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About BH

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

The Lorax

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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

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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.

Vegan and Gluten-free Rice Crispy Treat

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Can you believe Halloween is coming in a month? I make this rice crispy recipe every Halloween and give it to our neighbors, teachers, and friends. It’s a healthier version of the typical rice crispy treat you buy in-store. You, too, can make these healthier vegan and gluten-free rice crispy with less sugar and unhealthy fats. Here’s a simple recipe for more nutritious vegan and gluten-free rice crispy treats:

Ingredients:

3 cups certified gluten-free rice cereal 

1/2 cup date syrup (or a combination of brown date syrup and pure maple syrup) 

1/2 cup natural almond smooth or crunchy or other butter (no added sugar or oil) 

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 

1/5 teaspoon sea salt 

***optional 1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate or coconut shred if you don’t like or can’t eat chocolate

Instructions:

  1. Prepare a square or rectangular baking pan (8×8 inches or similar size) by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the treats out later.
  2. Add the gluten-free rice cereal in a large mixing bowl and set it aside.
  3. Combine the date syrup, almond, or other alternative nut butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until they are well combined thoroughly. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overheat or boil the mixture; it won’t taste good if it burns. 
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt (if using).
  5. Pour the warm syrup mixture over the rice cereal in the mixing bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold and stir everything together until the cereal is evenly coated.
  6. To make it sweeter, fold the dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate while the mixture is still warm.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a piece of parchment paper or a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly.
  8. Let the treats cool and set for at least 30-40 minutes at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
  9. Once set, lift the parchment paper overhang from the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut them into squares or rectangles.
  10. Enjoy your healthier vegan and gluten-free rice crispy treats!

These treats are naturally sweetened and contain healthy almond or nut butter fats. You can customize them by adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or other toppings. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life (about 3 weeks). You can make these for Halloween!

Enjoy your hard-earned labor 🤗

Bella H.

Embracing Fall Craving: Vegan and Gluten- Free Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

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As the fall season approaches, the cooler weather makes your body crave warm, comforting foods. I’m no doctor, but we crave warm food during this time of year, probably because we need extra calories to keep ourselves warm. Instinctively, your body seeks to regulate and maintain warmth by eating more warm foods. Consuming warm foods can help raise your body temperature, making you feel more comfortable in cooler weather.

Fall is also associated with cozy, comfort, and warmth. A time when we are cozy up near the fire with family and friends with a cup of warm drink. I am physically comforted when I drink hot beverages and psychologically evoke the feeling of security and well-being. 

Fall vegetables and fruits are also abundantly available, making it easier to have homemade comfort foods at home. Fall food is also more nutrient-dense, which helps the body survive the harsher weather.

Warm foods also have more sensory appeal because of the palate’s rich aroma and robust flavor.

My favorite is pumpkin; this fruit is so hardy and abundant in the fall that you can make anything from soup to dessert to latte.  

I know during this time of year, Starbucks always has their Pumpkin Spice Latte; being gluten-free and vegan, my mom often makes this drink at home because she can’t always get it. We experimented and found a recipe that tasted even better and healthier than the Starbucks version. Give it a try, and experiment and find your own recipe.

Vegan and Gluten-free Pumpkin Spice Latte 

INGREDIENTS

  • 1.5 cups of creamy dairy-free milk like coconut or Macadamian
  • 2/4 cup strong brewed coffee or coffee alternative (like dandelion root)
  • 3.5 tablespoons organic pumpkin puree
  • 2.5 tablespoons pure maple syrup or dark, raw honey or monk fruits(sugar-free alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Sprinkle of sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS 
  • Suggestions: Creamier milk will give this latte a richer and more satisfying taste, as less creamy milk will make the spices not dissolve. Also, the strong coffee will make it more like a Starbucks pumpkin spice latte. 
  • Place all ingredients in a blender in the order listed and blend until very frothy.
  • Then, Add the liquid to a small pot over low heat. Once it comes to a gentle simmer, cook for 2 minutes, whisking it continuously until steamy. Don’t overcook it.  
  • Divide into 2 mugs and serve with a sprinkling of pumpkin spice and vegan whipped cream. 

Enjoy experimenting!

Bella H.

Anime Expo Pasadena 2023

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I went to Anime Pasadena 2023 on Saturday, and It was like a dream world. You’re transported into a totally different world when you enter the convention. If you have never been to Anime Expo, you are seriously missing out on the most incredible experience ever, especially if you are into anime or anime artists looking for new ideas. This place is like a dream come true for any anime fan. Here’s a scoop on what Anime Expose is about from one teen to another.

Just imagine your dream world-

Close your eyes and imagine you’re in your favorite anime show, and you are one of the characters. Well, Anime Pasadena is like that, but in real life! You are surrounded by the best crowd, a trillion people who love Anime as much as you do. Well, except for a few parents who accompany their minors. 

Cosplay Heaven

Cosplay? What is that? Here is a short explanation for anyone who doesn’t know what this is. Cosplayers dress up as their favorite anime characters from their favorite movie or show. The costumes are mind-blowing and look like they were taken from the screen and even some incredible homemade cosplay outfits that are just out of this world. Some Cosplayers look like they just stepped out of your favorite Anime. You ask for it, you’ll see it all here. Of course, you’ll fit right in if you want to dress up as one of your favorite anime characters. This is not just about looking at things but more like enjoying the experience and having fun. We only have a few years to be teenagers. Besides the seriousness of school and part-time jobs, we need to have fun in a safe environment, and this place is it. 

Shop ‘Til You Drop

Anime Pasadena events have many sellers selling anime products, so get ready to shop for anime art you can’t find elsewhere. It’s like a shopping spree in anime heaven. There’s official merchandise, rare collectibles, manga, and almost everything and anything Anime you can imagine. This is the place for you if you want collectible figures, manga volumes, or even a unique anime T-shirt. If shopping is your game, they’ve surely got you covered!

Hang out with the Pros

Did I mention that they invited real anime pros to Anime Pasadena? Voice actors, directors, and other industry insiders come to meet fans. I was so happy to talk to my favorite voice actor from Bungou Stray Dogs. I would get an autograph from them, but the cost was more than I planned to spend. Of course, I did take pictures with them and even asked them questions. It’s like meeting your favorite characters in person. It was an experience like no other. 

Artist Alley

Artist Alley is where you’ll find many talented artists showing off their talents. The artworks, prints, and handcrafted goodies are original and were crafted by these artists. Of course, they are all anime-inspired.

It’s a goldmine for finding unique and gorgeous anything anime uniquely crafted by an artist that you won’t get anywhere else. I love Artist Alley. I got some stickers and a few other items here, and since my brother knew a few of these artists and sellers, I also got some gifts from them. They were super accommodating.

It’s All About Community

After all the shopping and admiring art from different artists, we went to a community meetup. The best part of Anime Pasadena is the community. Everyone is super friendly and welcoming. Here is a great place to make new friends, geek out together, and create memorable experiences. We went to a Bungou Stray Dogs meetup (a pretty popular anime), and it was entertaining! The host of the meetup group was very kind; she gave everyone Bungou Stray Dogs’ favorite character stickers. We took pictures together.

So, there you have it. Anime Pasadena 2023 is the ultimate experience for anime lovers. Whether you’re looking to meet new friends, meet up with your old friends, shop for unique anime collectibles or T-shirts, or just want to experience the anime world, this convention has got you covered. Check their website if you are still interested in going to a similar one. They have various locations. Don’t miss out on this fantastic experience – it’s the anime adventure of a lifetime! 🎉

Happy Anime!

Bella H.

A Teen’s Guide to Travel Light

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As the excitement of my upcoming three-week trip to the East Coast grows, I am eager to explore its beautiful landscapes and immerse myself in American history. To make the most of my journey, I’ve decided to travel light with just a carry-on bag, inspired by the idea of traveling light and free. Packing efficiently is challenging as I only like to live with many things I’m accustomed to. Determined to conquer this problem, I’ve developed some savvy packing tips for teens like myself to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

The first thing on traveling light without less is choosing the perfect bag to accompany me on this adventure. After careful consideration, I settle on a compact yet durable carry-on bag that’s roomy enough for at least four outfits and two pajamas, with room for undergarments and a compartment for extra shoes. It must also comply with airline size restrictions and comfortably carry my belongings throughout the trip. Its various compartments and pockets promise to keep me organized, which is essential for someone like me who can be a bit messy. 

As I sit down to create my packing list, I realize that being organized is half the battle won. Pen in hand, I carefully jot down all the essentials I’ll need during my three-week stay. From comfortable clothes to versatile accessories and travel-friendly toiletries, my list serves as a roadmap for my packing adventure, ensuring I will notice all crucial items.

Choosing the right clothes is the most critical part of my packing journey. I opt for neutral-colored pieces that I can easily mix and match, allowing me to create various stylish outfits without lugging around an overloaded bag. Lightweight and wrinkle-resistant fabrics promise comfort and ease throughout my trip, regardless of the East Coast weather throws my way.

As a technology-loving teenager, I can’t leave home without my gadgets. But carrying multiple devices can add unnecessary weight. Inspired by the idea of traveling smart, I decided to rely on my trusty smartphone, a multi-purpose marvel that serves as my camera, music player, and communication hub all in one, making my bag significantly lighter.

Rolling my clothes instead of folding them becomes a packing revelation for me. It saves space and keeps my clothes wrinkle-free, so I can leave the plane looking fresh and ready for the adventures ahead. The simplicity of this packing technique makes me wonder why I hadn’t adopted it sooner.

Organizing my travel documents has become a top priority. My passport, ID, boarding passes, and reservation confirmations find a secure home in a travel organizer, ensuring they are easily accessible whenever needed. This sense of preparedness brings a comforting peace of mind on my journey.

I remind myself to keep my makeup and accessories minimal and versatile. Travel-sized makeup items fit perfectly into my carry-on. I select a few essential accessories that can enhance any outfit I wear, reducing the clutter in my bag to allow me easy travel.

With my carry-on bag carefully packed, I realize ample room for souvenirs and mementos from my adventures to the East Coast. Knowing I won’t have to worry about exceeding weight limits on my way home brings a sense of relief, allowing me to focus on embracing the experiences that await me.

As I eagerly anticipate my carry-on adventure, I feel empowered knowing that I am traveling light and free. With my well-organized backpack and savvy packing choices, I am ready to explore the beauty of the East Coast, create lasting memories, and embrace the joys of travel without the burden of heavy luggage. 

Traveling with a carry-on can be liberating, allowing you to embrace a lighter and more carefree journey. I hope you are inspired to pack light on your next travel. With these packing tips, you can embark on your adventures with ease, organization, and a sense of preparedness, making your trips more enjoyable and enriching. So, pack light, travel smart, and embrace the freedom of carry-on adventures. Here’s to an incredible journey filled with wonder, growth, and traveling light!

Happy travels!

Bella H

Fuel Your Travels with These Delicious and Nutritious Snack Ideas

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Airplane travel can be exciting and tiring, especially for a teen like me. Amidst the anticipation of the journey, hunger pangs can strike unexpectedly. It’s essential to be prepared to ensure a smooth and satisfying trip. Packing the best snacks is crucial-easily accessible, healthy, and delicious snacks that won’t create a mess in the confined space of an airplane cockpit. Here are a few snacks I plan to bring on my upcoming trip. Let’s explore some delectable options that will satisfy my teen’s appetite and energize me throughout my journey.

  1. Fruit Medley: A delightful assortment of fresh fruits is perfect and easy to pack. Wash and cut your favorite fruits, such as apples, grapes, berries, and oranges. Place the cut-up fruits in a resealable container or small zip-lock bags. Not only are fruits rich in vitamins and antioxidants, but they also quench your thirst and provide a refreshing burst of natural sweetness.
  2. Nutty Delights: Nuts are a great source of healthy fats, proteins, and essential nutrients. Create a custom mix of your favorite nut, such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews. Add dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a savory and crunchy snack. Portion them into small containers for easy snacking during the flight.
  3. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Cut various veggies into sticks to dip with hummus. Crunchy carrot sticks, celery, cucumber, and bell pepper slices paired with a small container of hummus make for a healthy and delicious snack combo. Vegetables are packed with fiber and vitamins, while hummus adds a creamy and flavorful touch to the snack and provides healthy fat.
  4. Cheese and Whole Grain Crackers: Cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein, making it a filling and nutritious choice for teens like me. Individually wrapped cheese sticks or small cheese cubes with whole-grain crackers for a satisfying and balanced snack. I have gluten allergies, so I usually pack rice, lentil crackers, and vegan cheese like Daiya. If you have food allergies, be careful to choose the cheese and crackers you like. 
  5. Granola Bars: Preferably homemade or store-bought, granola bars are a convenient option to keep hunger at bay. These are easy to make. Mix the Nutty Delight on #2 with almond or nut butter, roll them into coconut flakes, and have an excellent granola bar. But there are many options if you prefer to buy them. Look for bars that are low in added sugars and high in fiber, providing a quick energy boost during the journey.
  6. Protein-Packed Sandwiches: Prepare sandwiches with whole-grain bread, lean meats like turkey or chicken, or smoke salmon; if you want to be fancy, add lettuce, tomato, and a light spread like mustard or avocado. These protein-packed sandwiches will you satisfied and provide essential nutrients.
  7. Energy Bites: Create homemade energy bites with oats, nut butter, honey, and add-ins like chia seeds, dried fruits, or dark chocolate chips. These bite-sized treats are tasty and provide a great energy source during travel.
  8. Yogurt with Berries: yogurt is rich in protein and calcium, and when paired with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey, it becomes a delectable and nutritious snack.
  9. Rice Cakes with Nut Butter: Rice cakes are a lightweight, mess-free alternative to regular crackers. Spread nut butter (like almond, Macadamia, or cashew butter) on top, and add dry fruits and chocolate chips for a satisfying and healthy snack.
  10. Dark Chocolate: Satisfy a sweet tooth with a small amount of dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is delicious, contains antioxidants, and can boost mood during long flights.

Use reusable containers or eco-friendly bags to pack healthy snacks to minimize waste and be mindful of potential allergies or dietary restrictions. Remember to stay hydrated by carrying a refillable water bottle and avoid excessive sugary beverages or energy drinks. Also, when you pack many high-water content fruits and veggies, such as cucumbers and watermelon, you can easily stay hydrated and need less water. 

Preparing various easy-to-pack, healthy, and delicious snacks for airplane travel can ensure a satisfying journey without feeling sluggish or hungry. The key is to balance taste and nutrition, making the travel experience enjoyable and stress-free. 

Bon voyage!

Bella H.

Back-to-School Jitters? Let’s Crush Those Anxieties!

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 It’s that time of year again when summer days turn into school days. For many of us, returning to school can bring excitement and, let’s be honest, a bit of anxiety. But don’t worry; you’ve got this! Let’s dive into those back-to-school butterflies and uncover strategies to conquer them like you’re champs.

Let’s examine what really causes our anxieties:

First off, it’s totally okay to feel a little jittery about returning to school. It’s super common, and almost everyone goes through it. So, what’s causing those butterflies in your stomach? Here are some common back-to-school anxieties:

  1. Meeting New People: Meeting new classmates can be nerve-wracking whether you’re starting a new school or just moving up a grade. Many questions and worries go through your mind- Will they like you? Will you fit in? Everyone’s feeling a bit uncertain, so remember you are not alone.
  2. Academic Pressure: The thought of new subjects, more challenging assignments, and exams can be overwhelming. Be bold and ask questions. Good teachers love students who ask questions and are eager to learn. So ask away! Remember, it’s okay. Learning is a journey.
  3. Social Expectations: The pressure to have the “perfect” social life can be intense. Real friendships take time to develop, and it’s okay to be yourself. No judgement! Usually, we are harder on ourselves than others. Most of the time, friendship comes naturally. 
  4. Organizational Stress: Keeping up with schedules, assignments, and extracurriculars can feel like a juggling act. But guess what? You can become a master organizer with a bit of practice. A schedule app is the best for this. 

Now that we know what are some things that cause our anxieties. Let’s look at some strategies for overcoming them. Let’s kick those anxieties to the curb.

Strategies for Conquering Back-to-School Anxiety:

  1. Prepare Ahead: Knowing what’s coming can be a game-changer. Be organized- Get your school supplies, organize your backpack, and plan your outfits in advance. This will give you one less thing to worry about.
  2. Talk It Out: Don’t keep those feelings inside. Talk to friends, family, or trusted adults about what’s on your mind or what’s bothering you. You’ll be surprised how many people have felt the same way.
  3. Set Achievable Goals: Don’t expect perfection from the start. Set achievable goals, and celebrate your progress along the way. You are more likely to continue when you see progression in your dreams. 
  4. Breathe and Mindfulness: Take some deep breaths when you feel overwhelmed. Stop anxiety before it starts creeping in. Consider practicing mindfulness techniques to help you stay grounded and focused. Taking time to breathe makes you feel less stressed because it gives your mind time to relax and rethink.
  5. Eating well & staying healthy: Eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying active can improve your mood and overall well-being. Take time to eat snacks like fruits or cut-up veggies; eating healthy provides your body the energy to finish what you need that day. 
  6. Stay Positive: Stop overworrying. Instead of worrying about what might go wrong, consider all the exciting things that await you this school year, like making new friends, learning interesting subjects, and remarkable experiences just around the corner! 
  7. You’re Not Alone: Everyone has their version of back-to-school jitters. You’re part of a considerable community of teens going through this together. It’s hard enough to be a person in this decade because of all the changes and uncertainties. Lean on each other for support.
  8. Ask for Help When You Needed: If anxiety becomes too overwhelming, don’t hesitate to talk to your school counselor or a mental health professional. They’re there to help you navigate these feelings. These individuals have training and experiences to help you navigate your uncertainty and bring them into clear focus. So don’t hesitate to ask. 

So there you have it! Back-to-school anxiety is normal, but you have a toolkit with many strategies to handle it like a pro. Remember, you’re stronger and more capable than you think. Embrace the new school year with confidence to be true to yourself and shine! ✨✨

You got this!

Bella H.

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: The Flash

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The Flash is by far one of my favorite TV series. It’s like a mix-up of sci-fi, action, and adventure centered around the DC Comics legend, the Flash. Warning-Pilot spoiler. Skip through if you want to avoid knowing the details and want to watch it yourself.

The series’ first episode, “Pilot,” follows the story of a brilliant forensic scientist Barry Allen; his life gets turned upside down as he tries to deal with his mother’s murder and his father’s wrongful conviction. Talk about a rough start.  

When struck by lightning and awakened from a comma, Barry is gifted with the ability to move at superhuman speed and power beyond comprehension. This blasts him into a world where seconds are stretched into eternities. With the help of his mentor, Dr. Harrison Wells, Barry embarks on a riveting odyssey of self-discovery, learns how to control his godly abilities, and uses his newfound powers to protect Central City from an onslaught of malevolent forces. Beneath the mask and behind the lightning speed, Barry faces the ultimate struggle called life- balancing his pursuit for justice with the intricacies of his private life.

Through all the twists and turns of his new identity, he forges deep bonds of friendship and even finds love. He works with his new friends and allies to help Central City crime free.

In the end, he realized that by embracing the hero within, he could unlock a future of limitless possibilities. The Flash is not just a TV series; it’s an exciting account of a teen turned hero and savior through triumph, camaraderie, and indomitable spirit. 

It’s now summer vacation for most of us, so if you have time to binge-watch any TV series, I recommend trying The Flash. Trust me, you won’t regret it. So grab your snacks, cozy up on the couch, and enjoy the show. Hey, it’s summer, after all. 

Enjoy the show!

Bella H.