Day: January 8, 2026

Movie Review by Steven R.

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
Rated PG, 2 hours

“Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” is the delightful sequel to the beloved holiday classic “Home Alone”. The film picks up with the now-10-year-old Kevin McCallister, who has become a bit more savvy and advanced after his previous adventure. This time, his family is preparing for a trip to Florida for Christmas, and in the midst of the chaos at the airport, Kevin inadvertently gets separated from his family once more. Kevin is at Chicago O’Hare International Airport to load fresh batteries into his Talkboy. When he looked up from his recording device, he followed a man wearing his father’s calf-length caramel mohair trench coat onto the wrong flight. In a humorous twist of fate, he boards a flight to New York City instead, equipped only with his father’s credit card and his trademark ingenuity. Upon arriving in the bustling city, Kevin is initially enchanted by the sights and sounds of New York, reveling in the holiday decorations, the iconic Central Park, and the towering skyscrapers. The movie effectively captures the magic of the city during Christmas, showcasing landmarks like the Plaza Hotel, where Kevin checks in using his father’s credit card, leading to a series of comedic and extravagant escapades. Later, the plot thickens when Kevin’s old nemeses, the bumbling burglars Harry and Marv, escape from prison and return to wreak and do bad things in the city. Kevin is back and ready to defend himself against their antics. The film is filled with inventive traps and clever tricks as Kevin once again uses his resourcefulness to outsmart Harry and Marv. Kevin is a smart boy and knows what he is doing and it is shown throughout the movie. From placing traps in his hotel room to orchestrating a series of hilarious and elaborate setups in an abandoned house. The film brilliantly balances comedy with heart, delving into Kevin’s feelings of loneliness and the importance of family, especially as he navigates the holiday season away from home. As Kevin explores New York, he also befriends a kind-hearted pigeon lady, who becomes an unexpected ally. Their friendship adds a poignant layer to the story, emphasizing themes of connection and kindness amidst the chaos. The film beautifully contrasts Kevin’s playful mischief with the loneliness he feels without his family. Kevin’s journey ultimately reinforces the message that true happiness comes from the bonds we share with others.The film is not only a testament to Kevin’s growth and resilience but also a celebration of the magic of New York during Christmas. Overall, I would highly recommend this movie as it is very funny and good for families.

Book Review by Ikshan R.

The Brothers Hawthorne by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
The Inheritance Games series, book 4
(2023) 480 pages

Jennifer Lynn Barnes’ Brother Hawthorne brings mystery and psychological tension to the forefront, offering a gripping read for fans of suspense and complex narratives. The story revolves around a protagonist who finds herself drawn into a world of secrets and puzzles, each challenge forcing her to confront truths about herself and those around her. Barnes is known for her ability to create layered mysteries, and Brother Hawthorne is no exception. The book’s structure, alternating between different character perspectives, provides a multifaceted view of the plot that heightens the suspense and keeps readers guessing until the very end.

Barnes excels at crafting intelligent, strong-willed characters who display realistic emotions and relatable motivations. As the protagonist navigates the twists and turns of the mystery, her internal struggles and external challenges intertwine, adding depth to both the character and the plot. The supporting characters each have their unique backstories, creating a cast that is as complex as it is intriguing. This rich character development adds to the tension and brings the story’s psychological elements to life.

The book’s ending, while thrilling, leaves some threads open, creating room for interpretation and discussion. For some, this open-ended approach may feel frustrating, but it also contributes to the book’s mystery and encourages readers to think critically about what they’ve read. Brother Hawthorne is a must-read for mystery fans, offering not only a story of suspense but also a thought-provoking exploration of loyalty, deception, and the power of perception.