Review: Future Chefs

This cook book, featuring teen chefs (mostly bloggers aged 10-15), took me by surprised. With shows like Master Chef Kids on the television, it shouldn't be a shock that young people can cook. But I was still surprised by the healthy variety that these chefs offered. Even the desserts were gluten free. 

I considered the short biographies a plus, as it was interesting to note their different background and how they started down this path. But my novice self would have loved more how-to illustrations.

Graphic Monday: Fairest vol.2

Rapunzel fights dirt. In a boxing ring, my money is on her. Once again, the series changed the Disney image I had of a princess. This time Rapunzel isn't only a survivor, but an entrepreneur who sells hair extensions for a living. But behind that peaceful exterior, Rapunzel suffers. Her newborn babies were stolen from her and she cannot miss an opportunity to find them, even if it means risky her life. The action was fast-paced, introducing a change of scenery as we traveled with her to Japan. What I found less attractive, was the seductive covers on both sides. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with erotica, but it makes it very hard to read on a subway near children or seniors. Sadly, my hair isn't as long as Rapunzel to hide the covers and read in peace.

Graphic Monday: Revival

Should we overlook the abundant cuss words?

Dana is a well-regulated cop (never reaches for her gun) and a part-time mom due to her workaholic tendencies. But we shouldn't judge her. After all she works in a world inhabited by revivers (disfigured revenants). These creatures aren't contagious and, unlike zombies, they don't bite. When a biologist, Ibrahaim, arrives in town to study them, the revenants start to rebel, killing their loved ones without realizing it. What exactly are they? 

First off, I'm no saint. During frustrated situations I can cuss like a road-raged driver. But this is a comic, and when everyone cusses all the time, it's difficult to discern the characters personalities. Frankly, it gave the impression that Seeley was doing it to make the writing more aggressive as a whole, which he didn't need to since the action was constantly on fast-paced mode. There are lots of characters with their own interesting backgrounds, four love affairs, media/religious crazed characters -- all in all a good gory show

Review: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

It's the long awaited return of Harry Potter, yet to my dismay (admit it, you were nervous too) Rowling isn't the only writer on board. Albus Severus, Harry and Ginny's son, has grown and must now face the shadow of his father's name. The fact that he is placed in Slytherin or that his best friend is a Malfoy only adds to the list of things that differs him from Harry. How can he possibly win his father's love and make him proud? The Potter series always carried a touch of sentimentality. Whether it was Lily's sacrifice for Harry, Snape's unrequited love, and who can forget Dobby!! Of course, this play had to be emotional as well as filled with action and plot twists. Not only did Rowling bring us back to Hogwarts, but she (and the other authors) found a way to include the majority of our beloved characters. Soulfood for the fans, but I just don't see this as a movie.

Review: This Shattered Wolrd

What a mess of feels

This second book in the series introduces us to Lee and Flynn; a captain (girl power) and a soldier from different sides of the conflict who uncover a hidden conspiracy. Crew members are changing personalities, people are dying, and the only way these two can solve the puzzle is by uniting. 

Although Lilac and Tarver returned for a quick cameo, I felt cheated in terms of the action in the story. The outer space background was rarely felt, until the 3/4 when the characters go to see the stars. And the over the top flashbacks were difficult to follow. 

''She casts her gaze down, burning with embarrassment, and finds the photo in her hands is bleeding.'' 

I couldn't tell if the authors wanted to gain sympathy for Lee or simply tried to keep the action pace going (the reason why can be found in the 4/4 of the story). But the most difficult part was seeing Flynn turn his instalust feelings for Lee into I would die for you love. 

All in all, these new characters were difficult to get attached to. I kept wondering if one of them dies in this prewar, would I be really care?