Ever since I was younger I never really liked hallmark movies, I did, and I still do find them very cringey and funny to watch. Funny enough in 2018; when I was eight, my mom decided to sign me up for a hallmark movie background person in the movie “If I only had Christmas”. I had little to no idea about this. After a week or so, it turned out “I got the job”. A few days later we went to the Empress Hotel, because that’s where it was being filmed, also where my grandma was working at the time. When we got there, all around the building was campers where the main actors sleep, and in big letters on one of them said, Candace Cameron Bure. She is a pretty famous actor best known for Full House. I was so exited to know I got to meet a famous person! There was only one day of filming, and it was really easy. I remember me and the other background kids, one of them being my school friends, ran up on to a stage and had to mouth watermelon so it looked like we were singing. All this happening while Candace Cameron was standing in front of us. After that we were told to jump down from the stage and meet Candace Cameron. When we got down I was face to face with her and she complimented my hair, making me feel very special. When the filming was done, we went home, and I rushed to start watching Full House. A week later I got my paycheck and it was about $270, which was a lot for what I did. Every winter I still find that movie on Hallmark and watch it while laughing and cringing, remembering how fun it was to be in a hallmark movie.
Author: Laila
IRJE # 7 Allegiant
I am half way through the book Allegiant, by Veronica Roth, and so far it has been very interesting. Allegiant picks up right after the events of Insurgent, with Tris, Tobias, and their friends escaping their so called home; “the city” to explore what is beyond the fence.
The book walks through the dystopian world of Chicago, uncovering shocking secrets about the beginning of the factions and the purpose of the experiments made by the genetically enhanced individuals. They learn that the genetic difference between “Divergents” and “non-Divergents” is way deeper than they thought, and their efforts to fight for a better future take them to dangerous places.
“She taught me all about real sacrifice. That it should be done from love… That it should be done from necessity, not without exhausting all other options. That it should be done for people who need your strength because they don’t have enough of their own.” (p. 166)
This quotation highlights Tris’s changing understanding of sacrifice towards her loved ones, showing that it should come from love and certainty, not responsibility. Tris learns that true sacrifice is a selfless act done for those who can’t help themselves, and it should only be made after all other options are impossible.
PW# 7 End of World
I’ve always been really liked end-of-the-world movies. There’s something about them that grabs my attention and doesn’t let go. I remember when my parents first introduced “2012” to me, I’m pretty sure I was ten and I just loved it! Maybe it’s the intensity of the situation, or how the movies always seem to show humanity’s resilience. Either way, I couldn’t seem to get enough of them.
One reason I love these films is because they make me think about what really matters. In most of these movies, characters are forced to face life-or-death situations, and it makes me wonder: what would I do if the world was ending? Currently I would say my top favorites are “A quite play 1,2”, “Greenland”, “I am Legend”, “The Fifth Wave” , and still “2012”.
End of the world movies also give me a burst of excitement. The action, the suspense, the feeling of what’s going to happen next? For me those kinds of movies are the kind where when I sit down I cant rest, I always need to be alert. There’s always a twist or unexpected turn, and I love trying to guess what will happen next.
I think I also enjoy the emotional parts in these films. Yeah, there’s tons of chaos and things going on, but a lot of these movies focus on relationships and how people deal with fear, and unexpected situations. I like seeing how the characters work together, and, in some cases, even find hope in the darkest moments.
After doing so research, I found out that “I am Legend 2” is coming out soon! Its just a to bad that it took them 18 years to make it. There is also a movie coming out made about coronavirus, which I found very interesting, and I am interested in what it is about. Overall I really like end-of-world movies, and would love recommendations.
Personal response to “A Christmas Carol”
I enjoyed reading A Christmas Carol, Its a great holiday classic that I find myself reading every year. Considering this, I am very comfortable with the book and I could probably tell the story off by memory. I do really like the idea of the story; I like how Dickens had the idea to send ghosts to visit Scrooge from the past, present, and future, to warm him of what is coming if he doesn’t change. There is also a movie based on the book and I watch it every year, I find it very interesting to see all of the tiny differences between the book and the movie. Off from the beginning of the book it is a little bland and slow moving, but towards 1/4 into the book I feel like I am in the pages. Personally my favorite ghost is the “Ghost of Christmas Past” because when I think of it, I think of a tiny little many wearing yellow pajamas and glowing with light. If I was Scrooge I wouldn’t be to scared. This ghost was also my favorite ghost in addition to when it took Scrooge to see himself young, all in which he was happy and not worried about money.
My favorite part of the book is the last stave when Scrooge wakes up and just changes, being kind to everyone and buying the little boy the biggest turkey, then giving Bob Cratchit a raise as well as a day off. Later on going to see his only family left and enjoys Christmas together as it should be spent.
Every time I read this book I feel very much in the Christmas spirit as well as joy and kindness. This book has a very meaningful lesson; teaching the reader that there is good in everyone, and everyone can change no matter the circumstances. It makes me think how lucky I am and how family is much more valuable then money.
Furthermore I liked the book and I would read it again, I liked the concept of it and the plots it had. I would rate this book a 8.5/10 and 100% recommend.
IRJE # 6 -Out of my mind-
Out of My Mind, written by Sharon M. Draper, is a meaningful and powerful story that follows the life and struggles of a twelve-year-old girl, Melody Brooks. Melody has photographic memory, making it feel like her head is “recording” The novel offers a deep dive into the world of a non-verbal child, providing a well understanding and exploration of her internal thoughts, frustrations, and even dreams. The book emphasizes the importance of making awareness to inclusion, and the capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Through Melody’s journey, Draper portrays how society often underestimates the potential of people with any physical disability.
Words have always swirled around me like snowflakes-each one delicate and different, each one melting untouched in my hands.
Deep within me, my words pile up in huge drifts. Mountains of phrases and sentence is a connected idea. Clever expressions. Jokes. Love songs.
From the time I was little-maybe just a few months old-words were like sweet, liquid gifts, and I drank them like lemonade. I could almost taste them. They made my jumbled thoughts and feelings have substance. My parents have always blanketed me with conversation they chattered and babbled. They verbalize and vocalize. My father saying to me. My mother whispered her strength into my ear.
Every word my parents spoke to me or about me I absorbed and kept and remembered. All of them.
I have no idea how entangled the complicated process of words and thought, but it happened quickly and naturally. By the time I was two, all my memories and all my words had meanings.
But only in my head. I’ve never spoken one single word.
I am almost twelve years old. ( p.284)
This quotation speaks to the inside of Melody’s mind, her wanting for communication, and the isolation she must experiences because of the disconnect between her thoughts and her inability to speak. It really highlights both the beauty and the anger of being unable to share your thoughts with the world.
Personal response to “Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”
After reading Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, I found the exploration of human/ghost nature both interesting and unsettling. The story made me think about how everyone has different sides to their personality. Dr. Jekyll’s transformation into Mr. Hyde represents our “normal” selves and the darker, more impulsive aspects we try to hide. What I found the most interesting was how Dr. Jekyll, despite being a favored doctor, is still tempted to switch into his darker desires through Mr. Hyde.
I like the way the book presents Mr. Hyde as mean and violent person, this also made me think about the consequences of ignoring our bad sides. This idea of the danger of control and the consequences of living in denial was something that really stood out to me, while reading.
I also liked the other characters in the story, like Mr. Utterson and Poole, I found they helped make the book way more interesting. I didn’t really like all the extra things that were hiding in the pages, I wished the book could have just jumped to the murders, because in my opinion the murders and the plot twist of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, being the same person was one of the best parts of the book. When I figured out that they were the same person It really made me want to keep reading
Overall, I did enjoy the book; It wasn’t to long or to short for me. It was also a bit confusing, considering that it was written in the 1800s. I did learn some interesting new words though I thought that it had a good creepy element and a really well put together plot ending. If I could I might read it again, and when I do I will understand it better and I won’t be as confused. I would give it a solid 8.5/10.
PW #6 Time to Bake!
Baking has always intrigued me, and now it is one of my favorite hobbies. Its so fun turning simple ingredients; like flour, sugar, and eggs into scrumptious treats. The prosses can be a little stressful but seeing the final result gives me a good felling of accomplishment. Baking has a mix of creativity and accuracy, you need to follow the recipes and measure ingredients properly, but there is also room to experiment with flavors and decorations.
Baking is a way for me to express myself, and I enjoy trying new recipes or perfecting old ones. The best part is sharing my baked goods with family and seeing their reactions. It’s rewarding to know something I made can taste good, considering I’m not a perfectional baker.
As of this year, I’ve learned to bake so many treats. I can make: chocolate chip cookies, brownies, muffins, cupcakes, cake, bread, loafs, and I would love to try making a pie next!
Each time I bake, I become so much more confident inn my skills, and I’m exited to continue learning and experimenting in the kitchen. Baking has become a fun way to explore new recipes, be creative, and grow as a baker.
IRJE # 5 Insurgent
I have been reading the book INSURGENT by Veronica Roth. Insurgent picks up right after the events of Divergent, with Tris prior and Tobias Eaton on the run after the attack on the Abnegation faction, by the Erudite faction. The story follows their journey through a fractured society where trust is very hard to find and alliances are fragile. Tris is struggling with the aftermath of her parents deaths, the betrayal of her own faction, and the weight of the choices she has made. As she navigates the political tension between factions, she uncovers dangerous secrets, confronts her own fears, and accepts her identity as a Divergent.
“There are so many ways to be brave in this strange world. sometimes bravery involves laying down your life for something bigger than yourself, or for someone else. sometimes it involves giving everything up have ever known, or everyone you have ever loved, for the sake of something greater. But sometimes it doesn’t. Sometimes it is nothing more than gritting your teeth through pain, and the work of every day, the slow walk toward a better life. (p.128)”
This quotation said by Tris, is talking about how the world is a weird, confusing, and scary. She mentions how in life you need to be brave no matter what circumstances; If its for a friend, family member, or someone you have loved. You need to slowly keep pushing forward and going on with life, through any challenges for a better way of living.
Laila- PW # 5 Christmas time is coming!!!
Christmas / December are probably one of my favorite times of the year, here are the pros and cons. Cons; you get to send time with your family, get a Christmas tree, then decorate it, Christmas baking , even though it can be stressful. I love when it snows and I get to go sledding with my parents. My dog also loves the snow. We live in Metchosen and it usually snows around 3-4 feet!!! I cant wait for it to snow! I really enjoy listening to Christmas music, this year I started listening in November. On Christmas Eve me and my family have a tradition where we all get matching pajamas and we each get to pick one present under the tree and watch a few Christmas movies and drink hot chocolate. I’m so exited to wake up on the 25th and open presents with my family! A couple days after Christmas we go to my grandmas house and have a Christmas party with food, drinks, stories, laughter, and most important of al my family.
IRJE# 4 Divergent – Laila
Divergent by Veronica Roth is a book set in a dystopian future where society is divided into five factions, each representing a different virtue; Abnegation (selflessness), Amity (peace), Candor (honesty), Dauntless (bravery), and Erudite (intelligence). The story follows Beatrice “Tris” Prior, is a sixteen year old girl who discovers that she is “Divergent,” meaning she does not fit into any specific one faction. Being Divergent is considered a treat to the societal order. Tris chooses Dauntless, the faction dedicated to bravery, and begins a very difficult initiation process. As Tris navigates the challenges of her new life, she uncovers dark secrets about the society and begins to question the system that controls them all.
“We believe in ordinary acts of bravery, in the courage that drives one person to stand up for another, becoming fearless isn’t the point. That’s impossible. It’s learning how to control your fear, and how to be free from it.”
This quotation is said by Four a divergent leader, who later in the story becomes close with Tris teaching her all his ways, this quote suggests that real courage isn’t about getting rid of fear, but about managing and controlling it as well as using it to empower yourself to take action towards better good.
IRJE #3- The Unteachables
The Unteachables by Gordon Korman, is a humorous and sweet novel that follows a group of middle school misfits and their unconventional teacher. The story follows the students of room 117, a class of students that have been named “unteachable” by their school. Each student is dealing with struggles or behavioral issues, from an obsessions with video games to bad attitudes or academic struggles. The class is led by Mr. Korman, a teacher who hates his life has been assigned to teach room 117 as his last job before retirement. The class calls him “Mr. Kermit” just like the frog. As the story goes on, Mr. Korman starts to connect with the students, discovering their unique talents and personalities.
“Justice and fairness aren’t, and never will be apart of the social studies curriculum; you know their building blocks of our entire society. Just because you’ve got anger management problems doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to be ticked off about. Let me tell you about spirit.” (p. 42)
This quotation said by Mr. Korman, to the class after the principal came to tell the class they cant go on the field trip, because of their behavior. Mr. Korman is acknowledging that while concepts like justice and fairness may not always be taught, they are essential principles for society to function.
PW# 4 – Why I like Friday’s
Fridays are probably one of my favorite days of the week, from it being the last day of school to the motivative feeling I get when I wake up in the morning. Its weird only on Fridays I fell super motivated to do my work. Around 99% of the time after school on Fridays I meet up with my cousin Kiyanah in the lobby, then we walk to Pilgrims Coffee. I always get a unsweetened matcha and she gets a chai latte. After that we walk to the cemetery and pass through a little short cut to the top of a hill. I enjoy talking with her, we talk about everything. We end up around the shell gas station, and keep walking up until we reach my grandmas house. When we get there my grandmas dog is aways really exited to see us. We usually try to do homework until 7:00, but almost every time get distracted by laughing or doing tik tok dances. When the rest of my family shows up for ” Family dinner” which we do every Friday! I get to see my family and eat my grandparent food!! This is why I like Friday.
Our Town personal response – Laila
Our Town Thornton Wilder, I think this book was alright, the very beginning was good then towards a quarter way through the play it was starting to get a bit boring. I did enjoy How the play was presented, it was interesting how the actors used no props. The acting on the other hand was…. fine, sometimes I felt they used the wrong emotion; at the end Emily was way to happy when she just had died along with her little brother, Mrs. Gibbs, and lots of other people she knew, and watched her family stare at her with grief. The costumes were very well put together during the time period. Speaking of time period I like being able to read and understand what the people were saying, personally “I” is better than “thy”. I also found the conflict between Emily and George captivating. My favorite part of the book was the wedding, I found it funny and realistic on how nervous everyone was. Getting to the end when half the people died was sad, rushed, and a little confusing (In my opinion) In conclusion I found this play pretty good, I liked the concept and how it was layered out. I would give this book an 7-7.5 out of 10. I would could I would probably read it again.
IRJE #2 – Star Girl Laila
Star Girl, Is a novel by Jerry Spinelli. The book is structured at the boring life of Leo Brolock a high school student in Mica Arizona, who falls in love with a very interesting new student named Stargirl Caraway. At first Stargirl was a sensation of excitement, but she then faces challenges as her unconventional behavior, kindness, and clash with the desire for acceptance and popularity. The novel Explores the different of themes of identity, true love, and the authentically of connecting with others.
“She was elusive She was today. She was tomorrow. She was the faintest scent of a cactus flower, the flitting shadow of an elf owl. We did not know what to make of her. In our minds we tried to pin her to a corkboard like a butterfly, nut the pin merely went through and away she flew.” (p.130)
This quotation is given by the narrator giving the sweet and light description of Stargirl herself. How she cares for others, and doesn’t care what the world thinks of her. Star girl is a monumental example of a good person.
PW #3 Why I am exited for the Pro-D day!
As a grade 9 student, the excitement for the Pro-D days is palpable. Its not just another day off from school; its an opportunity to recharge, reflect, and do whatever I want!
Primarily, Pro-D Day means a break from the usual routine of classes. No tests, no teachers, and no uniforms. First off, the freedom of not having to follow the schedule is incredibly liberating. No rushing between classes, no homework to stress over, and no tests waiting for me. Instead, I get to focus on things I am genuinely interested in. This Pro-D Day, I am having a party with some of my close friends, its going to be fun!!!!!
Pro-D Day allows for some much-needed time to reflect. With the first few months of school year behind me, it is a perfect time to think about my goals and what I want to achieve moving forward. I plan to set aside some time to consider how I can improve in my studies and what steps I can take to make the rest of the year even better.
In conclusion, I am overly excited for Pro-D Day on Friday because it offers a break from routine and a chance to dive into my interests, connect with friends, and explore new opportunities!
PW # 2 -Why I love October
October is probably one of the best seasons ever! (In my opinion) the weather gets so nice and cool, which means it’s finally time to wear sweaters and have pumpkin spice everything. The leaves change to all those pretty colours, and it just feels so cozy outside. Plus, there’s Halloween! Which is super fun with all the spooky decorations and dressing up in costumes. I also love October because it’s my birthday! I was supposed to be born on November 15th, but I decided I wanted to be born on October 31st which is also coincidentally my mom’s favorite day of the year. I get to celebrate with my friends and family, have a party, and dress up. I never really go tricker treating. Yes, I could but I would rather spend time with my family. Unpopular opinion I don’t really like candy, so it works out for me. October is the perfect mix of fall vibes and birthday excitement!
IRJE #1 -The Light Pirate
“The Light Pirate” written by Lily Brookes-Dalton is a captivating novel set in a near future world grappling with climate change. The story follows the life of a young girl named Wanda, who grows up in a Florida that is increasingly threatened by rising sea levels and severe weather. As she navigates her childhood and adolescence. The novel explores themes of resilience, family, and the bond between humans and nature. It delves into the emotional landscapes of its character, highlighting their hope and fears in a world where survival becomes uncertain.
“The passage of years could be assigned a number, but in this place, time has a different measure. its progression is marked by the smoothness of water where ruins once broke the surface. The thickening of a young grove’s canopy. The collapse of an old utility pole. It is marked by the end of one species or the beginning of another. Here, time sprawls and curls. The land returns to the way it was; it becomes something brand new.” (p. 315).
This quote captures the theme of resilience and renewal, emphasizing how, even amid loss, there is always the potential for new beginnings and the continuous transformations of the world around us.
PW# 1 Hollow Creek
On a chilly Halloween night in the small town of Hollow Creek, a group of friends, Sam, Mia, Jake, and Lila, had decided to explore the abandoned Thompson house. Old stories say in the 60’s a man and his wife “The Thompson’s” lived there, and one night Mrs. Thompson just died. Some people say that Mr. Thompson killed her and others believe she killed her self. The moon hung high as they approached the crumbling structure, its windows dark like hollow eyes.
“Are you sure about this?” Mia asked, her voice quivering slightly. The others laughed, trying to lighten the mood. “It’s just an old house, Jake said, pushing open the creaky front door.
Inside, the air was stale, thick with dust. Cobwebs draped across the corners like ghostly veils. Lila led the way, holding her dad’s big flashlight, illuminating faded portraits of the Thompson family that hung on the wall. Their expressions seemed to follow the teens as the moved, sending shivers down their spines.
“Lets check the basement”, Sam suggested, trying to sound brave. Reluctantly, the group decided to take the rickety stairs. The air grew colder, and and the beam from Lila’s flashlight couldn’t stop flickering as they walked down the stairs.
As they reached the bottom, a sudden chill pushed through them. The walls were lined with shelves of old jars, filled with unidentifiable contents. “This is gross,” Mia whispered, feeling a creeping dread inside. Just then, the door above them slammed shut, plugging them into darkness.
“Guys? Was that you?” Jake’s voice trembled. Panic set in as Lila’s flashlight died, leaving them in pitch black. “Stay calm,” Sam whispered, though his heart raced. They huddled together, listening to the sounds of the house. It’s creaks, whispers, and a fait chilling giggle echoed through the darkness.
Suddenly a cold breeze swept past them, and they heard footsteps approaching. “We need to get out of here!” Mia screamed. They scrambled toward the stair, the door creaking open as if inviting them back.
Bursting outside, they couldn’t stop running unit they reached the safety of the street light. Breathless, they looked back at the Thompson House. A shadowy figure stood in the window, watching them. Halloween night in Hollow Creek had turned from a thrill to a nightmare, forever etched in their memories.
My personal opinion on “Master and Man”
I found the overall book was a little more on the boring side, only till the end it got interesting. In fact, the end was the only part about the book I enjoyed. Though the book had a sad ending, it was good. I did not enjoy how most of the book was set in one place, I wish more would have happened. I found some parts of the book quite confusing; from what what happening to where the setting was. I did enjoy learning about the characters, from what there job is to what life a home looks like. I was taught few lessons on life in general, I even found my self grateful for what I have in life. I think if the book was written in a more common era I would have enjoyed it more. If I could read the book again I probably wouldn’t.
Self Introduction
Hi everyone, my name is Laila, and I am fourteen years old. I am from Victoria, but my dad is from Iran so, I am also half Persian. I used to go to a school called Artscalibre Academy. My mom was the art teacher there. It was great, but Brookes is better. Some of my interests include; music, art, food, being active, , nature, and reading books. In the future I hope to study Biology, animal sciences, or a related field, and maybe become a veterinary doctor.