Author Archives: BH

Unknown's avatar

About BH

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

Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare Movie Vs. Written Play Review  

Posted on by
Reply

Watching Julius Caesar as a film versus reading it as a written play is a strikingly different experience. The visual of the movie brings Shakespeare’s words to life in vivid detail, allowing for a more immersive and dramatic interpretation of the story. The magnificent settings, costumes, and performances add layers of depth and emotion that may come across more strongly than the written form of the story on paper. Some of the texts are difficult to understand on paper if you aren’t reading them together with a teacher to explain them to you. 

However, there is a unique power to reading the original text of Julius Caesar in its written form. By engaging with the paper play, readers can analyze and interpret the language more closely, uncovering nuances in Shakespeare’s words that can be easily overlooked in a film adaptation. The ability to imagine the scenes and characters based solely on textual descriptions allows for a more personal and intimate connection to the story, fostering individual interpretations and insights that may differ from those presented on screen.

In comparing Julius Caesar as a movie and a written play, it becomes clear that each medium offers distinct advantages and charms. While the film captivates with its visual splendor and dramatic impact, the written play invites readers to delve deeper into Shakespeare’s poetic genius and explore their perceptions of this timeless tragedy. Both versions complement each other beautifully, providing audiences with rich opportunities to discover and appreciate one of Shakespeare’s most iconic works. I prefer the written play that we read in class. By reading it, I can imagine the whole story in my mind, making it a lot more fun. Whatever your choices, you’ll find that Shakespeare’s writing is brilliant, and we can appreciate the story no matter the medium. 

Happy Choices!

Bella H.

Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare is available for checkout from the Mission Viejo Library. Movie versions are available here. The play can also be downloaded for free from Libby. 

Summer Solstice of 2024: The Longest and Hottest Day of the Year

Posted on by
Reply

As we enter the peak of summer in 2024, nature gifts us with the Summer Solstice. This celestial event marks the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This astronomical phenomenon holds significant and natural importance in many cultures and various civilizations. This year, on Thursday, June 20th, at 1:50, we experienced the Sun at its zenith, casting the Earth in abundant daylight and warmth.

The summer solstice results from the Earth’s axial tilting a certain degree, 23.5 north to be exact; this tilt causes different parts of the Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year. However, during the solstice, the North Pole is tilted closest to the Sun; hence, the duration of daylight hours and amount of heat from the Sun in the Northern Hemisphere is more intense. As a result, we have longer daytime and shorter nighttime on this day, and it’s also the hottest day of the year.

The term “solstice” itself originates from the Latin words “sol” (sun) and “sistere” (to stand still), reflecting the apparent pause in the Sun’s movement across the sky as it reaches its highest point. This event has been observed and celebrated by cultures worldwide throughout history. Ancient monuments such as Stonehenge in England and Machu Picchu in Peru are believed to have been constructed in alignment with the solstices, highlighting their importance in early societies’ calendars and agricultural cycles.

The cultural significance of the summer solstice is shown in various traditions and celebrations. In many cultures, it’s a time for feasting, bonfires, and rituals celebrating to celebrate the power of the Sun and the abundance of summer. For example, the festival of Midsummer in Scandinavia and Baltic countries and the ancient festival of Litha, celebrated by modern pagans, are all rooted in honoring the solstice and its symbolic meanings of renewal, fertility, and the triumph of light over darkness.

The extended daylight during the summer solstice also affects ecosystem and wildlife behaviors. It’s the best time for growth and harvest because plants utilize prolonged sunlight for photosynthesis, promoting growth and vitality. All living things taking advantage of the extended daylight also adjust their behaviors.

In summary, the summer solstice is the Earth’s natural cycle and the interplay between our planet and the Sun. It’s a scientific event that also intertwines in a cultural and human celebration throughout history, reminding us of our connection to the rhythms of nature and the enduring significance of light as human beings.

Happy Summer Solstice!

Bella H.

From Playful Pups to Loyal Companions: Why Frenchies are good pets

Posted on by
Reply

Have you ever seen a French Bulldog and felt an instant connection with its adorable wrinkled face and bat-like ears? These tiny pups pack a punch of personality, making them the perfect addition to any family looking for a child-friendly pet that’s loyal and loving. Known for their affectionate nature and playful demeanor, Frenchies are not just any ordinary breed; they bring joy, laughter, and endless cuddles into your home. My sister has 3 Frenchies, and I can attest to their loving and playful nature. They are also very considerate of your feelings, and they all have their unique personality, just like children. There are so many reasons Frenchies are so popular as pets and why they’re stealing the hearts of so many across the globe.

They’re the perfect furry companion for your kids because of their playful and affectionate nature; that’s why they make excellent pets for households with children. Their compact size and sturdy build make them well-suited to handle rough play and active children. At the same time, their friendly demeanor ensures a loving bond with the whole family. I still remember my sisters Frenchie Dexie, Chloe, and Winston when they were pups and I was three. They were my companions while my mom and sister were busy or when my play day didn’t come. We would play chasing around the house for hours or just sit and listen to my audiobooks. They know when I’m tired and just want to sit and not run anymore. 

Beyond being great playmates, French Bulldogs are also known for their adaptability to various living situations. Whether you live in a spacious home or a cozy apartment, these tiny-sized pups will happily adjust to their environment. My sister moved a couple of times because of her job, from a large home to a smaller condo, and the Frenchies are still happy with that. They are so easygoing, which makes them ideal companions for busy families, as they require minimal grooming and exercise compared to other breeds. My sister’s Frenchies are hiking every weekend with her and their sibling Koda, a British shorthair cat; they can have more endurance than most people on the hike. They can hike for a couple of hours with minimal problems. French Bulldog is suitable for your family if you have a very active lifestyle. My sister’s Frenchies have been hiking in almost all the state parks in the US, and they are still going strong. We were on a couple of hikes together in Mammoth and some in California state parks.

Frenchies are charming and adorable. However, being aware of these dogs’ potential health problems is essential. One common issue is brachycephalic airway syndrome, which can cause breathing difficulties due to their flat faces. This makes it necessary for owners to provide a relaxed environment and avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather. So far, my sister’s French hasn’t experienced this problem, so I’m grateful for that as they are part of my family. 

Another health concern with French Bulldogs is spinal issues such as intervertebral disc disease. Their compact bodies and short legs put them at a higher risk for back problems that can lead to pain and mobility issues. Dexie and Winston experienced this problem and underwent surgery to correct it. Dexie passed away due to this very problem and complication in his surgery, but Winston is still with us, and he has had no problem since the surgery; he can still hike and is very active.

It’s essential to have regular vet check-ups, and monitoring their weight can help prevent these issues from escalating. Despite these health challenges, the love and loyalty that French Bulldogs bring into our lives make them truly irreplaceable companions.

Frenchies are a delightful breed known for their unique appearance, playful personality, and affectionate nature. Their compact size and low exercise needs make them ideal companions for smaller spaces or large homes and families with children. With their charming bat-like ears and expressive eyes, Frenchies never fail to capture hearts wherever they go. If you’re considering adding a pet to your family, why not consider the lovable French Bulldog? They will surely bring joy and laughter into your home like no other!

More research about pets and French bulldogs? Please check out the selection of books about them in the Mission Viejo library.

Frenchie Lover,

Bella H.

Exploring Arizona’s hiking trails.

Posted on by
Reply
Image from https://horseshoebend.com/horseshoe-bend-the-initmate-grand-canyon-experience/

During my winter break, I went on a road trip to Arizona with my sister, her two Frenchies, and her cat; it was a fun and exciting experience. Arizona is a unique and intriguing destination, with many trails and landmarks that provide an unforgettable experience. However, if you plan on visiting Arizona in the winter, pack layers and warm clothes. Arizona can be surprisingly chilly, with temperatures often hovering around forty to fifty degrees.

The most popular thing to do in Arizona is hit the trails for hiking adventures. I’ve explored various hikes, and let me tell you, it’s not a walk in the park, especially when I’m carrying my sister’s British English cat on my back. Koda, the cat, is bigger than the typical cat, making those uphill treks a bit more of a challenging workout.


One trail that stood out was Horseshoe Bend. The hike was surprisingly not too hard, and the top payoff was worth the effort. The view? Absolutely stunning. The only downside was that it was freezing up there, and my skin felt extremely dry. I would pack some lotion next time I go to Arizona. The hike back down was a lot easier, and the slope helped lighten some of the load on my back.


Then, there was the Soldier Pass Trail. Supposedly a leisurely hike, but it turned out to be more of a medium-level challenge. We aimed for the Seven Sacred Pools, a hidden gem with seven water pools that attract hikers and tourists alike. The uphill part of this hike was a bit more demanding, but the way down was a breeze. Remember to stick to the trail – nobody wants to get lost in the wild! So, if you want to up your hiking game, the Soldier Pass might just be the ticket.


The last four days of our trip, we wanted to change it up and explore other places. For a change of scenery, we headed to the West Fork Trail in Sedona, surrounded by towering red rock formations. This trail meanders along Oak Creek, crossing crystal-clear streams and offering glimpses of vibrant fall foliage. It’s a relatively easy hike, perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature without breaking too much sweat. It’s a relief since I’m still hiking with my sister’s cat.


During the last two days, we were eager for more excitement; we tackled the Devil’s Bridge Trail in Sedona, known for its iconic sandstone arch. The hike was a moderate challenge, but the anticipation of standing on the bridge motivated all of us. When I reached the destination, the feeling was nothing short of awe-inspiring, with the natural arch providing a stunning backdrop to the surrounding red rock landscape.


Arizona is an absolute blast for a short vacation, but if you’re considering extending your stay for more than a week, be prepared to face the scorching heat with an arsenal of moisturizers! As my sister drove into the heart of Arizona, we were greeted by many stunning landmarks and sights that left me utterly captivated and speechless. The unforgettable experiences along some out-of-the-box trails made every mile of the journey worthwhile. To all the intrepid souls gearing up to witness Arizona’s winter wonders, brace yourselves for the adventure of a lifetime! Have a safe trip, and soak in every moment!

Happy Hiking!

Bella H.

Rethinking my New Year Resolutions

Posted on by
2

Can you believe it’s already a couple of months into 2024? If you like me and have a list of New Year resolutions to accomplish this year, you will understand what I’m going through. Reflecting on the resolutions I set for myself at the beginning of the year, I’m disappointed. 

As a teen, I’m no stranger to the ebb and flow of enthusiasm that comes with goal-setting. At midnight on New Year’s Eve, I was excited, armed with a list of resolutions I was convinced would transform my life, maybe just a little.

Yet, as the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, that initial spark of determination began to flicker. School assignments piled up, extracurricular activities demanded more of my time, and the daily grind of teenage life overshadowed my lofty aspirations.

It wasn’t until recently that I took a step back to reassess where I stood with my resolutions. Sitting down with my journal, I flipped through the pages, revisiting the goals I had written down with such fervor months ago. Some seemed laughably unrealistic now, while others felt attainable with some recalibration.

One resolution that stood out to me was my commitment to prioritize self-care. I neglected my well-being in the craziness of school, friends, and obligations. Late nights cramming for exams had become the norm, and exercise had taken a backseat to whatever needed to be done. I realized I needed to prioritize self-care to thrive and not just survive.

So, I started small. I set a bedtime for myself and stuck to it religiously, no matter how tempting it was to stay up late scrolling through social media. I put time into my schedule for exercise, whether going for a run or practicing yoga in my bedroom. Most importantly, I learned to say no to activities that drained me mentally and emotionally, choosing instead to spend my time on things that brought me joy, fulfillment, and a bit of relaxation.

Another resolution that needed a bit of tweaking was my goal to improve my grades. While aiming for straight A’s sounded impressive in theory, the reality was that I was spreading myself too thin trying to excel in every subject. Instead, I focused on critical areas where I could improve significantly. I sought extra help from teachers, formed study groups with classmates, and adopted better time management strategies to stay on top of my assignments.

Reflecting on my journey over the past few months, I realize that the key to success lies not in grandiose gestures or sweeping declarations but in our small, everyday choices. It’s about showing up for ourselves, even when it’s hard, and adapting and evolving as we grow. So here I am, rekindling the flame of my New Year’s resolutions, armed with a newfound sense of purpose and determination to make the most of the rest of this year. I hope you also rethink your New Year resolution so it brings you the joy of a little victory every day.

If you need help starting or know what to do with a healthy way to set goals and resolve them, I invite you to check out some of these books from the Library.

Total Teen, Tracy Anderson’s Guide to Health, Happiness and Ruling Your World.

You, the Owner’s Manual for Teens

A Guide to A Healthy Body and Happy Life

The Secret to Teen Power by Harrington, Paul

The Self-esteem Habit for Teens

50 Simple Ways to Build Your Confidence Every Day by Schab, Lisa M.

Here’s to everyday victory!

Bella H

Night by Elie Wiesel

Posted on by
5

I must confess that when I first learned that we would be reading Elie Wiesel’s Night for my English class, I felt a mixture of anticipation and trepidation. But what can I say? It’s a requirement, so I read it with little to expect. I was wrong in many ways. Just a warning: this review contains spoilers.

It is a memoir that speaks about Wiesel’s experiences as a young Jewish boy during the Holocaust. Wiesel doesn’t just recount events; he invites us to walk beside him through the labyrinth of his memories, where each step is heavy with the burden of the past as he recounts his life in the small Transylvanian town of Sighet.

In the tranquil streets of Sighet, we glimpse the idyllic innocence of Eliezer’s childhood; young Eliezer’s world is filled with the simple joys of family, friendship, and the pursuit of knowledge.

He studies the Torah and the Kabbalah, taught by Moishe the Beadle. His studies are cut short when his teacher is deported. Months later, Moishe comes back, saying that the Gestapo took charge of his train, led everyone into the woods, and butchered them. Nobody believed him and called him insane. Then in the spring of 1944, the Nazis take over Hungary. The Jews of Eliezer’s town are forced into small ghettos within Sighet. They are herded onto cattle cars and forced to spend days and nights crammed into the car, exhausted and near starvation, until they arrive at Birkenau.

Wiesel recounts his journey through the terror of Auschwitz and Buchenwald, where he experiences the brutality of the concentration camps firsthand. Wiesel sees many horrible things that scar him for life, recounting his and the experiences of many who had tried to hide whatever happened. Wiesel doesn’t hold back and tells everything, all the terrible things he went through during the Holocaust. He doesn’t sugarcoat it or leave anything out. This honest account of his experiences helps us understand how awful it was and how much it hurt him and everyone else who went through this dark time in history. I found myself transported there with him as he struggled to survive.

In the end, Night is more than just a memoir; it is an essential memory of one of the darkest chapters in human history, the Holocaust, and what many had to go through during that tragic time. It’s also a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there’s hope to be found. The memoir is exceptionally well-written and retells an authentic and meaningful story. Through his assertive storytelling and unflinching honesty, Elie Wiesel ensures that Holocaust victims will never be silenced. If you want to experience this memoir, it is available at Mission Viejo Library.

Here’s to a new reading experience!
Bella H

Night by Elie Wiesel is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.

The Count of Monte Cristo Book or Movie Review

Posted on by
Reply

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas is a literary masterpiece with numerous movie adaptations. The novel’s essence, with its tale of betrayal, revenge, and redemption, remains intact across various film interpretations. However, as with any book-to-movie transition, inherent differences arise due to the nature of these two different mediums.

With hundreds of pages, Dumas’ novel provides an immersive experience, allowing meticulous character development and exploring plot intricacies. The book offers readers a glimpse into the complexity of Edmond Dantes’ mind, unraveling his psychological and emotional evolution with unparalleled depth. The novel also has subplots and details, enriching the narrative with layers that may be challenging to fully capture in a shortened movie format.

On the other hand, constrained by time limits, film adaptations must distill the novel’s essence into a finite duration. This often involves streamlining the narrative, potentially sacrificing some of the novel’s depth for brevity. Characters may be condensed, and certain subplots may be omitted to create a more streamlined and accessible viewing experience. However, this condensation does not necessarily diminish the story’s impact; it offers a different perspective, emphasizing visual storytelling, performances, and cinema to convey emotions and critical moments.

The power of cinema lies in its ability to bring stories to life immediately. The visual spectacle, coupled with a carefully curated musical score, can enhance the emotional resonance of pivotal scenes. The beauty of cinematic landscapes and actors’ charisma breathe life into characters, making them tangible for audiences. Yet, the challenge lies in balancing the need for brevity with the desire to retain the essence of the source material.
The Count of Monte Cristo, in both books and movies, is a captivating exploration of human nature, vengeance, and the indomitable spirit. Each medium, the written word or the silver screen, brings unique strengths to the narrative, offering audiences distinct but complementary experiences of this classical literary. Whether reading the novel or watching a movie adaptation, the tale of Edmond Dantes continues to captivate and resonate across generations.

So which is better? This is a subjective question, depending on the individual and preference. Some readers like me prefer the novel because of the reading experience. I appreciate the depth of the story, the subplots, and the character’s descriptions. Others may like the movie for the immediate emotion and the visual performances. Maybe you want both. Either way, it’s well written, and that’s why the Count of Monte Cristo earned its name in classical literature. What would you choose, a book or a movie?

Happy choices!
Bella H.

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas is available for checkout from the Mission Viejo Library. It can also be downloaded for free from Libby. 

Bella’s Delicious Pumpkin Bread 

Posted on by
Reply

Living a gluten-free lifestyle can be difficult sometimes. Still, thanks to my mom, I learned to enjoy many different kinds of food, including bread, cookies, cakes, pies, and others that wouldn’t be gluten-free. 

Gluten-free pumpkin bread is a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin with a health-conscious choice that I can enjoy even being gluten-free. This particular bread variation caters to individuals with gluten sensitivities or those adhering to a gluten-free lifestyle like me. 

When it comes to homemade gluten-free pumpkin bread, the advantages are numerous. By making bread at home, I can control what ingredients to put in, ensuring the absence of hidden gluten sources or unwanted additives commonly found in store-bought varieties. Additionally, when making bread at home, I can customize it according to my preferences, such as adjusting to make it less sweet or incorporating alternative flour for added nutrition and the kind of sweetener healthier alternatives like dates, coconut sugar, or even monk fruit sugar. Below is our bread recipe to make in the fall when abundant pumpkins are in the farmer’s market.

Ingredients:

· 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose baking flour 

· 3/4 teaspoon baking soda

· 1.5 tablespoon cinnamon

· 1.5 cup pumpkin puree ( or can pumpkin puree)

· 1 cup coconut sugar

· ½ maple syrup

· 1/2 cup coconut oil

· 1/2 cup almond or coconut milk

· 2 tablespoons vanilla extract

Baking Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 5 bread pan.

2. In the Vitamix, add the wet ingredients first, then the dry ingredients, and blend at medium speed for 30 seconds or until all combined.

3. Don’t over blend – 1 minute max. Use your spatula to scrape down the batter since it will be thick and sticky.

4. Pour batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle some cinnamon and coconut sugar on top.

5. Bake for 35-40 minutes. And check with a toothpick. Bread is done when the toothpick comes out clean. 

6. Leave the bread in the oven for 5 minutes after turning off the stove. 

7. Cool the bread on the rack and slice it about an inch thick for each slice. Store in the bread box or plastic bag. 

8. Bread can be on the counter for 2-3 days, no more than 4 days. Or in the fridge for 5-6 days. You can also freeze it for up to 4 months.

Happy Baking!

Bella H.

The Lorax

Posted on by
1

The Lorax is an absolute delight from start to finish! I love this movie; it is a delightful, and colorful burst of imagination that motivated me to do more for environmental love and a severe case of Truffula tree envy.

The animation is beautiful and vibrant, and The Land of Thneedville is a kaleidoscope of colors. The characters are so animated and full of personality that you’ll want to hug a hummingfish for good measure.

The protagonist is Ted Wiggins, who is voiced by Zac Efron. Ted is a boy who lives in the artificial and polluted town of Thneedville. His crush on Audrey drives him to embark on a quest to find a real tree to impress her. He stumbles upon the Once-ler, the critical character who holds the secrets of the Truffula trees and the Lorax.

The Lorax, voiced by Danny DeVito, brings this bushy-mustached guardian of the forest to life in a heartwarming and hilarious way. You’ll always remember his one-liners, and trust me, you’ll never look at a tree the same way again.

The story is more than just a quest for the last Truffula seed; it’s a powerful message; the movie gently nudges you to think about environmental issues without preaching, and by the end, you’ll be singing “Let It Grow” at the top of your lungs like an eco-warrior.

The supporting cast is equally funny and fantastic– Taylor Swift as Audrey, the protagonist’s crush, Swift adds a dash of girl power. The Once-ler (voiced by Ed Helms) is also charmingly clueless about the consequences of his actions, and you almost forgive him for the deforestation.

And let’s remember the musical numbers! From “How Bad Can I Be?” to the infectious “Let It Grow,” the soundtrack is toe-tappingly catchy, and you can’t help but dance like a Swomee-Swan in no time. The whole track is so dance-worthy.

So, if you think this movie is only for kids, think again, “The Lorax” is a must-see for tree-huggers and Thneed enthusiasts, including older kids and adults alike. It’s an infectious celebration of nature, a cautionary tale about corporate greed, and all the fun rolled into one Truffula-tastic ball. Make it a movie night and grab your family, friends, and maybe even a Lorax-fun-approved snack and judge for yourself. For me, this movie was a cinematic experience as fun and sweet as a Bar-ba-loot’s marshmallow fluff!

Have a sweet Barbaloot experience!
Bella H.

AP Classes Review: World Literature

Posted on by
Reply

AP Literature is a crucial course most need to take for High school if you’re planning for early college credits. AP classes are rigorous classes, and the workload is heavy. In addition to classes, to get credit for college, students must take an AP exam at the end of the course. 

My experience so far isn’t bad, and I’m learning more while doing it. One of the standout aspects of AP World Literature in 10th grade was the diverse selection of literary works we encountered. Our reading list spanned centuries and genres, and this variety allowed us to explore different writing styles, themes, and cultural contexts, providing a well-rounded literary education. Each work presented its unique challenges, but they all contributed to expanding our academic horizons.

The discussions in this class were vital to getting good grades. Our teacher encouraged us to analyze texts from multiple perspectives and encouraged our critical thinking. These discussions helped us grasp the intricacies of the literature and improved our communication skills. The ability to articulate and defend our interpretations was a valuable skill we will need throughout the year. 

The workload is challenging, but it was worth the effort. Writing essays on complex literary topics is essential. Our teacher provided constructive feedback that will continue to help us grow as writers, and the assignments were created to delve deep into the texts.

One of the most valuable aspects of AP Literature was its ability to teach us to appreciate the subtleties of literature. We learned to uncover symbolism, dissect themes, and recognize the artistry in the writing. AP Literature is a fun but overwhelming course, so prepare for a lot of work if you decide to take it. The benefits here are that these classes prepare you for the workload and develop college-level academic skills. AP classes also look good on your transcript since they boost your GPA and save time and money from taking general college requirements. If you decide to take AP classes and love reading and writing, I highly recommend taking AP World Literature. 

Before deciding, you can also check these sites for the benefits and disadvantages of AP classes. 

examstudyexpert.com/easiest-ap-classes

princetonreview.com/college-advice/ap-classes

https://blog.collegeboard.org/3-reasons-take-ap-exams

Bella H.