Author Archives: Myrra U.

The Secret History – Donna Tartt (SPOILER FREE)

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For fans of the aesthetic of upper-class academic settings or those drawn to the darker, more morose themes of literature (or both), Donna Tartt’s The Secret History offers a captivating and chilling experience.

Set at Hampden College in Vermont, the novel follows 20-year-old Richard Papen, who joins an elite, selective Ancient Greek class taught by a brilliant but detached professor. Richard finds himself having to assimilate with the foreign ways of his intellectually and socially superior classmates, who harbor secrets that lead to a series of tragic, life-altering events.

What I found to be most interesting in The Secret History was its exploration of themes like the corrupting impact of economic privilege, the conflict between morality and loyalty, and the weight that guilt carries on one’s consciousness. The novel is full of introspective, philosophical reflections and literary references, which may appeal to readers who enjoy deep character studies, thoughtful commentary on day-to-day life, and stories that stick with you long after the final page.

If you are unsure whether or not you’d enjoy the book, here are a few similar ones that you could compare it to:

–Dead Poets Society, N.H. Kleinbaum: Academic settings that are a breeding ground for free intellectual thought that take a turn towards darker themes

–The Picture Of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde: Captures the psychological and moral downfall of a member of the intellectually and economically privileged class

–Brideshead Revisited, Evelyn Waugh: Shows the nostalgia, beauty, and eventual downward spiral of a set of elites through the eyes of an outsider.

Happy reading!

The Secret History by Donna Tartt is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library. It is also available to download for free from Libby.

The Best Coming-of-Age Films to Watch This Winter

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Looking for the best coming-of-age movies to watch this winter? As the weather gets colder and the holidays approach, it’s the perfect time to relax with some movies that capture growth, change, and the ups and downs of growing up. Here are a few must-watch coming-of-age films this season!

The Holdovers, 2021 (R) 

Alexander Payne’s The Holdovers is a thoughtful and entertaining story perfect for the season. Set against the snowy backdrop of Deerfield, Massachusetts, the film follows three unlikely companions “holding over” at Barton boarding school during winter break together: Angus Tully, a rebellious high school junior; Mr. Hunham, a rigid and strict teacher; and Mary Lamb, the school’s kind-hearted cafeteria manager. Through their time together, the trio experiences personal growth, connection, and healing in unexpected ways. 

Dead Poets Society, 1989 (PG-13)

Peter Weir’s Dead Poets Society is another winter-season classic. Set in the snow-dusted halls of a prestigious Vermont prep school, Welton Academy, the film follows John Keating, an unconventional English teacher played by Robin Williams, who challenges his students to embrace individuality and “seize the day.” As his wise lessons and passion for literature inspire his students, they begin to explore their individuality, going against the standards set for them to discover who they each truly are. Though not directly tied to the holidays, the scenic shots of Vermont’s fall and winter landscapes beautifully set the tone and enhance the film’s atmosphere.

Fantastic Mr. Fox, 2009 (PG)

Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, is a visually stunning stop-motion animated film that perfectly captures the cozy essence of fall and winter. With a color palette of warm oranges, deep browns, and vibrant reds, the film mirrors the crisp, autumnal landscapes of the season. The story follows Mr. Fox and his family as they navigate themes of self-discovery, alienation, and the importance of connection with one another. Anderson’s signature style and heartfelt storytelling make this a charming and thoughtful watch for the colder months.

Little Women, 2019 (PG)

Greta Gerwig’s Little Women, based on the acclaimed novel by Louisa May Alcott, is a beautifully crafted film that captures the warmth and struggles of family life. Set against the snowy landscapes of Massachusetts, the story follows the March sisters—Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy—as they navigate love, ambition,personal loss, and womanhood. Gerwig’s fresh approach to the timeless tale, combined with stunning visuals and heartfelt performances, makes it a perfect watch for the fall and winter seasons.

With their wintry settings and themes of self-discovery, connection, and resilience, these films offer the perfect blend of warmth and entertainment for cozy winter viewing!