FALLING AS THE LEAVES

By Sierra Hemingway

As the leaves of autumn change colour and become weak

I too loose my strength

I get turned around and confused; I get lost in the chaotic crowd around me

Cold, I shrivel up to stay warm, your warmth will protect me

The hope of knowing you are near keeps me awake and safe

It’s hard to not let go

But it’s not my time yet

Its not cold enough

I can make it through, I know you are near

I know I can come when it is time, I know you will hold me dear

You will never let me fall to be trampled and uncared for

You catch me and keep me safe, your vibrance and care will be there

No worry or fear will consume me ever again

You would not allow it

You’re steady and strong and when your arms wrap tightly around

My brokenness and frailty will be made new and whole

I have let go of those in the past who grew only to hold me back

I’m coming now, I have lost my colour, it’s cold enough

I can fall into your embrace

Only, will you be there to catch me?

Now, what made “Buy Canadian” strong enough that its impacts continue to be felt over a year later? This movement has many characteristics of a successful boycott; one of the most prominent being the mass public awareness and participation. Alternatives, shopping tips, and encouragement to join the movement were widespread across social media and in-store displays, signage, and clearly highlighted product labeling. As much as Donald Trump put the tariffs in place to try and hurt Canada, his inability to stop calling our Prime Ministers “governors” and shut up about annexing Canada were constant reminders to Canadians of what they were fighting for. Another key success factor was that there was a common value that almost all Canadians believe in at the heart of it – a love for their country. The movement was framed not only as a way to fight back against the United States and Trump’s tariffs, but as a way to protect our sovereignty and everything Canada stands for.

In conclusion, I’m happy to say that my expectations for the “Buy Canadian” movement were proven false, and I’m glad to know I’m not the only one still buying Canadian when I can. It’ll be interesting to see if any success can be sustained in the coming years. For now, Canadians have once again done an incredible job of proving that while we’re nice, we’re not afraid to put our elbows up and our money where our mouths are.

WHAT IS CHRISTIANITY?

By Sierra Hemingway

In the past few weeks, I have noticed that when I tell people I am a Christian they are not always understanding what I mean or they interpret the word differently than what I believe to be true for myself. So, after doing some research I was intrigued by this idea of what Christianity meansto me and others. I have been hearing the terms ‘Catholic’ and ‘Christian’ being intertwined very

often, as if they mean the same thing. I was confused with this because I am a Christian, but I amnot Catholic. I learned that Catholic is considered a type of Christianity, that it is one of 6branches of what would be considered ‘Christianity’. The other 5 branches are, EasternOrthodoxy, Oriental Orthodoxy, Church of the East, Protestantism, and Restorationism. Undersome of those branches there are even more branches. For example, Lutheranism, Reformed,Anglican, Baptist, Methodism, Pentecostalism and Anabaptist are all different beliefs under

Protestantism. Now, you may be wondering, Sierra why does this matter? And that is a fairquestion, you may not care about the types of beliefs in Christianity, but I must tell you,Christianity is not the only belief that has many branches connected to it. There are many religions in the world, and we are often told to learn about some, but not others. I think its actually very important when considering our own cultures to think about and learn about others

as well. To learn about some of these different beliefs, I want to encourage you to talk to your friends,family, and maybe even a stranger. Ask them what they believe in and why. However, this can be a heated and controversial topic so if you are going to, please go into the conversation with respect and kindness. We are lucky to live in a free country. We all have a right to be heard, every single one of us, no matter gender, race or religion.

The Art of Quiet - A Poem by Blessing Onashile

A skill simple in words,
complex to master.

On the floor beside your bed,
eyes wide open,
hearing the disobedient rhythm of your own heart
loud beats, like it has ADHD

and refuses a steady pace

The uneasy sound of your breath.
Anxiety evaporating in solitude.
The sympathetic nervous system retiring for the day.

No fight.
No flight.
Just the glory of absolute existence.

Sensing your feet without moving them.
A stillness settling over the river

that flows within you.

No music.
No voices.
No distractions.

Just you,

Fragile, present, human
Yet the most important element on earth.

A soft reminder 

Horoscope for Valentine’s Day Weekend

Aries

Don’t forget to make plans for the day, and try to make it up through intimate words and sexual gestures. Take this time to reflect on your partner’s wants and needs, and redirect your ambition towards quality time together. If single, redirect that ambition inward into self-care.

Taurus

Make your dinner reservations in advance. Do not, I repeat, do not leave it to the day before. Ask for your partner’s input, but don’t hand off the responsibility of planning. If single, take time to build an ambience in your own space to enjoy the night, and perhaps indulge in a glass of wine or two.

Gemini

Use protection.

Cancer

Don’t allow the expectations of the day to take away from how you enjoy spending quality time with your partner, friends or any other loved ones you may choose to spend the day with. Use any time you may have to instead enjoy mutual hobbies and interests together.

Leo

Spend time in nature, whether by yourself or with a partner. Take time to think in silence.

Virgo

Use this opportunity as a way to break away from old routines and be adventurous, whether with your partner (whilst still respecting boundaries and asking for consent) or by yourself. Look into places you’ve been meaning to go to, or try something entirely out of your comfort zone.

Libra

Don’t be embarrassed to be receiving attention. Enjoy receiving compliments, and don’t be shy about giving them either. Don’t feel guilty about splurging on lingerie, whether you’re gifting or getting. Use this time for rest and relaxation as you need it.

Scorpio

Don’t react negatively to your partner’s expectations of you at this time, regardless of whether you find this time meaningful or not. Rather, focus on making this day enjoyable for both of you, and prioritize quality time and words of affirmation over giving gifts.

Sagittarius

Don’t be mean.

Capricorn

Seriously, don’t be mean. Just don’t be a jerk, okay? It’s corny, but that’s no reason to be a downer. Seriously. Don’t.

Aquarius

Use your creativity to surprise your partner! Come up with a unique date night you might not have otherwise taken the time to come up with, and let your thoughtfulness shine through! If you’re spending the day with another loved one, spend time working on a project together, whether it be cooking or crafts.

Pisces

Go with the flow on this one! Opportunities will keep presenting themselves, whether from your partner or from around you. Keep a nice outfit on hand and see where your mood takes you.

Storybook Lives Part 5: Kiera

A Short Story in Segments by Sierra Hemingway

I wonder if he even remembers me. I doubt it. It’s not like he ever acknowledged my

existence anyway. But it does not matter. Not when I remember his eyes, how they warm up the

room when he smiles. Or how he is so sweet and kind, even though he has never talked to…

“Hey Kie! Hey! Wait up!”

“Oh, hey Sam. What’s up?” …and why do you need to bother me every Thursday?

“I was wondering if you were doing anything tonight. I… I wanted to know if...”

“Sam, I’m sorry but I can’t tonight, I have to study.” I know it’s not fair shutting Sam down, so often. He does not deserve it. I just really don’t have time to hang out with him, especially this weekend. I have a chemistry test next Monday, biology on Thursday, and I have to read 3 more chapters of The Lord of the Flies. Ugh, stupid boys on an island.

“Okay. Would you want to study together?” How can I tell him that if I brought him home, my parents would go crazy? They would think Sam is more than a friend, and go on and on about how amazing he is and how we would make a great couple. They would be so glad that I finally moved on from…

“Ahhh! Oof! Sorry!”

“Oh, shut up, and get off me! You idiot! You blind, no-good idiot!” Ouch! Ow, ow, ow, my ankle, and ribs! Who is this idiot that just ran into me!?! I can’t see who, but their elbow is stabbing my ribs, and I think I twisted my ankle when I fell. Ugh! Why don’t people look where they’re going?

“I am so sorry, Kiera.” Turning away from her so she wouldn’t worry, he whispered to Sam, “Go get a teacher, there’s some blood on her head and her ankle is swelling!”

Who… who was that? I recognize the voice, but couldn’t pinpoint who this monster was on me. But maybe… I mean would they help me? Sam, where did Sam go?

Turning back to Kiera, with worry in his voice: “Kiera, are you ok? Kiera, can you hear me? Please, just show me you can hear me.”

“Yes, I can hear you, but who…?” Oh crap! It was him! It was James freaking Black! Okay

Kiera, you’re okay, just breathe, and get up as fast as possible and hide. You can do this, just get

up.

“Kiera, it’s James. Can you get up?” he said, reaching his hand out to help her up, but she

just stared blankly at the ceiling.

“James? Okay, I can’t get up. It… it hurts.” Shut up Kiera! You sound like a pathetic, weak,

BABY! He does not care that you can not get up, that you are hurt! It is not his problem.

“Here, I got you! Let me just… Where is Sam with a teacher?” James said, as he scooped

up Kiera from the floor. “Is it okay if I just take you to the nurse? What all hurts? It’s okay, I got you, just breathe.”

“My head, ankle, and… and…”

“Kiera! Kiera, no, no, no, no! Wake up!”

Shoot! She must wake up! I never told her how I felt! What if... what if, I will never be able to?

Love in Spring: A Poem

By Blessing Onashile

I could still picture that very day

like déjà vu

A memory I would never permit to fade

An evening filled with fire 

softened as sunset

Gods’ masterpiece

serving as the perfect backdrop

The guitar strings spoke first 

The soft keys of the piano answered gently

Each note familiar

Each pause intentional

Just as I had once, casually,

told you my favourite song.

Pink cherry blossoms rained their petals,

gracing your surprise

as though you had bribed God Himself

to witness it.

The wind, calm and soft

ad-libbed your words,

Sweetening the moment

the way honey compliments milk 

Nature was undeniably in support.

Birds chirped their approval,

Cheering like an audience 

that heard you rehearse

countless times

I walked towards you 

Replaying every word you kept

Every memory leading

to this moment

Time held its breath 

in humble adoration 

I was living inside a dream

one I had repeated more than twice

Till my reality could embrace it.

Then a hug, warm

arms wrapping like a promise

of home being kept.

Holding hands

like it was the best award

we had ever received,

confident

in our beautiful, imperfect love.

I stared into the depth of your eyes

As your lips gave voice

To words your heart had already decided

Words my heart could burst 

from the joy of holding

And of course,

I said yes.

P.S.

Wake up! 

Back to midterm, guys.

Academic weaponing continues!

Fun Ideas for You and the Gals

By Janine Campbell

Valentine’s Day often steals the spotlight with hearts, chocolates, and roses, but what about the friends who are there through thick and thin? Enter Galentine’s Day! It’s the perfect excuse to celebrate the incredible friendships that make life brighter. Whether you’re in a dorm, at home, or just want to do something special with your besties, here are some easy and fun ways to make this February 14th all about friendship.

1. Host a Mini Brunch or Dessert Party
You don’t need a fancy restaurant, your kitchen (or dorm common room) will do! Whip up some pancakes, cupcakes, or even order takeout and decorate the table with little touches like flowers or handwritten notes. Bonus points for a playlist of your friend’s favourite songs.

2. DIY Crafting Session
Get creative together! Making friendship bracelets, decorating mugs, or even crafting vision boards can be so fun! And you’ll have keepsakes to remember the day.

3. Movie or Show Marathon
Pick a lineup of feel-good movies or binge-watch a TV series that everyone loves. Don’t forget the popcorn, snacks, and cozy blankets!

4. Spa Night at Home
Treat your friends to a relaxing night with face masks, nail painting, and maybe even some DIY aromatherapy. It’s low-key, fun, and a great way to unwind together.

5. Write “Love”  Letters
Sometimes, the best gift is simply expressing what your friends mean to you. Grab some paper, write heartfelt letters and then exchange them. You might be surprised at how much it means to everyone.

Galentine’s Day is really about celebrating connection, laughter, and support. It’s these little moments that make friendships feel like family. So gather your friends, plan something small or big, and make February 14th a day to remember. After all, love comes in many forms, and friendship is one of the sweetest.

The Seven Worst Movies in Cinema History

By Peter Odeyemi, Junior Reporter

Some films stay with you for a lifetime, with touches of nostalgia from the good production and the lessons we learnt from them; others drop so hard they stick in your memory for all the wrong reasons and make you wonder why you wasted 75 minutes of your life on a flop piece of work. Come with me to analyze the worst movies I've watched. (P.S.: The last paragraph is critical!)

1. Midsommar: I watched this movie recently because of the hype it's gotten all over TikTok in the past year, and it was absolutely HORRIBLE and totally undeserving of its high level of critical acclaim. It started off strong with a good insight into the main character, Dani, but later it was just a bunch of gruesome scenes and totally random clip-ins that made absolutely no sense at all. I was trying so hard to piece it all together. There was very little explanation of the cult's history and traditions, and also very poor dialogue between the characters. There's also very little ambiguity in people's intentions or motivations, meaning that the entire course of events within the story feels cut and dry from the start. It felt like there were missing scenes, which is the only way I could try to explain the plot holes. For a “horror” movie, this was a huge disappointment in general. A NO from me and a horrible and disappointing watch.

1. Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey: The first mistake was making a kids' movie a horror parody years after its original release; totally uncalled for. Nothing is good. The acting, the writing, the plot, the complete and utter lack of even so much as an ATTEMPT at character development, was a complete mess. Everyone involved should just quit the movie industry. I'm not even gonna talk about the terrible acting, the bad editing and the lazy, boring plot.

1. Time Cut: Don’t get me started on this one. The most predictable ending ever, underdeveloped characters, and the frail dialogue just cut it out for me. Going back in time, you'd hope for a nostalgic feel to the setting or some subtle references to the time you’re back to - not in this movie, which just made it a discouraging watch. It was more or less like a teenage drama spinoff of  “Timeline”. The only 4 deaths in the entire movie are almost off screen deaths, the "chase" scenes are neither tense nor thrilling, the "big reveal" of the killer isn't surprising and it makes no sense at all, the killer's motives for becoming a killer is genuinely one of the stupidest I've ever heard, and the ending left me wishing I could also go back in time to “unwatch” it.

1. The Dark Tower: This movie had a lot of potential, good casting, and a fairly good idea, but a very poor execution. It felt like filming started before the script and ending were done. For a book-to-movie adaptation, I expected more from the movie. Idris Elba as Roland and Matthew McConaughey as the Man in Black were wonderful casting choices, but even the combined star power couldn’t overcome a script that felt like it had commitment issues. And not to mention the bad lighting throughout the movie and the build-up to almost nothing.

1. Tomorrowland: Despite the hype surrounding this movie, it really fell short of my expectations. They had a fairly good casting, beautiful sets and a good fantasy/sci-fi setup, but the story felt so detached, it lacked the moral educational value of the old Disney stories. The storyline also felt patched-up, almost like they were trying to squeeze in a lot of plotlines into one story, and in return, you get a mess. About an hour into watching the movie, nothing had really happened, and the story plot was still unclear. As a meticulous sci-fi watcher who focuses on storyline, script writing, and cinematography, this was a huge miss by the producers.

1. Everything Everywhere All at Once: Worst movie I've seen, after Midsommar. It was overwhelming, too much going on at once. It took me three days to finish up this movie because I kept on sleeping off each time I opened up my iPad to watch it. The acting by the main cast was so horrible. It was not even visually appealing, with countless and tiresome cuts all over the place, which just made it increasingly depressing. It's too far-fetched even from an artistic point of view. It was basically a product of the director’s random thoughts, badly edited, with way overstretched scenes and ideas which repeat throughout the film over and over at random intervals.

1. Spaceman: I'm sorry, I just had to add this one onto the list cause ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!! The film did a good job expressing the emotions and inner thoughts of loneliness and despair of our main character, but how do you flop a good movie one hour in? Let's go ahead and ask the producers of this movie. Really just a bunch of slow motion, slow dialogue, monotone deliveries. The English-speaking Alien spider, too?? Wasn’t there any other possible design to give it? At some point, I was really hoping he was hallucinating the entire thing, because what other explanation could possibly explain the mess that was on my screen?

The list goes on and on. I’m writing this in hopes that the directors of these movies read it and have a rethink on their “creative” skills for future movies they have in the works, so they don’t make the same mistakes. Perhaps take some lessons from Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein. Love and Light.

15 Inspirational Quotes for a New Year

Compiled by Sierra Hemingway, Junior Reporter

1. "The best way to predict your future is to create it." Abraham Lincoln

2. "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Eleanor Roosevelt

3.  "Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life." Steve Jobs 

4.  "The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step."  Lao Tzu

5.  "If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door." Milton Berle

6.  "It always seems impossible until it's done." Nelson Mandela 

7.  "You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." A. A. Milne

8.  "Believe you can and you're halfway there." Theodore Roosevelt

9.  "The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you." B. B. King

10.  “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” Winston Churchill

11. “There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind.” Mister Rogers 

12.  “Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today.” Will Rogers

13. “You could travel with the sheep, follow everybody else’s stuff, but then you’re not you. I guess if I want to say anything it’s ‘Be you.’ Be true to you, and that should make the ride a little more interesting.” Whoopi Goldberg

14. “Success is not the absence of failure; it’s the persistence through failure.” Aisha Tyler

15.  "You are totally unique. Just like everyone else.” Margaret Mead

To Say How I Love You - A Poem by Sierra Hemingway

Oh, if I could say how I love you

to everyone I meet. To try to

express that you are the one I love,

but here, you are all but visible, no one is above

you and I

your laugh, smile and voice, only exist within me here.

How can anyone believe that I am your dear,

that I am who call sweetheart and you are

whom I call my love, as my heart is open and bare

to you, only

I’m no Juliet, and yet, you are my Romeo

Though no one may ever know,

How sweet you are to love me so far apart,

But you do, and even though it’s not easy,

You love me every day, like it’s a new start

Unawakened Dream - A Poem by Sierra Hemingway

Do you ever feel like the world you once knew 

Has slipped out of your grasp?

Like all the memories you made

Were just a dream

Do you ever feel like you’re in someone else’s story?

Like you’re watching a movie

But you’re in the movie

There's nothing you can do but watch

It’s not forgotten,

The past is still there, I know it happened

But there’s a feeling

Like it was all a dream

Will I ever wake up

Will the past ever feel real

Will I ever really move on

Or will I always be stuck

With only feelings and dreams

Review of The Beggar Student by Osamu Dazai

By Noah Monk, Junior Reporter

Osamu Dazai’s The Beggar Student is a short novella that highlights the often harsh inner monologues and emotions we feel in our everyday lives.

The story focuses on the perspective and experiences of a writer in his mid-thirties that lives on the brink of poverty, supporting himself through publishing stories in magazines. He soon finds himself in a confrontation with a young student whose arrogance challenges him and continually highlights the protagonist’s insecurities and flaws. In addition, the story reveals the protagonist's attempts to appear as a wiser, more dignified person to the youths, but ultimate failure to do so because of his insecurities.

Dazai’s protagonist remains nameless for a majority of the book, allowing the reader to blend in with the inner dialogues of the protagonist. In these dialogues, we see the protagonist picking apart everything about his writing and his character like a murder of crows and attempting to hide his weaknesses from the young student he rescues from drowning. Dazai effectively captures the inner dialogues reflecting the personal overcritical thoughts we have within ourselves, but also the outward attempts to hide our embarrassing flaws with almost prideful or dignified actions - something that is seldom portrayed with accuracy in literature.

My favourite aspect of this novella is that the author captures the overcritical inner monologue that many people like myself feel but try to keep hidden. Dazai’s The Beggar Student embodies the “you are your own worst enemy” thoughts so well that it does not feel softened for the sake of a good story. In other words, Dazai executes an excellent portrayal of the embarrassment and self-consciousness that often arises when we are unsettled as the student is in his interactions with the protagonist throughout the novella.

At times, however, there were fourth wall breaks in the story where the author would deliberately speak to the reader, which I felt interrupted the flow of the story and felt out of place. This was to the point where it left me wondering why they needed to be in the story at all. These meta-dialogue injections into the book may stylistically represent Dazai’s writing, but I think that given the blending introspective dialogues, these fourth wall breaks unnecessarily disrupt the flow of the novella.

I would recommend this novella to readers who enjoy psychological and introspective fiction that reveals the subtle flaws in people's characters that they often suppress whenever they become aware of them. The rating I would give this book is a four out of six, as I do not consider this book great like a world-changing work you find with Brave New World or Nineteen Eighty-Four. Additionally, I feel that even if you are looking for a good book and not a great book, The Beggar Student will not satisfy the good book requirement. I would say this book is a casual read, something you read to pass the time or when you want to read for relaxation, not something to seek out for an amazing story.

3 SECOND SEMESTER CLICHES

By Sierra Hemingway, Junior Reporter

1. “New year, new me” 

When you’re done reflecting on the past year and you start feeling like you need a change in your life after the clock turns midnight on New Years Eve, this is a thought, a statement that goes through millions of people's minds. It often can bring on a new hair cut or colour, maybe a new wardrobe, or even a new attitude for the coming year.

1. “The real work begins now”

Ahhhh, the first semester is over and it was easy peasy… right? Hehe, wrong! (At least for me). The new year brings on a new semester for university students, which can be nerve racking and scary. But we all know that our school work really matters, and even though it mattered last semester it feels much more important to do well before moving on to the next year.

1. “The tassel is worth the hassle”

Graduation, the certificate we gain, even though it is just a piece of paper, means we have accomplished something big in our lives. Graduation is worth all the hard work, long days and missed parties. Or is it?

The Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide

By Gabrielle Uwa, Junior Reporter

This Christmas does not have to repeat last year, when you were unsure what to ask for and ended up giving and receiving gifts that missed the mark, or nothing at all. To make the 2025 festive season smoother and more enjoyable, here is a curated list of thoughtful ideas, designed to guide you toward practical, timeless, and trending options. Use this list to simplify your planning, avoid stress, and choose gifts that feel intentional, useful, and genuinely appreciated.

Clothing & Accessories

• Uggs (Tasmans, Classic Ultra Mini, Lowmel Boot)

• Coach Handbag – Nolita 19, Teri, Brooklyn Bag, Gallery Tote (great for school!)

• Coach Wallet

• Jacket (Lululemon Define Jacket, Aritzia Super Puff, or The North Face Puffer Jacket)

• Alo Unisex ¼-Zip Pullover

• Essentials Hoodie

• White Fox Sweat Set

• Skims Tops

• Duffel Bag (Nike, Adidas, or Puma)

• Nike Crew Socks

• Jewellery (any style you like!)

• Vero Moda Reverse Coat Women’s

Shoes

• New Balance 530s

• New Balance 550s

• Adidas Sambas

Beauty & Perfume

• Burberry Her Eau de Parfum

• Carolina Herrera Good Girl Blush Elixir

• Summer Fridays Lip Balm

• Rhode Peptide Lip Tint (with matching case)

• Victoria’s Secret Pyjama Set

• Victoria’s Secret Bath Robe

• Hair Extensions

• J’adore Dior Perfume

• Dior Sauvage Perfume

• O.P.I. Press-On Nail Sets

• Olaplex Hair Value Sets

• Versace Eros Parfum for Men

Hair Tools

• Revlon Dryer Brush

• Babybliss Pro Flat Iron

• Heatless Curlers

• Philips Multigroom Razor

Tech

• Casetify Phone Case

• Wireless Headphones

• Airpods Case

• Beats Studio Pro

• Apple AirPods (4th Gen)

• Apple Wired EarPods

• Apple Watch

• New iPhone

• New iPad

• MacBook

• Karaoke Machine

• Amazon Echo Dot

• JBL Portable Speaker

• TV for their bedroom

• AirTags

• Camera (Canon G7X, Kodak Pixpro FZ55, or Sony ZV1F)

• Kindle

• Portable Charger

• Canon Ivy 2 Mini Photo Printer

Lifestyle & Home

• Vanity Mirror with Lights (and desk)

• LED Lights

• Mini Fridge

• Wellness Journal

• Daily Planner

• Weighted Blanket

• Bedding Set (Comforter/Duvet)

• Air Purifier

• Jellycats

• Candle Warmer

• Nespresso Machine

• Stanley 40oz Quencher

• Massage Gun

• Air Fryer

• At-Home Treadmill or Pilates Board

 And When in Doubt…

• Gift Cards (always clutch!)

• Concert Tickets to their fave artists

• Favourite Candy

• Basic Tops

How to Pick Out a Christmas Gift

By Sierra Hemingway, Junior Reporter

Have you ever struggled with finding the perfect gift for someone? I have also struggled with this, because I usually prefer giving a gift over money or gift cards. Those can be good ideas and be meaningful for some people, but others may feel as though those gifts indicate a lack of thought or care. So here are some tips and ideas to help you give the best gifts this Christmas for your friends, family and other loved ones.

The first thing you should think about is: who is the receiver of the gift? The “who” matters before anything else because their role in your life (friend, family, girlfriend/boyfriend, etc.) will help you to determine the other things you have to think about such as budget, amount of thought, and also how much they expect from you. For example, your mom knows you very well and may not expect a lot from you, but your girlfriend might like something chosen with care, love, thought, that may be a bit more pricey.

The next thing to consider is budget. Once you consider who you're giving the gift to, you can determine how much you would like to spend on them. Maybe your boyfriend would just like some baking rather than an object. It’s best to budget so that you have a plan in mind. Often having a budget will help you to not spend too much.

Now, with that person in mind, think about what they enjoy, their hobbies. Observing what they love talking about when they’re with you, or what they have complained about, can stir up some ideas. Maybe their phone charger doesn't work and they need a new one. Or maybe they complain about how much they dislike physics - and then you know not to give them a “I love physics” shirt. Anything you can think of about that person will help.

Out of all the things that person enjoys (art, music, science, baking, cooking, learning, esthetics, dance, cars, movies, colours, holidays, sports, etc.) choose one topic and think about what that topic consists of. This might be musical instruments, paper, pens, highlighters, hair products, makeup, paint brushes, or something else. Those are very broad categories, but now think a little deeper. For example, if my boyfriend loves playing guitar, what does he need or want for that hobby? Maybe a music stand, guitar pick, or music sheets? You may have to do some research on the topic, but often through listening to the other person, they will tell you what they want or need. People love talking about themselves (it’s true, I'm not being rude, it’s just a fact!) so ask them about themselves and you might discover what they would like for Christmas.

Now, if you feel like the gift should be more special than a generic music stand but you like the idea of doing something with guitar, for example, there are MANY MANY opportunities to personalize things online or in shops. You could get him a personalized guitar pick with his name, initials, or even a photo. You may have to order something online, so make sure you get it ordered in time to give the gift when you see them for Christmas!

I hope this guide helps you. Good luck this Christmas season on present finding, gift giving, exam taking, and family visits!

Book Review: Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro

By Noah Monk, Junior Reporter

Klara and the Sun is a story that is from the perspective of an android Artificial Friend (AF) named Klara who is observant, curious, and eager to understand the world. Klara is eventually bought to care for and accompany a sick girl named Josie. As readers, we learn alongside Klara what various emotions like grief, sadness, loneliness, and love are like in a difficult, futuristic society, but also from the perspective of someone who has never felt them before.

Kazuo's Klara and the Sun accurately portray a specific kind of loss: the kind that only appears when one feels they are going to lose something long before it vanishes. This sort of loss is a grief that is dependent on the helpless anticipation leading to the eventual loss. Kazuo captures the feelings of helplessness so well, you cannot help but blend with characters in the story, who are powerless to prevent the figurative dark storm clouds rolling over the hills. Even the sadness people feel in this novel is unique; it is a pre-emptive sadness, one where people are sad about something going to happen, rather than the sadness following a loss.

I would give this book a five out of six. Klara and the Sun is an emotionally draining book that evokes the emotions Kazuo intends. Based on this novel, the author is quite deserving of his Nobel Prize in Literature. When I started reading, I had a slight idea of what the story was about and I had already begun to prepare myself for a particular ending that the story suggests; however, Kazuo twisted the story in such a way that readers feel the anticipated emotions in an unexpected and tragic way.

I think the subtle nuance between pre-emptive sadness and the sadness of loss is what the author excels at doing the best in this story. For me, it is hard to say anything negative about this book as it is a good work of fiction; however, if I had to speak one weakness, I find the dialogue, especially Klara's dialogue, is not spectacular and feels synthetic. I also have mixed feelings about the novel not being quotable. A lot of the dialogue is not particularly flashy or memorable, like something you might see in Hamlet or Furies of Calderon, which makes it difficult to remember anything about the book except what certain scenes felt like. I think this is both a strength and weakness of the book.

Overall, I would only recommend this book to those who, in a sense, do not mind destroying themselves a little bit or are looking to understand the feelings leading up to a tragic event, like pre-emptive sadness. Klara and the Sun is a good example of what literature deserving of a Nobel Prize should be: emotionally taxing, with complex characters, and haunting storylines.

Poem: “Progress"

By Amie Moorehead

There has been a decline in the way I create.

It’s lackluster, foreboding

Like self-sabotage.

The air tastes different, feels like ash and tastes like iron.

If I could paint you my dread I would—

Or would you rather a robot do so instead?

But it is not only imagery, it pumps in my blood

The creation. The fear.

And I can spill blood.

There’s been a decline in the way I live.

I’ve defined myself by the ability to succeed.

Not whether I have or whether I haven’t 

But because I could with my own bare hands

I worked to live, 

Not lived to work

I worked to create

And lived to create

And my hands saw use.

Ten years ago, I looked at progress

And never saw a threat.

Every success we viewed revolutionary

Holding our heads up

Admiring the pedestal with tears of pride.

I always thought it special

How we so uniquely cried.

Now we’re ten years in the future,

Progress writes the papers

Progress assigns the grades

And we admire the progress, unable to clap

Because our hands can’t work

They’ve become limp as our minds and 

dead as our hearts.

And while our blood still pumps

The iron is stronger

Like designated chains in the dirt.

Ten years ago, I would’ve cared

Because I was human once.

We defined ourselves by the ability to succeed

But failed to define success.

If I’d known I would’ve cried

And used my hands to wipe my tears

Now I watch 

Without tears

Because emotion never mattered.

Spooky Night In: Movies & Shows

By Dante Lambe, Junior Reporter

October’s already close to its end, which means it’s time to binge some spooky movies and shows before Halloween hits! Finding the right movie or show can be draining and annoying, especially if you have no idea what to look for. So, here’s some recommendations I’ve compiled that are perfect for this time of year.

If you’re looking for lighthearted spooky, you’ll love Beetlejuice, Scooby Doo (live action & animated), Coraline, Corpse Bride, and Over the Garden Wall. But if you really want some frights, check out Talk to Me, The Haunting of Hill House, Smile 2, and Lights Out. And finally, my personal favourites: Red Riding Hood, Death Becomes Her, and Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit.

Whether you’re in the mood for bone-chilling horror, eerie suspense, or a little light-hearted fright, this Halloween season offers the perfect excuse to dim the lights, grab your favourite snacks, and let these spooky stories take over your screen. From timeless classics to fresh nightmares, there’s always something for everyone! So, enjoy your spooky night in, and have a happy Halloween!

Poem - No More Lies

By Sierra Hemingway

It’s a tragedy how many people believe lies
Lies they have been told by loved ones, friends, family, strangers, and themselves

I would give a statistic of how many people know what I am talking about
But my guess is that you do
My guess is that every single person, whether they admit it or not,
Knows and understands.

They know the feeling of not being able to be enough
They understand the fear of disappointing those specific people

And they feel the anger that comes with doing your best but not getting the marks, or not getting the job done well, or being told it’s just not enough

Less people will know and understand
The freedom of when you realize, truly realize

You are enough

The marks may come

The work will be done

And the lies people say

Are just that, lies

You are not a failure

You are not stupid

You are not unwanted

All you can do
Is try your best
Make mistakes, and learn from them

Stingy Jack and the Jack-o-Lantern

By Kaelyn Delaurier, Senior Reporter

Have you ever wondered why we carve pumpkins for Halloween night? Well, there is quite the extensive history behind this popular Halloween tradition. It all goes back to Ireland and the legend of Stingy Jack.

Stingy Jack was a drunkard, two-faced blacksmith who was known for deceit and manipulation. He was so selfish with such little empathy in his soul that he caught the attention of the devil.

The devil travelled to earth and intercepted Stingy Jack to take his soul. However, the ever-scheming man pleaded for one more drink before his death. The devil and Stingy Jack traversed to the nearest tavern and drank every ounce of alcohol there. When it came time to pay, Jack did not have the money for the drinks, and suggested the devil pay since he had unlimited magic. Agreeing, the devil turned into a coin. Instead of using this coin to pay, though, Jack trapped the devil in his pocket with a crucifix and only agreed to release him if the devil would let him live for another decade.

The deal was made. When the devil returned to take Jack’s soul ten years later, he asked the devil to pick him an apple from a tree, then trapped the devil in the tree by carving crucifixes into the bark. He only released the devil once he agreed Jack would not go to hell.

While Stingy Jack outsmarted the devil, he could not escape death. When he died, heaven refused him, so Jack went to go to hell. The devil refused him also, citing the deal they’d made earlier. The devil did grant Jack one final wish, giving him an ember from hell to light his way as he roamed earth for eternity. Stingy Jack found a turnip to carve a makeshift lantern for the ember, and since then he has roamed the Irish countryside. When locals saw him, they supposedly said “That’s just Jack o’ the lantern” which eventually turned into “Jack-o-lantern.”

Now, Halloween itself is based on the Celtic festival Samhain on November 1, where it was thought spirits could move freely on earth. When Catholics moved All Saints Day to November 1, Samhain was bumped to October 31, and its traditions – such as lighting a lantern carved out of a turnip to keep spirits, including Stingy Jack, away – moved with it.

The shift to pumpkin carving happened in the 1800s when Irish settlers popularized their tradition of carving turnips in the “New World,” where pumpkins were easy to grow and more visually appealing than turnips. Thus, pumpkins were favoured over turnips for these protective lanterns. They were given the name “Jack-o-lantern” for the Stingy Jack legend, and because many watchmen were called “Jack of the lantern” due to people often referring to men they didn’t know as “Jack” at the time.

Sources:

• Britannica “Why do we Carve Pumpkins at Halloween?”

• Historic Mysteries “The Legend of Stingy Jack.”

• History Hit “Why do we Carve Pumpkins for Halloween?”