This book is a great way to spark a child's culinary interest while learning about the culture and history of another country. Readers will learn about the unique spices used in India, as well as how the weather and agriculture affect the way Indians eat. An etiquette section describes how people typically use a piece of bread instead of utensils to carry food to their mouths. Three recipes are included. Readers also can learn about breads that are eaten in India, as well as how the cow is considered sacred. Colorful photographs illustrate the culture and cuisine of the country beautifully. A glossary, index and brief lists of books and websites for further reading are included. If your child enjoys this book, be sure to check out the other titles in this series, covering China, France and other nations.

Button Crafts

American Girl Publishing, 2009

For ages 7-12

Learn how to make and decorate simple crafts from buttons. The crafts use a variety of button styles, including traditional buttons you sew through, shank buttons (with a hard loop in back) and round bubble buttons. In the first section, kids learn how to adorn clothes with clip-on shoe jewelry, and add button details to a shirt collar or sock hem. The book shows how to make cute gifts by decorating cushions, pencil holders, tins and ornaments with buttons, and how to make barrettes and bracelets by gluing buttons in decorative designs. More complex crafts involve using earring hardware to make jewelry, and adults also may need to help younger children with stitching and gluing. Most craft projects do not require multidirectional steps but instead give ideas that inspire different uses for buttons. An icon identifies the projects that will require adult help.

Having Fun With Your Dog

by Audrey Pavia and Jacque Lynn Schultz

Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2009

For ages 8-12

This is perfect for children who want a more active relationship with the family dog. From the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the book provides fun, simple activities. In the summer, for example, dogs can be trained to fetch partially frozen ice cubes, or to run through the sprinkler with the child. On rainy days, kids can play hide-and-seek (if the dog lives inside). More advanced dogs can learn how to participate in lure coursing and agility tracks. Kids can learn helpful tips for taking the dog on camping trips and to the beach, and even on dressing up for Halloween. The book also has neat ideas on how a child can help others, such as by working with dogs that are training to be therapy dogs, by volunteering at a shelter or just by walking a friend's dogs. This is a fun book with colorful photographs of happy dogs. An extensive list of resources is provided, including books, websites and organizations that sponsor dog sports, pet therapy and assistance groups, as well as information on the ASPCA. After reading this book, some kids may want to get another dog -- and some adults may want to get one, too!

Write Your Own Mystery Story

by Tish Farrell

Compass Point Books, 2006

For ages 10-13

This book is a great way to get kids hooked on the world of writing mystery stories. The book identifies items kids will need to get started, including pens, paper, even a thesaurus and dictionary. Children are then charged with finding their own special place for writing, and to start writing, every day. Easy-to-read sections give children ideas on brainstorming, character development and style. Simple exercises also invite children to stretch their creativity. For example, they are asked to examine some photos and write about the characters, or to imagine what would happen if a parent became a bank robber. Children's mystery writers Anthony Horowitz (Alex Rider series) and Joan Lowery Nixon provide tips. The book includes information on how to send a book to publishers. In addition to offering a fun activity, this book provides a great way to ensure that your child continues learning new vocabulary over the summer.

Golf: From Tee to Green

by Clive Gifford

Kingfisher, 2010

For ages 8-12

A great book for beginner golfers. Readers learn what is in a golf bag, about the different clubs and gloves, and about tees and ball markers. Readers will learn how the game is scored, and photographs of children demonstrate proper grip and how to swing the club. The book also covers some of the world's most famous courses, such as the "19th Hole" at South Africa's Legend course, where the tee can be reached only by helicopter. "Masterclass" inserts give background stories about some of professional golf's most famous players. Parents will appreciate the reminders that golf is a polite game, where competitors should always shake hands at the end of a game, no matter who won or lost. A glossary and index are provided at the end of the book.

Lisa Smant is assistant manager in the Youth Center at the downtown Fort Worth Public Library. Look for these books at your local library.

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