It’ i’s me again! Granted, most of my posts have not been too interesting, but they are mostly for me. I like to do this every once in a while so I can keep track of what I read and watch. Let’s get through the last few months, shall we?
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
Lion/A Long Way Home (2013), 7/10
When Saroo Brierley used Google Earth to find his long-lost home town half a world away, he made global headlines.
Saroo had become lost on a train in India at the age of five. Not knowing the name of his family or where he was from, he survived for weeks on the streets of Kolkata, before being taken into an orphanage and adopted by a couple in Australia.
Despite being happy in his new family, Saroo always wondered about his origins. He spent hours staring at the map of India on his bedroom wall. When he was a young man the advent of Google Earth led him to pore over satellite images of the country for landmarks he recognised. And one day, after years of searching, he miraculously found what he was looking for.
Then he set off on a journey to find his mother.Synopsis via Goodreads
This book tends to loop over the same facts over and over, but I was glad I finally learned about this man’s story. I’ve met multiple people from India who have told me their story was similar to this. I’ve lived in a 2nd world country, but have never traveled to a 3rd world country. I know there are many people who live in poverty, but lack any way to be HEARD outside their small communities.
That said, I wouldn’t read this book again, but I recommend it to anyone who wishes to learn about what life is like in India.
Shinto: The Kami Spirit World of Japan (2024), 7/10
The Japanese World of Kami Spirits is a concise guide to the fundamental elements of the Shinto religion–its rich mythology and symbols, intricate rituals, festivals, ancestral spirits, awe-inspiring architecture and a profound belief in the divine presence in the natural world around us.
Readers will discover here the pervasive influence of Shinto on all aspects of contemporary Japanese life and culture. From the hallowed shrines nestled in wooded landscapes to the vibrant tapestry of contemporary Japanese manga, films and video games featuring Kami spirits and characters–Shinto is ever-present.
Synopsis via Goodreads
Surprisingly, I knew most of the information in this book! Thank you, anime and manga. However, not everyone is as nerdy as me so if you are interested in learning more about Shintoism, PLEASE read this book!
The Grimm Sisters (2005), 7/10
For Sabrina and Daphne Grimm, life has not been a fairy tale. After the mysterious disappearance of their parents, the sisters are sent to live with their grandmother–a woman they believed was dead! Granny Relda reveals that the girls have two famous ancestors, the Brothers Grimm, whose classic book of fairy tales is actually a collection of case files of magical mischief. Now the girls must take on the family responsibility of being fairy tale detectives.
Synopsis via Goodreads
I never got around to reading this book until this year! When I finally sat down to read it, I thought it was pretty average. I’ve been kind of ruined by things like Fablehaven and Shrek, so this idea of fairytales coming to life is empty for me. I can see middle schoolers liking this more than I do.
The Tides of Time (2025), 7.5/10
Fleeing the clutches of Robespierre’s revolutionary Tribunal in France, Lili Minet makes a desperate escape on a ship headed to England, but her dangerous flight takes an unexpected turn when a violent storm catapults her off the ship and eighty years into the future, leaving her stranded in the unfamiliar world of 1873 England.
When lighthouse keeper Armitage Pierce rescues a woman from the tumultuous sea, he does not anticipate her silent, cold response to his gallant efforts. Though he is wary of this woman and her odd behaviors, he finds she is just as wary of him. And he can sense that she is not telling him something of great import to her. Only Armitage’s grandfather, a man seasoned by the mysteries of the sea, can seem to penetrate Lili’s defenses to offer her support. But as Lili heals from the physical and emotional wounds of her ordeal and Armitage continues to offer light and safety to her, a tender friendship blossoms between the two.
Yet the shadow of danger looms as the threat that chased Lili from France all those years ago reemerges in her new present. Together Lili and Armitage must navigate the challenges of a romance that grows to defy the boundaries of time and the perils that reach across the decades to ensnare Lili. As the storm clouds gather, Lili and Armitage face the ultimate test—discovering whether their bond is strong enough to rewrite the pages of history itself to save them and their love.
Synopsis via Goodreads
Hmm, I feel like Sarah Eden’s books have been tipping more towards the average romance lane of late. Granted, I liked the premise behind this story quite a bit with the time traveling, but I felt the romance was rushed too much. Also, I didn’t like the cover. It was too clean. . . like it was tinged with AI.
The Kamagawa Food Detectives (2013), 10/10
Down a quiet backstreet in Kyoto exists a very special restaurant. Run by Koishi Kamogawa and her father Nagare, the Kamogawa Diner serves up deliciously extravagant meals. But that’s not the main reason customers stop by . . .
The father-daughter duo are ‘food detectives’. Through ingenious investigations, they are able to recreate dishes from a person’s treasured memories – dishes that may well hold the keys to their forgotten past and future happiness. The restaurant of lost recipes provides a link to vanished moments, creating a present full of possibility.
Synopsis via Goodreads
I found one of my new favorite series! I’m a big fan of slice-of-life stories like this one, where the stakes are too deep, but the emotionality really shines through in the storytelling. I want to eat at this restaurant SOOOOO bad now. Maybe I will find something like it someday!
Comics/Manga
K-9 Public Security Bureau (2025), 8/10
“Sin”—an ability that manifests when one commits a crime. Detective Ren Hizuki from Tokyo MPD, Investigation Division 1 spends her days battling the rise in heinous crime spurred on by these “sin.” One day, she’s reassigned to the newly established Public Security Bureau, Division 9 and encounters the cowardly Detective Yushiro Oboro. As the two of them begin investigating special ability cases together, Division 9’s hidden secrets—as well as Oboro’s true identity—come to light!
Synopsis via Myanimelist
I’ve been finding more Seinen-type manga coming out that appeal to me. The mystery is engaging, the characters are more than what they seem, and the “magic” system is more than just some magical girl transformation sequence. In fact, any powers people have are grounded in “sins” they’ve committed or trauma they’ve experienced. It’s not too far into the story yet, but I’ve enjoyed what’s come out so far.
Kaihen Wizards (2024), 8/10
Kaihen no Mahoutsukai follows a wizard named Zemu that lives in a remote castle far from the secular world, who is reluctant to take on an apprentice until he takes in a mysterious boy covered in bandages that does not remember who he is or where he came from.
Synopsis via Myanimelist
This manga has the same vibe as stories like Witch Hat Atelier and To Your Eternity. It’s deeply philosophical, and nothing really is as it seems. It is also not extremely far along, but I’m following the chapters religiously to see what happens.
Fall in Love You Angels (2023), 7.5/10
First-year class president, Otogi Katsura, assumes the role of a pristine and gracious girl with pride. Ever since she was a child, she knew what people expected of a beauty such as herself, and she upholds this virtuous image without fail. The only person to rival Katsura, both in appearance and charm, is her vice president, Toki Ninomae. On top of that, his impeccable manners make him the perfect match for her as the school’s madonna—in her opinion at least.
Though it appears impossible to prove, Katsura is confident that Ninomae wears a mask just like she does. Her suspicions are soon confirmed when she accidentally exposes her sharp-tongued side, and, encouraged by her boldness, Ninomae follows suit to reveal his brusque and cool nature. From then on, Katsura and Ninomae start to shed their false angel disguises and lower their guard around one another, without realizing how easy it is to fall in love.
Synopsis via Myanimelist
This is a story where two hot no-nonsense tsunderes find out about their “true personalities” and sort of become friends. Yes, there are romantic undertones, but so far their relationship hasn’t blossomed. It has pretty art and hasn’t made my eyes twitch yet so. . . we’ll see how it goes!
Ichi the Witch (2024), 8/10
A long time ago, humanity stumbled upon magical creatures called Majik. To acquire the powers of a Majik, one has to pass a trial set by the being itself. While men are unable to use magic, a woman who has the ability to capture and tame Majiks is granted the title of a witch.
Abandoned as a child in the middle of a mountain, Ichi learned to fend for himself by hunting. While he is a pacifist at heart, he would not hesitate to defend himself if he senses danger. Believing a sleeping creature in the woods poses an extreme threat to humanity, Ichi has prepared to kill it.
Unbeknownst to Ichi, the creature is King Uroro, the King Majik who hates humankind. No witch—including the Abyssal Witch Desscaras—has been able to pass Uroro’s test. However, Ichi miraculously acquires Uroro, thus becoming the first and only male witch. Armed with his newfound power and thirst to hunt down danger, Ichi is about to turn the lives of witches and Majiks alike upside down!
Much like the others, I’m still waiting for more chapters to come out and have enjoyed following along with the story. The art is GORGEOUS, and the story is like a reverse magical girl anime. Instead of a girl finding her powers, this has a dude becoming the first male witch EVER. Surprisingly, the omwen aren’t like “What! Only women have the right to be magical!” They are actually excited to help him discover his powers and become integrated into their society. I look forward to telling you about how I feel as the story continues!
Becoming the Guide of the Mysophobic Villain? Absolutely Not! (2023), 4/10
I found myself inside a simulation game set in a ‘Guideverse’ world. I’m supposed to be a Guide, but I’m an extra who can hide her abilities! Since it’s come to this, should I try living a sweet life with an attractive and talented Esper who suits my taste? Just as I was about to go all-in, I discovered a super handsome guy on the brink of a rampage and guided him passionately with a kiss. Now, all that’s left is our hundred-year journey together as he falls for my amazing guiding, right? …Or so I thought. As it turns out, I made a mistake and guided the Esper who was none other than the world’s most powerful villainous mastermind, the black-hearted master of this universe?
Synopsis via King of Shoujo
Ugh. . . . yet another sucky toxic yandere who the female lead magically falls in love with despite how stupid their personality is. I only made it about. . . 20 chapters in before giving it up.
I’m worried that my brother is too gentle (2023), 6/10
I reincarnated as Irene Weber, the younger sister of an aide who is suffering from overtime because of the prince who is in love and neglects his work. Irene, who was buried in work before the reincarnation and died of overwork, intends to protect her beloved brother from such a terrible thing. No overtime! No call after work! Evil boss, go away! Work less and earn more, brother! To the end, Irene tries to separate the prince from her brother. A method to win by knowing your enemy and knowing yourself. Irene scraps a little record without leaving any details, of the Prince whose face she doesn’t even know about, for the future. Somehow, her brother’s face, looking at such Irene, is dark…… “Brother, if you’re meeting the Crown Prince today, I’ll go with…..” “Absolutely not.” ‘Do you want to meet him alone so much?’ *** “Before that, Benjamin Weber, when can I meet your sister?” “Not for the rest of your life.” The most affectionate brother and sister of the continent. Will the day come when these two siblings can resolve their growing misunderstanding?
Synopsis via Arenascan
I don’t remember this story too much. . . that isn’t a good sign. But I did like the story fine and wasn’t insulted by it.
Mistaken for a Wicked Woman! (2024), 7/10
Iris Sabrina sets out from home to the capital to fulfill her dream of becoming a knight. However, her journey takes an unexpected turn when she’s mistaken for her twin sister—whom she never knew existed—Arke Bright, a notorious villainess who’s been missing for months. As Iris struggles to navigate life in the capital and prove she’s not her sister, she meets a family she never knew she had and a handsome prince who helps her unravel the truth behind her sister’s dark past.
Synopsis via Comix
I’m still waiting for this story to finish, but I’ve liked it so far! There are no isekaied ladies, villainesses, or the like. Instead, you have a regular woman learning about her family and being a true boss, fighting off stupid people in society. Like the others, I’m still following the story, so we’ll see if my score goes up or down in the future.
Movies
Shrek (2001), 8/10
When a green ogre named Shrek discovers his swamp has been ‘swamped’ with all sorts of fairytale creatures by the scheming Lord Farquaad, Shrek sets out with a very loud donkey by his side to ‘persuade’ Farquaad to give Shrek his swamp back. Instead, a deal is made. Farquaad, who wants to become the King, sends Shrek to rescue Princess Fiona, who is awaiting her true love in a tower guarded by a fire-breathing dragon. But once they head back with Fiona, it starts to become apparent that not only does Shrek, an ugly ogre, begin to fall in love with the lovely princess, but Fiona is also hiding a huge secret.
Synopsis via IMBD from Film_Fan
I think it is absolutely hilarious how my students love this movie. It is fun to quote and has some of the best memes ever, but this isn’t my favorite movie in the franchise. I like Shrek 2 and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish more.
Megamind (2010), 9/10
After super-villain Megamind (Ferrell) kills his good-guy nemesis, Metro Man (Pitt), he becomes bored since there is no one left to fight. He creates a new foe, Titan (Hill), who, instead of using his powers for good, sets out to destroy the world, positioning Megamind to save the day for the first time in his life.
Synopsis via IMDb Editors
I still think this is one of the best movies DreamWorks has ever made! It is absolutely hilarious and has a non-traditional protagonist that truly changes by the end of the movie. I quote this film all the time and will probably watch it again in the near future.
Thumbelina (1994), Quality 6/10, Enjoyment 9/10
A girl no bigger than her mother’s thumb feels all alone in the world knowing she is the only person her size. Her wish for a companion at last comes true when the Prince of the fairies arrives at her window sill. However, the naive Thumbelina’s life goes downward from there when a toad kidnaps her. While she tries to find a way home, she begins to grow up and learns about hope with the help of the friends she always wanted.
Synopsis via IMBD from Max Vaughn
This is not the best movie. The story is all over the place, and the character’s motivations make no sense! (Thumbelina get on the bird and go home!) But I have such happy memories watching this movie. I have basically all the songs memorized and can quote this film top to bottom. It is a guilty pleasure I will show my kids someday with no shame!
Howl’s Moving Castle (2004), 10/10
That jumbled piece of architecture, that cacophony of hissing steam and creaking joints, with smoke billowing from it as it moves on its own… That castle is home to the magnificent wizard Howl, infamous for both his magical prowess and for being a womanizer—or so the rumor goes in Sophie Hatter’s small town. Sophie, as the plain daughter of a hatmaker, does not expect much from her future and is content with working hard in the shop.
However, Sophie’s simple life takes a turn for the exciting when she is ensnared in a disturbing situation, and the mysterious wizard appears to rescue her. Unfortunately, this encounter, brief as it may be, spurs the vain and vengeful Witch of the Waste—in a fit of jealousy caused by a past discord with Howl—to put a curse on the maiden, turning her into an old woman.
In an endeavor to return to normal, Sophie must accompany Howl and a myriad of eccentric companions—ranging from a powerful fire demon to a hopping scarecrow—in his living castle, on a dangerous adventure as a raging war tears their kingdom apart.
Synopsis via Myanimelist
What more can I say? I am still in love with this movie and have talked about it to death. If you are interested in my review, please give it a look!
Shows
The Clone Wars Season 1 (2008), 7/10
This show chronicles the events that took place between Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002) and Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005). It follows the wartime days of Anakin Skywalker (Matt Lanter), Obi-wan Kenobi (James Arnold Taylor), and Yoda (Tom Kane). The show also brings new characters to the forefront of Star Wars canon, including Anakin’s apprentice Ahsoka Tano (Ashley Eckstein) and Captain Rex (Dee Bradley Baker).
Synopsis via IMBD from Johnny
Season 1 is not the best, but I KNOW this show gets better as Lucas and Feloni were given more money and time to actually write the story. I’ll update this score as I get farther into the show.
Koikimo (2021), 6/10
People fall in love in the most mysterious of ways. This statement seems to be especially true for the affluent genius playboy Ryou Amakusa. When he nearly falls off the stairs one rainy morning, a girl named Ichika Arima saves him. As if by fate, Ryou encounters Ichika again later that night; she happens to be the best friend of his little sister, Rio.
Wanting to “thank” her, Ryou attempts to woo Ichika by employing his usual flirtatious tactics only to be immediately shot down, his target creeped out by his behavior. Rather than being discouraged, Ryou instead becomes more enthralled by her, and he begins to do everything he can to steal Ichika’s heart despite receiving disgusted reactions each time. However, as time passes by, will Ichika remain repulsed by Ryou’s creepy yet dedicated advances?
Synopsis via Myanimelist
I sometimes go back and watch this show. Why? I don’t know. It isn’t that great, and the romance is super cringy. But it is a fascinating case study in human behavior.
Hina Matsuri (2018), 7/10
While reveling in the successful clinching of a prized vase for his collection, Yoshifumi Nitta, a yakuza member, is rudely interrupted when a large, peculiar capsule suddenly materializes and falls on his head. He opens the capsule to reveal a young, blue-haired girl, who doesn’t divulge anything about herself but her name—Hina—and the fact that she possesses immense powers. As if things couldn’t get any worse, she loses control and unleashes an explosion if her powers remain unused. Faced with no other choice, Nitta finds himself becoming her caregiver.
Synopsis via Myanimelist
I dropped this show because it really wasn’t my thing. The humor reminded me of Nichojou and Arakawa Under the Bridge. I dropped those shows too, because I couldn’t get into them. I don’t do well with non-linear stories with off-kilter humor.
Restaurant to Another World (2017), 8/10
Western Restaurant Nekoya is a popular eatery located on a street corner in a Tokyo shopping district. Serving both traditional Japanese fare as well as Western dishes, this eating establishment is popular among Tokyo’s residents. But this seemingly ordinary restaurant is also popular with another type of clientele…
While the restaurant is thought to be closed on Saturdays, the truth is that on this special day each week, its doors are instead opened to the inhabitants of other worlds. From dragons and elves to fairies and mages, this restaurant has no shortage of strange customers. Nevertheless, the enigmatic chef known only as “Master” will be waiting to serve up their favorite dishes with a kind smile and keep them coming back for many more Saturdays to come.
Synopsis via Myanimelist
This is a comfort show. I want to go to this restaurant and eat the food SOOOO bad. I don’t think it does anything fantastic, but it’s fun to come back to when I need to watch something and chill.
Thanks for reading! I’ll keep coming out with posts throughout the next few weeks.
From the Perspective of an Old Soul 