Author Archives: BH

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About BH

I'm a passionate teen blogger. Join me on my literary journey, where the magic of words awaits!

Avatar: The Last Air Bender: a Netflix Series Review

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Recently some friends and I  binge-watched Netflix Avatar: The Last Airbender. We all sang along as soon as the theme song started. It’s not the same without the sing-along. I haven’t had so much fun in a long time since school started, and we have all been busy grinding away at our test prep and homework. 

We were happy to see all the characters we recognized, like Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Zuko.

The characters were all so different but very relatable. We saw characteristics that we have and would use in day-to-day situations. Sokka’s fun and goofy jokes got us double over with laughter. At the same time, Zuko’s intense moments reminded us of the emotional rollercoaster we’re all on sometimes. Honestly, it felt like we were right there. These characters were so relatable that it got us thinking about things that happened to us in real life.

Each episode is more exciting than the next. We all kept saying let’s just watch this last one, then go to the park but it dragged on till the 5th episode, and my mom finally told us to get out and get some air. 

The Avatar: The Last Airbender animation is so beautiful. As a person who loves art, when I watch any movie, I focus on the art, especially if it’s animated. Of course, The Avatar did not disappoint. The animation is beautiful, and the storyline is just as good. It’s relatable, and I felt myself rooting for the good guys and wanting them to win. It reminds us that we all need family and friends to cheer for us. Whether you’ve been frozen for hundreds of years or are living your everyday life, you need that support system that will cheer you on to do the right thing and save the world from your evil opposition. The show defintely has a knack for making you feel like that more than you want to. 

It makes us talk about how important family, friends, and the support system help pull us through all the hard times.

The protagonist in Avatar: The Last Airbender, Aang, is only 12 years old biologically, but chronologically he’s 112 years old. He acted like a 12-year-old boy in these episodes.  He’s portrayed as a reluctant hero who spent a century suspended in an iceberg before Katara and Sokka discovered him while fishing. The three of them went on a quest to master the elements and save the world from the Fire Nation. 

This short review does nothing to prove to you how great the series is as it is animation, so watching it makes me appreciate the beauty of the art. As the writer, I love how the story tries to make it relatable to the typical person watching the show.

Being High school students, we are all busy and move through the bustle of everyday busy life. Still, it is good to remember to spend time with family and friends and just relax and catch up. A movie or series like Avatar is a great excuse to do just that. 

Happy binge-watching!

Bella H.

Fort McHenry: A Journey Through American History

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Last December I had the chance to visit Fort McHenry, and even though my visit was brief, it was an experience that taught me more than I anticipated. As a high school student who took US History two years ago and will retake it this coming year, I wanted to explore historical sites to deepen my understanding of our nation’s history, understand and remember it. Fort McHenry was a perfect place to start my US history for this coming year.
When we arrived at Fort McHenry, we bought the tickets, which were just fifteen dollars for adults, and if you’re under sixteen, it’s free. Also, if you have a Nation Park membership, you can visit.
Walking through the fort, I was struck by how much I didn’t know despite having studied the War of 1812 in class. When I saw the grand American flag flying over the fort, I was reminded of our national anthem, “O! say can you see…” and how this sight inspired the author Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Seeing the flag in person and understanding the historical context made the anthem’s words more meaningful.
The star-shaped fortress design was the key to the defense against the enemy during the British battle.
As I walked along the fort’s walls and explored its various sections, I could almost picture the scenes of the battles from the 19th century and see the courageous defenders and the intensity of the war.
One of the highlights of my visit was the Star-Spangled Banner Exhibit.
I learned about the history through reading, but the exhibit provided incredible insights into the creation of our national anthem, and the critical role Fort McHenry played helped me in deeper knowing, not just reading from text. I learned details about Francis Scott Key’s experience that I hadn’t read in textbooks. We attended exhibits that showed the roles forts played in the Civil War and World Wars and their ongoing importance throughout American history.
Another program visitors can participate in is ranger-led. It’s where rangers share stories and knowledge about the fort, which makes history come alive for visitors.
We had a walking tour along the bay, which reminded us how history is interwoven into our daily lives, and the natural landscapes of the fort were very relaxing.
Visiting Fort McHenry was more than just a field trip; I appreciated the historical facts we learned, and the hands-on exhibition confirmed the US history I read or learned in school. It gave me a deep understanding of US history.
I highly recommend visiting Fort McHenry. It’s a place where history comes alive. It offers a personal connection to the stories we often learn about in class. It is also close to Baltimore Harbor, so you’ll have another great place to explore and good food.
Happy exploring!
Bella H.

Water Melon Cooler

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Are you ready to shake up your summer with a refreshing twist? I love summer because of the abundance of fruits and vegetables that come with living in California. Imagine the perfect blend of juicy watermelon, zesty citrus, and hydrating coconut water in a harmonious symphony of flavors. That’s right, we’re talking about the ultimate thirst-quencher – the Watermelon Cooler! Whether lounging by the pool or having a backyard BBQ, this exciting concoction will add fun and brilliant color to any gathering. I love this drink’s refreshing, incredible taste; we make it when the fruits are abundant every summer.

Ingredients: –
1 large or 3 cups watermelon
2 Lemons or limes
2 cups of Coconut water
Ice

Equipment:

  • Blender

Instructions:

  1. Cut the Watermelon into chunks and remove any seeds.
  2. Squeeze the juice of lemons or limes.
  3. combine the watermelon chunks, lemon/lime juice, coconut water, and ice in a blender.
  4. Blend until smooth and well combined.
  5. Serve the watermelon cooler in glasses with some ice cubes and fresh watermelon for decoration if desired.

Enjoy your summer!

Bella H.

Summer Adventure: Unforgettable Road Trip Destinations for Family

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We’re all excited and can’t wait for the journey that my dad plans every summer. I remember the long stretch of endless possibilities stops along PCH and, fortunately, hidden places we always seem to find on this drive. So what are we waiting for? Let’s rev up the engines and start on this incredible road trip to who knows where.

Join us as we explore some of the most thrilling and awe-inspiring destinations perfect for teens and families seeking thrills, fun, and a healthy dose of summer adventure.

Imagine driving along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway, with breathtaking ocean views on one side and towering cliffs on the other.

This trip is an excellent blend of natural beauty, interesting attractions like the Big Sur coastline, and charming seaside towns like Dana Point. All the way to Malibu. Each seaside city is filled with exciting adventures, from the view to the food waiting for you to uncover.

Why is Pacific Coast Highway so interesting, you ask?

The Pacific Coast Highway has many diverse wildlife in its natural habitats. So Keep an eye out for California sea lions basking in the sun, dolphins playing in the waves, or even migrating whales breaching offshore. This scenic drive provides many opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking in serene coves, or simply relaxing on sandy beaches while watching a beautiful sunset-painted sky.

Driving along the Pacific Coast Highway, every moment of the journey is to discover the new wonder that comes your way. Whether you’re captivated by coastal vistas, intrigued by hidden gems, or simply looking for a fun-filled road trip experience – this extraordinary stretch of highway promises to leave you with memories that will last forever.

My family takes this drive almost every summer. I can always find new and exciting things to write about in my travel journal. The beautiful coastline with rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and golden beaches creates an awe-inspiring and humbling natural scenery. Each turn reveals a new vista that captivates the senses of and appreciation for the raw power of nature. 

Traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll see charming coastal towns perched on the cliffs to expand the paramount view of the Pacific Ocean.

My favorite places to stop and stay awhile are Santa Barbara and Big Sur, and sometimes, my family would stop by to visit the Getty Villa Museum. It’s free, and there is so much to learn and see. Getty Villa Museum is a Greek and Roman antiquities housed in a re-created Roman country home. It’s a gorgeous place with art from the Middle Ages to anything in between.

Santa Barbara is a city filled with art, culture, food, and, of course, famous for its spas. My mom’s favorite place is Soul Care, a wellness spa where you can relax and indulge your senses. 

As the summer sun continues to shine, there’s still plenty of time to plan a memorable vacation along the picturesque Pacific Coast Highway. From the fascinating Museum showcasing Greek and Roman antiquities to the vibrant city of Santa Barbara and Malibu with its rich culture and relaxing spas, there is something for every traveler to enjoy. Take advantage of indulging in a wellness retreat at Soul Care or discovering your hidden gems waiting to be explored. So pack your bags, hit the road, and create unforgettable memories along this stunning coastal route. 

Your adventure awaits!

Bella H.

Life’s Golden Ticket

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Life’s Golden Ticket by Brendon Burchard is a self-help book that helps readers with personal transformation and motivation. He used a fictional character to narrate actionable advice; Burchard aimed to guide readers toward a more fulfilling and purposeful life through his book using his fictional character. While the book has received praise for its inspirational content, it has also faced criticism.
I like that the author used a fictional character to teach readers how to transform their lives and even gave actionable steps.

Spoiler Alert!

In the book, a man receives a golden ticket and an opportunity to transform his life. One of the book’s best parts is the engaging narrative and how the author uses this type of narration to create a format that shows readers ways to change their lives and makes self-help concepts more engaging.

He also provides practical advice through the protagonists’ journey. In the book, the author demonstrates actionable steps, exercises, and reflections using his fictional character as the narrator. Readers can use them to identify their passions and set goals. I especially like the exercises for overcoming obstacles.

The book excels in its ability to inspire and motivate engaging stories and uplifting messages that encourage readers to take control of their lives and pursue their dreams.

The author emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and personal growth throughout the book. Life’s Golden Ticket emphasizes the importance of personal growth and self-discovery and motivates readers to reexamine their values to set more meaningful goals, continuous improvement, and development toward a more fulfilling life.

What I would have preferred about the book is that it’s predictable. While the storytelling approach is engaging, some readers may find the plot predictable and misleading. Although effective, the narrative follows a standard arc of personal transformation that may need more originality for some.

This book is helpful because of the potential impact on readers who don’t like the typical nonfiction self-help book.

The book motivates, brings self-awareness, and makes you think more profoundly about your choices, goals, and personal experiences that lead to transformation. It also encourages readers to pursue their dreams and aspirations by focusing on personal growth and goal-setting. It reinforces the idea that change is possible and that people have the power to shape their own destinies if they work hard and set actionable goals.

I think Life’s Golden Ticket offers a compelling blend of narrative and self-help advice that can inspire and motivate readers. I especially loved receiving my golden ticket at the end of the book when I finished reading it.

Here’s to your Golden Ticket!

Bella H.

Life’s Golden Ticket by Brendon Burchard is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library.

Inside Out 2 Movie experience at Cinépolis

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On the first day of summer, the hottest day of the year, we all piled into our car and headed for the Cinépolis to watch Inside Out 2. 


This theater is very different than the typical theater. We bought the tickets online; no attendants would direct you to your seats. We went to the theater studio for our movie and found our seats. The server came and took our order for dinner before the movie started.

What, you said theater? Dinner inside a theater? Why yes, at this theater, you can order a full dinner and even alcoholic beverages, snacks, and everything else you fancy before the movie. The best part is the recliner padded leather seats, making the experience even more comfortable when watching the film.

After we were done, we ordered our food and got ready for dinner. The light was off, and the movie started playing. I was still determining what to expect since it’s a cartoon movie, which I didn’t think would be any different from the others. 

It was not a typical Pixar movie. The Inside Out 2 storyline picks up where the first movie left off, exploring new challenges in Riley’s adolescence. The way the film showed Riley’s external experiences with her inner struggles shows how human changes and growth shape one’s emotions, and it’s more critical in teenagers.

This combined approach not only entertains but also shows viewers a deeper understanding of everyday emotions through different stages of life. I especially love the little characters that are people’s emotions, such as Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust. 

The movie continues to explore the main character’s emotions, Riley, using these characters, delivering an intriguing journey that blends heartwarming moments with profound insights into typical teen emotions. Through characters like Joy, Sadness, Anger, Embarrassment, and Anxiety, we see the complexities of human emotions.

As expected from Pixar, the animation is stunning and imaginative, with vibrant colors and intricate details bringing Riley’s mind’s internal and external workings to life. Pixar was so good at showing abstract concepts like core memories, personality islands, and the subconscious, making it visually delightful and captivating for audiences of all ages from start to finish.

The film’s success would be due to its characters. They are animated figures with relatable personalities, each with arcs and quirks. My favorite character is Joy. She has infectious optimism and is one of those friends you want on your side. Sadness’s endearing vulnerability and other emotions’ unique traits make them entertaining but deeply relatable, something every one of us experiences as a teen.

The voice cast was outstanding in their performance, adding emotion, depth, and authenticity to these characters, making them much more relatable and real. Through these characters, Inside Out 2 lets us explore complex emotions and topics so that younger viewers can understand and make it engaging for adults. It explores complex issues like identity, changes, and the importance of emotional resilience.

Overall, Inside Out 2 is a worthy continuation of its predecessor, offering an exploration to entertain and teach us about our daily emotional struggles with our emotions. The stunning animation and fun and upbeat storyline make this film memorable and worthwhile to watch with families and friends, especially with your younger siblings.

Whether you’re a fan of the original or new to the world of Riley’s mind, Inside Out 2 is a must-watch. This movie will leave you thinking about your emotions and their complexities long after the film ends. 

Here’s to a great movie experience!

Bella H.

Inside Out 2  is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain

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Over the summer, I read a classic, Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. It remains a pioneering work in American literature. The story captures the 19th-century era with detailed and rich storytelling, showing Tom’s childhood adventure as a young boy who loves to get into trouble.

As we examine this classic, it’s crucial to recognize the evolving cultural context of the era and how social norms have changed since its publication.

When I read this in class, our teacher asked us to read it out loud, and some of the wording still made me uncomfortable saying it.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer was published in 1876, and the societal attitudes and values of that time were so different from those of today. Twain’s portrayal of 19th-century American life is charming, engaging, and revealing, a world where language and cultural norms differ from today. He wrote the terms and phrases that might have been commonplace or acceptable then but would be frowned upon if anyone wrote them today. The most memorable part of this book was the terminology and racial references that he used, which were appropriate for then but not today. We counted the racial slurs in the books, which were more than 100 words.

Even though it was a classic, many students in my class weren’t happy to read it. There were many stereotypes and racial prejudices, but if we consider the era or the 19th century in which the book was written, it’s understandable that a good writer would make it very life-like and believable, and Mark Twain is no different. At that time, such language was embedded in our culture’s fabric, and its use was not questioned as it is today.

We have come a long way since then, understanding the harmful effects of stereotyping and racism. Modern readers and critics usually grapple with the discomfort of such languages in classic literature. Still, it is good for us to understand and see the change and growth in our society and what we deem acceptable and not acceptable.

I still like reading Tom Sawyer because it’s a classic, and it shows that our society has evolved and grown into something much better than the classics we read. The discomfort of encountering outdated language shows the positive changes in societal attitudes and how our society has grown and aspect more empathy, respect, and understanding from people.
Despite the controversial language, this book offers a human experience and captures youth’s essence. Tom, with his mischievous personality and also his struggles to do what’s right even though he seems to attract trouble.

Finally, while The Adventures of Tom Sawyer provides a snapshot of a 19th-century era, it is a reminder of the ongoing journey toward cultural sensitivity and social justice. So, the next time you read a classic, examine it critically and see how societal norms and language use differ and evolve from one century to the next.

Happy Reading!

Bella H.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.

Why Do We Love Fast Food?

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Fast food is unique in American culture. Why is it so popular? The reasons- convenience, affordability, and societal influence. In every corner of every neighborhood, there’s always a convenience store, a McDonald’s, or other fast food restaurants. Our country is keen on fast food.

On every corner of every city and neighborhood, fast food chains dot the landscape because families like fast and familiar meals that have become a staple for many. What is the reason for this love of fast food? It has unparalleled convenience.

Fast food offers a solution in a society where time is a precious commodity. If you need a quick lunch and are short of time, these fast food places provide meals in minutes, require minimal effort and time commitment from buyers, and don’t taste bad either.

Affordability plays a significant role in the appeal of fast food. With menu items often priced competitively, they are so affordable that even young kids can afford a burger or fries.

Another factor that makes fast food a significant influence on our culture is the influence of advertising and marketing; this is the key factor in shaping the culture surrounding fast food. Fast food chains have successfully ingrained Americans from a very young age through strategic campaigns emphasizing convenience, taste, and value. TV commercials, social media promotions, or sponsorships make fast food popular among young children and teens. They have been ingrained in the American psyche as a quick, enjoyable dining experience.

Beyond practical considerations, fast food has become woven into the fabric of American social life. These restaurants also serve as gathering places for friends and family; students meet here for meals and study together.

The consistency and predictability offered by chain restaurants contribute to their enduring popularity. With standardized menus and quality control measures, we, as buyers, know what to expect when visiting our favorite fast-food restaurants. Fast food is a multimillion-dollar industry, and these restaurants are out to make the culture ingrained in our minds.

The love affair with fast food in America is complex due to convenience, affordability, marketing prowess, and social dynamics. It reflects changing dietary habits and broader shifts in lifestyle and consumer behavior. As fast food continues to evolve and adapt to new trends and tastes, its place in American culture remains secure and will only become more widespread.

My hope is that the widespread fast food trends will change according to our healthier lifestyle choices, help our population become more fit, and provide a means for younger generations to have fewer food-related illnesses.

Here’s to better, healthier fast food!

Bella H.

Book Review: A Growth Mindset for Teens

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A Growth Mindset for Teens by Sydney Sheppard offers an empowering guide for teenagers transitioning from teen to young adulthood. Addressing the pressures of school, relationships, family, and societal expectations, this book is a lifesaver for me and those overwhelmed by uncertainty and self-doubt.

This book emphasizes the universal struggle that’s experienced by millions of young people. There are times in our lives when we feel anxiety and inadequacy; realizing we are not alone in our inadequacy really helps empower us. A Grow Mindset for Teens breaks down the concept of a growth mindset by comparing and contrasting it with a fixed mindset. Understanding differences, myths, and facts provide a powerful catalyst for change.

The book’s practical approach is its strength. The author provides many strategies for developing resilience and persistence, making the readers feel it’s all possible.

The neuroplasticity and cognitive reframing section offers readers concrete methods to rewire their thinking patterns and mindsets. Self-compassion, empathy, and gratitude introduce a holistic approach to personal growth, reminding readers that emotional well-being and mental work are equally important.

The 31-day growth mindset is a great challenge, making the journey interactive and engaging for me. I’m sure other teen readers as well. The book encourages readers to do uncomfortable things and step away from their family and friends. The discussion fosters a sense of community and gives the readers a sense of reinforcement for the concept learned. Also, growth is experienced as a collaboration between self and community.  

I like the author’s supportive tone, which helps me to feel reassured, supportive, and motivational throughout the book. t makes me feel like a mentor is guiding me throughout the book.

A Grow Mindset encourages readers to take ownership of their growth journey. This promotes and provides young people with a skill set to be more confident and open-minded to transition from teen to more mature young adult.

The book’s message is clear: What you think you will see. Our thinking will shape your reality.

I highly recommend this book, A Grow Mindset for Teens, as it is an invaluable resource and lessens my doubt about the complexities of emerging into the adult world. This book gives practical advice that equips us as young readers with the skills we need to thrive. Let’s Turn fear into empowerment, confidence, and breakthrough. A Grow Mindset for Teens is about confidently becoming the best version of yourself.

Let’s grow!

Bella H.

The Silence Between Us Book Review

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The Silence Between Us was one of those books that brought up issues that I would never even think about, even though I took ASL for 2 years. We all know being a teenager is tough enough without extra unforeseen problems. I can relate to some of the issues she experiences in the book. 

Warning! Spoiler alert!

Maya, the protagonist, stands at the point in her life where change will happen whether she likes it or not. Transitioning from a world where silence was usual for her to one with voices. She’s transitioning from deaf school to traditional school. Her challenges of assimilation in these two different schools mirror the changes in her identity. 

Maya discovers many problems and challenges as she navigates the traditional school; along the way, she learns to embrace her true self amidst society and others’ expectations. The Silence Between Us by Alison Gervais brings readers into an intimate exploration of self-discovery and resilience. It’s a powerful story of a teen finding herself in a world where people often overlook the silence.

As she confronts heartbreak and other hurdles that are adolescence and Deaf culture problems. The author was skillful in showing the emotional layers and experience through words, inviting readers into Maya’s world as she struggles with questions that transcend typical teenage worries.

I can relate to Maya on so many levels. The Silence Between Us, a touching coming-of-age book, differs from most other stories. The book’s raw honesty and unwavering portrayal of human connection make this a book worth reading. It deserves every accolade, including the esteemed Schneider Family Book Award for Best Teen Honor Book 2020. If you need a summer read, I recommend this one. Of course, this book is available in the Mission Viejo Library and audio on Libby. 


Happy Reading!
Bella H.