Chris Vivas showed us techniques for using Sculpey clay. We had the theme of Animal Crossing and some people made awesome characters from the game. Other people decided to make other things and they came out great!!
Archive for March 30, 2024
Book Review by Ikshan R.
The Great Fire by Jim Murphy
(1995) 144 pages
The Great Fire by Jim Murphy is a riveting and meticulously researched account of one of the most devastating events in American history—the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Murphy’s narrative skillfully weaves together historical facts, personal accounts, and vivid descriptions to create a compelling and immersive reading experience.
One of the strengths of Murphy’s work is his ability to capture the atmosphere of Chicago in the late 19th century, providing readers with a sense of the bustling city that existed before it was engulfed in flames. The author paints a vivid picture of the socio-economic conditions, the architecture, and the people who inhabited Chicago at the time, setting the stage for the catastrophic events that would unfold.
The narrative is structured in a way that builds suspense and tension, keeping readers engaged from the first page to the last. Murphy not only chronicles the fire itself but also explores its aftermath, including the widespread destruction, the impact on the residents, and the efforts to rebuild the city. By delving into the personal stories of individuals who experienced the fire, Murphy humanizes the tragedy, making it more than just a historical event but a series of gripping, personal accounts.
What sets The Great Fire apart is Murphy’s commitment to accuracy and thorough research. The author draws on a wide range of primary sources, including newspaper articles, letters, and eyewitness testimonies, to present a comprehensive and well-rounded perspective on the disaster. This meticulous approach adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the events leading up to the fire and its profound impact on Chicago and its residents.
While the book is historically rich and informative, Murphy’s writing style is accessible and engaging, making it suitable for a broad audience. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual reader, “The Great Fire” offers a captivating glimpse into a critical moment in American history, exploring themes of resilience, community, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of tragedy.
In conclusion, Jim Murphy’s, The Great Fire is a masterfully crafted historical account that brings to life the harrowing events of the Great Chicago Fire. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Murphy offers readers a captivating and insightful exploration of this pivotal moment in American history. This book stands as a testament to the power of narrative nonfiction in making history accessible and engaging to a wide audience.
Comments Off on Book Review by Ikshan R.
by Ikshan R.
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
(2011) 374 pages
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline is a rollercoaster ride through a dystopian future where the virtual world of the OASIS provides an escape from the harsh realities of life. Published in 2011, the novel has captivated readers with its nostalgic references, fast-paced plot, and exploration of the impact of technology on society.
The story is set in the year 2045, where the world is plagued by economic decline and social unrest. The protagonist, Wade Watts, along with millions of others, seeks refuge in the OASIS, a vast virtual reality universe created by the eccentric James Halliday. Upon Halliday’s death, he leaves a challenge to OASIS users – find an Easter egg hidden within the virtual world, and the one who discovers it will inherit his vast fortune and control of the OASIS.
The narrative is a treasure trove of pop culture references from the 1980s, making it a nostalgic journey for readers who grew up during that era. From video games to movies and music, Cline weaves these references seamlessly into the story, creating a rich and immersive world. The integration of these elements not only adds depth to the narrative but also serves as a homage to the geek culture that has become so ingrained in modern society.
The pacing of Ready Player One is relentless, with high-stakes challenges and a ticking clock that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Wade’s quest is not only a race against time but also against the nefarious corporation, Innovative Online Industries (IOI), that seeks to control the OASIS for its own gains. The tension and suspense are masterfully maintained throughout, making the book difficult to put down.
While the novel is primarily a science fiction adventure, it also delves into themes of friendship, identity, and the consequences of a society overly reliant on technology. The relationships that develop between the characters in the OASIS and their real-world counterparts add a layer of emotional depth to the story, reminding readers that, even in a virtual world, human connections are essential.
Cline’s writing style is accessible and engaging, making Ready Player One a page-turner for both avid readers and those less familiar with the science fiction genre. The world-building is detailed and imaginative, providing a vivid backdrop for the action.
In conclusion, Ready Player One is a thrilling and entertaining ride through a dystopian future where virtual reality becomes a battleground for survival. With its nostalgic nods to the 1980s, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, Ernest Cline’s novel has rightfully earned its place as a modern science fiction classic. Whether you’re a fan of gaming, pop culture, or just a good adventure, this book is a must-read.
Comments Off on
by Ikshan R.
City of Thieves by David Benioff
(2008) 258 pages
City of Thieves by David Benioff is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that takes readers on a harrowing journey through the siege of Leningrad during World War II. Published in 2008, Benioff’s work skillfully combines historical fiction with elements of adventure and coming-of-age, delivering a narrative that is both poignant and thrilling.
The story follows the unlikely duo of Lev Beniov, a shy and bookish teenager, and Kolya Vlasov, a charming and irreverent army deserter, as they navigate the war-torn landscape of Leningrad. The two are given an impossible task by a Soviet colonel: find a dozen eggs for the colonel’s daughter’s wedding cake in a city where food is scarce, and they face execution if they fail. This seemingly simple quest becomes a journey of survival, self-discovery, and an exploration of the bonds that can form in the face of adversity.
One of the novel’s strengths is its vivid depiction of Leningrad during the siege. Benioff’s detailed and atmospheric writing transports the reader to a city under siege, where hunger and desperation permeate every aspect of daily life. The bleak setting serves as a powerful backdrop to the characters’ struggles and adds a layer of authenticity to the historical elements of the narrative.
The characters of Lev and Kolya are both well-developed and endearing in their own ways. Lev’s innocence and Kolya’s charm create a dynamic and entertaining partnership. The evolution of their relationship from reluctant companions to true friends is at the heart of the novel and provides an emotional core to the overall story.
Benioff’s writing is sharp and compelling, with a narrative that seamlessly weaves together moments of tension, humor, and poignant reflection. The pacing is well-balanced, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The author’s ability to convey the gravity of war while infusing moments of humor is a testament to his storytelling prowess.
City of Thieves is more than just a war novel; it’s a story about the human spirit, resilience, and the unexpected connections that can form in the most challenging circumstances. The novel explores themes of morality, sacrifice, and the impact of war on individuals and communities.
In conclusion, City of Thieves is a masterfully crafted novel that transports readers to a pivotal moment in history while telling a compelling and deeply human story. David Benioff’s ability to blend historical accuracy with engaging characters and a well-paced plot makes this novel a standout in the genre. Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction or simply enjoy a riveting tale of survival and friendship, City of Thieves is a must-read that will leave a lasting impression.
Comments Off on
Game Review by Alex A.
Phasmophobia (202)
No rated listed
Phasmophobia is a multiplayer co-op horror game that was released on September 18, 2020. Phasmophobia revolves around tracking down clues and marks left by unknown entities, in which the player has to put together these clues to determine the species of the unknown creature. This game has a 10/10 rating with a 96% enjoyment rate from users. Phasmophobia was created and developed by Kinetic Games, and can be played on PC and Xbox. Many users download this game on Steam, a computer gaming engine. Players can use items such as UV lights, salt, cameras, and other advanced in-game technology to figure out which type of ghost is haunting the designated area. As for the community of the game, Phasmophobia has a strong player base most likely because of the heavy involvement of communication between players within the game. Phasmophobia is a much better experience with friends, and it is strongly recommended to play with others, although it isn’t needed to play the game.
Comments Off on Game Review by Alex A.
by Michael R.
Rags (2012)
Rated G, 1 hour 28 minutes
Rags is a Nickelodeon musical film that reimagines the classic Cinderella story in a modern musical setting. The film follows the life of Charlie Prince, a talented teenager living in the City who dreams of becoming a successful singer and songwriter. He lives with his stepfather, Arthur, and his step siblings, and works at a cleaning job in a recording studio. On the other hand, Kadee Worth is a famous pop star longing for a genuine connection with people, tired of being managed and molded by her overbearing father Reginald Worth. When Kadee and Charlie cross paths, a series of events lead to a unique connection between the two and a chance for Charlie to pursue his dreams. With the help of his step siblings and the encouragement of Kadee, Charlie navigates the challenges of breaking into the music industry, while Kadee seeks the freedom to express herself through her music. Rags is a modern version of the Cinderella story, infusing it with a musical twist and relatable themes of chasing dreams, self-expression, and finding one’s voice. Lead Max Schneider and Keke Palmer deliver strong performances, supported by a talented cast that brings charisma to the film. The musical numbers are catchy and engaging, incorporating pop-infused tunes that complement the storyline. The film’s themes of following one’s passions, breaking free from societal expectations, and the importance of authenticity resonate with the audience, making it an uplifting and inspirational tale for young viewers. Despite the familiarity of the Cinderella-inspired plot, Rags modernizes the narrative, delivering an enjoyable musical experience with its catchy songs and heartfelt messages about being true to oneself and pursuing dreams against all odds. This is definitely a film I would recommend regardless of if your a fan of Keke Palmer or not. The songs are very upbeat and catchy and it’s an entertaining film all around.
Comments Off on
by Michael R.
Big Time Movie (2012)
Rated G, 1 hour 8 minutes
Big Time Movie is a musical comedy film starring the popular Nickelodeon band, Big Time Rush. The movie follows the band—composed of Kendall, James, Carlos, and Logan —as they embark on a globetrotting adventure. All goes smoothly until they unexpectedly come into possession of a mysterious briefcase containing a top-secret device, they find themselves entangled in a mission to prevent the device from falling into the wrong hands. As they chase across Europe, the band members are mistaken for undercover secret agents, encountering danger, and various chase scenes along the way. The film serves as a musical comedy with elements of action and adventure, allowing the band members to showcase their acting and singing abilities. The film is filled with lighthearted and comical moments as the members of the band navigate their misadventures across different European cities. While the storyline may be formulaic and tailored for a younger audience, the energy and charm of the band members contribute to the movie’s appeal. The incorporation of the band’s original music and performance numbers adds to the film. For fans of the band or the TV show, this film offers an enjoyable and lively showcase of their talents, combining comedy, music, and a whirlwind European escapade. I would recommend this film to anyone who is a fan of the TV show or the band in general as it truly shows why the band became so popular in the first place. With a great mix of humor and entertainment this film really is a great watch for kids.
Comments Off on
by Michael R.
School of Rock (2003)
RatedPG-13, 1 hour 49 minutes
School of Rock is a comedy musical film that follows Dewey Finn, a passionate but down-on-his-luck rock guitarist who has just been kicked out of his band. Facing eviction and needing money to pay rent to his best friend and former bandmate, Ned Schnebly, Dewey pretends to be Ned and takes a substitute teaching job at a prestigious prep school called Horace Green. Dewey soon discovers that his students are highly talented and decides to form a rock band with his fifth-grade students secretly instead of attempting to teach the curriculum he doesn’t know. Dewey believes that they can compete in a Battle of the Bands competition, which has a cash prize that can solve his financial problems. Dewey starts by identifying the musical talents and personalities of each student, eventually assigning them roles in the band. Dewey introduces the students to rock music, teaching them to play instruments, write lyrics, and perform. As the kids get more involved, they begin to enjoy the creative freedom that rock music offers, and their individual personalities start to shine through. Meanwhile, Dewey’s unconventional teaching methods raise suspicion among the school’s staff and principal, Ms. Mullins. She begins to investigate “Mr. Schnebly” and his unconventional curriculum. However, as the students’ musical talents grow, so does their self-confidence, and they form a strong bond with Dewey. With the Battle of the Bands approaching, Dewey’s secret is eventually discovered, leading to his firing from the school. Despite this setback, the students rally together, and with the help of their parents, they manage to compete in the competition. Their amazing performance wins over the audience, and the band, named “School of Rock,” becomes a phenomenon. In the end Dewey opens an afterschool program with the students to continue their rock adventures with Ned also working there as an instructor for new students. Overall, School of Rock is a great comedy movie that shows children to follow their dreams and passions. This is a film I would highly recommend to all ages.
Comments Off on