Teen Scene
February 2026

New and Recently Released
Beautiful Brutal Bodies by Linda Cheng
Beautiful Brutal Bodies
by Linda Cheng

Tian is a singer-songwriter with a massive online following, known for her hypnotic vocals and ethereal looks. But behind the glamorous façade is a disturbing reality: raised in an isolated mansion, Tian is a prisoner in her own life. Liya is Tian’s childhood friend and her only close companion, tasked with protecting Tian at all costs. But hidden beneath Liya’s beautiful human exterior is a beastly secret: her teeth are far too sharp, and her appetite much too ferocious. When several fans mysteriously suffer fatal injuries while watching her livestream, Tian, along with Liya, are sent to a spiritual healing retreat on a remote island in the South China Seas. There is constant surveillance, bizzare rituals, and something terrifying lurking in the forest. Something not quite human. In order to escape with her loved ones, Tian must uncover her connection to the island’s blood-drenched legend -- and the truth behind Liya’s monstrous identity -- before the island claims them all as its final sacrifice.
Gilded in Vengeance by Lyssa Mia Smith
Gilded in Vengeance
by Lyssa Mia Smith
 
Two years after being framed for fraud by the Society of the Charmed, an exclusive club of New York’s wealthiest—and most magical—citizens, Emmy Vallillo wastes away in prison, utterly alone. Until her cell door bursts open, revealing Jack Fontaine, one of the Society’s favorite sons, now imprisoned for a crime he swears he didn’t commit. They make a deal: He’ll help Emmy escape if she helps destroy those who’ve wronged them. Together, the two break free and, using Emmy’s magic to transform their appearances, they soon become the Society’s new darlings. Now their enemies want to dine with them. Attend lavish balls with them. Marry them. But ruining lives requires Emmy to trust Jack with hers, despite his dark secrets—and the infuriating attraction between them. When another betrayal brings their enemies to their doorstep, Emmy must choose: finish exacting revenge, or give up the money, the magic, and her safety in this cutthroat world for the most treacherous thing of all—love.
Never Seen the Stars by Kate Korsh
Never Seen the Stars
by Kate Korsh
 
Hattie Murphy thinks the universe hates her. She has a secret: she has the same genetic eye disease as her father and is slowly going blind, just like he did. Nobody knows. Not her friends. Not her family. As if that weren’t hard enough, Hattie’s good friend Mason drowns unexpectedly, leaving their friend group shattered. After Mason’s death, Hattie isn’t ready to let go. There are too many things left unsaid between them. But while it’s hard for her to find her seat in the dim light of the church at Mason’s funeral, Hattie finds that she can see something no one else can: Mason’s ghost. And when he speaks, teasing her the way he always did, it’s clear their chemistry hasn’t changed. Sometimes, when Mason visits her, Hattie can pretend that everything is how it used to be. But the longer Hattie keeps her secrets, the harder it is to deny the truth. Her eyesight is getting worse, and she’s mourning not just Mason, but the life she thought she’d have. Hattie’s sick of being told that the only way to heal is to move on . . . because how can she move on if it means losing Mason forever?
The Secret Astronomers by Jessica Walker
The Secret Astronomers
by Jessica Walker

When a recent transfer student starts keeping her diary in the oldest textbook at the Green Bank High School library, the last thing she expects is to receive a response. Thus begins a sweeping tale of unlikely friendship and long-buried secrets between two secret pen pals at a rural West Virginia high school. Copernicus is adrift and searching for answers after the sudden death of her mother, and leaving her cosmopolitan life in San Francisco behind. Kepler is a small-town girl with straight A's and big plans to be the first person in her family to go to college, despite her family's modest means. The two girls are so different from one another but united in their goal to solve a mystery that has riddled Green Bank for decades. Meticulously hand-drawn by debut author Jessica Walker across the pages of an actual ancient astrophysics textbook, The Secret Astronomers is a story of friendship, family, crop circles, secret crushes, giant telescopes, life in Appalachia, and two girls discovering new ways to connect across any divide that separates them.
Under a Fire-Red Sky by Geraldine McCaughrean
Under a Fire-Red Sky
by Geraldine McCaughrean

With World War II on their doorstep, the children of Greenwich, England, are being evacuated. But on the train meant to take them to safety, four of them decide they aren’t ready to leave home. They climb out the carriage window just in time, forging an unlikely friendship. With their school taken over by the fire service, they spend their days trying to be useful. Lawrence is building a secret machine. Gemmy searches bombed-out homes for things of value―only to find an adorable mutt she can’t even give away. Franklin wants to join the fire service, even if it means lying about his age. Olive looks after her father, haunted by the deaths of his fellow firemen. Together, the four friends roam the streets of London, discovering their resilience amongst the secrets of the city. But as the Blitz unleashes a barrage of bombs, turning the sky ragged with flame, can they keep one another safe? Beautifully researched and full of both heartbreak and hope, Under a Fire-Red Sky is a celebration of friendship during even the darkest times.
A Matter of Murder by Tirzah Price
A Matter of Murder
by Tirzah Price
 
Lizzie Bennet’s beloved sister Jane has just married Darcy’s best friend, Bingley, and the Bennet family and Darcy are paying the newlyweds a visit at Bingley’s family home, Netherfield Park. It doesn’t take long for their country retreat to turn into an investigation, though, when a long-dead body is discovered stuffed up the parlor chimney. The locals are convinced that Netherfield is cursed, but Lizzie and Darcy know better than to believe in such nonsense and are determined to uncover the truth about what happened to the mysterious man in the chimney. But as they dig deeper into the history of Netherfield Park, they find that danger is waiting for them around every corner. Soon enough, they’re forced to consider if the curse might have some merit to it, or if there’s something—or someone—far more sinister behind their near brushes with death.
Retro Reads
Fledgling: The Keeper's Records of Revolution
by S.K. Ali

Raisa of Upper Earth has only lived a life of privilege and acquiescence. Ever dutiful, she accepts her father’s arrangement of her marriage to Lein, Crown Prince of the corrupt, volatile lands of Lower Earth. Though Lein is a stranger, Raisa knows the wedding will unite their vastly different worlds in a pact of peace: an infusion of Upper Earth technology will usher in the final age of enlightenment, ending war between humans forever. Or is justice more urgent? Newly released from imprisonment, Nada of Lower Earth has found her own calling: disrupting the royal wedding. Convinced her cousin Lein’s alliance with Upper Earth will launch an invasive, terrifying form of tyranny, Nada sets out undercover to light the spark of revolution. When Raisa goes missing a week before the wedding, all eyes turn to the rebels, including Nayf, Nada’s twin brother, a fugitive on the run. In Nayf and Raisa meeting, the long-simmering animosity between their worlds slowly burns away into something unexpected. But the Crown Prince wants his bride — and future — back. And he will go to the ends of the earths to reclaim them.
 
The Glass Girl
by Kathleen Glasgow

Everyone in fifteen-year-old Bella’s life needs something from her. Her mom needs her to help around the house, her dad needs her to not make waves, her ex needs her to not be so much. The only person who never needed anything from her was her grandmother—and now she’s dead. There’s only one thing that dulls the pressure: alcohol. Vodka, beer, peppermint schnapps—alcohol smooths the sharp edges of Bella’s life. And what’s the big deal? Everyone drinks. Besides, Bella can stop whenever she wants. But after she gets blackout drunk at a Thanksgiving party and wakes up in the hospital, it’s time to face reality. And for Bella, reality means rehab. Gorgeously written and deeply compassionate, Kathleen Glasgow’s The Glass Girl is a candid exploration of the forces pushing young women toward addiction—and what it really takes to help them get better.
 
Pick the Lock
by A.S. King

Jane Vandermaker-Cook would like her mother back. As Jane's mother tours the world to support the family, Jane lives and goes to school in a Victorian mansion with her younger brother and their mendacious father who confines Jane’s mother to a system of pneumatic tubes whenever she’s at home. And then there's weirdly ever-present Aunt Finch, Milorad the gardener, and his rat, Brutus. For Jane, this all seems normal until she suddenly gains access to the files for a lifetime of security-camera videos—her lifetime. A.S. King's latest surrealist masterpiece follows Jane’s bizarre and brilliant journey to reconnect with her mother by breaking out of her shell and composing a punk opera.
The Ballad of Darcy and Russell
by Morgan Matson

Darcy believes in love at first sight. Even though it’s never happened to her, she’s spent her whole life waiting for that perfect, magical moment. But right now, her life is anything but perfect. In the aftermath of a music festival, she’s stranded at a bus station until morning—the day before she leaves for college. Her phone is dead, she has no cash, and she’s convinced nothing good can come of this night…but then she meets Russell. Russell. Cute and nice, funny and kind. She knows this is the moment—and the guy—she’s been waiting for. And they have until sunrise to walk and talk and connect. Over the course of this one fateful night—filled with football field picnics, night swimming, and escape-artist dogs—Darcy and Russell’s lives will change forever. They’ll discover things they never imagined about each other…and about themselves. But can you really know someone after only a handful of hours? Is it possible to fall in love in just one day? And is it worth saying hello…when you know you’re destined for a goodbye?
 
Upcoming @ Your Library!
For Youth
Family Storytime
Every Wednesday at 11:00 AM
Join Ms. Laura for stories, songs, and fun for everyone in the Children's room!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Chess Club by Pawns Pathways 
Thursday, February 6th 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
We're happy to announce that we've partnered with local nonprofit, Pawns Pathways, whose mission is to instill valuable life lessons and skills by teaching chess to children. You can find more about their efforts at the following link: Pawns Pathways  All ages and experience levels are welcome to attend. Equipment will be provided.  Chess Club will take place in Meeting Rooms 1 + 2 from 3:45pm to 4:45pm on the first Friday of every month! 
 
Register Here
 
 
First Fridays: Music and Movement with Ms. Jenni
Friday, February 6th 11:00 AM
Let's sing, play, and move with Ms. Jenni as she takes us on musical adventures designed especially for our littlest patrons! Each first Friday of the month at 11:00am, join us as we explore with instruments, dance, and song. Recommended for ages 0-4. Caregivers must attend with their child. Registration is *highly recommended*.
 
Register Here
 
 
Storytelling Theatre with McCarter Theatre Center 
Saturday, February 7th 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bring your favorite stories to life with McCarter Theatre Center’s exciting and immersive Storytelling Theatre Workshops! After a fun and energetic warmup, we will read a story, prompting questions about the world, characters, and themes along the way. Following this, students will be guided through an immersive and theatrical exploration of the work, inviting them to imagine themselves in the shoes of the characters and in the world of the story. These engaging workshops help develop creative problem-solving, collaboration, imagination, and self-expression! Recommended for ages 8 to 12. Registration is *highly encouraged*. This program will be held in Meeting Rooms 1 + 2.
 
Register Here
 
 
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library Film Screening 
Friday, February 13th 3:30 PM
Join us after school for a special One Book, One Cranbury screening of the movie Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library, complete with themed snacks! All ages are welcome, registration is *highly encouraged*. The screening will take place in Meeting Rooms 1 + 2.
 
Register Here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For Teens
Teen Mashup Hour (or Whatever)  
Thursdays, February 12th and 26th 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
 
On the second and fourth Thursday each month, tweens & teens can drop by the Teen Room at 4:00pm for the Teen Mashup Hour (or Whatever). Each month there will be a suggested book to read & discuss and a guided craft to work on - but attendees are welcome to discuss whatever and work on whatever they'd like. Attendees will also learn of volunteer opportunities available at the Library. Light snacks will be offered.  This program is intended for ages 11-18.  The Teen Mashup Hour will meet on the second and fourth Thursday each month at 4:00pm in the Teen Room (unless otherwise stated).
 
For Adults
 
Pilates for Wellness 
Mondays, February 2nd, 9th, and 23rd 4:30 PM 
Candice Wisaksono is a certified Pilates instructor dedicated to guiding others toward deep relaxation, healing, and inner balance. With a passion for holistic wellness, she combines the restorative power of Pilates to help her students find peace, clarity, and renewal. Her classes offer a nurturing space to release stress, reconnect within, and restore harmony to the body, mind, and spirit. Please bring your own mat.  Walk - ins are welcome. 
 
Register Here

 
 
 
 
 
Chair Yoga Dance 
Tuesday, February 3rd 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Stephanie Cuddahy is a certified group fitness instructor and personal trainer who has taught classes is several local gyms, including most recently RWJ Fitness and Wellness Hamilton and the Hamilton Area YMCA.  Her cardio chair dance class came from her love of low impact aerobic exercise and the need to make the class appropriate for all bodies and fitness levels. AND it needs to be fun!
 
Register Here
 
 
 
 
 
Scholarships, Grants & Loans
Tuesday, February 3rd 6:00 PM
This workshop will uncover the best college cost-reduction strategies and reveal little-known asset, borrowing, and savings methods. Learn insider information on scholarships, grants, and loans to help make your college planning both successful and affordable. This webinar is recommended for parents of middle school and/or high school students.  This is an online webinar through Zoom.

Please register using this link
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WcKK9UPdSAumT2s75lASYw#/registration
 
 
                                 Spinning Yarns 
Tuesdays, February 3rd and 17th 6:30 PM 
Meeting Room 1
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gentle Yoga 
Wednesdays, February 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Join us for an hour of gentle stretching, breath work, and meditation. This class is perfect for beginners or experienced practitioners.  Please bring your own mat.  Walk-ins-welcome.
Beth Glasberg  has been practicing yoga for over 20 years. After studying the mind-body connection as part of her work as a behavior analyst, she decided she needed a deeper education in yoga. The more she learned, the more she fell in love. She became certified as a yoga instructor through the Yoga Renew program and joined the Yoga Alliance. Since then, Beth has been teaching both foundational and vinyasa flow classes regularly. She is also in the process of becoming certified to work with individuals who have suffered a trauma. She is passionate about using movement and breath to build strength, flexibility, balance, and peace, and committed to making the practice available to individuals of all fitness levels and backgrounds. When not on the mat, you can find Beth enjoying time with her family, visiting new places, or relaxing at the beach. in Motion Fitness is a boutique fitness studio located in Princeton, NJ.  Walk-ins welcome, no registration required.
 
Register Here
 
 
                                                               Downsizing and Decluttering: You Can't Take it With You 
Thursday, February 5th 11:00 AM
Having too much stuff can impede people from relocating or getting health care into their homes. This engaging presentation explores why stuff is so important for some people and teaches practice, easy-to follow tips on downsizing and decluttering. Speaker is from AARP. 
 
Register Here
 
 
Nutritious Feast 
Monday, February 9th 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Join instructor Shipra Mitra for a hands-on workshop featuring helpful, budget-friendly, and health-focused recipes that you can watch, learn, and taste! Beyond her professional and philanthropic pursuits, Shipra embodies the essence of holistic well-being nurturing both mental and physical health through art, travel, and an active lifestyle. She believes that true wealth lies not in material gains but in living each day with purpose, balance, and fulfillment.
Space is limited. Please register to secure your spot.
 
 
 
Register Here

 
 
 
 
Caregiver Support Group 
Monday, February 9th 11:00 AM
There are different types of caregivers and ALL are welcomed. This is a judgment free safe place to share, to learn and/or to just listen. It’s a place of love, empathy and respect. It is a place to share the triumphs, the challenges, the disappointments, the accomplishments or simply a place to vent and reset ourselves so we can carry on one day at a time. Stress - free, safe environment respectful of everybody's level of comfort and pace of engagement.

Kat welcomes you with open arms! Kat Verdi is a Certified Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Trainer. She serves as a sound referral resource for anyone caring for a loved one. Her mission are the “3E’s” - to Educate, Empower and Encourage caregivers.

This support group will take place in Meeting Room 3. Meets the 2nd month of every month. 
 
Register Here
 
 
Senior Arts & Crafts with Caregiver Coach, Kat
Monday, February 9th 1:00 PM
Welcome to Senior Arts & Crafts with Caregiver Coach, Kat Typically, each month there will be a craft for Seniors to enjoy. Occasionally there may be a bingo session, but that will be announced a few weeks before.  Meet new people, share stores, and have a great time!  Please note, that for craft months, there is a limit of 12 participants. For Bingo, there is not limit on the number of participants.
Located in Meeting Rooms 1 + 2.
 
Register Here
 
                                                    
Button Maker Monday!
Mondays, February 9th and 23rd
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Want to gussy up that backpack? Or give your jacket the flair it deserves? Come by the Maker Space every Monday from 3:30-4:30pm with your pre-printed designs, or draw an original piece, and we'll make a button out of it! 
 
 
 
 
CPL Cinemates Film Club 
Monday, February 9th 6:00 PM
Movie-lovers of all kinds are welcome! Whether you're a casual viewer or well-versed in auteur theory and the works of André Bazin, we invite all who wish to share in the cinematic experience and spirited (but civil) discussions. Screenings will vary in rating, so we advise using discretion on deciding whether to attend a screening.
 
This program is suggested for teens and older.
Refreshments will be provided, but you may also bring your own snacks and nonalcoholic drinks. Most importantly: bring your love for movies!  This program will meet in Meeting Rooms 1 + 2 on the third Monday of every month.  
 
Each month's selection is inspired by a specific theme and is voted on by club members. Be sure to submit your email address on the questionnaire below to be included in the voting for each month's film!

Below is a short questionnaire to assess what types of films participants would like to screen. Please feel free to share your thoughts by submitting a form and be sure to leave your email to stay up to date with Cinemates happenings!

Cinemates Film Club Questionnaire
 
Register Here
 
 
Free CPR Adult/Child 
Tuesday, February 10th 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
The Family & Friends CPR program teaches you how to perform CPR and how to help someone who is choking. These classes are designed for family members, friends and members of the general community who want to learn CPR but do not need a course completion card.
please register HERE
Meeting Rooms 1 + 2
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Great Decisions Foreign Policy Discussion Group 
Tuesday, February 10th 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Meets the Second Tuesday of the month in Meeting Room 1. Video and discussion to follow. Copies of the Great Decisions Briefing Book are available for checkout at the Cranbury Public Library. 

Discussion Topics Include:
America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy
Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy
U.S.-China Relations
Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation
Ukraine and the Future of European Security
Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
U.S. Engagement of Africa
The Future of Human Rights and International Law
 
 
Free CPR Infant 
Tuesday, February 10th 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
The Family & Friends CPR program teaches you how to perform CPR and how to help someone who is choking. These classes are designed for family members, friends and members of the general community who want to learn CPR but do not need a course completion card.
please register HERE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
"New Year, New Me": Vision Boards with NJ4S! 
Tuesday, February 17th 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Ready to make 2026 your best year yet? Join us & NJ4S for a creative & inspiring workshop to craft your personal vision board. This isn't just about crafting - it's about setting powerful intentions & visually mapping your dreams for the year ahead.

All materials will be provided - just bring your creativity and big dreams!

All ages are welcome. Registration is highly encouraged to ensure that there are enough supplies for all attendees.
 
Register Here 
 
 
 
 
Afternoon Book Discussion
Wednesday, February 18th 1:30 PM
Meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month in Meeting Room 3.
February Title:  Don't Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino
 
 
 
Monthly Puzzle Night! 
Wednesday, February 18th 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Join us for our monthly puzzle night on the third Wednesday of each month! Come work on a new puzzle each month, and meet fellow puzzle enthusiasts!

Drop in from 6-8pm when we'll be working on puzzles in the adult circulation room.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Basics of AI
Thursday, February 19th 11:00 AM
 
Register Here
 
 
                                                                          Vaastushastra - The Ancient Science of Architecture 
Saturday, February 21st 1:00 PM
When the location, layout, and design of any building is in harmony with its natural surroundings and the energy fields that permeate the world around it, then the dwellers experiences peace, happiness, and success.
Learn about this ancient principle of design that has been used in India since 5000 B.C. This principle was codified in the Vaastushastra and applied to the building of cities, houses, temples, and other facilities. Attendees will learn about this ancient history and explore what Feng Shui, ancient Greek principles, and today’s modern design sensibilities share in common with Vaastushastra. Attendees will also learn how to apply these principles to see if your own home is in harmony with Nature.  
 
                                                   
iPhone 101
Monday, February 23rd 12:30 PM
Learn all about how to use your iPhone or iPad!  In this workshop, we will have an open forum for any troubles you might encounter with the iPhone or other Apple devices. In previous sessions, we discussed the camera, security measures, and data storage. Beginner to intermediate experience with an iPhone or Apple device is suggested. Meeting Room 1.
 
Register Here
 
 
Literary Cafe
Monday, February 23rd 7:00 PM
Discuss your recent reads with fellow bibliophiles. This discussion group promises thought-provoking and engaging discourse. Meets the 4th Monday of the month in Meeting Room 3.
 
Register Here
 
 
Central Jersey Wildlife: An Intimate View
Tuesday, February 24th 6:30 PM
Join local nature photographer, Bob Kane, and birder, Kathy Easton, for striking up-close looks at some of central Jersey's varied and watchable wildlife.
 
 
How to Use Today's AI Tools to Simplify Life 
Wednesday, February 25th 2:00 PM
You've heard of AI, but how can you actually use it in your own life? This workshop is a practical dive into how AI tools can be leveraged to simplify your daily tasks, enhance productivity, and bring a new level of efficiency to both personal and professional endeavors. AI models covered include: ChatGPT, Midjourney, Perplexity, Anthropic's Claude, Gemini, Sora, ElevenLabs, Adobe Firefly, etc.
 
 
Library Hours and Closings
 
LIBRARY CLOSED 
Monday, February 16th 
 
Monday thru Thursday - 10 AM to 8 PM
Friday - 10 AM to 5 PM
Saturday - 10 AM to 4 PM
Sunday - 12 PM to 4 PM
 
 
Cranbury Public Library
30 Park Place West
Cranbury, New Jersey 08512
609-722-6992

www.cranburypubliclibrary.org/