Wonder by RJ Palacio

The book I have chosen to review is Wonder by RJ Palacio. I gave this book 5 stars as it is a very interesting read. The book is about 10 year old August Pullman who suffers from Treacher Collins Syndrome. In the book they spread the idea how choosing kind can make everyone better. Some positives from the book are how well they do at simulating what it's like in middle school. Overall, this is a great book that I recommend to anyone reading.

Justin Lors, Grade 8

Clark Middle School

Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins

Can’t Hurt Me tells the story of Goggins told from his first person perspective. As a child, Goggin was born to an abusive father who he escaped from with his mom and grew up in the midwest where he was bullied for being the only African-American family in the neighborhood, and eventually to his early adulthood where he was a fumigator that was overweight and deeply insecure. He also explains the life changing moment when he decided to turn his life around and join the NAVY SEAL, and the lifestyle he adopted in order to lose 108 pounds and prepare for training. He illustrates the frustration of failing training once and having to go through it a second time in order to pass. He provides insight about how he got into ultra-endurance events, and the mindset that he created in order to accomplish the things he did in life. A mindset that was filled with accountability and discipline.

Throughout the story Goggin urges the reader to take responsibility for their life and to hold themselves accountable for those responsibilities. Although Goggins shared his story before through interviews and podcasts, Can’t Hurt Me offers the most intimate and cohesive insight into Goggin’s mind and story. What makes this novel standout is David Goggins story, and how through hard work and determination he was able to turn his life around from a scared kid living in poverty facing racism to becoming an elite soldier and athlete. In the book, Goggin isn’t afraid to admit the insecurity he felt as a kid and the effects of the trauma and racism on his life. In order to turn his life around and realize his dream of becoming a Navy SEAL he had to face his fears, push beyond his limits, and embrace pain.

Consensus: A powerful novel written by an extraordinary man about the power of perseverance and grit, Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins contain life changing messages interwoven with a deeply inspiring story.

Hudson Hsieh, Grade 11

Westbury High School

Leap

An orphan girl named Felicie dreams to be a dancer, but she does not have many opportunities due to her social status. Instead of letting her situation stop her from accomplishing her dreams, she and her friend Victor go on a journey to Paris. There they plan to make their dreams a reality. As they walk around the city, they meet people that will help them with their goals of becoming a ballerina and an inventor. They come across many struggles in their paths, but at the end their hard-work pays off.

Something I liked best about this film is that it emphasizes the importance of hard-work. This movie shows how you have to actually work and take chances for your dream to actually become reality. On the other hand, I didn't like how Felicie ignored all the hard-work she had put into getting to the point where she was to later just risk it for a boy.

I would definitely recommend this movie because I feel like it can just motivate a person to pursue their own goals and dreams in life. The story gives a lot of different emotions which makes it really interesting as well.

The best age for someone to watch this film is 5 years and older.

Esthefany Portillo, Grade 11

Westbury High School

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

I would rate this book a 5/5

This book is about a gang and violence, but still leaves room for a group of boys that will always show love for each other. A gang called the greasers live lives of little value to others and constantly find themselves getting in trouble and being beaten up by the rich gang, called the Socs. They live life as it’s given to them, and their compassion for each other is incredible.

The brotherhood shown from the gang formed by a few boys is beyond belief. The boys have traumatic past that they would have never be able to deal with by themselves. If they didn’t have each other to depend on, their lives would’ve been lost along time ago. The way the gang has to live life being last on the food chain and with a family that couldn’t care less about them, will change the way you look on the world. They have so little hope in the world, but being together, somehow makes their worthless lives a whole lot better. I was touched to see the boys grow up together and love each other with so much hate in their lives. It will let you see how the gang continues their lives when catastrophe hits.

Maja Kruczek, Grade 8

Carle Place MS/HS

Proof Through the Night

The main plot of the film was the life (including his childhood and job) of Francis Scott Key and his experiences during the battle of 1812 that took place during the siege of Fort McHenry. (Also his life experiences after his military service).

This movie should be rated for a wide variety of audiences or young children. About “ages 8+” should be able to watch this film. There is no violence or gore present, but the narrator does talk about the capturing of many American citizens. Besides, the film also talks about war, meaning that obviously a 5 year old may not be at the mature age to understand what war is.

Out of all the documentaries that I have seen on the streaming platform (Hoopla), this seems to be one of the best films I have seen. The acting was on point and felt historically accurate, the music felt relevant to the time period, the visuals were outstanding, and the documentary was highly well written. In my personal humble opinions, I believe that this film/documentary is critically underrated and deserves more attention. A good watch, indeed.

Frank Martens, Grade 8

Carle Place MS/HS

American Experience: Coney Island

The rise and fall of Coney Island theme parks and the how the world of amusement and entertainment was changed afterwards. The appropriate age for someone to watch this documentary is at least 13+. The only mature topic talked about in this film was the use of animal cruelty. Many animals used in theme parks were tormented and unwilling towards what humans did to them. This caused the humans to start to kill any animal that was not obedient toward their owner.

The thing I like about this film was the use of detail behind the music and ambience. While watching the documentary, you would hear the ambience of people at a theme park to make you seem like you are actually at where they are showing you in the documentary. For example, when the narrator talks about rides, you may hear the cheerful screams of people riding on those certain rides. However, there were also many reasons why i did not like this documentary. The topic of what the narrator talked about was constantly changing, making the film difficult to understand what is going on.

Frank Martens, Grade 8

Carle Place MS/HS

Five Feet Apart by Rachel Lippincott

The book I read was Five Feet Apart by Rachel Lippincott. I gave this book 5/5 stars because of how much it touched my heart. This present day set book follows two characters, Will Newman and Stella Grant, and their journey through life with medical conditions that forbid them from coming in contact. I loved how the author painted a picture of their emotions and challenges, which helped me as a reader understand what it’s like to be in their shoes.

I’ve read a lot of different books and this book really opened my eyes to what it’s like to live with a life altering medical condition and the choices and lifestyle that come along with it. The only negative I could think of sharing is that I wish there was more expansion on the characters' life at the end. I also watched the movie and I personally think reading it helps get into the characters' heads more. This book has been my favorite ever since I read it and I would 100% recommend it.

Sara Aberman

Carle Place MS/HS

Ghost by Jason Reynolds

Overall, I rate the book Ghost, four stars, because I ​enjoyed seeing how the main character, Castle ​Cranshaw’s life played out and how he overcame ​challenges throughout the book. I didn’t give the book ​five stars due to the fact that the author’s writing flow ​was a bit slow. Although the book had a lot of ​interesting events that were relatable for some middle

school kids, like bullying and joining a school sports ​team, the book wasn’t a page-turner for me.

The setting of Ghost takes place in a poor modern-day ​city and the plot is about a boy named Castle, who is ​trying to overcome his past trauma by joining a track ​team and learning from his coach. Castle is a very fast ​and talented runner, but also has a lot of anger and ​insecurities. This book brings out many emotions for ​the reader and gives us some good life lessons. From ​Ghost, I learned that everyone has difficulties in life, ​but if we work hard and are determined, we can ​overcome these obstacles. Also, if we make bad ​choices, we can learn from them and choose to do ​good. Running gave Castle something to focus on and ​be proud of. His coach helps him to make good ​choices, keep pushing farther, and helps him realize he ​is not alone.

Theodore Dunphy

Grade 7, Carle Place MS/HS

The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown

The DaVinci Code is a mature book. It's a mystery story ​of two characters trying to find the true secret of the ​Holy Grail through the recently mysterious death of ​the female lead's grandfather. They try to go through ​the mystery while evading police detection, as they ​have been framed for the murder of her grandfather ​Sauniere, a highly regarded French historian.

The book is amazing and captivating. The mystery is ​not obvious to the casual reader, and their solving of ​each part of the puzzle is so intricate it makes the ​reader even more intrigued in the characters. We go ​through the book following two main characters as ​they avoid police arrest and a manipulated assassin ​with probably the saddest backstory from all the ​characters.

The book’s various chapters and storytelling going ​back and forth between different characters points of ​view is so intriguing it keeps the reader hooked to read ​one more chapter over and over again until it's over.

10/10

Cristian Mejia Sanchez

Grade 12, Westbury High School

American Beauty

Personal consensus: Impeccability written and a stunning debut from director Sam Mendes, American Beauty weaves a talented cast with wicked-smart ideas to create the pinnacle of 90’s cinema.

Rating: R- restricted. Under 17 requires adult supervision

Recommendation: I definitely recommend this movie because it falls into the category of movies that is insightful and thought provoking, but also entertaining. The movie doesn’t try to be groundbreaking with its approach to storytelling, with over the top visuals, unconventional dialogue, forced camera work, or awkward lighting. Instead the movie is able to take a traditional tried and tested formula to movie making, but elevates each aspect to the highest level. The dialogue is smart and efficient, the acting is top notch and natural, the cinematography is beautiful, the lighting is crisp, and the visuals are creative. As a result, American Beauty is able to resonate with a larger audience beyond hardcore film critics and analysts, a feat that many art-house films fail to pull off.

Hudson Hsieh, Grade 11

Westbury High School

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

I would, without a doubt give this book a five star rating. I was truly addicted to this book from the start flipping pages like there was no tomorrow. It was more than just a book. It was an incredible story that I wish would never end. I wanted to keep reading even when the book ended. I was felt what the characters were feeling in each and every scene.

Let me lead you into a glimpse of the book:

a girl that was a rule-follower lived her life, not being able to love. It was never a problem for her that loving was illegal, because she never tried to love. She was scared of the consequences, but of course, when the perfect guy comes along, she couldn’t resist. He took her out of her comfort zone time and time again, but what will happen if they slip up and the government knows they are breaking the law? Will others tries to help them keep their secret or will people rat them out? I promise you delirium will leave you staring at the wall because of the incredible ending, you won’t expect it.

Maja Kruczek, Grade 8

Carle Place MS/HS

Sisters by Raina Telgemeier

The book I read was “Sisters” by Raina Telgemeier. I rate it a 5/5 because it was funny and relatable. In the book, a girl named Raina was excited to have a baby sister on the way, but it wasn’t how she expected it. Raina and her baby sister, Amara, didn’t get along easily. Until the road trip from San Francisco to Colorado.

One part I found relatable was when Raina went to someone’s house and felt like she needed to be “cool” and wear makeup. I also found the relationship Raina and Amara had relatable. I was sitting on the edge of my seat when Amara and Raina were left in a van. My favorite part was when they finally got Mcdonalds.

This is a book I would definitely read again.

Leilani Jean, Grade 7

Westbury Middle School

Percy Jackson

The main plot of the Percy Jackson motion pictures (Rated TV-PG) follows a young boy named Percy Jackson who finds he is a demigod, the child of Poseidon, the Greek god of the ocean. He leaves on an excursion to uncover his actual character and save the world from looming destruction. En route, Percy experiences different legendary animals, fights beasts, and explores the intricacies of the universe of Greek folklore. The films revolve around Percy's journey to forestall a devastating conflict among the gods and to satisfy his fate as a legend.

My favorite parts of the movie, Percy Jackson is that it has a view of the different greek gods and goddess which is interesting because of the hidden meanings behind all of them. My least favorite part was they didn’t use younger characters for the movie instead using actors and actresses in their twenties, making it harder to believe the story to younger audiences

I would recommend this movie because it's entertaining and very interesting to see the characters develop and show their emotions and creativity.

Hoopla Review:

I believe hoopla is a good streaming service. It has a good variety of content for different ages, minds and interests. It is easy to search for a specific topic after getting used to where everything is.

I would and wouldn’t recommend hoopla to my friends and family because it is an amazing website for different ages and a variety of different content but it needs a library card which some people don’t have or need access of.

Chloe Lee, Grade 10

School Unknown

Oppenheimer the Real Story

The main plot of this film was the story of Oppenheimer, including his childhood and the tragedies he has faced after his infamous creation of the first ever atomic bomb that he created.

Due to many mature “terms” used throughout the documentary, I would say that ages 16+ may be able to watch this movie. There are many sensitive topics discussed throughout the documentary. Especially the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

What I liked best about this film was the use of many emotional factors that were used. For example, when the documentary talked about the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The film creators made the bombing seem more infamous than something to be proud of. Although Oppenheimer worked on the bomb quickly to make sure the Germans would not get the bomb first, he realized that he has created an invention that will change humanity forever. This is definitely a reason why i would give this film a 4.8 star rating. The use of emotions used throughout the film really adds more character to a documentary and can get many people interested and hooked into a certain series, movie, documentary, etc

Hoopla Review:

Overall, a very well made streaming platform. There are many imperfections that can be worked on but overall really good. I wish there was more variety in many topics of movies such as “history based on wars”. Although pretty inefficient to search for what movies you want to find, I would say that no. Hoopla is not good to search for specific items. I would recommend this service to a friend because although many things can be improved (such as searching for a movie you like), the streaming platform is high quality and really well-made. You can find some pretty cool movies that contain a neat story-line.

Frank Martens, Grade 8

Carle Place MS/HS

The Flying Scotsman

This film is about the history of one of the most famous steam locomotives (The Flying Scotsman) and the challenges that have been faced with maintaining such a marvelous work of history for rail transportation, known as The Flying Scotsman.

I believe that all ages are able to watch this film. There are no mature topics said throughout the film. Young train enthusiasts may find this film very entertaining. Rating: “All Ages” (G)

This movie is definitely a solid 5.0 star review! Everything is well said and will keep the viewer interested in watching the entire film. Many train enthusiasts will also love this film. The production is well made and the narrating is mere perfect. Definitely an underrated rated film itself. This movie is a definite must-watch!

Frank Martens, Grade 8

Carle Place MS/HS

Amulet 1. The Stonekeeper

by Kazu Kibushi

This book expresses how the main characters life is ​turned upside down and her family is thrusted into a ​new world literally and metaphorically. In this new ​world the main character Emily her family and friends ​are met with challenges one after another and make ​strides to prevail and unlike our world this new ​fictional world is filled with more possibilities as it has ​more distinct species and creatures.

As this story is a whole series the author goes on to set ​up the stories atmosphere of urgency, mystery and ​motivation of the characters while also foreshadowing ​later events. This is done in a chronological manner of ​descriptive development.

The author creates arguments over the decisions ​made in the story and show how they help build on to ​each other, to some readers the book can be ​confusing however it is one with many images that ​helps the reader understand.

Overall amulet book one is a wonderful book that ​many can enjoy and is made in a way that develops ​the characters well.

7.5/10

Guerthendrick Julien

Grade 12, Westbury High School

The Sandman Book 1

by Neil Gaiman

The first book in The Sandman series is an interesting ​find which delves into the mystical world the DC ​universe is set in, the difference with this comic ​compared to the likes of other comics is that The ​Sandman can delve into deeper subjects and materials ​not seen much in media. The comic goes over the first ​part of our protagonist’s adventure where he attempts ​to escape his confinement and regain his power as ​being the controller of dreams. This character known ​as Dream, comes to learn that many atrocities have ​arisen due to his absence in the lives’ of the regular ​people as he was the one to keep the order in their ​dreams and without that order, all mayhem breaks ​loose. Dream tries to take back his tools that make him ​have that control and along the way, tends to fix the ​issues made by others and greet people he has met ​prior to his capture.

The difference as mentioned before is that this book ​contains themes not suitable for all and retains mature ​ideas as the story continues. This actually helps the ​story of the book because it contrasts these themes ​with the overall idea of comics taking a lighter tone as ​the mature themes then hit deeper and stick with the ​audience even years after they have read this book.

The book unfolds the narrative in a way that always ​keeps the audience intrigued as from the start there is ​an ambiance that follows from the question as to how ​Dream will escape and how he will manage in his goal ​to regain his name as the dreamkeeper. He faces ​challenges from all kinds of different characters, from ​the mythical to the average person with a desire to be ​more, always staying interesting as the story has ​several climaxes.

In conclusion, this comic is a must read for those ​wanting a story that will keep them interested and ​wanting more. I would highly recommend this comic ​and give it a 9/10 for how invested it made me.

Jonathan Garcia Santos

Grade 12, Westbury High School

Annihilation

Consensus: Annihilation, Alex Garland’s bold return into the Sci-fi genre, is elevated by beautiful visuals and a mind-bending story, while serving to be a timely reminder of Earth’s fragility

Review: Annihilation is much like other Sci-Fi movies in the way that it’s a very beautiful movie to watch with a large amount of tracking landscape shots. The setting of being in a Florida State park lends to some cinematic shots of the environment. The horror element is masterfully interwoven into the story as it’s built through elevated suspense and dread. The movie takes its time with the story, and rewards the viewer with a dramatic and satisfying ending. It’s a great movie for audiences new to the Sci-Fi/Horror genre and it’s a breath of fresh air for veterans of the genre.

Hudson Hsieh, Grade 11

Westbury High School

The Help

The Help takes place in 1960s Mississippi, where the main character, Skeeter, hopes to become a writer. During this era, people of color were heavily discriminated against and were expected to work under white people. In the film, we can see the lives of the maids, “the help,” as they are referred to. Skeeter chooses to write about the experience and point of view of the help and finds a maid, Aibleen, who agrees to help. While she is unable to get the other maids on board they eventually agree.

In the film there are scenes of racism, the usage of slurs, cursing, and domestic violence. The film is rated PG-13. I really like the few moments of justice in the film, however, I did not enjoy the racial injustices. That being said, I think it was important to accurately demonstrate that life was not perfect back then. I would definitely recommend this movie, I think more people should be educated on our history.

Erika Alvarado, Grade 11

Westbury High School

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The power of a fiction novel lies in the author's ability to transport readers into the world that they have created. In a fiction novel, readers live through the lens of the characters, their homes become the novel’s setting, and the readers intimately and closely experience the conflicts of the novel. If done correctly, the novel will be able to blur the lines between reality and fiction, making its audience forget about the world around them.

What makes Taylor Jenkins Reid's such a special author is her ability to transcend that barrier between reality and fiction. Instantly, as soon as the narration for the novel begins readers are sucked into the world of early Hollywood; the glamor and excess of the filmmakers and those who became icons because of it. It transports readers to a world of palm trees and James Dean. The clean cut Hollywood of the action stars to the classic gothic spanish architecture of southern California. It undercut this with the wildness of the parties and the griminess of the 30’s. Through all of the excitement and world building, Taylor Jenkin Reid also manages to tell a love story that is as fiery and passionate as the period it’s set in.

At its heart, the novel is about the shiny veneer of Hollywood and the ugliness that hides behind its glossy exterior. As the novel progresses, readers begin to understand the reason that Eveyln had seven husbands was because of the need to stay relevant in Hollywood. Many of the marriages were loveless and for purely business. It shows the pervasive sexism of the industry and how for a woman such as Eveyln to sustain her popularity as she needed to adapt and outmaneuver the people around her. When her only asset is her beauty and exotic uniqueness, she becomes the subject of objectification as her husbands marry her for looks and star power. The novel also explores the idea of popularity as a sort of lightning that can only be captured once with the eternal goal of people in the cinema industry to hold on to that lightning for as long as possible.

Consensus: The Seven Husband of Eveyln Hugo sees Taylor Jenkins Reid’s distinctive style elevated to full-fledged form with well written and well crafted characters, story, and a setting that shows off the golden age of Hollywood

Hudson Hsieh, Grade 11

Westbury High School

Guts by Raina Telgemeier

If you're looking for a book that addresses peer pressure, friends and stomach issues, this is a book for you. In “Guts” Raina deals with all three and then some. While dealing with stomach issues that don't seem to go away despite many attempts, she now has to deal with a school bully. She even gets called “a POOPY DIAPER BABY!!” Even though she’s the one getting bullied, she finds herself in trouble.

Raina overall seems to be a cool girl. She does things like Girl Scouts, which I would try. She’s somewhat close to her mom but her mom can’t relate to her all the time. One thing cool about Raina is that she attempts to stand up for herself.

While I wouldn’t read the book again, the ending was wholesome. To think that this book is based on a real story is pretty cool too. I give this book four stars.

Leilani Jean, Grade 7

Westbury Middle School

The Flying Scotsman

This film is about the history of one of the most famous steam locomotives (The Flying Scotsman) and the challenges that have been faced with maintaining such a marvelous work of history for rail transportation, known as The Flying Scotsman.

I believe that all ages are able to watch this film. There are no mature topics said throughout the film. Young train enthusiasts may find this film very entertaining. Rating: “All Ages” (G)

This movie is definitely a solid 5.0 star review! Everything is well said and will keep the viewer interested in watching the entire film. Many train enthusiasts will also love this film. The production is well made and the narrating is mere perfect. Definitely an underrated rated film itself. This movie is a definite must-watch!

Frank Martens, Grade 8

Carle Place MS/HS

American Experience: Riding the Rails

The main plot of the film/documentary was based around ​the struggles of many “hobos” that used trains as their only ​method of traveling. This included many young children. ​The film also is mostly centered around the Great ​Depression that took place during the 1930's.

The mature age for a person to watch the film is at least 10-​13+. A few swear words may be used and the film includes ​some topics that may not be favorable towards a younger ​audience.

This film/documentary is a good watch. The music is ​relevant to the times that the movie takes place during (The ​1930's). The use of many primary sources helps give you a ​sense of what was taking place during the time period, ​rather than the use of more unreliable secondary sources. ​Overall a solid 4.8 star film.

Frank Martens, Grade 8

Carle Place MS/HS

Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova

I give “Awkward” by Svetlana Chmakova 5/5. The book is ​about a girl named Penelope or Peppi, starts her first day of ​school in a new town and gets embarrassed when she trips ​on her own feet. Jamie, the quiet kid, helps her pick up her ​books and gets called names like “nerder girlfriend.” Not ​knowing what to do, she shoves him and runs off. Still ​ashamed about not saying sorry, Peppi joins the art club. ​Which is archrivals with the science club, with Jamie in it. The ​two clubs going to war, Penelope is still ashamed of the ​incident and tries to survive middle school.

One similarity I found with me and Jamie is that we both ​love to draw. She also tries her best not to let her friends ​down, especially Maribella, the student taking charge of the ​war between the clubs. One thing that gave me second ​hand embarrassment was when Penelope mistakenly ​turned in her art project for the club instead of her ​homework.

I really liked the conclusion and the ending and I would read ​this again. I recommend it for girls in middle school.

Leilani Jean

Grade 8, Westbury Middle School

Jujutsu Kaisen Volume 2

by Gege Akutami

This manga follows a group of teen characters on their ​way to do their duty as Jujutsu Sorcerers and expel any ​curses they find. With their main threat being able to ​regain control at any moment, they try their best to ​gather all the fingers required to keep the King of ​Curses contained before anybody can release him.

This volume follows mostly the three students being ​Yuji Itadori, Megumi Fushigoro and Nobara Kugisaki as ​they are sent to a detention center to grab one of the ​fingers.

This chapter contains both instances of knowledge for ​the reader to learn more about the world and the ​functions of that Jujutsu Society, and a constant ​amount of action to never have the reader take their ​eyes off this novel. Much is learned from the teacher ​character Gojo Satoru who is also the strongest ​sorcerer known to the audience at the moment. ​Tensions rise as the King of curses Sukuna who is ​inside of Itadori’s body, takes control and there is a ​highly dangerous threat in the detention center which ​the trio are not ready to face.

This manga takes what works in many other mangas ​of this type and uses it to tell a new story where curses ​are an evil that threaten to eliminate humanity if ​sorcerers don’t step in to stop the issue. There are ​always stakes and moments of urgency presented in ​clear and precise storytelling.

Thus, for any person interested in action, drama and ​intriguing storytelling, I’d suggest Jujutsu Kaisen. I’d ​give this volume a solid 8.5/10.

Jonathan Garcia Santos

Grade 12, Westbury High School

A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine ​Hansberry

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba ​by Koyoharu Gotouge

The manga which has also gotten an anime adaptation ​follows a brother who tries to find a way to heal his ​sister, who was turned into a demon by the main ​antagonist, Muzan. The Brother: Tanjiro goes through ​training to prove himself in any way and fights demons ​in a way to beat the main antagonist, the Demon King, ​to end his reign and his ability to ruin the lives of ​people while also finding a way to heal his sister to ​turn back into a human. It goes through a heartfelt ​story with the lovable protagonist and the friends he ​makes who have their trauma and reasons to help and ​defeat the Demon King.

The manga and anime adaptation is such a beautiful ​story that goes through the highest of highs and ​lowest of lows, and one can't help but be supportive ​and root for the characters on their mission. The story ​is beautiful, and while it may not be for everyone, I ​wish to urge everyone to give the manga a shot or at ​least watch the anime adaptation. It shows the story in ​a beautiful style.

10/10

Cristian Mejia Sanchez

Grade 12, Westbury High School

The Pearl by John Steinbeck

The Help

"The Help" is set in Jackson, Mississippi during the ​1960s and follows three women; Aibileen, a black maid ​who cares for a white child instead of her own; Minny, ​another maid who is known for her delicious cooking ​and Skeeter, a young white woman who inspires to be ​a writer. Skeeter becomes upset with the racist ​attitudes of her close friends, family and community. ​Especially when a close friend proposes a law ​requiring separate bathrooms for African Americans.

To dispute these unjust beliefs, Skeeter decides to ​create a book that tells the stories of maid's ​experiences working for racist white families.

In my opinion, the appropriate age for someone to ​watch this film would be anyone 13 years or older. I ​believe that this film would teach kids the importance ​of loving and treating everyone equally, despite the ​color of their skin. I liked the fact that Skeeter and ​Alibileen and Minny were able to form a bond and ​confront the challenges of racism and inequality in ​their town. My least favorite part of this film was the ​fact that Skeeter's maid who raised her was kicked out ​for being too old and eventually died in Chicago.

I would recommend this movie because it gives insight ​into the harsh reality of racism that still exists today.

I believe that Hoopla has some interesting movies and ​shows. I would say that Hoopla does not have a good ​variety of content, they are partnered with AMC but ​the movies and shows are restricted. Tbh, I would not ​recommend this service to a friend because they ​would not be interested in the movies that Hoopla has ​to offer.

Joel Hernandez

Grade 11, Westbury High School

The Crucible by Arthur Miller

The Crucible is a book/play written by Arthur Miller ​about the Salem Witch trials. The Salem witch trials ​was an event that occurred in the 1600s in Salem, ​Massachusetts where people were being accused of ​being witches. Witches before were considered a ​bigger deal than what society today interprets them ​as, in the 1600s there were many religious people in ​the colonies (as they fled from religious persecutions ​where they were originally from). Witches or anyone ​who practiced witchcraft was connected to the devil ​and society wanted nothing to do with them, hence ​the persecution of these people.

The crucible is a dramatic and interesting play/story to ​read. The story had so many plots and each person's ​issue was connected to the overall issue of witchcraft. ​There were all sorts of problems involved: witchcraft, ​affairs, lies, prison, and death. Despite the drama of ​the play, it gives true events as these witch trials were ​nothing to play about, if anyone was accused of having ​anything to do with the devil or witches, they would’ve ​been hanged or put into jail waiting for their death.

If you like drama and history, the crucible is definitely ​a recommended book. It teaches you about the ​famous witch trials but includes dramatic pieces. 9/10.

Daniela Abrego

Grade 12, Westbury High School

Wait, What? by James E. Ryan

This book isn't like any other book you would pick up. ​This is not something you pick up for a casual read ​about a story you can fall in love with. This book delves ​into what the author deems the most important ​questions you should be asking others and yourself ​daily about anything. It talks about how these simple ​questions can change your viewpoint on life and better ​your own life while being able to recognize ​opportunities and jump at them.

This book, while not like your average read, is ​something I urge someone to pick up because it ​genuinely applies to how to better your life and the ​lives of the people around you. While the book does ​not apply to standard book ratings, I still recommend it ​to anyone willing to give it a chance.

8/10

Cristian Mejia Sanchez

Grade 12, Westbury High School

How to Read Literature Like a ​Professor by Thomas C. Foster

Night by Elie Wiesel

Night by Elie Wiesel tells about a disturbing time that ​was the Second World War, more specifically the time ​of the Holocaust which was a devastating genocide ​pulled on many Jewish people. Night goes into the ​experience of being a person stuck in the Auschwitz ​concentration camp and doing their absolute best to ​survive and get out of that hellish nightmare. It is told ​from the perspective of a teen boy, one who is new to ​the horrors faced by the Nazis at the time and only ​knowing that the life he is currently in is a harsh ​departure from the one he had in the past.

Night does an excellent job at portraying events that ​very well could have happened during the time that ​was the 1940’s where absolute tragedies were placed ​onto innocent people all due to them being a target at ​the hands of the Nazi party. It shows themes of dread ​and loss of humanity as the people treated in those ​camps are no longer treated as humans but as ​innocent prisoners of war. What is a great strength of ​this book is how it’s able to portray a retelling of true ​historical events in the eyes of a young boy, to show ​the confusion and fear one must have had during this ​time, always hoping for a way out.

Night is a great piece of literature which keeps an ​interesting story going while being based in reality. It is ​definitely a recommendation for those wanting to read ​a story that was based on the events of the Holocaust ​and to know how those people must have felt.

8.5/10

Johnathan Garcia Santos

Grade 12, Westbury High School

Stolen by Richard Bell

Stolen by Richard Bell gives readers an idea of how ​slavery and its horrors were in the United States, ​around 1820. The story takes place in Philadelphia, ​speaking on the kidnapping of African Americans that ​were forcefully sold into slavery. The narrator explains ​the tactics used, being illusioned by work ​opportunities, slave owners or their partners would ​raise false hopes and would talk to African Americans ​as if they were giving them work, luring them into ​“opportunity” that would in reality be a horror that ​would last them the rest of their lives.

Stolen gives an endless amount of imagery and ​characterization examples that really allows readers to ​understand how severe slavery was and how slaves ​suffered. Slavery wasn’t about the work, it was about ​humiliating, and ruining lives of African Americans due ​to white supremacy. Slaves were tortured in the fields, ​separated from their families, degraded and were ​placed in a position that would be nearly impossible to ​escape…being forced to die as someone else’s ​property. In stolen, five boys who went through the ​kidnapping for slavery give details on how the reverse ​underground railroad operated during this time. The ​underground railroad was a set of secret routes that ​gave slaves a chance to escape if they planned ​carefully, the reverse underground railroad was the ​opposite of this, where slaves were sold.

Stolen is a good book to those who want to dig ​deeper into understanding the slave horrors in ​America. It demonstrates multiple points of view ​throughout the story that gives readers an idea of how ​American society really viewed everything during this ​time. 8/10.

Daniela Abrego

Grade 12, Westbury High School

A Raisin in the Sun is a drama play, so it starts off very ​quick. The book gets to the comedy-drama quickly and ​the story of multiple characters delving into their ​personal lives of multiple characters of the family and ​how they all crash together to argue and come ​together from the life insurance money of their father. ​The characters can quickly change themselves from ​lovable characters to people you would despise in an ​instant.

It’s a very quick-based and is full of quick drama turns ​that keep you hooked and keep reading the book. ​Even as someone who doesn't read books often, I had ​a hard time putting it down at times because the ​cliffhangers the chapters leave you with are very ​surprising, to say the least. I would recommend this ​book to anyone looking for a short book that is full of ​drama and hints of comedy throughout.

9/10 book.

Cristian Mejia Sanchez

Grade 12, Westbury High School

Things Fall Apart by Chinua ​Achebe

This book takes place in the African Tribes around the ​time when Europe was taking control of many African ​nations. The story revolves around Onkonkkwo and ​his viewpoints on life coming from his childhood ​stories. Due to his childhood, it shaped him into a very ​strong man with strong values. Those struggles and ​values led him to become a powerful and rich man in ​his tribe to have a large family to support. He attempts ​to keep the tribe's morals strong through the invasions ​of the Europeans, but through his efforts, he goes ​behind the village trusts and gets exiled while the ​village loses its true value to save the lives of the tribe.

The book goes through many stories in one and goes ​through the challenges he has to face, challenging the ​modern ideas we have now to tribes back in the day ​and showing the differences in our societies. The book ​is full of trials and tribulations for all the characters in ​the story and makes the reader think about how ​issues are today for these tribes how different they are ​and who’s actions are truly correct in the story. While it ​sounds like a complicated read, I would recommend it ​to anyone curious about reading about African tribes ​while still having a good book full of emotion.

9/10

Cristian Mejia Sanchez

Grade 12, Westbury High School

Animal Farm by George Orwell

The book Animal Farm goes over life for farm animals ​who have grown tired of their oppressive human ​owners and wanting to take matters in their own ​hands with the solution of a revolution. It puts into ​perspective the cruelties that occur for animals and ​how easily power can be mistreated if individuals ​aren’t checked and balanced.

The novel is filled with symbolism from how animals ​can be replaced with certain individuals who seem to ​want only power and those victim to such hardships. ​The greatest symbolism that is shown can be that of ​the characters of the pigs as they become so corrupt, it ​relates to dictators present in our world as this book ​shows themes of communism. Everything is shown, ​from corruption or power, revolutions, propaganda for ​leaders and class systems where animals are put into ​different hardships depending on their utility and kind.

This book shines in being a metaphor to the real ​world, where real conflicts and ideas are shown ​through the eyes of animals. The themes and ideas of ​the book truly grow in how special they are with time ​and truly are advanced for how this book is perceived.

7/10

Johnathan Garcia Santos

Grade 12, Westbury High School

Batman Year One by Frank ​Miller

Batman Year One revolves around the telling of the ​start of the hero Batman as he fights to try and be the ​crime fighter the city of Gotham needs. This comic also ​talks about the detective Jim Gordon, and how his life ​is turning out as he recently moved to the crime filled ​city of Gotham. This story attempts to give an opening ​to audiences who may not be aware of how the ​Batman came to be while still being interesting to ​those aware of his origins as it tells this story in a way ​that keeps the events full of intense and action packed ​moments.

The comic is prone to show the conflicts that would ​arise for a skillful man trying to be a savior while ​having no real experience of being a hero. It always ​shows the events in a chronological order which finally ​leads to the climax of Batman’s presence made known ​to Gordon up close. There are always moments of ​dread lurking in the background due to the presence ​the city exhibits while having high moments of ​triumph when certain moments occur.

Overall I enjoyed my time with this book and would ​like to revisit this story and world when possible. It’s a ​great opening to people wanting to enter the ​storytellings of comics who haven’t yet, as it's perfect ​to engage those people in while being just as ​memorable for those already in love with comics.

8/10

Johnathan Garcia Santos

Grade 12, Westbury High School

The Autobiography of ​Malcolm X by Alex Haley

This book was written by Alex Haley and Malcolm X, ​although it is called an autobiography… it was written ​by Alex Haley as told by Malcolm. This book speaks ​about Malcolm’s childhood, family, teenage years, and ​adult transformation. Malcolm X is a famous human ​rights activist who went through many things in his ​journey of advocating. This autobiography gives ​readers a background to why Malcolm taught the way ​he did, the people he met along the way and the ​spiritual encounter he found himself going through ​that changed his ways.

Malcolm had a large family, and had traumatic ​experiences starting at a young age as he saw his ​father die, who had been killed by the Black legion. The ​black legion were a white supremacist terrorist group, ​they brought racism and violence. Malcolm’s family ​quickly fell apart early on, and he was forced to grow ​up quickly. Malcolm got jobs that were meant for ​adults as a 15 year old boy, his mature appearance ​made him feel he suited the jobs. As time passed by,

he got into dangerous work such as robbery, he fell ​into a careless mindset that made him feel he could do ​anything and didn’t care about the consequences. This ​led to his arrest, and his 10 years in prison where he ​learned about the nation of islam. This shifted his ​mindset into following a more spiritual purpose, ​however he later realized although he wanted to ​continue being muslim, he did not want to continue ​following the teachings of the nation of islam because ​he saw the flaws in their belief system. Throughout his ​experiences, he learned and changed into the ​advocate he was later known as.

The autobiography of Malcolm X is a good book to ​read because it shows how racism and discrimination ​were dealt with and how much work was put into the ​end of it. If people are interested in history, this is ​definitely a recommended book. 9/10.

Daniela Abrego

Grade 12, Westbury High School

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