All posts by Dairell Alvarico

Feature & General, Podcasts, Sheyenne Perspectives

Chance for Change: Culture Shock

May 21, 2024 Dairell Alvarico Leave a comment

CHANCE FOR CHANGE
By Dairell Alvarico and Wei YiChang
Hosted by Dairell Alvarico

Official Transcript:

[THEME SONG – KOLBY THOMPSON.]

Dairell Alvarico: Good to see you all, and welcome to another episode of Sheyenne Perspectives. For this episode, I will be sharing the fun talks I had with Wei YiChang, a fellow journalist for The Mustang Post. As immigrants, we find a lot of similarities of what we experienced and what we aren’t used to when we first moved here.

Wei YiChang: Immigration is a difficult choice because the future is unknown, and we need to face a different culture, use different languages to have a conversation, everything is hard for me. There are a lot of differences between China and United States . I would like to talk about the differences between them.

Dairell Alvarico: Welcome to Sheyenne Perspectives from Mustang Post News, I’m Dairell Alvarico.

Dairell Alvarico: So how is like going to school in China?

Wei YiChang: The high school students go to school at 7a.m and go back to their home at 11 p.m. So that’s a long time, high school students stay in school sixteen each day, sixteen hours each day.

Dairell Alvarico: And what are the breaks for that?

Wei YiChang: What break?

Dairell Alvarico: So, wait, so you stay in school sixteen hours a day and you don’t have any breaks?

Wei YiChang: Actually, we have like thirty minutes to have lunch and dinner and no more.

Dairell Alvarico: Just for lunch and dinner?

Wei YiChang: Yes.

Dairell Alvarico: So, you saying you still stay in school for dinner?

Wei YiChang: Yes.

Dairell Alvarico: Your entire life is basically school, just school, just like that.

Wei YiChang: Yes, yes, we are, that’s so crazy.

Dairell Alvarico: So, if like that’s your school life. Mine more like, so we wake up on 4 to 5 A. M. in the morning, because the class starts at 7:00 A.M. and in the Philippines we don’t have hot water, if you have hot water, you are rich.

Middle class, even lower middle class, you buy a house, you buy an apartment, there is no hot water, so everything is just warm or cold, based how cold the day is, or how hot the day is.

Every school in Philippines we have to wear a uniform, even it is a public school, there are public schools in the Philippines but they still have uniforms for that.

Wei YiChang: Oh yeah, same

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah, same?

Wei YiChang: Same. Public school is kind of for everyone you can go, but you also need pay.

Dairell Alvarico: But what is the difference between private schools and public schools?

Wei YiChang: Private school is more expensive, just more expensive.

Dairell Alvarico: Is that the difference?

Wei YiChang: Yeah, I think that is the only difference, so in China we just pay for it.

Dairell Alvarico: You just pay for everything in China?

Wei YiChang: Yeah.

Dairell Alvarico: If you have to have like an estimate how much school in China?

Wei YiChang: Maybe 6000, it’s like, like- a 1000.

Dairell Alvarico: 1,000 US dollars?

Wei YiChang: Yeah.

Dairell Alvarico: But again, it’s expensive if you had to use that in China?

Wei YiChang: Mmm yeah.

Dairell Alvarico: So for my school, it was like 60k pesos.

Wei YiChang: Sixty?

Dairell Alvarico: Sixty like sixty thousand or seventy thousand each student. Each student for a whole year. But they don’t even don’t have air-con, they don’t have any air conditioning it’s only for like preschoolers and the seniors, if we wanted air conditioning, we have to go to the library, but that’s only during break.

Dairell’s high school in the Philippines

Wei YiChang: But that’s really good you guys have a library.

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah, we have a library.

Wei YiChang: We don’t, we don’t have, we don’t have a library.

Dairell Alvarico: What do you mean you don’t have a library?

Wei YiChang: Cause we don’t have library in our school.

Dairell Alvarico: But like, what if you need books?

Wei YiChang: Um yeah, but our teacher will give us book, and if you want to read some novels or something like that, you can’t have it.

Dairell Alvarico: But what if you lose a book?

Wei YiChang: Why you will lose a book? You use it all the time, all day.

Dairell Alvarico: Wait, to be fair you do stay there most of the day. Where would you-

Wei YiChang: We stay in class most all the day, why there have someone to take your book? Why you will lose it?

Dairell Alvarico: I arrived here January of 2021, right in the middle of winter.

Wei YiChang: 2021?

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah, 2021

Wei YiChang: I arrive here at January 22, in-

Dairell Alvarico: January 2022?

Wei YiChang: I think so.

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah, I come here in the middle of winter and I think that was the worst timing for that, because we only have one season in the Philippines, and that’s summer.

Here is the one thing that I hated myself for, because before we moved to America, my favorite season was winter, because I romanticized winter so bad.

Wei YiChang: You are same like me, cause the city I live, we don’t have like any snow.

Dairell Alvarico: Like no snow?

Wei YiChang: No snow. So, I really want play snow, I want build a snowman or something like that.

Dairell Alvarico: Oh my god, I did that, I want to build a snowman and snowball fight, its because like people kept saying that when they go to a country with like snow, They’re like oh my god, dude you make a snowman.

Wei YiChang: Yeah!

Dairell Alvarico: Snow angels, snowballs.

Wei YiChang: Yeah, so interesting.

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah, it’s like so interesting, like it sounded so fun.

Wei YiChang: I just feel excited, cause my dad says is very cold here, I was just excited they have snow, I can build a snowman. I was so excited. But now, do you like snow now?

Dairell Alvarico: God, no, oh my god, no.

Wei YiChang: Same.

Dairell Alvarico: We’ve lived here for so long.

Wei YiChang: Yeah, so I really don’t like the snow and winter.

Dairell Alvarico: Oh wait, for you what’s like a culture shock when you first moved here from China?

Wei YiChang: Culture shock?

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah.

Wei YiChang: I don’t really know it, because I didn’t talk to lot other peoples, so I don’t really understand the culture shock.

Dairell Alvarico: I guess, maybe even like the tiny things-

Wei YiChang: I’m really afraid I will make some mistakes, so I just don’t talk.

Dairell Alvarico: You can say one thing I’ve noticed is that, um people here are more social.

Wei YiChang: Oh yeah.

Dairell Alvarico: They’re more comfortable talking to strangers, is that same for you?

Wei YiChang: I think so.

Dairell Alvarico: Like how so?

Wei YiChang: Cause I don’t really talk, but over here their have lot of people want to talk to me.

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah that makes sense, because going past a stranger here and you’re like, “Good morning”

Wei YiChang: Oh, yeah.

Dairell Alvarico: “Hello”

Wei YiChang: “How are you?”

Dairell Alvarico: Do that in Philippines they think you’re weird, because nobody talks to anyone. You’re walking, go on your own way, mind your own business, no one says “good mooring”.

Wei YiChang: Yeah, no one will talk to you.

Dairell Alvarico: No one will talk to you, but in America –

Wei YiChang: They will,

Dairell Alvarico: They will. I like it in a way because-

Wei YiChang: I will just feel weird, cause if someone will talk to you, maybe they want something from you, but what they want? I don’t know it. In China if someone talk to me, like “good morning.” I will like oh my goodness, what happened? what things will happen next?

Dairell Alvarico: Someone does that here it’s like casual, you know? “good morning”, “Hello”.

Wei YiChang: Yeah, it’s very normal here,

Dairell Alvarico: Yes, they’re better at talking to strangers.

Dairell Alvarico: And also, fun fact… gas stations here, in the Philippines we have gas stations, but you don’t go out to pump you own gas.

Wei YiChang: What does that mean?

Dairell Alvarico: There always has somebody who will do it for you, I forgot, it’s actually a job.

Wei YiChang: Oh, I see, we are the same.

Dairell Alvarico: Same right? You tell them how many gallons you want or something-

Wei YiChang: They will help you.

Dairell Alvarico: Then you pay them, and they’ll do it for you.

Wei YiChang: Will you guys give some tips? We don’t, we are never.

Dairell Alvarico: There’s no tips?

Wei YiChang: No.

Dairell Alvarico: Wait, to be fair we don’t have tips either. We never tip. Literally never tip. But in here you tip, in the Philippines you pay, you leave.

Wei YiChang: Yeah, just pay and leave. That’s ok.

Dairell Alvarico: Pay leave, but here you got to tip, but for like the gas station, we just pay the guy to fill it up for us, and we leave, so you imagine the difficulty of going in here and we have to gas up and we look at it and we’re like what the hell of post to do. Because for the entirety of my life, I have never gotten out to gas up my own car. It was until I had to come here and we had to do it ourselves.

Wei YiChang: I’m really lucky, beacuse my dad stay here for six years.

Dairell Alvarico: Oh, at least your dad knew some stuff. For me it was our whole, our entire family came here and we didn’t know anything so…that was bad in itself.

Wei YiChang: I think I more like the Chinese food in China, but I guess I prefer to study in United States because, here there’s more freedom. I like here more and the language is still hard for me so..

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah, there’s so many barriers. If there’s any type of advice I would give to someone, it would be have patience, it’s a whole new country, you’re not familiar with anything, you were raised with different morals, different information and anything that makes you different from the people who lived in the United States their whole lives.

So, at some point it is inevitable that you’re going to see or expereince something that you have no knowledge of and that’s okay. Youre going to adjust, you’re going to adjust as you continue to live in the U.S and that’s the process.

Wei YiChang: I think they don’t need afraid of too much things because, if theyre really come here they will know here’s really free for them, they can do many things they want, so don’t be afraid too much.

Dairell Alvarico:You have so many things to discover, so many things to know, it’s the United States so you can say I’m pretty glad I moved here. Would you say the same thing?

Wei YiChang: Same, me too, yeah.

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah, because we get to expereince things we’ve never seen in our own countries, and that’s a good thing. We’re expanding our knowledge.

Wei YiChang: I think, if they come to study in United States, they will be really relaxed because you have more freedom, you don’t need to spend lot of time in school. More time to do my, do artwork because I had no time to make in China. and what a change…change!

Dairell Alvarico: I do have to say, change can be a good thing.

Wei YiChang: Yes, yes change is good thing.

Dairell Alvarico: It’s just, you know pretty bad at the start. Immigration can be just like that, all you gotta do is guide it to the right direction and you’re going to have more opportunities, you’re gonna learn new things and you’re going to-

Wei YiChang: More chance

Dairell Alvarico: Yeah, you’re gonna develop more as a person. And, that’s nice to think about.

[THEME SONG – KOLBY THOMPSON.]

Dairell Alvarico: This podcast was recorded and edited by Dairell Alvarico.

Wei YiChang: And Wei YiChang

Sheyenne Perspectives theme music was composed and performed by Kolby Thompson under the direction of Mark Berntson.

Dairell Alvarico: Thank you so much, Sunny. I enjoyed the time and effort you made into making this podcast with me.

Wei YiChang: Thank you, I really the casual talk with you.

So long, everyone. We hope to see you on the next episode of Sheyenne Perspectives.

Dairell Alvarico: This has been a production of Mustang Post News.

Feature & General, Podcasts, Sheyenne Perspectives

Persona’s Impact on Art

April 3, 2024 Dairell Alvarico Leave a comment

EPISODE SIX: Persona Impacts Art
By Dairell Alvarico
Hosted by Dairell Alvarico

Official Transcript:

[THEME SONG – KOLBY THOMPSON.]

Dairell Alvarico:

Great to see you all again everyone. Here’s to our second year with our new format: Podcasts.

I am excited to introduce the first episode for the year, one that dives into the art scene, more specifically the impact of someone’s persona when it comes to creating art, the personalization of intricate details and how life experiences and preferences shape the focus of a canvas.

Welcome to Sheyenne Perspectives from Mustang Post News, I’m Dairell Alvarico.

Dairell Alvarico: Creativity in the form of art can show how diverse society can be. A lifestyle, a talent, some personal affiliation that makes someone who they are. In all four corners of the world, creativity can be sought and shaped. From the first line of a child’s drawing to the beginning stitches of a single crochet.

It would be no surprise that in the very walls of Sheyenne, creativity runs a great deal among the students. Take, for example, our Artist Spotlight on last year’s issues, previous talents such as Field, Karianna, and Brianna were, rightfully so, displaying their amazing art on The Mustang Post.

When it comes to their implications and moral messages, it was definitely not scarce. Their works were brimming with their own personal touch, an element that makes an artwork distinct from its peers.

Throughout time, different artworks can reflect an artist’s persona and experience. In this episode, we delve deep into the personal aspects of art and its creation, and answer the question: how can a work of art mirror a student’s diversity?

In order to gain more insight on this topic, I have gathered people who are familiar with art and creativity and can give a broader perspective about it.

Reagan: My name is Reagan Koppelman, I’m a junior.

Autumn: My name is Autumn Radebaugh, I’m a senior.

Ms. Murphy: I’m Miss Murphy, I’m an art teacher here.

Dairell Alvarico: Art has different meanings for different people: it is ambiguous, it’s fluid and diverse and is sprinkled with details that derive from a person’s interests and experiences. This concept is the basis of what persona can do to influence art, and it is very much so with their unique responses to my simple question: what is art?

Reagan: For me, Art is I guess primarily like a hobby.

Dairell Alvarico: That’s Reagan Koppleman.

Reagan: Like a way to express myself and just like cool off like aside from just like basic like primarily academic focused classes art is like a way to like channel basic my views and like the things that I think in like a constructive way which can also just be fun, win awards, stuff like that.

Dairell Alvarico: Reagan focuses more on portraying what he sees of society’s affairs and how he can express his perspective of it visually. His view on art leans towards it being a medium, his works are tied to his beliefs… a frame of reference of the outlooks he has on topics that are prevalent for editorial cartoons.

Reagan: Last year, I didn’t do arts I got back into it this year with an independent study with Ms. Hopper and the first piece I did it’s what I’ve been thinking for a bit it’s called “Night of the Woke” right now, it’s over at MSU and it’s basically its a political cartoon in the style of like old like 50s pole- poor comic and it’s basically focuses on like my views and it’s kind of like a criticism of like fear mongering used by like the GOP and stuff. Like within schools to express their own agendas and to marginalize different communities and stuff.

Dairell Alvarico: Autumn has a similar attitude towards art, however her point of interest is on spreading the appreciation of beauty.

Autumn: I feel like a big thing for art for me is like, In Senior Comp. we did like uh a little thing . Where we like picked three of our biggest values and one of the ones I picked was beauty because I feel like , there a lot of like importance in appreciating the beauty of like, not only of the outside world but also like, focus on inside everyone’s minds and stuff so I feel like a big part of art for me is recognizing and spreading beauty.

Dairell Alvarico: Beauty is everywhere in art, it’s the fire that motivates society to turn their heads and admire the work artists put and yet beauty isn’t the only response art creates: revulsion, disgust, confusion, introspection, and much more.

Those responses, from enrapt beauty to rejection are difficult to portray, but how does an artist get to the point where they can make an audience respond the way they intend? Perhaps it has something to do with an artist’s growth, their development of style and skill that translates into audience manipulation as they develop their persona throughout the years.

Ms. Murphy: I think art can really be a great way to reflect society, uh where we’re at as a species along with like you know the personal venture that people have with art work.

Dairell Alvarico: As an art teacher, Ms. Murphy has observed what students can do as they slowly understand their potential and what they can pursue…when it comes to filling a blank canvas. Reagan and Autumn definitely fit the bill seeing as she spoke with her arms raised to gesture to them both.

Ms. Murphy: At this point in their lives um you know teenagers are really figuring out how to express themselves through their own personal lens um so I think that comes out through their artwork and I think especially these two how they see the world and interact with it.

Dairell Alvarico: Expression is what a teenager holds close to their heart, it’s part of the stepping stones that lead them to discover who they are and what they want. In this phase of life, they discover the deeper intention of the world’s angle: Socially, psychologically and politically.

Ms. Murphy held true to her words FOR not long after, the two students shared their inspirations that were brimming with their own personal touch, and of what connection they have with their work that’s parallel to their own lives.

For instance, Autumn previously shared that she recognizes and spreads beauty, and that made me wonder. How does she convey that in her art in regards to that?

So of course, I had to ask her.

And when I did, she leaned forward into the mic, her face deep in thought.

Autumn: I suppose, I have a work in progress right now where it’s um. It’s a sculpture of a girl and she’s like standing in water and screaming basically and I’m going to like paint the surface of the sculpture with oil paint and it’s going to depict um like a family on the ocean on one side and the other side like somebody alone on the other side and that one has a lot more meaning because it’s like, for me it’s about my relationship with like home. I’ve always felt drawn to the ocean and it always felt like home.

Dairell Alvarico: There is beauty in knowing that home is where the heart is, and yet within the heart bears the feeling of desolation where one can truly feel alone, so much that you can even almost scream.

However no matter the agony, as long as there’s a door that welcomes you, as long as there is the familiar warmth of an awaiting embrace. A family, you can’t truly be alone despite being oceans apart. You’re drawn in, the unbending connection of tranquility, comfort, and contentment. A sorrowful thoughtfulness that emancipates the hidden beauty of home.

As for Reagan, his inspiration originates directly from the environment he grew up in, and the dynamic within his family.

Reagan: I only started pol cartoons recently but I guess my dad, my grandpa, they’re both politicians. My mom was a paralegal so I had lots of connections to like government and law. Um and I guess and also being in things like debate, speech and like student congress now I recently started mock trial team uh I guess politics have always been central in my life it’s just only now I’ve really started expressing my own views on them.

Dairell Alvarico: The amount of key elements in Reagan’s life, such as the extracurricular activities he joined and the career of his parents and grandfather have helped bolster his ideal standing when it comes to expressing his art.

The political agenda, its effect in society and all the branches under the umbrella term has created leeway for Reagan’s creative undertakings to be manifested into canvas.

What he has learned from his family, his clubs and personal journey has formed his own take of what he perceives of politics. It merged with his persona, his way of thinking and what he believes in. Dabbing in politics is a huge chunk of his persona,

and to take it further up a notch, he expands his agenda with illustrating ideas to make it visional, with its own straight to the point message.

Reagan and Autumn are like two sides of the same coin. They love art, that’s evident enough, they love to create, to make their ideas a reality. It is what makes them stand out, to be their own person and Ms. Murphy couldn’t agree more.

Ms. Murphy: But definitely especially with these two being a junior and a senior you see some deeper development and personal voice in their work. Um, and even just now sitting here listening to these two talk about it. I was like, oh yeah of course.

Dairell Alvarico: But how can these two be so different from each other? What makes them unique? What can they do to further express themselves in the long run?

I turned to Ms. Murphy again, knowing that she would have the answer to that.

Ms. Murphy: Autumn’s soft sensibility I think is also present in her work and um it’s really exciting to see that happen. I know Autumn’s interested in career in art um looking into that so definitely for her, like developing a portfolio, having a strong voice, those are things that will help you get into a solid art program, and um just learning to think like an artist I think is really important for everybody.

Ms. Murphy: Reagan’s sense of humor I think is very present in his work. I don’t really know what Reagans gonna do with the rest of his life, but um again developing critical thinking skills, uh taking feedback, being able to dissect the world around you are all important skills that adults need.

Dairell Alvarico: How marvelous it is, how intricate yet passionate that in the art scene anyone can do anything with what they want to express, what they want portrayed to the rest of the world. Sharing a part of themselves that is so personal and important, that harnessing the imagination of its agenda results in multiple paths of articulate meaning.

Every time you walk past an art gallery full of works from various artists, even the displays outside by the 1202 art room in Sheyenne, you are unraveling someone’s growth and diversity that led them up to that point. With your own eyes, you are witnessing someone’s identity.

May it be a sculpture of a woman screaming in water, or a depiction of school censorship on watercolor papers or Bristol boards. The diverse results that are presented to the public is more than just work, it’s an artist’s personality, their experience, their life. Look closer into it and you can see truly how persona can impact art.

[THEME SONG – KOLBY THOMPSON.]

Dairell Alvarico: This podcast was recorded and edited by Dairell Alvarico.

Sheyenne Perspectives theme music was composed and performed by Kolby Thompson under the direction of Mark Berntson. Thank you, Reagan, Autumn and Ms. Murphy, for sharing their wonderful thoughts and experiences.

So long, everyone. We hope to see you on the next episode of Sheyenne Perspectives.

This has been a production of Mustang Post News.

Arts & Entertainment, Feature & General

Indie Songs Resonate Autumn’s Theme

October 24, 2023 Dairell Alvarico Leave a comment

By Dairell Alvarico

Fresh leaves fall ever so slowly, perched on rooftops and uneven ground; they leave a lingering scent of soil and nostalgia as they dance around the scenery with orange, red, and brown; it gives the landscape before you a sad yet ludicrous tranquility.

The breeze picks up, swaying leaves that were still clinging to the trees with all their strength; some do stay resilient, but only for a passing moment when another wave of wind shakes the trees to its submission.

Autumn is blooming at its finest, with reasons that vary depending on the person. Whether it be the anticipation of Halloween and all its creepy concepts, savoring the creamy taste of some good pumpkin spice latte, or just the overall feeling and aesthetic of a season that is beautiful from top to bottom.

Everything is the same but so different. A walk in the park, driving downtown, or sitting on the balcony. Normally, these probably wouldn’t be so out of the ordinary in the spring and summer, or even when the snow hits.

Then fall comes with its warm palettes gifted to us in a neat ribbon, there comes along the feeling of peace; the sense of centering ourselves in the middle of it all, taking it all in. A theme of self-meditation, the focus on one’s spiritual reason, and taking a trip down memory lane to simpler times.

The urge to take your phone out and listen to the traditional “autumn” music on repeat is instinct: Roslyn by Bon Iver & St. Vincent or the famous Cardigan if you’re more of a Swiftie than a lover of Twilight.

But have you ever stopped and wondered why these songs fit the vibe of this season? Why is the meaning of these songs and the feeling that comes along with it amplified so much?

We can take it from a lyrical perspective or an instrumental one, possibly both. For example, Taylor Swift’s Cardigan is more focused on first love and heartbreak in which she portrays these emotions as bittersweet.

And quite frankly, you can listen to this song on any season, but the way she expresses it turns its tune melancholic. Her lyrics become a moment of reflection, a song that resonates more than usual while gazing at autumn leaves, feeling the cold wind nip your nose as you admire the world around you covered in golden. The mood and the song, like two puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly.

In hindsight, it would be a shame to have a meaningful depth of such a general overview of indie songs without harnessing the full potential of what you can discover with a few artists who deserve a little bit of love and appreciation towards their numbers.

Understanding the messages they have been illustrating, through their words and melody. To answer the question as to why it is a perfect listen for a season that is the epitome of reminiscing life.

Obstacles by Syd Matters

A song made by a French band who got their name by clashing two names of Pink Floyd members: Syd Barrett and Roger Waters. They debuted in 2005, consisting of six people: Jonathan Morali, Jean-Yves Lozac’h, Olivier Marguerit, Remi Alexandre, and Clement Carle. When it comes to composing music, they like to add slow melodies with a little flair of electronic pop to it, creating a unique tune that is somber but at the same time, something you can jam to.

If you already knew Syd Matters, then you would agree that this song is what they’re most well-known for. Obstacles was featured in the award-winning game, Life is Strange and would be considered its signature song by the fans. The general opinion of this song is mostly, “nostalgic” and “mesmerizing,” this could have been influenced by the melody; it is memorable, repetitive, and mixes beautifully as the song progresses.

“We played hide and seek in waterfalls
We were younger, we were younger

Someday, we will foresee obstacles
Through the blizzard, through the blizzard”

The lyrics are just as profound. The bittersweet flashbacks of childhood and all its ups and downs. Growing up, it was inevitable to make fast decisions and be unaware of the world’s reality. It may not have been a big deal back then, but as of this moment they come along with a sense of longing.

That thought also comes with the awareness of maturity and growth. Being older now, going through obstacles is easier, smoother compared to what we knew as a kid. But now with much more wisdom under the belt, it isn’t as difficult to understand.

Growing up and moving past the hardships of life while looking back on the times when we were younger, and more naïve compared to where we are now. Autumn has a theme of reflection along with reminiscing of the past. The raw sentimentality of “Obstacles” fits into that perspective with flying colors.

Long Lost by Lord Huron

This band probably rings a bell, it’s because Lord Huron is the same group who sang The Night We Met which was released back in 2015 and is a popular audio piece in media. Debuted in 2012, with four members (Mark Barry, Miguel Briseño, Tom Renaud, and Ben Schneider) they are an indie-folk-rock band that create songs using their strong point of harnessing the deeper meaning of life into lyrics people can contemplate on. With the sheer amount of attention they are getting from their popular songs, it has become easy to overlook their more underrated work in comparison.

Long Lost fits the bill on this one. The song focuses on freedom and self-discovery, how one goes on their own path to find themselves in a journey only they can take.

“Leave me where the light pours down
Through the trees like rain
Let it wash over me like a flood
Let it ease my pain
Let it drown me”

It portrays the feeling of finally belonging somewhere where someone can keep to themselves, without the desperation of company. To be in a state of pure happiness, that being alone isn’t so gut wrenching as most instances are.

The transient, fleeting vanity of fall can form a bubble around you, a safe haven enclosed with nature’s beauty from the crunch of leaves beneath your steps to the rays of warm sunlight peeking between branches and coating the top of the trees like the first strokes of a paintbrush.

To be grateful for seeing what this season can do to decorate the setting, making it all right to be by yourself and seeing this all with your own eyes, to have your own individual experience and for a moment, all your problems don’t exist.

Willow Tree March by The Paper Kites

The inevitability of death can be a heavy weight on our shoulders, but if there’s one thing we can leave behind, what would it be?

Paper Kites is a band formed in 2009 by Sam Bentley, their lead singer along with Christina Lacey who plays the keyboard and guitar. The other members: Sam Rasmussen, David Powys and Josh Bentley were their close friends before they later joined the group.

They center their music with elements of folk and indie combined and for a while, made demo recordings before making their first hit, Bloom in 2010 with Willow Tree March only releasing a year later from their successful album, Woodland.

The extensive opinion on folk songs were mostly about the joys of nature and partying in social events such as a feast. This song however, treads on angsty waters; it aims on the impending circumstance of dying, a contrast to the previous songs which focus more on the brighter side of life; this one provides a form of unease that comes from the lyrics along with intense instrumentals as the song gradually progresses.

“And we all still die
Yeah, we all still die
What will you leave behind?
Oh, we all still die”

Death is bound to happen at some point, but it could still dampen one’s feelings. Yet shifting the perspective to something more insightful unravels a deeper meaning. The thought of it shouldn’t always be doom and gloom, even though the song focuses a lot on that concept.

Break it down a little, and you can see that they also implied the importance of worth and the choice to show yourself to the world before time runs out.

Expressing how fragile life can be, feelings of the deeper meaning of humanity, and looking back to the choices that lead you to this point in life, a sentiment to the fall aesthetic. How the season can regain such deep emotions, but end in a moment of reflection.

Feature & General, Podcasts, Sheyenne Perspectives

Chance for Change: Immigration

May 8, 2023 Dairell Alvarico Leave a comment

EPISODE FIVE: CHANCE FOR CHANGE
By Dairell Alvarico
Hosted by Hailey Boehme

Official Transcript:

[THEME SONG – KOLBY THOMPSON.]

Hailey Boehme:

Good to see you again, everyone. From Mustang Post News, this is Sheyenne Perspectives. I’m Hailey Boehme.

In our last episode of Sheyenne Perspectives, Carter Phillips delved into creativity’s drive on the theatrical stage.

This week Dairell Alvarico focuses on a chance for change through the personal experiences of new student immigrants, their personal struggles, and their joys.

Here’s Dairell.

Dairell Alvarico: In my last podcast, I discussed the concept of change in the lunchroom and how students adapt into various environments that come their way. To add a little insight, the majority did not want to change at all, they would rather stay consistent.

Now that we have gathered more understanding towards the topic, I figured I’d branch out more on the subject. Change does not limit in the lunchroom, it also affects people’s lives aside from school; giving them the opportunity to pave a path they made for themselves, and grasping the new obstacles that would either be used to improve their personal development or bring up walls of regret that would take time to break down.

One circumstance that checks off this list is the process of adapting into a whole new country. This type of change exceeds most struggles relating to the lunchroom; trying to find a vacant spot near the restroom does not compare to the anxiety of not knowing what the next step is when you are in an unfamiliar area.

A lot of students here in Sheyenne Highschool moved in America from all distinct parts of the world, learning their ways, and experiencing new heights of appreciation or depreciation towards change.

The American Dream. People who moved here are bound to hear that term at some point, maybe a lot. Great jobs, great pay, more opportunities, and benefits: Land of the Free. But how does this romanticized expectation change their lives in the long run?

This episode, I have gathered stories of fellow immigrants. All of them have something to share, something to reflect on, to reveal that the life of an immigrant is not easy at first, there is always going to be something that holds them back.

Now we get to hear what they’ve been through, what they learned, and how they developed their skills and abilities to adapt to the U.S and finally call this place their home.

There’s always a beginning to all this. Something that convinced them to make the decision to move here. Coincidentally, they are not that different from each other.

Jacob: Apparently my, like my parents found out this like job that was here in the U.S, through Facebook which is probably the most oddest thing you’ll ever see, in Facebooks. And then like we had like go to like the Bureaucratic nightmare of the Philippines. And we like go up and down to these bureaucratic offices, and we uh had to really like ask them, if they’re willing to do it. They had to like beg them.”

Dairell Alvarico: Another student, whom we will call Sam, had a similar scenario, one that involved her dad and his drive to finish his education. Here is an excerpt from her story:

Sam: My father decided to come to America to get his master’s degree when I was in second grade. I was so astonished when I found out we were heading to America because I didn’t want to leave my friends and move out of Saudi Arabia to a place we had never visited before. We had argued with my dad about not wanting to go to America because first we didn’t speak the language, English, and we have no idea about America and how things over there work out.

Dairell Alvarico: Sam and Jacob’s experiences are not that far from each other. In their cases, it was their parents who set the motion to move to America.

This is a very common reason, especially on immigrant children. They may have never even thought of the U.S until their parents mentioned it, and when they do, they are also doing it to give their kids a better life. Like John, who was hesitant at first, but later saw this opportunity as a blessing in disguise, which he makes clear when he wrote his story.

John: Reasons why I moved here? To have a better tomorrow. Every immigrant would have the same answer as me, but the future my parents wanted me to have was an American Education. I wish I had a choice; I wish I could stay in the place I am used to, but I am here and I can’t do anything anymore. So, I have to do this.

Dairell Alvarico: John was supposed to move here when he already graduated high-school, but the plan changed and he arrived one year early. This took a toll on him; he wanted to graduate with his friends. He felt at home and didn’t want to spend his last high-school years in a whole new country, but his parents insisted.

This is one of the most difficult things to do to when moving. Leaving your friends and dreading making new ones, since it can be a bit overwhelming, thinking that you’re different than everybody else. It affects them so much, depleting their confidence and anticipation to learn new things.

John: Leaving my friends, the high-school graduation I always wanted, was so hard for me because I’m graduating here instead of home.

Dairell Alvarico: But John wasn’t alone on this one. Sam struggled among her peers as well.

Sam: I wasn’t fluent in English, only knew just a few basic phrases when I arrived in America. So, my first day of school wasn’t really great. When you travel from one country to another, everything is different: the language, friends, lifestyles, and so on. My teacher was giving me a school tour as I walked; to be honest, I didn’t even understand a single word and was just nodding my head the entire time, wanting to be over with it. My father came to get me out after 3^rd period to see how I was doing. With tears in my eyes, I told my father that I wanted to go back.

Dairell Alvarico: English is a very widespread language, but not everybody knows it. And when it comes to moving to America, knowing English is what gets you through basic everyday life.

So, Sam was already a mess. She could not understand anything around her. Overcome with anxiety, her first few days were so bad, it was enough for her to want to go back home.

Jacob on the other hand, did not have these types of struggles. If anything, he actually anticipated moving to America. He was eager to experience things he couldn’t do in the Philippines, and won’t hesitate to share his opinions on it.

Jacob: A lot of stuff actually. I could just get like the stuff I want, that was like being imported before I get it. I had to get stuff like that, because they were imported and they’re expensive too, and I could just get it for a dollar and a half.

Dairell Alvarico: If you care to share, what’s like one negative thing that you experienced.

Jacob: I started working in fast food, ooh man they kinda, kinda entitled not gonna lie, like I don’t know like they’ve been requesting stuff that should not be, you know it’s not even part of their order.

Dairell Alvarico: While Sam and John were mostly worried about the people around them and how to cope with their new life, Jacob was more concerned about the transit system.

Jacob: I mean, I expected them to have like a good like, transportation system when I came here, you know you don’t need to ride a personal car. But then, we still had to buy a car.

Dairell Alvarico: To add more context, the transportation in the Philippines has multiple options. From calling a taxi to randomly riding on the back of a stranger’s motorcycle for less than two dollars.

There’s so many vehicles to pick from that not having your own personal vehicle isn’t a huge deal. So, in Jacob’s case, he wasn’t used to it at all.

There’s always a way to get comfortable with change. There’s time, and patience to adjust themselves to feel comfortable and safe in America.

Sam knew that her not knowing English held her back, so she did her very best to learn it.

Sam: Taking English classes has greatly helped and improved my English compared to when I first arrived. Being bilingual is uncommon in my country; yet, knowing how to communicate in another language, particularly English, opens doors to greater and more chances.

Sam: Looking back, I believe I would not be where I am today if I hadn’t gone through these obstacles. I felt like I wasn’t going to make it at the time, and that nothing I was doing, especially reading a book, would help me improve my English. However, I have discovered that no matter what you do, you will achieve a result.

Dairell Alvarico: John was still bummed out about leaving the people he’s close with, so he grew into his curiosity of experiencing what it’s like to be in America, slowly getting used to it.

John: Studying in Sheyenne is different to what I’m used to. But change is nice overall, I love understanding different cultures beyond what I’m used to. It’s nice on behalf of the weirdness and cultural shock. It’s nice to see what’s on the other side of the wall (metaphorically)

John: The silver lining is I became a better person here, I lost mostly everything I ever was, but I became the person I thought I would be.

Dairell Alvarico: Everybody has a certain reaction moving to America. Fear, excitement, anxiety or all of them at once. But what really matters if how they push through and adapt into the people they are now. Change can be scary, mainly because it’s what would push people to a different path than they predicted.

The people in these stories did see it through, because there’s always a way when it comes to change. They accepted it, found their peace and paved a new path for themselves.

“Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change” Jim Rohn, a motivational speaker said that and I am confident to say that these people’s stories are proof that this quote is true.

Change can be a good thing, it’s just pretty bad at the start. Immigration can be just like that. All you got to do is guide it to the right direction.

[THEME SONG – KOLBY THOMPSON.]

Hailey Boehme: This podcast was recorded and edited by Dairell Alvarico and hosted by Hailey Boehme.

Sheyenne Perspectives theme music was composed and performed by Kolby Thompson under the direction of Mark Berntson. Thank you, Dave and Jewelyn, for narrating the excerpts. We’d also like to thank Sam, John, and Jacob for sharing their wonderful stories.

This wraps up Sheyenne Perspectives for this school year. We appreciate you, our listeners, and hope you’ve enjoyed Sheyenne Perspectives.

So long everyone. We’ll see you next year.

This has been a production of Mustang Post News.

Feature & General, Podcasts, Sheyenne Perspectives

Food For Thought

February 17, 2023 Dairell Alvarico Leave a comment

EPISODE TWO: PERSPECTIVE ON PREFERENCE
By Dairell Alvarico
Hosted by Hailey Boehme

Official Transcript:

[THEME SONG – KOLBY THOMPSON.]

Hailey Boehme: Welcome back, everyone. From Mustang Post News, this is Sheyenne Perspectives. I’m Hailey Boehme.

In our last episode of Sheyenne Perspectives, we took a look at the unconscious mind and its tendency toward routine and the unexpected.

This week in our program Dairell Alvarico continues this theme through a student lens focusing on change in Food for Thought: Lunchroom Dynamics. Here’s Dairell.

Dairell Alvarico: Imagine this.

[LUNCHROOM SOUNDS – FREESOUND]

Dairell Alvarico: You are at your high school and your class just ended… you are finally relieved that it’s your lunch period after hours of sitting, and listening to your lessons.

Eager for your well-deserved break, you make your way to the cafeteria… where you see other students already forming their groups to find their seats. And just like them, you find yours.

Now let’s pause for a moment…

How did you choose your spot? Was it further away from all the noise? Did you and your friends have a mutual decision to sit there?

Or maybe you sat there just for the simple reason of you wanting to.

These are to be considered when it comes to lunchroom dynamics.

Dairell Alvarico: Their relationships, the environment around them, and the people they tend to talk to or avoid, can create this simple but compelling dynamic that can be unique like no other. Yet, there are many questions to be answered.

Do students agree by the idea of change, or do they frown upon it? What are the factors of picking a spot, and why mostly stick with it throughout the school year?

There’s always some form of basis, the root to all the decisions students make to create a dynamic, to have a routine.

If it were to be stripped down in a more simple way, we can grasp an idea of how social dynamics can be applied in the lunchroom. Or, ultimately, how change; even the most simple, impacts people.

And what better way to find out more than asking the students themselves?

Thomas: I think it’s like, kind of random.

Dairell Alvarico: This is Thomas, a Sheyenne student. Like everyone else, he has his own set of opinions on the matter.

A lot of things we do in high school are based on a whim. We don’t really think deep enough to gather logical factors as to why we do it. If it does the job, then there’s nothing else to consider.

This can be applied in the lunchroom. Majority of the students just sat wherever; a common thought of, “Hey, I’ll just sit here.” without any specific reason. Thomas believes this is the most common cause of the lunchroom dynamics we have today.

Thomas: You just choose it when it happens, you know? You kind of just go with the flow. Sometimes its like, situational of like um, they did it before in past years. or closer to a certain spot. All in all, I think it’s just random where they pick, and they just stick with it throughout the year.

Dairell Alvarico: There are many instances where the situation was purely just leaving things to chance. But this does not pertain to everyone. A number of students have their reasons other than randomly choosing their respected seats. If anything, there are a good deal of people who are more specific on what they like.

For an example, Jan likes to sit with people who share the same ethnicity as him. He even likes to branch out more and meet new people.

Jan: Currently my reason is because the people I sit with, is.. the people I know, for the purpose we’re both Filipino. (Laughs)

Dairell Alvarico: Or Adrian, who thinks that food is a main factor as to why students choose their spots.

Adrian: Probably because it affects ability and comfort to like the nearest, you know, the nearest food that they can get.

Dairell Alvarico: Even Thomas prefers a certain side of the lunchroom.

Thomas: Of my seating arrangement, it’s quiet, I can go wherever I please, and yeah it’s quiet, chill, go wherever I please… yeah I’m just free basically, that’s all I can say.

Dairell Alvarico: Wanting to be closer to the people you’re similar with, to being in reach to the ever changing food the cafeteria has to offer, or being in the more discreet part of the area. These are very precise judgements, how does this come to be?

Well, it all lies with preference. According to Merriam-Webster, it means “The power or opportunity of choosing”.

Everyday, students choose something that would benefit others or themselves. Preference laid the groundwork for lunchroom dynamics. When asked about anything regarding their seats, all of them have inclined to what they want, or what they don’t want.

But if it were to be changed under different circumstances, to move out of the comfortable bubble they have made for themselves, how are they willing to adapt into a different environment, or do they like to stay where they are?

Carefree is one way to handle it.

Adrian: I’ll be consistent with it because I already like my spot, and I don’t really wanna change anything. Well, I’m fine with doing anything.

Dairell Alvarico: Prone to change isn’t far off either.

Jan: Uh, I guess I prefer to be consistent, but change is constant nonetheless. Uh I guess it’s, uh it will be nice to talk to other people but yeah I still prefer with the people I’m with.

Dairell Alvarico: Or the unyielding drive to not change at all.

Thomas: Personally, I don’t like change, when you have a certain like seating arrangement in the lunchroom, I don’t feel like it should be changed because it’s an order and if you break that order things just go crazy because then you could steal a spot from another group and then that one person can’t sit there. So I think lunchroom dynamics shouldn’t really change.

Dairell Alvarico: When asked about change, a lot of students preferred the opposite. They’d rather have change as the last option and would prefer to stay where they’ve already made a familiar routine on.

Consistency is key, and they prefer to stick with it and not break the chain that already binds them to conformity.

They have a routine, breaking that would leave them muddled and they’d be forced to sit somewhere else. But then again, their new spot could be someone else’s and that person would find a new seat and it just goes on and on until there’s just an unorganized chaos.

Anything being unpredictable can set people off course. Students have enough of that as it is, so they find comfort in knowing where they are in the lunchroom.

Lunchroom dynamics ties with the concept of change, despite it being inevitable, students would rather go by their own pace. This is their preference, it’s what they like.

Will they have to accept it at some point? Of course, but consistency is what made change unhurried and when it comes to the lunchroom, there is no better way than that.

[THEME SONG – KOLBY THOMPSON.]

Dairell Alvarico: This podcast was recorded and edited by Dairell Alvarico and hosted by Hailey Boehme.

Sheyenne Perspectives theme music was composed and performed by Kolby Thompson under the direction of Mark Berntson. Our thanks goes out to Jan, Adrian, and all others who participated in this podcast but wished to remain anonymous.

Hailey Boehme: Next week on the podcast of Sheyenne Perspectives, Logan Jacobs will take over with his take on success and failure in the music industry.

So long, everyone. We hope to see you soon.

This has been a production of Mustang Post News.

Feature & General

Food For Thought: Sheyenne Lunchroom Dynamics

December 2, 2022 Dairell Alvarico Leave a comment

By Dairell Alvarico

There are many aspects to consider when creating a firm grasp on social dynamics. Things like circumstance, environment and relationships can determine how unique and diverse it can be.

Society has always been intertwined with the element of change, even if it’s forced. Considering all the characteristics of dynamics, this can be easily applied when it comes to the basic idea of school lunches, more specifically in Sheyenne.

If you were to think about it deeply, there is always a reason for certain students to sit in a particular spot and it varies based on their personal or practical interests.

But how do these types of things come to be? How does one decide to pick a preference in a place as common as a school cafeteria? There are many factors to evaluate to gain understanding.

We can first consider the new arrangement of the lunch tables that happened recently.

Due to this unexpected change, students have taken new spots to eat their meals since the ones they usually go to have been positioned differently from what they remember and yet they migrated to the same, general location yet created new lunchroom dynamics.

Everybody has a preferred spot to sit in the commons. Their reasons differ from each other based on how specific it can be.

Understandably, many students wished to remain anonymous. So, we won’t be using the students’ real names. Let start with, say Sam.

According to Sam, “I sit near the counseling office, because on the first day, me and my friend just chose that spot, so we have been sitting there.”

Based by this quote, it has been shown that circumstances may just have been rooted from an in the moment decision.

There is no deep reasoning other than the fact that they both chose a random spot and stuck with it since it was their first choice.

The same student shared that there were no benefits at all that relates to their position, and if there was a day that their seats were occupied, they would either sit on the front or the back of the commons but only for the reason of finding available seats and nothing more.

However, this versatility isn’t always the case.
Many students refuse to sit anywhere else. They’ve chosen a table and that is their table.

Even within their groups, they have a seating chart: one friend sits on one stool and the others have their own stools.

Take, for example, Alex and Alex’s friend group. They have their seating positions set. This is because they sit together with another group of students well acquainted with one of their companions, who isn’t fond of eating lunch with just one group.

Alex and the others aren’t particularly familiar with them, so they tend to sit on the right while the other group sits on the left with the mutual friend between them.

This writes down that relationship status is considered when it comes to who sits beside who. According to a student who will be referred to as Tony, seating arrangements in his group are figured out by who is closer with who because, “Some people are like best friends.”

This checks out Alex’s situation as well. Several groups in the lunchroom consist of more than two students, a lot tend to sit closer to those they are more friendly with, creating a social dynamic that shows how familiar they are to other people.

In other circumstances, most lunch groups with two people prefer the other person to be across them rather than beside them.
A student who will be named Amy agrees with this wholeheartedly.

“Me and my friend sit facing each other to talk easier.” she shared. “About whom sits where doesn’t really matter. My friend tends to be there first, so I just sit across wherever she is.”

Another student who will be called Chris made a similar statement as well. “I mean, I don’t like to turn my head to the side when I talk to my friend. It gets awkward later and I like to talk while looking at his entire face. That’s why I sit across him.”

This preference is based on how comfortable they prefer to talk to someone. Despite multiple people agreeing with sitting across their friend, there are some students that don’t mind being beside them either.

Someone who will be called Kim said, “I’m used to sitting beside my friend. I don’t really want to change that.”

The number of students in an area can also decide someone’s seating arrangements.

A student who will be referred to as “Tony” prefers an emptier and more obscured spot because he prefers a less crowded room.

But if he were to sit beside other people, he would like to sit near the “smart and goofy” students.

In contrast, Jody is more influenced by the types of people she sits next to.

Instead of choosing a more vacant area like Tony, she prefers a controlled environment where other students are not “jumping on tables and smashing food.” Which also lies in her sitting with quieter people.

This shows that many students have a bias when it comes to the personalities and behaviors of the people around them if they want to interact with anyone at all.

Usually, many students prefer minimum interaction in the lunchroom for reasons that involve their desire to have time for only themselves, but it doesn’t stop there.

Room temperature is also a factor when it comes to choosing different seats.

Jody likes to sit near the doors because she likes a cooler environment. A student named Jacob also has the same preference.

“Anywhere is fine as long as it’s not in the heat.” He speaks.

From what was gathered, a few students want to be in the cooler area of the lunchroom. This ties with the fact that a crowded room will be likely to form up heat from body temperature.

I have noticed that Jacob doesn’t sit near the doors that lead outside, but he is around the area near the vending machines where the double doors that lead to a freezer are usually open and a cold breeze would come out from time to time, also he is always at the edge of the table, the area with less people.

Seating arrangements are also chosen by the conveniences that students want to be closer to for less distance between them and what they need.

Take for example, Jody; she likes it when she is close to the garbage cans and restrooms. The reasons are clear enough.

She likes to clean her tray with less time to waste compared to if she were to be across the room where her walk would be lengthy and time consuming.

Additionally, she would also use the restroom without worrying about borrowed time or vacancy.

Tony’s seating position is more on his convenience after lunch break ends. His arrangement helps him with his desired convenience to be closer to his next class.

This is applied to many other students who would be near the stairs or the tables across the theater or gym.

Time is of the essence and in this scenario, a factor in how students find their place in the lunchroom.

Surprisingly, the intent to be closer to people is a familiar factor in seating arrangements.

A student called John likes to sit beside someone he is interested in to increase the chances of them talking to each other.

Other students have also admitted to this but for the respect for privacy, no names will be revealed.

Based on all of this information, lunchroom dynamics are formed by one or more components based on what a student wants or needs.

Relationships, environment, peers and personal taste in certain parts of the room. All these alone create diverse surroundings revolving around a student’s preference.

Arts & Entertainment

Book Recommendations For October

October 28, 2022 Dairell Alvarico Leave a comment

By Dairell Alvarico

October has just arrived; you know what that means, right? Soon you are going to notice the spooky and scary skeletons chilling on your neighbor’s yard, or see costumes get sold out at your local Target, only to later be worn by children asking for candy on your doorstep. It is not every day you catch sight of these things, so how about joining in on the fun?  This month is the time where everyone around you will dress their worst to be the best.

Unless you are not much of an outdoor person. But even that cannot stop you from doing something exciting for your Halloween night. To each their own, and you my friend, are just getting started. 

So how about getting cozy on your couch, bed, or whatever you can rest yourself on, and grab a book fitting for the eerie, sinister, spine-chilling time of the year? 

“Historic details about the real Hartgill, Longspee and Stourton are deftly woven into a ripping good story. It is told with self-effacing humor from the perspective of an awkward boy who emerges as honorable and brave as the ghost knight and the contemporary girl he befriends. Black-and-white illustrations add to the Tudor atmosphere and drama. Sword-swinging ghosts will haunt readers of this droll, harrowing and historically grounded ghost story.”—Kirkus

Are you ready to read a simple yet interesting story about a kid being forced to go to a haunted boarding school? How about the aesthetics of academia in a historic location like Salisbury, England, but add paranormal activities? This book has both. 

Jon Whitcroft is just a generic kid with stepfather issues, which led him to be sent to a boarding school in Salisbury, England to improve his “behavior,” but fate has not been so kind to him, and his school year could not be any more opposite of ordinary when he suddenly sees ghosts. 

This story is enough to give you the jitters, but not the creeps. It does make you feel the suspense of what the characters will do next and sometimes the paranoia of what is at the end of the hallway, yet it contains lighthearted moments that will give you a break from all that action.

The book has the concept of a simple ghost story, but it is creative and distinct way of turning the plot into something unique is what makes it interesting.

The descriptions of what a character feels are not the usual generic narrations of their inner thoughts, and you can see the struggles and loneliness of John Whitcroft, who did not have time to process the sudden change in his life.

This book is perfect for a casual story by the fireplace on a chilly night in October. 

“The Outsider is, in many ways, an ideal combination of classic King supernatural terror and his more contemporary foray into crime writing, wedding an intricately plotted whodunit with a monster tale that has more than a few shades of It…one of King’s strongest books in the past decade; an enjoyable dovetailing of crime and supernatural horror that will please Constant Readers and newcomers alike.” 
  —Emily Burnham, The Bangor Daily News

Sherlock Holmes, but with a twist. This story was written by horror icon Stephen King. It has mature aspects to it and delves deeper into the process of catching an indescribable crime case and the struggles of finding the perpetrator, supernatural or not.  

Ralph Anderson is a detective in Flint City and has not experienced any serious crime until the day the murder of a little boy has shaken the neighborhood.

After tedious interviews with witnesses and gathering of evidence, it all pointed fingers to Terry Maitland, a man who coached Ralph’s own son in baseball. But with further digging, the authentication of proof started to get foggy, and Ralph is starting to doubt they got the right guy, so he goes on a personal detective spree to find answers for himself. 

This book had me on my nerves for the right reasons. The frustration of Ralph is so suffocating, you can feel it from time to time. The character’s actions become questionable, and you would have to think if what they are doing is right or not.

The Outsider is a story where you do not want your favorite character to walk anywhere with a stranger, much more alone. Compelling and spine chilling, it will make you check your window at night. 

This novel can potentially keep you on your toes due to the odd way everything transpires in the heart of the crime. The stories do not match, a simple clue can make the whole investigation go for an unexpected turn, even the consequences of one’s actions can ruin a person’s life. That is why you should tread carefully, for not everything is what it seems to be when you dive deep into the story. 
  

“Lost Boy owes more to William Golding’s Lord of the Flies than it does Barrie, as Henry examines the darker side to leaving a bunch of boys to fend for themselves… This audacious and gripping treatment of this well-known story is expertly told by Henry’s emotive, evocative prose.”—Starburst Magazine

Peter Pan may not be the inspiring and vibrant childhood influence you perceive he is. Sometimes there is genuine curiosity when it comes to the perspectives of villains in a fairy tale.

Lots of narratives are bent and smoothened into a biased outcome in favor of the “hero.” There are always two parts to a story, and Christina Henry did a splendid job of creating lore for the infamous Captain Hook.

Before everything went to the dumps, the pirate captain was known as James who was just another Lost Boy that Peter took an interest in, but the latter considered and acknowledged James more than the other boys for reasons that he did not specifically reveal.

It was known that he was the first one to be swept away by Peter to Neverland, and that he became second in command for their group, but Peter was good at hiding his deepest, darkest secrets.

James was starting to think that his own misfortunes and trauma are tied to it, but he knew that it was impossible for confrontation, since Peter has not a drop of patience for it.

The idea of putting a group of young boys, still on the stage of growth and development to fend for themselves in an unknown island is a recipe for disaster, but with the carefree yet twisted mind of Peter Pan, he made everything a fun little playground for him.

Lost Boy is the type of story that takes you back to the nostalgic tale of Peter Pan. The only difference is that you start to doubt that any of his actions are with good faith.