Monthly Archives: October 2023

Lady of Darkness: Book Review

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I was on Bookstagram the other day, and I found that many people were recommending this book, so it piqued my interest quickly! I read it, and I would say the book is better than I thought! Lady of Darkness is the first of five books, and it is a completed series!

The thing that I found interesting about this book is the fact that although there was romance in it, it didn’t obscure the whole plot of the book. The main heroine, Scarlett Monrhoe, 100% was involved in her own part of the story. Although she was influenced, she never strayed from her own personal goals.

SPOILER AHEAD:

From the first page of the book, you can pretty much guess that she was an assassin, but what the reader doesn’t know is that it goes so much deeper than that. Throughout the book, she’s mourning the loss of one of her sisters and her mother, and she goes through an insane amount of trauma.

For unknown reasons in the beginning, she’s somehow living in a mansion, with one of her childhood best friends, Cassius, under a rich lord who is in charge of her. The story starts picking up the pace when a mysterious man who is in charge of the lord’s armies spots her. From there, she starts training with him, as she is intrigued by the speed and agility that she equally matches.

There are multiple subplots going on at the same time, so it is difficult to explain all of them in order. However, as she is dealing with the mysterious man, children are going missing as well. So, she puts all her energy into finding the children and uses any methods possible to get a clue that might help.

As the story begins to tie together, we see that the mysterious man is the meeting point of all of her problems: her heritage, her mother, her sisters, the assassin lord…

I would say that this book is a good read for anyone who is feeling that rebel in them and wants to give this book a try!

The Fastest Fish

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Fish are those little guys swimming around in our oceans. Along with many other creatures of the sea. But today, we will focus on the three speediest fish around!

3rd fastest fish: The Swordfish

The third fastest fish is indeed a Swordfish. The fastest speed a swordfish has ever gone is about 60 MPH. A Swordfish has a very long and pointy sword-like bill, (Judging by the name) and that is what they use to catch their prey. They do it by simply stabbing their food, then swing the “sword” around to stun their prey, so they can eat it. The Swordfish usually eat other fish, and sometimes small invertebrates. These fish also have a special organ near their eyes, which is used to heat their brain and eyes. This helps for when they are very deep, because it helps the Swordfish see much better, and keeps them warm. If you see one of these fish, be careful, they’re really good at fencing!

2nd fastest fish: The Marlin

Time for the fish in second place, the Marlin. This fish is capable of reaching speeds of about 68 Miles per hour. Marlin fish are pretty big in size. They are the largest in the billfish family, which includes Swordfish. The Marlin has a bill very similar to a swordfish, but the Marlins bill is a lot less sharp. The Marlins diet is also very similar to a swordfish’s diet, both mainly eating fish. The heaviest type of Marlin is the Black Marlin, weighing at over 1,500 pounds! That is heavier than a Grand piano! The Black Marlin is actually the heaviest fish in the world! (Not including sharks, of course) Marlins are one of the biggest and heaviest fish ever.

1st fastest fish: The Sailfish

Now, the #1 fastest fish is the Sailfish! The speed of this fish is about 70 miles per hour, which is barely faster than the Marlin, by 2 MPH. Sailfish are another type of billfish, just like the marlin, AND swordfish. The sailfish got its name because- well, it looks like there is a big sail on its back. Another similarity of all these fish, is they all eat the same things, fish and octopuses. But one way the sailfish is different from almost every other fish is that its dorsal fin, (sail looking thing) is able to change colors! They do this to confuse prey, show emotion, and communicate with other Sailfish. The Sailfish is also one of the top predators, and they slash and stab their bill around when they are near a school of fish to hopefully get one of the little fish for a snack.

So now you know, these 3 fastest fish ever also have many cool things they could do, changing colors, to being REALLY heavy, and even having a sword!

Long Way Down

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Long Way Down written by Jason Reynolds is a phenomenal book that captures readers with both its round characters and twisting plot. Long Way Down is written in a different format than traditional novels.

The short poem format can either draw or push readers out. I found this format to be confusing but engaging. The concept of a character going down in an elevator and the chapters counting from six to one adds interest. While approaching sensitive issues like gun violence, Reynolds still manages to make a provocative story with a thrilling storyline. The main character, William goes through a series of “hallucinations” or conversations with people who have passed already in his life. Reynolds touches on the subject of The Rules, which is a set of rules that the characters follow. By mentioning this set of rules over and over again, it shows symbolism and gives the book a feeling of togetherness.

The poems in the story hold cryptic messages that leave the readers thinking. They occur a lot in the chapters and readers will have to spend time to really find clues in them.

However, what I like to look for in a book is an exciting ending that gives me a sense of closure. Long Way Down ends on a cliffhanger that leaves the ending up for debate. It’s an interesting way to end the book after all of the ups and downs that the plot has gone through.

Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.

Authors We Love: Franz Kafka

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As one of the most notable authors of the 20th century, Franz Kafka has continued to influence and inspire a new generation of writers. In order to understand the immeasurable impact Kafka has had on literature, we must first come to appreciate his story.

To say the least, Kafka did not have an easy upbringing. Born on July 3rd, 1883, Franz Kafka immediately found himself in an abusive and demeaning parental situation. While Kafka’s overbearing Dad initially halted his dreams of becoming an author, Kafka certainly did not fail to produce beautiful works. 

Kafka is well known for his ability to manipulate characterization as a tool to embody real life problems and situations. His most notable work achieving this feat is a novella titled The Metamorphosis.

The Metamorphosis tells the tale of traveling salesman, Gregor Samsa, who finds himself waking up as a bug-like creature one morning. Within the novella, Kafka uses Gregor’s character to emphasize the melancholic nature that lies within the overworked and underappreciated working class. This ability to commentate on the state of society within literature is a major strength of Kafka that has continued to live on in the efforts of following author’s.

Kafka’s influence lives on every day, and this impact in literature has even been coined with a term: Kafkaesque. Meaning “a characteristic of the oppressed or nightmarish qualities” shown within “Kafka’s world,” the term Kafkaesque has grown in great popularity in recent times. 

So, whenever you are reading a new book, consider the influence that Kafka may have had on the author. I guarantee if you learn to appreciate Kafka’s work, you will see the world in a new light.

– Taylor O.

Works by Franz Kafka are available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. They are also available to download for free from Libby.

The Queens of New York by E. L. Shen

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Glamor, hearts of gold, summer, dumplings, Broadway, scholarships, this book has it all.

E. L. Shen’s Queens of New York revolves around Jia Lee, Ariel Kim, and Everett Hoang. The trio each being their own specialties to the group: Everett is the future Broadway star, all shiny lights and melodic voice. Ariel is the genius, brainy scholar who just recently lost her sister to a drowning incident she strangely knows nothing about. And Jia, she’s like the skin of dumpling, keeping them all together.

When the three best friends split up for the summer—Ariel to San Francisco to pursue her STEM interest, Everett to a performing arts school in Ohio, and Jia remaining back at home, all of the problems in their lives become apparent.

Without each other for constant support and distractions, the girls are forced to face their fears head-on. With their leaps of faith come new discoveries and closure.

This novel shines a light on Asian-American representation, racism, and economical disadvantages. For one, the offhanded racist comments that Everett experienced from an authoritative figure at her academy. Jia’s family’s dumpling house restaurant responsibilities that restrict her from bringing up her dreams of college and an education that her family can’t afford.

I appreciated how these very real concepts did not detract from the storyline, only added to the characters and the reader’s understanding of them.

Overall, The Queens of New York was a novel that I enjoyed reading. It proves that there is more than just flashy skyline buildings, unrelenting crowds, and bustling taxis to New York; There are big hearts and even bigger dreams.

The Queens of New York by E. L. Shen is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library.

26 Fairmount Avenue by Tomie dePaola

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26 Fairmount Avenue is the first book in an autobiographical series by Tomie dePaola.  This book won a Newbery Honor award in 2000. Tomie dePaola was a renowned writer and illustrator of fictional children’s books, but this book is about his real-life childhood. This was his first chapter book. He tells the story of his childhood growing up in New England in the 1930s. His parents decide to build a house at 26 Fairmount Avenue in the small town of Meriden, Connecticut. However, construction is repeatedly delayed for various reasons. For example, his parents decide to fire the original builder before the house is completed, because he was not building the house in the way that Tomie’s parents wanted. Also, construction is delayed because town workers scraped away dirt on Fairmount Avenue, making the street lower. As unexpected challenges come up, Tomie wonders whether his family will ever be able to move from their small apartment into the new house.

This book is enjoyable to read because the story is told from the perspective of a child. I was surprised by how young Tomie dePaola was at the time of the events of this book. He was only between four and five years old, yet he has a vivid memory of that time. He shares many amusing stories from that period in his life. I especially enjoyed learning about his family and his Irish and Italian heritage. Tomie seems very respectful of his family members. For example, I appreciated his relationship with his great-grandmother. Tomie loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. This book describes the value of a loving family and a happy home.

I have appreciated Tomie dePaola’s books since I was a child, so it was nice to learn about his childhood. This is a very short book, but I enjoyed it very much. The story is quite charming, and the illustrations by Tomie dePaola are excellent as always. 26 Fairmount Avenue would be a great choice for someone who is just beginning to read chapter books, but I would recommend it to anyone.

26 Fairmount Avenue by Tomie dePaola is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.

How to Make French Toast

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This summer, I started making my own breakfast almost every day. Apparently I have a high taste for food because I started making myself things like crêpes, waffles, omelets and FRENCH TOAST. I found this French toast recipe online, tweaked it a teeny tiny bit and eat it maybe once a week now. 

THE RECIPE

Prep Time: Approximately 2 minutes or less

Cook Time: Maybe 3-5 minutes

Ingredients

  • ⅓  cup of milk
  • 1 eggs
  • ½  teaspoon of vanilla extract (Optional) (I put it in for flavor and once did not have enough, but it was still delicious. I recommend putting the vanilla in)
  •  ≈ ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon (Optional) (I put more in and dust the toast while its cooking)
  • Salt (If you want, I dont put any)
  • 3 pieces of bread 
  • Butter to grease the pan

Step 1

Get all of your ingredients and whisk everything but the bread and butter together in a shallow bowl. (I use a cereal bowl)

Step 2

Butter your pan and heat over high heat

Step 3

Dunk your bread in your milk mixture for 3 seconds on both sides. I also sink the crusts.

Step 4

Move your bread onto your hot pan and lower the temperature to medium heat. Cook until the crusts are golden brown, (like the color of almonds or dulce de leche)

Step 5

EAT YOUR DELICIOUS CREATION. I prefer to top mine with maple syrup and more cinnamon.

I really like this recipe and think that it’s really easy to make while half asleep in the morning. I do recommend it for any people who like sweet breakfasts that don’t require much cooking.

Book Review: Before We Were Free by Julia Alvarez

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Recently, I read Before We Were Free by Julia Alvarez, which was about a family and their experience in the Trujillo-era Dominican Republic, a period of time when the country was ruled by a terrible dictator. This was definitely one of the best books that I read, as the narrator, in this case, Anita de la Torres, a 12-year-old girl in the family, makes personal connections to the reader throughout the book.

From my perspective, this book has a great build-up, as the author allows readers to slowly uncover what is going on, and we don’t truly know everything at the beginning. At the beginning, everything seems perfectly normal, with not many traces of the dictatorship being present, although the author did include many subtle tips, however, Anita realizes that her “Tio Toni”, or Uncle Toni, was missing. as the story unfolds, Anita comes to find out more and more about the country they live in.

Everything changes for Anita when members of the SIM, or the secret police of the dictatorship, go into her home and search for the Garcias, the neighbors. from here on out, her family has this sense of silence, and Anita comes to the realization that something was wrong, and realization dawns upon her that there was something wrong with the government. Eventually, she realizes that her parents are in a plot to assassinate Trujillo and bring freedom to the country.

I won’t spoil the rest of the book, but I can tell you that this book has a bittersweet ending. This was a great book I’m my opinion, as the narrator makes the reader feel a personal connection to all the characters, as well as explains her surroundings and experiences in vivid detail. All in all, although this book starts off slow, it takes off very quickly, and will leave readers interested in reading the whole thing!

Before We Were Free by Julia Alvarez is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.

The Cheat Sheet by Sarah Adams

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Nathan and Bree have been best friends since high school, but never had the courage to tell each other about their true feelings. However, after Bree suffered from a life-changing car accident and Nathan left for college and the NFL, the two lose touch, only to be reunited years later with their feelings just as strong and still just as much stuck in the friend-zone. Eventually, after six long years, things begin to change as a drunken conversation with a nosy reporter forces them to start fake dating.

All in all, I loved this book. Personally, I’ve always loved friends-to-lovers and fake dating tropes, which is just two of the many things that I enjoyed about this book. Positives also include:

  1. Nathan is a big sweetheart. He was always so loyal to Bree and would stand up for her whenever someone tried to belittle her. He was also super patient with her when she was drunk and wanted to respect her boundaries.
  2. Jamal, Derek, Price, and Lawrence are probably the bestest friends you could ever ask for. The way that they were silently rooting for Bree and Nathan the whole time and even made Nathan a romance sheat sheet, so that he could woo her, automatically makes them the best matchmakers ever!!!
  3. Dylan was probably my favorite character out of this whole book. I found his interactions with Bree and Lily to be especially fun, espescially when he kept having to constantly shop for her and then carry them up several flights of stairs to Bree’s dingy apartment.

That being said, this book did have a few flaws.

  1. Personally, I would have liked to see Nathan stand up to his mom about her never letting him relax or do anything except play football.
  2. Again, just a personal preference, but I would have liked Bree to have had some involvement in the wedding planning. I know it was a little rushed since they literally got married on the same day that Nathan proposed and everything was planned beforehand according to her preferences, but I still would have liked to see Bree going around trying wedding cakes, dresses, or do anything wedding-related at all.

Overall, I’d probably give it a 4/5, but it’s definitely worth the read if you like a sweet, down-to-earth romance.

Yours Truly (10 Year Anniversary) – Ariana Grande

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Although Ariana Grande, global popstar is experiencing some heat by the media for supposedly cheating on co-star Ethan Slater; I remain a fan of her music. I think it is big that we can identify an artist is a human beyond their music but the topics discussed in music can contribute to their image and should be proceeded carefully.

However, I came here to talk about Ariana’s re-recording of her debut album Yours Truly. This album is one of my favorites from her because of classics like Honeymoon Avenue, Daydreamin’, as well as The Way ft. Mac Miller.

I think the reason I enjoy this re-recording is how insane she sounds in singing. Not insane as in crazy but insane as in awe. She has immensely improved since the last time fans heard her sing I believe to be in 2020. However, she has been starring in Broadway musical Wicked which could be reason why her vocals have gotten better knowing she has gotten training and lessons guided to singing.

Everyone should give it a listen especially if you haven’t heard her debut album originally, it truly is beautiful. Also, for those who know Mac Miller passed away she inputted instrumentals during her part of The Way to exemplify his feature more prominently. I think even with all the backlash she is receiving people should still listen to the album regardless because the music is after all just a re-recording.

-Madison C.