Teen Art by Rhiane M.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

by Michael R.

Drake & Josh: Go Hollywood (2006)
Rated TV-G, 2 hours

Drake & Josh Go Hollywood is a Nickelodeon television film that follows the misadventures of stepbrothers Drake Parker and Josh Nichols as they embark on a trip to Los Angeles. The duo travels to Hollywood to participate in the wedding of Drake’s uncle, but their journey takes an unexpected turn when they mistakenly swap their possessions with a pair of notorious criminals and realize the extent of how dangerous the items in the bag are. Drake and Josh find themselves caught up in a case of mistaken identity, leading to a series of comedic mishaps as they navigate the city in an attempt to correct their situation. The film captures the essence of the beloved Nickelodeon series, providing fans with the same brand of humor, witty jokes, and action between the two stepbrothers. As Drake and Josh face a slew of challenges and amusing predicaments, their distinctive personalities shine through, adding to the comedy. The movie blends their signature antics with an action packed story as they encounter peculiar characters, from quirky locals to the hapless criminals they inadvertently crossed paths with. While the plot is predictable, the film’s humor, coupled with the charismatic performances of Drake Bell and Josh Peck, delivers an enjoyable and entertaining experience for fans of the TV series. Drake & Josh Go Hollywood encapsulates the charm and humor of the TV show, making it an engaging and entertaining film for viewers familiar with the duo’s dynamic. The blend of comedy, mishaps, and the boys’ signature personalities brings a sense of familiarity for fans of the original series. While the movie doesn’t deviate significantly from the established formula of the show, it provides a fun-filled adventure that delights fans, offering an entertaining escape with the comedic antics of Drake and Josh as they navigate the glitz and chaos of Hollywood. This is a film I would definitely recommend to fans of the TV show as it has a more in depth story then regular episodes and serves a major moment in the series. 

by Ikshan R.

Merry Christmas, Drake & Josh (2008)
Rated TV-G, 1 hour 30 minutes

Merry Christmas, Drake & Josh is a Nickelodeon television film that revisits the comedic antics of stepbrothers Drake Parker and Josh Nichols. Set during the holiday season, the film centers on the mishaps that occur when Drake and Josh inadvertently ruin a young girl’s Christmas by destroying her gifts and causing an unexpected chaos at the local mall. Faced with a lawsuit, the two stepbrothers embark on a madcap adventure to make things right, restore the spirit of Christmas, and save the holiday for the girl and the community. The movie captures the essence of the beloved Nickelodeon series, showcasing the humor, wittiness, and funny relationship between Drake and Josh. As the pair attempt to rectify their holiday blunder, their distinctive personalities shine, contributing to the film’s comedy. With their misadventures and humorous encounters, including interactions with a feisty young girl and a unique cast of characters, the movie maintains the spirit of the original show. While the storyline follows a predictable path, it’s buoyed by the duo’s familiar dynamic and the feel-good holiday spirit that appeals to fans. Merry Christmas, Drake & Josh offers an entertaining and heartwarming holiday-themed film, delivering a mix of comedy, heart, and lessons about the importance of giving and redemption. The film retains the charm of the original series, providing viewers with a nostalgic trip back into the comedic world of Drake and Josh. The movie’s blend of laughs, quirky characters, and the holiday setting creates an enjoyable experience for fans, offering a festive escape with the beloved stepbrothers’ mischievous yet well-intentioned escapades. This is a film I would definitely recommend for fans of the original series to watch regardless of age. The film is a nostalgic trip of the series and truly shows why the show was so popular in the first place. 

by Ikshan R.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner
(2009) 384 pages

James Dashner’s The Maze Runner kicks off a thrilling dystopian trilogy that plunges readers into a mysterious and perilous world. First published in 2009, this young adult novel quickly gained popularity for its suspenseful plot, enigmatic setting, and a cast of characters fighting for survival.

The story begins with Thomas, the protagonist, waking up in a metal box with no memory of his past. He finds himself in the Glade, a small community of boys surrounded by a massive, ever-changing maze that holds deadly secrets. As Thomas navigates the challenges of the maze and tries to uncover the truth about his existence, he discovers that he and his fellow Gladers are part of a harrowing experiment orchestrated by a mysterious organization known as WICKED.

Dashner’s world-building is a standout feature of The Maze Runner. The intricate design of the maze and the desperate attempts of the characters to solve its mysteries create a palpable sense of tension. The suspense is masterfully maintained, with each discovery leading to more questions, keeping readers hooked from the first page to the last.

The characters, though initially shrouded in mystery, undergo compelling development as the narrative unfolds. Thomas’s determination and resilience make him a relatable and engaging protagonist. The dynamics among the Gladers, particularly the charismatic Newt, the pragmatic Minho, and the enigmatic Teresa, add depth to the story, creating a sense of camaraderie amid the uncertainty.

Dashner’s writing style is brisk and immersive, capturing the urgency of the characters’ predicament. The dialogue is sharp, and the narrative is peppered with twists that keep the reader guessing. The author skillfully balances action sequences with moments of introspection, allowing for both heart-pounding excitement and character-driven storytelling.

As the first book in a trilogy, The Maze Runner succeeds in setting up a larger narrative that extends beyond the maze itself. The mysteries surrounding WICKED, the purpose of the experiment, and the apocalyptic world outside the Glade create a compelling framework for the subsequent novels.

The novel delves into themes of memory, identity, and the consequences of unchecked scientific experimentation. Dashner raises ethical questions about sacrifice and survival, adding layers of complexity to the overarching plot.

In conclusion, The Maze Runner is a gripping and suspenseful introduction to James Dashner’s dystopian trilogy. With its well-crafted world, memorable characters, and a relentless pace, the book is a must-read for fans of young adult dystopian fiction. As Thomas and his fellow Gladers face the challenges of the maze and confront the mysteries of their existence, readers are taken on a thrilling journey that sets the stage for the equally compelling sequels.