What a busy few months I’ve had! Sorry, this is coming out so late! I found some pretty great shows and books in October (and some duds) and look forward to trapezing through them!
Here is how I rate things!
- No redeeming qualities whatsoever, visually, aesthetically, or as a story.
- It was so boring I could barely pay attention, or it frustrated me SO much I couldn’t finish.
- I had a headache, but I somehow made it through. This category is also for when I absolutely DESPISE something I’ve watched or read.
- I could make fun of it because of how bad it is or because it lacks any real merit.
- It’s not good, it’s not bad. It’s just blah.
- There were various interesting aspects, but nothing to really gush about.
- A solid story. Good characters, plot, and visuals. However, it’s not amazing.
- I genuinely enjoyed watching/reading it. I could see/read it again with friends.
- A great experience! As a film/show, it is visually stunning and has an incredible story that I could go back to multiple times. As a book, I could do the same.
- Near Perfect (nothing is perfect.) It has become one of my favorites. I could also write entire articles on it.
Books
Screech School (2024) 5/10
Angelo and his friends know that together they can handle any pretty much anything together. The scariest thing they think they have to worry about these days is the upcoming school dance.
But when a terrifying new enemy attacks from above it seems they have met their ultimate match . . . giant vampire birds after BLOOD.
Can they save their school before the big dance or will they discover terror in the air like they’ve never seen before?
Synopsis via Goodreads
This is the definition of a BLAH middle school horror story. There was no real peril, and there were awkward bonding moments between the students that seemed strange considering they were running away from killer birds. When one of the boys was wearing a dress and heels, running away from vampire birds, I started spacing out.
Eh, it isn’t bad, but I can see middle school-age readers liking some of the age-appropriate drama and identity fluff. As for me, I can’t see myself recommending it to my future kids or students.
The Stars Did Wander Darkling (2022), 8/10
Maybe Archie Coomes has been watching too many horror movies.
All of a sudden, the most ordinary things have taken on a sinister edge: a penny on a doormat. A man in a brown suit under a streetlamp. The persistent sound of an ax chopping in the middle of the night.
He keeps telling himself that this is Seaham, a sleepy seaside town where nothing ever happens. Or at least nothing did, until his dad’s construction company opened up the cliff beneath the old—some say cursed—Langdon place.
Soon, though, he and his friends can’t deny it: more and more of the adults in town are acting strangely. An ancient, long-buried evil has been unleashed upon the community, and it’s up to the kids to stop it before it’s too late. . . .
Synopsis via Goodreads
I haven’t seen Stranger Things (2016), but I can imagine its tone is similar to this book. I think this book builds suspense pretty well, especially at the beginning. However, the last third of the book feels a bit rushed. Besides that, I enjoy listening to the audiobook, narrated by Kirt Graves, every few years.
Small Spaces (2018), 8.5/10
After suffering a tragic loss, eleven-year-old Ollie only finds solace in books. So when she happens upon a crazed woman at the river threatening to throw a book into the water, Ollie doesn’t think—she just acts, stealing the book and running away. As she begins to read the slender volume, Ollie discovers a chilling story about a girl named Beth, the two brothers who both loved her, and a peculiar deal made with “the smiling man,” a sinister specter who grants your most tightly held wish, but only for the ultimate price.
Ollie is captivated by the tale until her school trip the next day to Smoke Hollow, a local farm with a haunting history all its own. There she stumbles upon the graves of the very people she’s been reading about. Could it be the story about the smiling man is true? Ollie doesn’t have too long to think about the answer to that. On the way home, the school bus breaks down, sending their teacher back to the farm for help. But the strange bus driver has some advice for the kids left behind in his care: “Best get moving. At nightfall they’ll come for the rest of you.” Nightfall is, indeed, fast descending when Ollie’s previously broken digital wristwatch, a keepsake reminder of better times, begins a startling countdown and delivers a terrifying message: RUN.
Only Ollie and two of her classmates heed the bus driver’s warning. As the trio head out into the woods–bordered by a field of scarecrows that seem to be watching them–the bus driver has just one final piece of advice for Ollie and her friends: “Avoid large places. Keep to small.”
Synopsis via Goodreads
I don’t know why I didn’t quite click with this book this last reading. Normally, I eat this book up with its creepy scarecrows, ghosts, and autumn theme. This time, I think I wanted something a bit more. . . philosophical? I’ve probably read this book too many times. I should give myself a 5-year break from it.
Murder at the Vicarage (1930), 8/10
‘Anyone who murdered Colonel Protheroe,’ declared the parson, brandishing a carving knife above a joint of roast beef, ‘would be doing the world at large a favour!’ It was a careless remark for a man of the cloth. And one which was to come back and haunt the clergyman just a few hours later – when the colonel was found shot dead in the clergyman’s study. But as Miss Marple soon discovers, the whole village seems to have had a motive to kill Colonel Protheroe.
Synopsis via Goodreads
Agatha Christie tricked me again! This isn’t my favorite Miss Marple novel, but I was splendidly surprised by the reveal! Whenever I think I’ve figured out who the murderer is, she normally smacks me with the red herring she tricked me with, with a more interesting ending. If you like mystery novels and have never read Agatha Christie’s works, what have you been doing?
Dead Voices (2019), 8/10
Having survived sinister scarecrows and the malevolent smiling man in Small Spaces, newly minted best friends Ollie, Coco, and Brian are ready to spend a relaxing winter break skiing together with their parents at Mount Hemlock Resort. But when a snowstorm sets in, causing the power to flicker out and the cold to creep closer and closer, the three are forced to settle for hot chocolate and board games by the fire.
Ollie, Coco, and Brian are determined to make the best of being snowed in, but odd things keep happening. Coco is convinced she has seen a ghost, and Ollie is having nightmares about frostbitten girls pleading for help. Then Mr. Voland, a mysterious ghost hunter, arrives in the midst of the storm to investigate the hauntings at Hemlock Lodge. Ollie, Coco, and Brian want to trust him, but Ollie’s watch, which once saved them from the smiling man, has a new cautionary message: BEWARE.
With Mr. Voland’s help, Ollie, Coco, and Brian reach out to the dead voices at Mount Hemlock. Maybe the ghosts need their help–or maybe not all ghosts can or should be trusted.
Synopsis via Goodreads
I had the same problem with this book as I did with Small Spaces. I think I need a bit of a break before I revisit it. However, if you like middle-grade horror books, give this series a try! This one has many freaky ghosts and a fun twist at the end.
Never Die (2019), 9/10
Samurai, shinigami, vengeful spirits, and an impossible quest.
The Emperor of Ten Kings has plunged Hosa into war, and the gods are angry.
When the god of death gives Ein a mission to kill the immortal emperor, he knows he can’t do it alone. He needs allies, heroes who will fight for him. How else can an eight-year-old boy hope to do the impossible?
Whispering Blade, Iron Gut Chen, the Century Blade, and Flaming Fist. These are all names of legend. And the god of death has given Ein a way to bind them to his cause. There is only one catch. In order to serve him, they must first die.
Synopsis via Goodreads
I finally finished this book! It got locked in my classroom for almost a month, and I was stuck in suspense jail. When I did FINALLY finish the book, I loved the twist ending and worldbuilding! Although this was self-published and had a few pacing and grammar issues, I didn’t care because I was so engrossed in the story and setting. I actually want to study Japanese history now because of this book!
Manga/Comics
The Second Chance Convenience Store (2025), 7/10
There’s a convenience store that feels uncomfortable but somehow keeps drawing you in. One day, a new night-shift part-timer appears at the small convenience store — his rugged looks fill everyone with unease, but soon he brings about a refreshing change to this small convenience store. He helps not only his coworkers but also customers, resolving their worries and troubles. Who is this mysterious night-shift part-timer?
Synopsis via Webtoons
This was a pleasant read! I can’t say I absolutely LOVED the story or the ending, but I appreciated how the characters found healing and purpose from their community. It also made me stop and think about those who are homeless, addicted to drugs and alcohol. It isn’t altogether FLUFFY, but it isn’t too dramatic either.
Clean With Passion For Now (2025), 8/10
As a clean freak and germophobe, it was only natural for Seon-gyeol to start a cleaning company. What he doesn’t anticipate, however, is the messy girl who crash-lands in his life as a new employee. Oh-sol is a cheery rookie who doesn’t mind getting dirty but is unfortunately terrible at cleaning. Although she and Seon-gyeol are polar opposites, fate seems to keep drawing them together in the most hilarious ways. Can Oh-sol get Seon-gyeol to open up his heart and help him overcome his extreme germophobia?
Synopsis via Tappytoon
This has become one of my new favorite webtoons! I did not see that coming! I tend to be a sucker for male leads who fall in love with the girl and have to build a better relationship before being accepted. I also am a sucher for stories where they are polar opposites, but they learn to work around their differences.
This story has plenty of cuddly moments and romantic tension, and nothing is earned easily. In fact, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how natural and mature their relationship actually is. I’M waiting for the female lead to tell him the truth, so they can work through problems together.
Movies
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), 8.5/10
The beautiful and kindhearted princess Snow White charms every creature in the kingdom except one – her jealous stepmother, the Queen. When the Magic Mirror proclaims Snow White as the fairest one of all, she must flee into the forest, where she befriends the lovable seven dwarfs – Doc, Sneezy, Grumpy, Happy, Bashful, Sleepy, and Dopey. But when the Queen tricks Snow White with a poisoned apple, and she falls into a deep sleep, only the magic of true love’s kiss can awaken her.
Synopsis via Lesley (from the back of the Snow White DVD) on IMBD
This isn’t my FAVORITE Disney movie, but I appreciate this film and everything it represents for the artists and creators from early Disney. If you actually study how animation evolved, this film is truly a MIRACLE. I like the multi-plane backgrounds, deep colors, and overall optimistic tone. My students are also fans of the film now, which they never thought would happen.
Abbot and Castello Meet Frankenstein (1948), 7.5/10
The world of freight handlers Wilbur Grey and Chick Young is turned upside down when the remains of Frankenstein’s monster and Dracula arrive from Europe to be used in a house of horrors. Dracula awakens and escapes with the weakened monster, who he plans to re-energize with a new brain.
Synopsis via Gary Jackson <garyjack5@cogeco.ca> on IMBD
My brother has fond memories of the movie! I unfortunately didn’t grow up with it, and I wonder what the heck happened! I love classic films, and for some reason, this gem slipped through my fingers. I don’t think it’s perfect, but it is super charming and respectful to the classic horror film actors in it. There is something wonderful about old humor from the 1940s, and I wholeheartedly recommend this movie to families with kids.
Beetlejuice (1988), 7/10
Adam and Barbara are a normal couple…who happen to be dead. They have given their precious time to decorate their house and make it their own, but unfortunately a family is moving in, and not quietly. Adam and Barbara try to scare them out, but end up becoming the main attraction to the money making family. They call upon Beetlejuice to help, but Beetlejuice has more in mind than just helping.
Synopsis via ahmetkozan on IMBD
I don’t hate this movie, but it isn’t… the greatest Tim Burton film. It has some great set design, practical effects, claymation characters and effects, and acting. I also think it has quite the vibe to it, which explains why so many people still genuinely love this film.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024), 7.5/10
After an unexpected family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid, discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and the portal to the Afterlife is accidentally opened. With trouble brewing in both realms, it’s only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem.
Synipsis via olisilumea on IMBD
Building off what I said about the last movie, I actually liked this movie better than the sequel, especially the musical scenes. There was actually a lot more Beetlejuice, and he is funnier, if that were actually possible. Again, this still isn’t really my THING, but I enjoyed this movie in the moment and will go back to it sometime in the future.
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920), 10/10
Francis, a young man, recalls in his memory the horrible experiences he and his fiancée Jane recently went through. It is the annual fair in Holstenwall. Francis and his friend Alan visit The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, an exhibit where the mysterious doctor shows the somnambulist Cesare, and awakens him for some moments from his death-like sleep. When Alan asks Cesare about his future, Cesare answers that he will die before dawn. The next morning Alan is found dead. Francis suspects Cesare of being the murderer, and starts spying on him and Dr. Caligari.
Synopsis via Maths Jesperson {maths.jesperson1@comhem.se} on IMBD
Love this movie, it is still one of my favorite films, and I recommend it to class silent film enthusiasts or Tim Burton fans!
TV Shows/Anime
Sakamoto Days Season 2 (2025), 8/10
The legendary former hitman Tarou Sakamoto has thwarted numerous assassins after an enormous bounty on his head was issued. But he cannot seem to catch a break and simply take it easy with his beloved family. A mysterious and infamous figure known as Slur has brought a group of insane death row inmates to Japan, who hold back from nothing to eliminate their targets.
Sakamoto is not the only target—the criminals have been assigned to kill various other people, including the new hires at Sakamoto’s convenience store, Shin Asakura and Lu Shaotang. The situation escalates even further when the Order, a group of the most skilled Japanese assassins, becomes involved. As the inmates begin wreaking havoc, Sakamoto and his allies must remain vigilant for the sake of everything they hold dear.
Synopsis via Myanimelist
I liked this second season MORE, probably because I switched to the English Dub. I am not a Sub or Dub snob! I watch the version whose voices I like the best. In this case, I think the English cast was better! The action scenes were stellar, despite the gore, and I was happy with how much Sakamoto I got this time around. I do think this story has too many “interesting” characters with super hyped up personalities, which is why I didn’t rate it higher.
Fragrant Flower Blooms With Dignity (2025), 9/10
The all-girls Kikyo Private Academy and Chidori Public High School are polar opposites. With its prestigious history, Kikyo is attended by noble young ladies from distinguished families, while Chidori is infamously full of simple-minded delinquents. It is no surprise that their students clash with their differences.
Having a tall stature and fierce appearance, Chidori student Rintarou Tsumugi is often avoided by others despite his gentle heart. One day, while helping out at his family’s patisserie, he meets a customer who, after a brief moment, runs away from him. The next day, the customer returns to apologize to Rintarou, introducing herself as the cheerful Kaoruko Waguri.
After spending time with Kaoruko, Rintarou appreciates that she does not judge him based on his appearance and looks forward to when they will meet again. However, when Rintarou discovers Kaoruko attends Kikyo, their relationship will challenge the social expectations and dynamics around them.
Synopsis via Myanimelist
This is one of the best shoujo anime I’ve seen in a LONG time. It has such a gentle feel to it, and I love all the characters. Most of the time, Shoujo romances kind of push the main couples onto the audience, even if their characters are as bland as plain tofu or as toxic as radioactive waste. In this case, I genuinely think the main characters, Rintatou and Kaoruko, had a warm and healthy relationship. I want to buy the manga now. . . which hasn’t happened in a long time!
Ghost Hunt (2006), 8/10
While at school, Mai Taniyama and her friends like to exchange ghost stories. Apparently, there is an abandoned school building on their campus that is the center of many ghost stories. During the story, they are interrupted by a mysterious male figure. The person turns out to be Kazuya Shibuya, a 17-year-old who is president of the Shibuya Psychic Research Company. He was called by the principal to investigate the stories surrounding the abandoned school building.
The next day, on the way to school, Mai passes the school building in question. While examining a strange camera she spotted inside, she gets surprised by Kazuya’s assistant. Unknowingly interfering with the investigation, Mai breaks the camera and Kazuya’s assistant gets injured.
Kazuya forcefully hires Mai in order to pay for the camera and replace his injured assistant. From that point on, Mai begins to learn about the paranormal world and the profession of ghost hunting.
Synopsis via Myanimelist
Every few years, I rewatch this show and see how much I remember about the mysteries. Thankfully, I am not completely freaked out by the darker stories anymore. But I still would not say kids should watch it.
If you like ghost shows and seeing the mysteries unfold slowly over several episodes, I think you will like this show! It is so 2000s at times it hurts, but that is a plus, not a detriment!
A Haunting (2005-2022), 6/10
[introduction]
Narrator: In this world, there is real evil in the darkest shadows and in the most ordinary places. These are the true stories of the innocent and the unimaginable. Between the world we see and the things we fear, there are doors. When they are opened, nightmares become reality.
Synopsis straight from the show!
This show was fine. Some of the hauntings were thought-provoking, while most of them left me questioning the stupid decisions people make when faced with the paranormal. If anything, I’ve decided to thoroughly inspect ANY house I decide to buy in the future.
The Dead Files (2011), 4/10
An investigative series that pairs Steve DiSchiavi, a retired Homicide Detective with the New York City Police Department with more than 21 years of active service with psychic communicator Amy Allan who has an established sixth sense and an affinity for channeling the dead. In order to not influence the other, the partners initially explore each case on their own. Steve interviews the residents/employees and investigates the history behind the property (prior ownership, murders or other crimes that occurred at or around the property, etc.) to verify the veracity of the claims, and Amy does a walk-through of the building and expressing any feelings, emotions, or other impressions she feels, with any leading items such as photos, personal items, religious items, etc., having been previously covered or removed, so as not to influence her impressions. She also works with a forensic sketch artist to sketch any entities she claims to witness. They then link up at the end to compare notes with those they are trying to help.
Synopsis via Anonymous on IMBD
This was one of the few ghost shows I HATED watching. Even though they made it seem like the historian and psychic never talked to each other, I didn’t buy it. As a historian myself, the fact that their stories matched each other at least 75% was super shady to me. Locations, like the ones they went to, would have LAYERS upon LAYERS of stories and people affiliated with each other. How do you thoroughly and effectively investigate these places in only a few days? YOU DON’T.
I also didn’t like how manipulative the psychic was, especially as she interacted with the families asking for help. It reminded me of one of my family members and how they use their spiritual knowledge and abilities to validate ANY of their opinions.
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed my list! I’ll see you VERY soon when I post my finds from November.
From the Perspective of an Old Soul 