Monthly Archives: October 2023

The Mamba Mentality by Kobe Bryant

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From behind-the-scenes insight to life-changing advice, Kobe Bryant’s autobiography is a great motivator for young athletes and a memoir of his style of play.

The book opens with a foreword from Pau Gasol, a longtime teammate of Kobe and a member of the 2023 Hall of Fame Class. Pau opens with a story about when he first got traded to the Lakers. When Pau arrived at his room at 1 AM, Kobe was there to introduce himself. On page 15, Pau says, “To me, that was a tremendous demonstration of a true leader, and our meeting had a huge impact on me, instantly.”

These short anecdotes throughout the book show both Kobe’s development and mindset. While these stories are great, there are some points in the book when the topic changes without warning. For example, Kobe talks about his 2013 Achilles injury, and how it could have been career-ending. Immediately after, he talks about his signature 2008 sneakers. These sudden transitions can be slightly off-putting at first, but it is the style of the book.

An overwhelming positive of the book is the photography by Andrew D. Bernstein, the official photographer for the Lakers and Clippers. Photos span from Kobe’s rookie headshot to his final game.

The formatting of the book is also extremely unique. Instead of just pages of text, many portions of the book are dedicated to full-page images. Quotes and other titles are shown in different fonts and colors to stand out even more. This helps separate pieces of information and makes it easier to digest information.

Overall, the imagery and formatting of the book are more than enough to make it an interesting read. If you are not a basketball player or an athlete, Kobe’s “Mamba Mentality” still applies. He preaches that the mindset is not “about seeking a result-it’s more about the process of getting to that result. It’s about the journey and the approach. It’s a way of life” (pg.93).

Mamba Mentality by Kobe Bryant is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.

Boracay Summer Vacation

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This may be a little late, but I wanted to share a place that I went to during summer vacation! For those who don’t know, Boracay is a famous island in the Philippines with many smaller islands to visit. There are plenty of fun activities to see and do and one of the most unique beaches because of the beautiful white sand and super clear water. 

During my trip, I went with my family for three days and by the end of it, I was exhausted. We did plenty of things. On the first day, we arrived by a small plane and checked into our hotel after weaving through narrow, busy streets. Our hotel was very nice, with four stories, a pool, a restaurant and a quick way to the beach. Our room was on the third floor and it provided a nice view of the floors underneath. For the most part, the first day, we just swam in the pool and the ocean and ate dinner. Every dinner, we could see a fire dance show, which was really cool to see. It was hard to take my eyes off of the performers and their tricks and it’s something that you should definitely see for yourself.

The second day was the most action-packed day of our trip. With a guide, we planned a day full of activities, starting off with visiting a different island and snorkeling. It was my first time snorkeling and it was very interesting. But we did have a little bit of a scare. If you’re aware of sea snakes, you should also be aware that they are extremely venomous (specifically the black and white striped ones). Unluckily for us, our snorkeling spot happened to have one of those snakes and at some point, we must have startled it as it left its resting spot and began to rise up to where we were snorkeling. Safe to say we left quickly onto our next destination, lunch.

After lunch, we had planned to go back to the hotel and save more activities for tomorrow, but after some convincing, we ended up doing the rest on that day. We changed boats and headed to a floating facility in the ocean that had the rest of our activities for the day. The first one was banana boating. A banana boat is a floating tube with handles on it and is pulled by a motor boat. On a banana boat, the goal is to hold on for the entire ride, but  as easy as it sounds, once you lose your grip, it’s difficult to get back up. My family managed to get through the ride without falling in (even though I almost fell in).

The last thing we did that day was parasailing. Most of my family were not on board with the idea, but I managed to convince my cousin to go with me. When I had first seen other people do it, they didn’t look like they were super high up, but then I got on it and looked down, it was a lot higher than I thought it was. Despite the elevation, the view was spectacular and definitely worth it. My cousin and I got nice and comfortable in the air, taking in the peaceful silence and the view of the ocean and land. 

The third day was much more peaceful. A calm walk down the beach, nice swim in the ocean and pool, and lively night walks on the beach, looking at various vendors to buy from. After that, it was time to go home (being where we stayed with our cousins in the main island of the Philippines). We knocked Boracay out early on the two month trip, but it was definitely a highlight.

I definitely recommend going to Boracay if you ever get the chance. Whether it’s to experience the beautiful beaches morning, midday, or night; or to participate in the various water activities they have, or to look at the culture, it’s undoubtedly a place you’d want to miss going to. 

-Nicole R.

Album Review- Folklore by Taylor Swift

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In 2020, Taylor Swift released her eighth studio album Folklore, an anthology album where every song tells a different story. These stories cover topics from love, to escapism, to nostalgia. I especially love this album because of its indie-pop feel. Here are some of my favorite tracks on the album and why.

Cardigan: One of my favorite songs on the album is Cardigan because of its nostalgic feel about looking back on what it was like to be carefree and young, like when the song says, “when you are young they assume you know nothing.”

The Last Great American Dynasty: Another one of my favorite songs on the album is The Last Great American Story, which is based off of the previous owner of Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island house, Rebekah Harkness. One of my favorite parts of this song is the storytelling within the song about her house’s history.

Exile (Feat. Bon Iver): Exile is one of the sadder songs on the Folklore album, but I still like it very much. One of my favorite parts of this song is how Bon Iver and Taylor Swift’s voices both contribute to the song’s sound and story so much through the duet.

The Lakes: One of my favorite songs on Folklore is the bonus track The Lakes. The Lakes is about escapism and the need to escape from your daily life, which is something that everyone can relate to. Another theme I like in this song is letting your old self go so you can venture and find your new self.

Overall, Folklore is a creative album with many great songs on it, and these were just a few. I would rate this 10/10 and I would recommend for everyone to take a shot at it!

Percy Jackson Series Review

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By Bella H.

Immersing myself in the captivating world of mythology, I have devoured numerous books, consuming many books every day after school through my years in middle school. I love books written by the talented author Rick Riordan. He is a master at intertwining modern-day storytelling with ancient legends and myths.

Percy Jackson, my absolute favorite among his remarkable book series, captivates me with thought-provoking and intricately woven plots and realistic and believable characters that I’m eager to discuss. 

I’ll not spoil the plot too much here, but Percy is twelve when the series starts. Little did he know that his life was about to change; When he discovered that he was the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. From this discovery, he finds himself in one adventure after another. Compelled to undertake a perilous quest in search of the elusive entrance to the Underworld and stop an all-out war between the gods. 

Its protagonist’s remarkable growth and development throughout the book series truly sets Percy Jackson apart. As we follow the series, we see Percy’s gradual evolution from a wide-eyed and inexperienced adolescent to a seasoned and resilient hero at the end. With each passing chapter, we observe his physical maturation and profound emotional and mental transformation. 

Mr. Riordan skillfully weaves this transformation of his protagonist seamlessly into the narration and story plot that makes us, as the readers, so invested in Percy Jackson’s personal journey.

What is a hero without friends who fight by his side, bolstering his resolve and assisting his noble endeavors? Unlike other series where side characters fade into the background, side characters are an integral part of Riordan’s books. The bond of friendship that Percy and his companion have for each other resonates with me, as the bond between these characters deepens and fortifies as they face trials and tribulations together.

The captivating tapestry of Greek myth skillfully weaves into the story. It is genuinely delightful for any fan of ancient legends.

I also love the Greek mythology theme, and the different gods and goddesses are interesting. Each turn of a new page introduces us to various Gods and Goddesses, each with unique quirks, power, and personalities. Mr. Riordan has created a masterpiece in a modern-day story where Gods and mortals collide. He breathes life into these characters, making them realistic and believable, creating a world where fantasy and reality converge. 

Will Percy stop an epic battle that threatens to unleash chaos upon the world? I suggest you read the book if you want to uncover more details. 

Happy Reading!

The Percy Jackson & the Olympians series by Rick Riordan is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.

Netflix Series Review: Cobra Kai

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I can assure you, Cobra Kai, is going to be the best Netflix Series you’ve ever watched, especially if you’ve already watched the Karate Kid movies. First of all, what is Cobra Kai? Cobra Kai is a martial arts drama series that brought back the nostalgia of the 1984 movie, The Karate Kid. This thrilling saga combines both the charm of the ’80s classic with fresh storytelling and a new generation of characters, leaving teens and adults eager to watch the show. Thus, with its blend of action-packed sequences, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, Cobra Kai continues to remain an absolute knockout.

But first, before you dive into the series, I suggest that you watch the first 3 Karate Kid movies, to get a good understanding of the background of the series

The show’s genius lies in its ability to subvert the audience’s expectations. Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) and Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), once bitter rivals, have become complex characters. Their evolving dynamic is the heart and soul of the series. Macchio and Zabka deliver performances that transcend nostalgia, reminding us why their characters are so iconic in the first place.

One of the standout aspects of Cobra Kai is its character development. The young cast members, particularly Miguel (Xolo Maridueña), Sam (Mary Mouser), Hawk (Jacob Bertrand), and Tory (Peyton List), have grown immensely over the seasons. These characters grapple with real-world issues such as bullying, identity, and the consequences of their actions, making them relatable to both young and older viewers. Furthermore, the comedic dialogues and thrilling fights occurring in and out of the dojos, add to the astoundingness of the series.

The action sequences in Cobra Kai are nothing short of spectacular. The choreography is top-notch, blending traditional martial arts with a modern flair that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The series doesn’t shy away from the brutality of karate, making the fight scenes intense and visceral, especially through the contrasting styles of Karate which both Cobra Kai and the Miyagi-Do Dojo use.

Beyond the fists and kicks, Cobra Kai explores the gray areas of morality and redemption. It challenges the idea of heroes and villains by delving into the past traumas and motivations of its characters, from Johnny Lawrence’s struggles with his stepdad to Miguel Diaz’s struggle to choose a side in school. This nuanced storytelling makes it a cut above typical martial arts dramas.

In conclusion, Cobra Kai is a martial arts masterpiece that transcends its ’80s roots. It’s a compelling blend of nostalgia and contemporary storytelling, with well-rounded characters, exceptional action, and thought-provoking themes. Whether you’re a fan of The Karate Kid or new to the franchise, Cobra Kai is a must-watch series that packs a punch. With its ongoing success, it’s clear that the spirit of the dojo is stronger than ever.

The Lunar Chronicles: Winter (SPOILER REVIEW)

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There’s a definitely a certain amount of pressure, I think, on writing the final book in a series.

It has to wrap up all the characters’ goals, defeat the antagonist, and resolve the overall plot, with no threads hung loose.

Yeah, a lot of pressure.

Does Winter live up to the standard? (Beware of spoilers!)

Winter takes a deep dive into the Winter’s pysche like none of the other books before. I find her to be an extremely compelling character. The mental willpower to hold herself back from using her manipulation even when she knew she would start to hallucinate and lose her mind is impossibly strong. It’s the exact opposite from what the entire Lunar court thinks of her. She is the most powerful of any of them.

Winter went through so much.

I wish there was more of her. She’s such an amazing character but despite the book being named after her I felt like there wasn’t nearly enough attention on her. She almost seemed thrown in, which is the opposite of what she deserves as such a rich and compelling character.

I also don’t think Wolf got a finished ending. The book was all nonstop plot and twists, with hardly any room for the characters. And there’s a lot of characters.

The climax between Cinder and Levana was bloody and dramatic, though it was really a bit of an idiotic move on Cinder’s part to think that the mass murderer wouldn’t try to kill her as soon as she put down the gun.

I have to say, I do love the ending. Cinder dropping it off the same balcony she’d jumped off of? The tiniest reference to the glass slipper? Kai and Cinder’s relationship finally resolved, with hope for the future? It’s all beautiful, tinged with just the right amount of bittersweet, knowing that the battle was far from over.

I do think explicitly having all four main characters end up in a neatly established romance made it feel forced instead of natural. I also have some problems with Cress and Thorne’s relationship, but I might save that for a review on Cress instead.

There was so much good in this book, but also a lot I didn’t like.

Still, everyone has the right to their own opinions. What do you think?

Winter by Marissa Meyer is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.



TOPIC – Coraline

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Coraline is a children’s novel written by Neil Gaiman, published in 2002 by Bloomsbury and HarperCollins.

It follows a young girl named Coraline as she finds a mysterious door that leads to nowhere in her family’s new flat. However, she quickly discovers that it connects to a tunnel to an alternate world. A world like her own, but different. There are alternate versions of everyone who lives in the house she does, including her Other Mother and Other Father. Everyone has button eyes, and the land doesn’t seem to exist past the house.

Although most people have watched the movie, I think that you should still read the book. It’s different enough that you won’t feel like you’re reading the same story again. For example, Coraline never falls for the Other Mother’s tricks. By the end, Coraline ends up playing a game against the Other Mother. If Coraline wins, she will get to go home, free her parents, and the other children that the Other Mother has trapped before her. If the Other Mother wins, she keeps Coraline. But in the events leading up to that, Coraline was never under the Other Mother’s spell.

The character Wybie also never existed in the book, nor any character that could be compared to him. The character’s appearances are also quite different, as the Other Mother is described as her hair floating around her, as if she was underwater. Coraline does not have blue hair, and the Other Father devolves into a doughy monster, instead of a pumpkin man. There is also a whole scene of Coraline trapped in a basement room with the doughy Other Father, where she has to escape by ripping out one of his button eyes, sneaking up the stairs, and slamming the trap door shut behind her.

I quite enjoyed the book, and read it all in one night.

Coraline by Neil Gaiman is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.

Serpent and the Wings of Night Blog – Contains Spoilers!

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*Be advised this book is for older readers*

Yesterday I finished a book called, Serpent and the Wings of Night ‘. I must say, I got this book recommendation from my sister. She had just finished it herself, and wanted me to give it a go. At first, I was reluctant, as I was planning to read another book called, House of Beating Wings. But she insisted that I finish reading this book first (the nerve!).

I have to say, this book is absolutely AMAZING. I loved the characters and the plot. In Carissa Broadbent’s The Serpent and the Wings of Night, Oraya, the adopted human daughter of a vampire king, navigates a world where survival hinges on mistrust and strength. To prove herself and escape her prey status, she enters the Kejari tournament, a deadly contest held by the goddess of death, Nyaxia. The winner gets a sacred wish from her, and therefore attracts many vampires and people alike to the Kejari.

Throughout the book, I absolutely LOVE Oraya as a character. She embodies selflessness, strength, and kindness in the most admirable manner. Although sometimes impulsive, she knows her limitations and her boundaries.

During the Kejari, Oraya must team up with someone, and eventually chooses Raihn, a ruthless and efficient killer who will stop at nothing to win that wish from Nyaxia. They soon started developing feelings for each other, which I loved. Raihn has this mysterious vibe that’s totally captivating and makes you want to know more about him. I’m totally loving Raihn as a character because he’s not just handsome; he’s got layers to his personality that make him really interesting. It’s not a surprise that Oraya soon falls in love with him! And when it comes to Oraya and Raihn together, they’re like a dream team. They have this amazing connection that feels so real and makes you root for them. They bring out the best in each other, and it’s really heartwarming to see how they support and challenge one another. Their relationship isn’t just about looks – it’s about understanding and respect. Honestly, Oraya and Raihn are like the perfect match. They fit together so well, like two puzzle pieces that just make sense.

I have to say, the ending of this book will completely shock you! Overall, this book is amazing! I would give this book a 6 out of 5 stars!

The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library.

Book Review: Re:Zero -Starting Life in Another World

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Re: Zero -Starting Life in Another World- by Teppei Nagatsuki is the first novel in the still-running series by the same name. Following series protagonist Subaru Natsuki the first novel in the series Subaru in his attempt to find his footing in a new world and his attempts to grasp the workings of his only ability in the new world: Return by Death.

In order to understand the plot of this story and why I believe it to be one of the greatest isekai(other world) series of all time, you first must understand the specifics of two things: Subaru himself and his Return by Death ability. Starting off with Subaru, one of the things that makes Re: Zero great is that Subaru sucks as a person, at least to begin with. It’s not that Subaru is a monster, to begin with, far from it. What Subaru is, is a man-child who was never forced to grow up and mature, leading to him making both selfish and selfless decisions entirely based on what he is feeling at the time. One very interesting thing when you compare Re: Zero to other isekai or even other fantasy series is that unlike them most of Subaru’s problems and deaths could have been prevented if he was just a better person.

Speaking of Subaru’s multiple deaths I should probably get around to explaining how that is even possible. You see in most stories where protagonists are summoned to other worlds those protagonists are typically blessed with some sort of special something to aid them on their journey. Maybe they were given an instinctive understanding of that world’s magic or maybe they just got a super powerful shield that will always protect them. In the case of Subaru Natsuki however, he gains the ability to reset time back to a checkpoint he has no control over when he dies. This ability is very important because it helps tie into one of the main throughlines of the series: Self Improvement.

As mentioned above Subaru is something of a idiot who tends to cause his own problems. Grant not all of the issues he deals with are his own fault but most of his deaths are caused by things he could very well avoid. However thanks to Return by Death Subaru is able to see how things go wrong and try to change things. It’s not easy for him and in novel 1 it takes him three whole death loops to even realize he is in fact returning by death, but after that he’s able to figure out what he’s doing wrong and improve upon his previous attempts. This in turn lets him escape the loop he was trapped in.

There is definitely a lot I left out of this review but this review is running kind of long so I’ll say this, Re: Zero is one of the greatest works of fiction I have ever read. It is excellently written and makes for extremely effective psychological horror for the shut in nerds who it is aimed towards. However, even to those not a part of the target audience I would still very much recommend Re: Zero -Starting Life in Another World-.

Music Review: Vampire by Olivia Rodrigo

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Most of you have probably listened to the single “Vampire” released by Olivia Rodrigo earlier in this month. Being an Olivia Rodrigo fanatic has led me to adoring this song but I also would like to elaborate on just the song.

If you haven’t heard Olivia Rodrigo is releasing her sophomore album “Guts” on September 8th, 2023. This was a change in the directive we originally saw in her debut album, SOUR where she was experimenting with a plethora of genres. I personally find it SUPER exciting she is branching away into other directives and not just sticking plainly to one thing. Ok now let’s get into the song.

If I’m being quite honest when I heard it the first time, I was a little conflicted on whether I enjoyed it or not. However, I definitely think the more times you listen, the better it gets. The general idea of song is applicable to a lot of things in life, which made it relatable and understandable for most people.

I think the range Olivia displays in this song is AMAZING. There were many different tones used throughout the song which in my opinion makes it so good. I like knowing the direction this album is heading and hopefully, she will be dropping another single before the release of the album to keep her fans entertained.

I would give this a listen despite your music taste. Many don’t listen to Olivia Rodrigo because her music is typically viewed as “overhyped” but it is for a reason. Knowing she’s a “newer” artist in the industry and YOUNG, is amazing. That’s another reason why I enjoy her music so much is that she’s super talented for her age and it’s nice knowing I’m listening to someone who grew up in the same sort of generation as us.

-Madison C.