The Watsons Go to Birmingham 1963 Book Review

Posted on January 5, 2026 by Emily S.

The Watsons Go to Birmingham 1963 is a historical fictional novel by Christopher Paul Curtis. It is set in the 1960s when segregation was still common in the Southern states, and the Civil Rights Movement was rising. The protagonist of the story, 10-year-old Kenny, finds himself in the middle of a traumatizing experience once he and his family drive from Flint, Michigan, to Birmingham, Alabama to pay Grandma Sands a visit. For those who like realistic fiction books, I think you’ll enjoy this novel, though I do have some likes and dislikes about this book.

Reading the synopsis at the back of the book, I thought that there was going to be more action—action like the riots that arose when peaceful protesters were attacked, or more racist actions against Kenny and his family. Kenny does live in Michigan, though, so there was less racism up there than down in the south. When the synopsis said, “toward one of the darkest moments in history,” I did think it was going to be more dramatic, leading to some slight disappointment that it was over so quick. And with the title being, The Watsons Go to Birmingham 1963 alsokind of surprised me that most of the book was spent in Flint.

Overall, the book had a really good story and plot to it. Christopher Paul Curtis keeps the book realistic and tangible. The reader can relate to and understand Kenny. He’s the underdog in Flint, tailing his older brother, and he does have some more adventures in Alabama. Though I thought the climax was a little dry, the experience did traumatize Kenny, which led to him having to develop strong character traits. All in all, I think this novel was well-written and enjoyable despite some minor disappointments.

Album Review: Abbey Road

Posted on January 5, 2026 by Janna G.

Abbey Road is the eleventh studio album from legendary British rock band The Beatles. Originally formed in Liverpool, the band consisted of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. The Beatles rose to global fame in the 1960s and are widely considered one of the most influential and iconic musical acts in history. After years of record-breaking albums and groundbreaking music, internal tension began to form within the group. Despite this, they came together to create Abbey Road, which many fans and critics consider their finest work.

Abbey Road blends rock, pop, and psychedelic elements and was a stunning return to form after the more experimental White Album. It includes 17 tracks and is known for its tight production, memorable melodies, and legendary medley on side two. Here are some highlights from the album in my opinion…

Come Together:
The opening track and one of the album’s most famous songs, “Come Together” sets the tone with a bluesy, psychedelic groove. John Lennon’s vocals are mysterious and cool, and the bassline is iconic. The lyrics are abstract but compelling, and the production is smooth and layered. It’s the perfect opener and feels effortlessly cool. It also shows the Beatles embracing a more modern rock sound.

Something:
Written by George Harrison, “Something” is a standout ballad that has been praised by artists like Frank Sinatra, who once called it “the greatest love song ever written.” Harrison sings about being deeply drawn to someone but not entirely understanding why. The lyrics are simple and beautiful: “Something in the way she moves, attracts me like no other lover.” The string arrangement and guitar solo are just as emotional as the words. It’s a tender, romantic masterpiece.

Here Comes the Sun:
Another Harrison-penned gem, this is probably my personal favorite track on the album. Written in Eric Clapton’s garden during a break from the band’s tensions, it’s full of optimism and light. The acoustic guitar is bright, the synth line adds a dreamlike feel, and the lyrics bring hope: “It’s been a long, cold, lonely winter.” Every time I hear this song, it reminds me of better days ahead.

Honorable Mentions:

Oh! Darling – A passionate McCartney vocal performance that sounds like a lost ’50s classic.
Because – A haunting and harmonically rich track that feels like a lullaby in space.
Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight/The End – The emotional and powerful conclusion to the Beatles’ recording career.

While Abbey Road was a huge success in both the UK and the US, it’s fascinating to know that at the time of release, it received mixed reviews from critics. Over time, though, it has rightfully earned its place as one of the greatest albums of all time. Personally, I think Abbey Road captures everything that made The Beatles great—imagination, emotion, and unmatched musical talent. Even decades later, it still feels timeless.Whether you’re new to The Beatles or a longtime fan, Abbey Road is an essential listen. I hope it resonates with you as much as it did with me.

Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone

Posted on January 5, 2026 by Atharv M.

The book Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone is an excellent start to the Harry Potter series. The book begins by introducing our protagonist, Harry Potter, and how his life was with the Dursleys. Unfortunately, the Dursleys did not treat Harry kindly, to the point that he didn’t even have a bedroom. He lived in a cabinet under the stairwell of the home. One day, multiple owls came with letters inviting Harry to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Mr. Dursley didn’t like this, so he moved to a shack on an island where he thought he would be away from these strange letters. This did not work, since Hagrid came to get Harry Potter himself. The iconic quote, “You’re a wizard, Harry” was said here. Hagrid took Harry to get his school supplies at Diagon Alley. Afterwards, they went to the platform “9 3/4”. I think this was a very creative way to hide the magical world. It was called this to hide evidence of magic in the Muggle world. On the train ride to Hogwarts, Harry met his best friend Ron. After many events at school, Harry sees a hooded figure drinking unicorn blood. It was none other than Lord Voldemort. Voldemort wasn’t at his full power, so he needed the Sorcerer’s Stone to come back. His host was Quirrell, a teacher at Hogwarts. He lived on him and was very weak. Harry decides to find the stone before Voldemort to stop him from coming back. Check out this book in the Mission Viejo Library to learn how he does it. I would rate this book a 5/5 and I particularly enjoyed following the storyline and especially the uniqueness of each character.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Posted on January 5, 2026 by Eden B.

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows by J.K Rowling is the final and 7th book in the Harry Potter Series. We follow the journey of Harry Potter once again with more challenges and obstacles awaiting him. Harry Potter discovers more of his past life, his parents life when they were about his age, and why Harry Potter has a deep connection with Voldemort.

I would say this is one of my favorite books of the series, all the elements and ideas that combine together as it is the end that we did not realize in the other books really adds a whole different level of understanding to the Harry Potter world. I have been obsessed with Harry Potter since a very young age, and am still currently today, this is the type of book where I can´t seem to stop reading, this is a stay up all night book for sure. J.K Rowling is one of my favorite authors of all time, she adds a whole layer to all the Harry Potter books, it is beautifully written with description in each of her books.

I would highly recommend this book to fantasy readers and fans of the fantasy world! Harry Potter is a must read series for anybody and if you continue reading through all the books I assure you will love the last book, Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows. Currently, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library today!

Book Review: Much Ado About Nothing

Posted on January 5, 2026 by Janna G.

Much Ado About Nothing is one of William Shakespeare’s most popular comedies. Interestingly, this story is the origin of the enemies-to-lovers archetype we see in all kinds of films and books. This tale explores many themes like epistemology, sexism, classism, honor, and reputation. Set in Messina, a Sicilian city, during the 1500s, Much Ado About Nothing tells the tale of two couples

Hero and Claudio: The stereotypical couple of their time. The ultra-masculine man and the honorable, demure young lady. What started as a fairy tale, picture-perfect romance quickly becomes heartbreaking for both. These characters were portrayed as almost entirely good, and it was the evil and deception of others that drove them apart.

Benedick and Beatrice: A more modern love story and a transition from enemies to lovers. A loud, outspoken, and opinionated woman with no interest in love, and a witty young man who does not believe in romance. These characters were portrayed as more realistic archetypes, not quite anti-heroes but not as perfectly pure as Hero and Claudio. It took deception from “better” characters like Hero and Claudio to bring them together.

Overall, this was an amazing read and proof of how Shakespeare’s stories stood the test of time. I highly recommend it for fans of romance stories, but also if you are trying to get into Shakespeare. This play is not as emotionally traumatizing as something like Titus Andronicus. But it would provide a reading challenge along with a pleasant story.

Avatar: The Last Air Bender: a Netflix Series Review

Posted on January 5, 2026 by BH

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

Posted on January 5, 2026 by BH

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.

A Guide to Yosemite

Posted on January 5, 2026 by Gwendy M.

Last summer I had the privilege to visit Yosemite National Park. My family loves to travel to national parks during the summer. This year, we decided to go to Yosemite, since the last time we went was 2010. Though I have been to many national parks, I can say that Yosemite is one of my top 5 favorite parks. Below, you’ll find a guide on where to stay and what to do!

Accommodations

Camp Curry Village – My family stayed here because the lodge is very hard to reserve. If you enjoy hiking and are outdoorsy, Camp Curry is a great way to stay in the park for a cheaper price.
Yosemite Valley Lodge – This accommodation is very comfortable and has many food options within the lodge. If you’re looking to stay in a small condo, this is the place to be. Make sure to reserve a year in advance to guarantee a spot.
The Ahwahnee – Built in the 1920s, The Ahwahnee boasts of a convenient location, stunning views, and remarkable architecture. The Ahwahnee is very luxurious and is definitely the most expensive stay in Yosemite. Come to this accommodation if you would like a relaxing getaway.

Hikes

Half Dome – (14-16 miles roundtrip) Half Dome is one of Yosemite’s most famous hikes. This hike goes to the top of Half Dome, where you are met with an unobstructed view. Half Dome requires a permit and is extremely difficult but rewarding.
Upper Yosemite Falls – (7.4 miles roundtrip) Upper Yosemite Falls is a great alternative to Half Dome. However, this hike is very tedious and there isn’t much shade at the last stretch going up. Make sure to bring plenty of water!
Cooks Meadow – (1 mile loop) Cooks Meadow is a great place to walk and run. This scenic route is great for families with young children.
Vernal Falls – (8 miles roundtrip) This hike follows the Mist Trail and leads up to Vernal Falls. I haven’t personally done it, but one of my close friends raved about this hike.
Mirror Lake – Mirror Lake is an amazing place to run to. I started at the Yosemite Falls Lodge and it was 5 miles roundtrip. Mirror Lake is also accessible by bikes and cars; it is another family-friendly place to visit.

Activities

Hiking
Rafting
Running
Camping

Lookouts

Glacier Point
Tunnel View
Taft Point

The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes

Posted on November 12, 2025 by Simon H.

The Hundred Dresses is a short novel by Eleanor Estes. This book won a Newbery Honor award in 1945. This book relates the experiences of Maddie, along with her friend Peggy, and a girl named Wanda. Wanda has only been seen wearing the same faded blue dress every day, even though she claims to have a hundred dresses “all lined up” in her closet. Peggy does not believe this at all, so she makes fun of Wanda every day at school. Maddie knows this is wrong, but she does not stop Peggy for fear of losing her friendship. Peggy teases Wanda on a daily basis, while Maddie just stays silent. Even though she does not say anything, Maddie feels guilty for lacking the courage to defend Wanda.

One day, Maddie and Peggy are in class when the teacher makes an announcement. Wanda’s father had sent a letter to the school informing them that Wanda would not attend their school anymore, because of the teasing she had received. This gives Maddie a sick feeling in her stomach. She knows that she should have tried to defend Wanda. Peggy seems to be affected as well. Later that day, Maddie and Peggy decide to go visit Wanda.

I have always enjoyed Eleanor Estes’ novels, and this book is no exception. In fact, I consider this to be her best novel. Despite its short length, this book conveys many emotions. It seems light-hearted and melancholy at the same time. However, my favorite thing about this book is the story behind it. When Eleanor Estes was in elementary school, she had a classmate who was constantly teased because of her unusual Polish name. After a short while, in the middle of the school year, the Polish girl moved away before Estes had a chance to apologize. Years later, Estes wrote The Hundred Dresses as her way of saying that she was sorry.

After learning about this background story, it greatly enhanced my appreciation for this book. I really appreciate the lessons taught by this book about compassion and forgiveness. Even though this is such a short book it conveys a sweet but powerful message. I would recommend it to everyone.

Diversity Circle at the Mission Viejo Library

Posted on June 13, 2025 by Forrest F

Globalization is all around us— our electronics, food, popular culture, literature, and much more are all the result of intermingling between many different countries across the world. Different cultures and people will continue to share spaces, creating diversity within our communities. The Mission Viejo Library recognized the need to understand and appreciate diversity, which is why they hosted their Diversity Circle event with Don Han on 4/7.

When I signed up to participate in this event, I was unsure of what to expect. Although I had participated in various diversity events at school, most of them consisted of students watching a powerpoint and being taught about how to be mindful of our differences. However, the Diversity Circle immediately struck me as different. I actually walked right past the event as I was trying to find it— the set up was like that of an intimate conversation, and I thought that a meeting was going on as a glanced through the open door. When I finally found my way in, I saw the seats arranged in a small circle so that everyone could hear each other as they spoke.

Our conversation started with the question of why we thought diversity was important. As we went around in a circle, I was impressed by the unique responses from each of my peers, some of whom I recognized and others whom I did not. As we took turns speaking, we passed around a small ladybug rock, which indicated whose turn it was to speak. Mr. Han explained how it was customary for whoever initiated the meeting (in this case, it was him) to place emotionally significant items in a small wooden bowl in the middle of the circle. One item that particularly fascinated me was a thin cloth that the men of his people would wear in a variety of different ways; Mr. Han had taken it with him when he moved to the United States.

One question that particularly struck me was about DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion). Mr. Han asked us if we thought DEI was relatively new or if it had already existed for a long time, and for the first time, we respectfully disagreed with one another. We explored this topic as both a specific policy and a general concept about inclusion, with some of us asking about past civil rights movements and whether that counted as a form of DEI.

I am grateful for this opportunity to become a more educated and conscientious member of my community as well as to engage in meaningful conversations. For those on the fence, I encourage you to learn more about diversity!

Mission Viejo Library Teen Voice

Teens tell you what's what!