“Symbiosis is the interaction or relationship between two species, usually where at least one species benefits. It is the foundation of the web of life, and the main logic behind biological conservation. This artwork aims to portray how biodiversity is essentially a concoction of species, from towering trees to tiny amphibians, working together (albeit unknowingly) for the common goal of self preservation.”
- Sitara Rishikesh, Grade 11 A
Building a Community Legacy
As active members of our school and society, we all share the responsibility of nurturing a sense of unity, belonging, and shared purpose. The strength of any community lies in its ability to care for, uplift, and grow together Through shared experiences, our students forge meaningful relationships, laying the foundation for a strong, vibrant community.
The recently held, Sarvajeet Diwas, exemplifies this spirit of community building, reminding us that everyone’s contributions are interconnected. Simple acts on the field - cheering for peers, and celebrating each other's effort - created a profound sense of belonging Respect and selflessness form the cornerstone of healthy relationships. By uplifting individuals, especially those in need, we strengthen the entire group True service lies in helping others without expecting anything in return, and this kindness creates lasting bonds. Acknowledging others’ needs, and understanding their context demonstrates genuine respect, leaving an incredible impact
EDITORIAL
The ethos of ‘All for One’ is not just about working together; it is about embracing a life rooted in mutual care, support, and respect Let us strive to build a community where everyone feels they belong, every effort is celebrated, and in the process, we grow stronger together
Shilpi Nagpal Head - Primary Years Programme
Thinking Outside the Comfort Zone: Cultivating New Relationships
For an adolescent, school is the most imperative site for social interaction and development. In finding our mini-communities however, we may find ourselves gravitating to comfortable, equalising settings In the TED Talk, ‘The Power of a Peer’ by Tyler Curtis, he discusses his experience engaging with a special education class in school. Having had limited interactions with these students, his role felt daunting, and this disconnect felt insurmountable. But, with time, effort, and an open-mind, he found that this interaction between the general-ed and special-ed students helped cultivate a bridge between the student body. Shy students became more willing to not only ask for aid but lend help to unfamiliar peers, conversations in hallways turned less superficial, stigmas between groups were slowly being broken, and Curtis felt his interpersonal skills grow His experience as a teaching assistant taught him the importance of such mutually-beneficial relationships, wherein peers could not only shape one and another’s outlook on a dreaded Monday, but also help garner life lessons, and create incredible, individual impact
In the case of Curtis’ school, it was the establishment of this engagement that helped catalyse the bridging of the gap between peers. However, initiatives that bring together groups may vary depending on the unique circumstances of the community Whether it involves starting a program catering to a community-specific problem, or volunteering in an existing initiative, the act of bringing people together is never easy; it involves taking a step outside one’s comfort zone. While this is something to naturally be apprehensive about, the results, as seen in Curtis’ anecdote, can bear unfathomable rewards
It Takes a Team - My Experience as a House Captain
Ever since I became a part of the Ganges house, I have idolized my house captains I considered them the sole representatives of my house, so much so that I credited every win and loss to them. Only after I took up the role myself did I realize how wrong I was.
The performance of a house is similar to a symphony played by an orchestra or a delicious pizza, where every individual instrument or
ingredient has its own unique contribution The final result would be impossible if a single component had to act alone, and it would not be as great in the absence of any one component Likewise, a house’s success is not a result of only the captain’s efforts, it depends on the contributions of every single member working as a team I witnessed this first hand during Sarvajeet Diwas 2024, where the invaluable participation of students and teachers was the key to uplifting our house
Taashvi Aggarwal, Grade 10A
Ganges House Captain - AY 2024-25
Action Speaks Louder
I was grateful for the help that students and teachers provided in coordination; I was fascinated by the ideas and proactiveness of students during the fundraiser; I was in awe of the fantastic performance of participants on the track We celebrated every win as a team, handled every loss with resilience, and we enjoyed the journey together. The extent of my contribution was simply in the form of coordination and encouragement The bonds we made and the work we did together helped me realize that a little support goes a long way. I learned that even though we can’t control the scoreboard, trusting our teammates is more than enough
Serving as the Fundraising Coordinator has been a truly rewarding experience I’ve witnessed the generosity, compassion, and enthusiasm of our school body. Our recent Sarvajeet Diwas was about more than raising funds - it strengthened our community. Collectively, the houses raised over ₹2 lakh, reflecting incredible teamwork and dedication The process of managing the stalls brought people together in unexpected ways Many stayed up the night before, baking and preparing as a team, while others formed new friendships while running the stalls. These shared efforts deepened our connections and house spirit. The funds raised will support the annual Parikrama sports day hosted by our school, giving them an opportunity to showcase their talents and experience the joy of sports Fundraising not only unites us as a community but also creates meaningful opportunities for others, nurturing inclusivity and empowerment. You can carry forward this spirit by contributing to future events and continuing to make a difference
Kaahinee Agarwal, Grade 11B
Fundraising Coordinator - AY 2024-25
My Experience
At Sarvajeet Diwas
This year, I had the opportunity to lead grades 1 to 3 for their Sarvajeet Diwas. I got to give instructions during their March past, pledged the oath, and gave the vote of thanks after the events were completed. Coming to my own Sarvajeet Diwas, I had a great time in our walk past, as I was the Band Major Even if I couldn’t flip or do tricks with the baton, I’m still proud of my effort. I also participated in torch bearing, which was a new, thrilling experience to be running with 11 others who were champions of their own grades It was an honour to run alongside them, and after my 100m event resulting in my personal best time I d f myself despite all nervousness. Until next year.
Shloka Nangineni, Grade 5A
Junior Vice Sports Captain -
AY 2024-25
An Overview: Sarvajeet Diwas ‘24
Sayuri Menon, Grade 10B
On the 20th of December, our school hosted the highly anticipated Sarvajeet Diwas. The day started with the walk past, where all the four houses marched around the track to the rhythm played by our brass band, their flags dancing in the air. This was followed by the lighting of the torch by some of the best athletes in our school. The lighting of the torch served as a symbol of our school values of grit, honour and grace.
After the houses moved to the tents, the events like the 100m and relay races, and the fundraisers took the centre stage. Events like the parents relay, the tug of war and obstacle race made the day memorable and interesting, keeping everyone's spirits high The fundraisers helped keep the spirit of giving flowing as the money was donated and also helped keep the spirits high by keeping the energy up, with food and drinks being sold
As the day came to an end, the leaderboard was announced, with Brahmaputra and Kaveri continuing in the 4th and 3rd place, Narmada winning 2nd place and Ganges bagging the 1st place. Over all, the day was unforgettable, highlighting our school's values, the spirit of giving, and of sportsmanship
Sarvajeet – A Unifying thread, A Collective Smile
Vihaan Agarwal, Grade 6D
From the fervent last-minute preparations, to the commencement of the event, the air was buzzing with excitement, anticipation and emotion The beauty lies in the fact that here everyone was competing not with others but with one’s own self. It was easy to witness the spirit of the sports when members across houses and grades congratulated each other’s performance, ignoring the boundaries and outcomes alike
The events were conceptualized around the idea that each member of the house has a role to contribute and were poised to make everyone believe in oneself. Whether the performance in events or winning the hearts of audience and alluring them to purchase from their house’s stalls, the undying spirit, the can-do attitude and the collaboration of teams, members and volunteers all was based on the foundation of collective win rather than individual win. More than a sports day, it was a memory, an experience and a connection that will stay with me forever
A Win-Win: Honouring the Spirit of Sarvajeet Diwas
Saanvi Singh, Grade 10B
In simple terms, a community can be defined as a group of people having something in common So, as a part of the Neev community is the only thing we share the fact that we’re all a part of the same school, or is it the values we uphold?
Our school hosts many community events to showcase the values that Neev stands for, Sarvajeet Diwas being one of them. It was on this Sarvajeet Diwas that I truly realized what being part of this community meant Encouragement came from everyone during tryouts or leading up to the event itself, regardless of whether or not I’d be competing against them. During team races such as the obstacle or relay, students made sure to motivate each other, do the best they could for their house, and really let team spirit shine through
At the end of the day, I knew that whether I’d win or lose, it really didn’t matter because I’d have people by my side to uplift me after my losses or celebrate my victories. To me, it was a day where I could test my capabilities, understand what exactly it meant to be a part of the Neev community, and enjoy myself. Sarvajeet Diwas truly lived up to its name: the day that everyone was a winner.
Victory and Camaraderie: An Unforgettable Experience
Rafael Daniel, Grade 10B
Sarvajeet Diwas 2024 was, without a doubt, the most memorable sports day I’ve experienced in my ten years at Neev While securing a gold medal in the 100-metre sprint (and a silver in the 800-metre sprint a few days prior) for my house was an exhilarating achievement, it was the collective spirit of the day that left a lasting impact on me The joy of cheering on my teammates and feeling the unity and camaraderie of our house was just as rewarding as any victory.
In a lighthearted moment, I fully embraced the role of the ultimate cheerleader. My classmate, Dhaani, painted my nails, put on makeup on my face, and gave me a neon pink wig, transforming into quite the sight The reactions I received ranging from amusement to confusion added an extra layer of humor to the final day of school in 2024, making it even more unforgettable.
On a more reflective note, this year has been one of the most fulfilling in terms of my sports performance, and I owe much of that to the unwavering support of my peers Their encouragement, as I pushed myself to succeed, made all the difference. This Sarvajeet Diwas will undoubtedly remain a highlight of my time at Neev.
Impression on Rani
Ki Vav
Ishaan Khandelwal, Grade 6C
After a long drive from the Modhera sun temple, we arrived at the Rani Ki Vav, where intricate carvings of deities appeared, their surfaces rough like wood. The air carried a delightful blend of nature and cool limestone, creating an earthy symphony around us I heard the names of the deities Vayu, Surya, and Agni before contacting Miss Smriti. We descended into the well, enveloped by strange familiarity as if we had returned to Bangalore. Miss Smriti enriched our visit with stories woven into the fabric of this stepwell, sharing tales of pieces removed from their rightful places and crumbled stones that whispered of centuries past, deepening our connection to the history that surrounded us
A Journey into our Past
Azad Rishikesh, Grade 6C
Endless Heaven
Manasvi Sharma, Grade 6D
I open my eyes to the sun, fading into orange, yellow, and red colors. I look up at the horizon, seeing nothing but white in the far distance. The salt crunches below my feet, mesmerizing me I breathe in the air, the salt stinging in my nose.
My friends' voices muffled around me. I kneel to touch the salt, breaking as I squeeze it in my hands
My heart skips a beat.
This truly was an enchanting experience.
This year, the learning journey for the sixth grade was Gujarat and despite visiting many new locations and having new experiences, there was one that stood out to me - visiting the Dholavira excavation site and museum This was because I found it incredibly interesting to see how the people of the past lived, and surprisingly, despite how old these settlements are, they are incredibly similar to our own modern housings. The inhabitants of Dholavira fixed hinged doors to the entrances of their houses, instead of having entrances which couldn't be blocked, and even had access to the most efficient plumbing system of the time, which would only be beaten by that of the Romans, more than 2000 years later It's amazing how much of an influence ancient cities like Dholavira are to our modern settlements, and led me to consider that perhaps the life of the Harappans is not too different from ours.
Reflecting on Jallianwala
Bagh
Arjun Jain, Grade 7C
Amritsar, April 13, 1919.
Ten minutes is all it took for a change in thousands of people’s lives.
Amritsar, December 8, 2024
Those 1,650 bullets, all those martyrs, they might not have known then but that changed the course of India and its freedom struggle. Stepping onto those grounds, the exact same place where so many unarmed, innocent lives were brutally shot, it almost felt like the Bagh was daring me, daring me to go deeper into its clutches and relive the struggle that Mother India and its people had to go through to give me and so many others the lives we live today The marks on the walls, the skulls in the well that hundreds jumped into hoping for the bleak chance that they would make it out of there alive. This experience gave me a newfound respect towards the freedom, security and sovereignty I have today.
Fond Memories from Amritsar: Local Punjabi Dhaba
Nimay Agarwal, Grade 7B
After a long walk in the Golden Temple, being pushed into long lines with hundreds of people, after a long session and walk about the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, I was starving. The scent of ghee, aloo and curd caught my nose Sitting down in a local Punjabi Dhaba, we were waiting for the kulcha's to arrive As the crispy, potato filled paratha arrived on my plate, I couldn't help but rush to dip a bite into the channa and raita Starting to chew the kulcha the flavours exploded in my mouth leaving me with immense joy and happiness But then I heard my teacher's voice calling us, saying we have to leave I sadly picked up my bag and stood in line. The taste of the local Amritsari kulcha is what resonates with me and still makes my mouth water till today.
The Golden Temple
Ishaan Shivam, Grade 7B
This year, we 7th grade to Amritsar and Dhara
We learned about the Indian struggle for freedom, Sikhism, the Dalai Lama's Journey from Tibet to India and much more However, there was one thing that stayed with me - my experience of langar and seva at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
Seva is a practice where people from all socio-economic backgrounds of the community work together for langar - to make and serve food to anyone who sits down. Langar is served free to everyone, no matter their status, religion or beliefs We engaged with these at the Golden Temple, and before, I wondered why people would spend their time on this But, I understood later, that helping others makes you feel something that nothing else can Then I understood the Sikh beliefs of selfless service, and treating everybody equally
This community practice allows for thousands of people to eat food everyday It's a clear example of the idea of communal impact in real life. All those people making roti, dal, chole, kheer and chai are doing it for every single person who comes in to eat, no questions asked.
Community
Naman Shastri, Grade
8A
“We are one”
Something fairly tough to say honestly
In a community as diverse in culture, In language, In opinion,
As the one being described to me
And yet, it had been said Not by one, not by two
Or even a hundred
A community uniting not against a common enemy
But for the betterment of each other's lives
A simple act, done a thousand times
Becomes a grand act
Symbolic of the spirit and connection required To understand problems and come up with solutions
All as a community
(Our journey to Rajasthan was filled with many stories about uniting as a community. This piece is about one such story, involving a traditional festival )
Unexpected Learnings
Parthavi Shekhawat, Grade 8B
Being from Rajasthan and having visited the state several times, I thought I knew what to expect, yet this learning journey brought a whole new perspective and many unique experiences
During our visit to Tarun Bharat Sangh, we saw how Rajendra Singh ji had seen a single issue - water scarcity and he came up with a solution to benefit the whole community It showed us how we can make a positive impact in the communities which we exist in. Additionally, at the ‘Barefoot College’, Tilonia, we understood how the people who came there could not only learn but master skills by learning from each other The people at the college had all come from rural backgrounds and backward societies, which gave me a whole new view on gaining knowledge.
This journey was one filled with memories along with insights making each moment truly enjoyable
Impressions on the Kohima War Memorial
Kohima, Nagaland
“When you go home, tell them of us, and that for your tomorrow, we gave our today” Is it worth it to give our today for another’s tomorrow? An honourable sacrifice, only to be commemorated by a small tombstone, this commemoration contingent on if our lifeless bodies were recognisable, a rather uncontrolled factor. Unable to behold our family’s melancholic pride, is this sacrifice rather, to protect the dignity of those who live, striving for a greater good. The chapters of their lives unfinished, as if a bookmark were left at a page, the book never to be opened again I question whether the blemish war leaves is one tinged with pride, pain or a bittersweet mix of both.
By Dhruv Jain, Grade 11A
Looking Back to Move Forward
Tamara Serukur, Grade 11B
I felt a chill run down my spine that had nothing to do with the cold weather as we entered the war cemetery. I felt the somber atmosphere heavy around me, heard the incomplete laughter swallowed by my classmates, equally crushed by the heaviness of the air I was struck by its tragic beauty, but quickly I felt annoyed by the tactless behavior of the other tourist groups. I couldn’t believe people could allow themselves to forget so fast Do we memorialize to remember, or memorialize to forget? Sure your husband, son, father may have just lost their life to a war where they were just pawns in a politicians game, but in return they got a rock and a flower that a selfie-seeking tourist can trample. At the end of the day, I have three people to thank Thank you to the soldiers for your service, thank you to the families left behind for your sacrifice, and thank you to my friends and family for making sure I will never be known only unto God
By Anya Shenoy, Grade 11B
Nestled in Assam’s verdant Kaziranga, the Kaziranga Haat stands as more than just a humble abode, but rather as a vibrant hub where local Assamese traditions meet modern aspirations. Spearheaded by social entrepreneur Rupjyoti Saikia Gogoi, her initiative fosters a shared sense of purpose, resilience and empowerment by uniting women from local villages The Haat brings together local artisans, mainly women, to create and sell handmade products like woven baskets, clothing and eco-friendly items crafted from local materials, namely bamboo Additionally, Rupjyoti reclaims other traditional Assamese practices in the sphere of performative arts (i e music and dance) in the form of music performances, musical theory lessons, and ‘Bihu’ dance performances, thus offering a space for outsiders to gain authentic exposure to their tradition while keeping traditions and ancient knowledge alive By fostering self-reliance whilst preserving Assamese cultural heritage, the Kaziranga Haat has empowered over 500 women to become economic contributors and confident individuals while preserving Assam’s cultural heritage.
The Fall of the Syrian Government
Sanjana Garg, Grade 11A
The Assad dynasty ruled Syria for over 50 years. In 2011, Bashar al-Assad’s autocratic government brutally crushed a peaceful, prodemocracy uprising, sparking a devastating civil war This incited a refugee crisis in Syria, along with human rights violations that have continued for over a decade. The dynasty ruled with an iron fist, and through propaganda and brutality, the regime fostered hopelessness a i l
Yet, despite previous subdued attempts at resistance, in early December 2024, the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied factions seized Aleppo and ultimately captured Damascus, the capital. Russia subsequently announced that Assad had stepped down and fled to their country HTS declared, "The future is ours". This was met with relief and widespread celebration by the people of Syria.
The collapse of the Russian and Iranian-backed regime incites hope for change, not localised purely within Syria, but within the entire network of autocracies It's unclear whether the events will bring peace to Syria. Although HTS’s transitional government promises such, their tumultuous background, such as past allegiance to Al Qaeda, brings uncertainty. Issues like regional dynamics, international involvement, and refugee returns also persist While Assad’s departure marks a dramatic and ultimately hopeful turning point, Syria’s future hangs in the balance
Israel-Palestine: Is There Hope For an End?
Arin Vineeth Jagtap, Grade 10A
The 7th of October 2023, the date 240 innocent lives were taken hostage and till today over 100 still remain in the captivity of Hamas. On the 23rd of December 2024, The Israeli government claimed to have made “some progress” after “significant negotiations” for both a ceasefire and the safe return of the remaining hostages.
However, a sudden turn of events prompted Hamas to delay the ceasefire on the grounds of “new conditions” being laid out by the Israeli government It’s claimed that these conditions requested certain specifics from the Hamas, including outlined hostage lists and others which were not openly specified The government however denied the existence of the so-called “new conditions” and with almost a third of the remaining hostages reportedly assumed dead, this conflict is clearly a race against time in which mediation and conflict both have failed and continue to do so and the Hamas’ actions only bring more global distrust to their intentions
All this now leads us to wonder, if the hopes for the ceasefire must remain buried, or is there indeed a spark to reignite it? Is there an end to this conflict in the horizon, or is it just another mirage and unfulfilled dream?
Ishaara: Engaging with New Communities
Myra Nigam, Grade 6D
For my birthday dinner, my family and I went to a restaurant called Ishaara. I wanted to know what Ishaara meant, and that question was answered as soon as I walked into the restaurant
I was taken aback when I saw the waiters using sign language to communicate and then it dawned upon me what Ishaara meant. Ishaara is a Hindi word that means sign. This restaurant was an opportunity for hearingimpaired and speech-impaired people to support their families and make money. When we sat down I noticed that the menu had something special, there were signs for each category of food as well as each dish on the menu. For example, a C (with your fingers) represented street food and a T represented food from the tandoors. The waiters were smiling, serving food with grace, and helping the customers out The waiter assisted the customers by suggesting dishes on the menu, showing the right signs, and more.
This experience made me think about determined, dedicated, and driven people who face challenges but push themselves to ignore those and focus on their goals Respecting and not disregarding this community helps them feel included, ensuring they are treated equally I felt blessed and lucky to be able to support them in a small way
Human and Inhuman Science: A Reflection
Diya Shetty, Grade 11B
2024 was a year of scientific feats. For the first time ever, scientists employed machine learning tools and unprecedented data sharing to map the entire brain of a fruit fly, enabling researchers to better understand and treat neurological diseases.
Google DeepMind’s AlphaFold2 made strides The neural network is able to predict the folded structure of all 200 million known proteins simply based on their underlying amino acid sequences Beyond prediction, we’ve computationally designed spectacular new proteins, including plasticdecomposing enzymes This has led to developments in drug targets, and exciting discoveries such as a protein complex that facilitates sperm-egg binding during fertilization
The Nobel Prize in Physics, bridging the gap between physics and AI, provoked questions about what defines ‘science’ It is undoubtedly clear that AI is unwrapping a new era where the role of a scientist is constantly evolving. Rather than merely engaging in observation and experimentation, researchers are harnessing the wonders of computation to accelerate progress. A future scientist’s job doesn’t exist yet. Meanwhile, AI won’t eradicate the need for experimentation or human-driven research, but emphasise it. It can process data and analyse patterns at a rate unmatched by any human, but the essence of science - unravelling nature and the ‘why’ behind itcompels human curiosity, exploration and revelation.
The Rainbow of Health
Ria Krishnan, Grade 4D
After play, I ran home with a rumbling tummy I shouted, “Mummy, Mummy, I want something yummy!” Out came Mummy with a rainbow tray, She said, “This is really good after any play!”
Violet grapes, Indigo and Blue berries, Green pears and Yellow mangoes, Orange oranges and Red strawberries, Were on display in the tray!
With open eyes I stared at the tray, This really wasn’t yummy, to my dismay!
“Fruits are healthy, they have vitamins”, Mummy lectured, “They increase your immunity too!”, I muttered
Chips and chocolates were my choice “Never, Never!” came Mummy’s roaring voice! Being hungry, angry but an obedient child, I emptied the tray to avoid Mummy getting wild!
(This is a poem I wrote and presented during The GetLitt! Spoken Poetry & Story Fest 2024-25. The poem focuses on adopting a better lifestyle by eating healthy food. I was one of 10 finalists chosen across India and got the medal for "Spellbinding Storyteller" for the presentation.)
The Purpose of Service
Samar Sabharwal, Grade 6E
At the start of this academic year, I was a bit confused when I got to learn about service initiatives occurring in school. However, as the y progressed, I have turned into an avid membe the Neev community, taking part in quite a initiatives. One such experience was when we w to the Mar Thoma Opportunity School Interac with the individuals there was an amaz experience that taught me many things. F learning to respect others to learning to p tennikoit, it was more than worthwhile Ano notable experience of mine was taking part FTLB (For The Love of Books). Despite the del it was still an amazing experience It helped me g a steadier platform for my dream job (teachi and I also gained new and invaluable lessons.
Music for All @Neev: Using Rhythm to Uplift
Young Hearts
An initiative by Sathya, Idhant, Paritosh, Vihaan, Vyom and Reagan (Grade 9)
Dhruv Krishnan, Grade 9C
Music for All @Neev is an organization that fosters creativity in kids and introduces them to the world of music Focusing on percussion, the curriculum teaches rhythm through drum pads, percussion methods and music theory At the end of the year, the children come together to have a performance for their classmates.
This program poignantly reveals the reality of how what most people may consider the mundane subject of music turns out to be an entirely different world for these children Sheltered from creativity, they have little chance to explore the imagination inside them Music enables them to dream and express themselves
Thanks to a far-reaching collaboration with Gubbachi, which helped identify just the right school and also helped plan wellthought-out lesson programs with a balance of self-expression and technical skill Along with music, the intervention has boosted the confidence, team spirit, and overall creativity in the children The year-end performance created memories in these children to be cherished forever. Each child has a song to share with the world, as was evident from Music for All @Neev, where even the most ordinary rhythm may awaken the artist within us.
Learnings from my Football Community
Pranav Pradeep, Grade 3B
During one of my football matches, I realised how important and powerful teamwork is. There were two teams with five players each. My team had gone in with the mindset that we had weaker players than the other team.
When the game started, I was surprised at how we scored the first two goals without the opposition scoring at all. We kept on helping each other in tough situations If anyone needed help going around defender’s, we’d all help If the opponents get close to the goal one of us would help the goalie.
Even though the opposition scored one goal, we did not lose any hope. In the end, we won two-one. This experience taught me that collaboration comes in handy a lot and that teamwork will lead to success.
The Importance of Communities
Haya Nasir, Grade 6C
Being part of a community can help us develop our skills and values, while we can also contribute to their growth and wellbeing. Interacting with communities can often be difficult, but pave the way for numerous opportunities by exposing us to a whole new set of ideas and experiences.
Many of us have established communities which we can easily connect with. Engaging with these communities can help us strengthen already existing bonds with trust, and comfort, making learning feel safer. Working with familiar communities can also be much easier for many as they already know how to collate and combine their skills to work efficiently. However building relationships with new communities also has various benefits Interacting with people of diverse backgrounds introduces different perspectives, cultures, and skills, broadening our horizons Furthermore, working in new environments comes with challenges that push you to step out of your comfort zone and even learn new things about yourself, encouraging you to become more flexible and confident.
In conclusion, both established and new communities provide opportunities for personal growth. I think that it is integral to value support from familiar communities while remaining open to new ideas so we can grow, learn and contribute to communities actively.
“A Whale of the Wild” by Rosanne Parry
Dhanvi N Reddy, Grade 4B
Recommended Age Rating: 8+ years
Genre: Adventure Fiction Novel
This book explores bravery and potential, immersing readers in adventures and mysteries. Inspired by the endangered orcas in the Salish Sea, the book is about Vega, a young orca whale, struck by tragedy as she and her little brother are separated from every one they know. They encounter challenges on their way home as Vega struggles with keeping her and her brother safe. Vega and her brother need to stay united, “All for One”, as Deneb is counting on Vega to guide him home. My favorite aspect of this book is the detailed pictures as they helped me connect and enjoy the book.
“The
Sisters Grimm” by Michael Buckley
Riddhi Mantri, Grade 6D
Recommended Age Rating: 8+ years
Genre: Fantasy Adventure Novel
I am not the type to be obsessed with fairy tales, but “The Sisters Grimm” has become one of my favorite book series. Sabrina and her sister, Daphne, have been pushed around from house to house ever since their parents disappeared two years ago. Given their difficult past, they weren’t surprised when another maniac claimed to be their grandmother But this time, it looked like they were going to be staying with her for a while. The series explores Sabrina struggles with the growing responsibility of caring for her sister, realizing that as she takes on this role, she loses her carefree childhood self and is able to offer a unique mix of mystery, humor and emotional depth to make the series a magical read.
“Operation
Nativity” by Jenny Pearson
Anezka Iris Sequeira, Grade 5B
Recommended Age Rating: 9+ years
Genre: Children’s Holiday Fiction
Now that Christmas is over, this book remains a wonderful read to keep the festive spirit alive. As Oscar and Molly visit their grandparents’ house for Christmas, they hear a loud sound outside at night. As they go to investigate it, they are astonished to see the Angel Gabriel, who admits that he botched the invitation for the birth of Baby Jesus, sending him and a few others around a thousand years into the future The Angel begs Oscar and Molly to save Christmas by finding everyone, but with their grandmother setting up a play, the siblings need to attend the practices and embark on this top-secret mission at the same time Will they be able to save Christmas in the nick of time?
“Shouting at the Rain”
by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Samaira Gupta, Grade 8C
“Max in the House of Spies: A Tale of World War II” by Adam Gidwitz
Tvisha Aqarwal, Grade 6A
“Legend” by Marie Lu
Ahaan Shokeen, Grade 6A
Recommended Age Rating: 10+ years
Genre: Realistic Fiction Novel
This engrossing novel follows the story of Delsie, who lives with her grandmother on Cape Cod Intrigued by weather, especially the rain, Delsie feels like she's living in a storm herself as she struggles with the thought of her mother abandoning her and has a hard time understanding why. In the summer, as she and her best friend Brandy drift apart, Delsie feels lonely until she meets Ronan, who shares her love for weather and understands feeling different. Through their friendship, Delsie learns that she can endure life's storms with help from chosen and biological family, reminding the reader of the value of community as they are always there to support you when in need.
Recommended Age Rating: 10+ years
Genre: Historical Fiction Novel
“Adventurous. Mysterious. Historical” is what I believe is a perfect description of this novel “Max in the House of Spies” follows a boy named Max, who is sent to England from Nazi Germany to ensure his safety. Despite lacking experience and qualifications, Max plans to infiltrate Berlin alongside the spies being sent, guided by mythical creatures. This book combines the elements of adventure, mystery and magic so beautifully, that you won’t be able to put it down! The main character embodies the spirit of "All for One," caring so deeply for his homeland and parents that he is willing to risk his life by entering the war as a spy.
Recommended Age Rating: 13+ years
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian Novel
"Legend” takes place in the year 2132, and what was once the United States is now divided into two countries; the Colonies of America in the East and the Republic of America in the West. This book is a multifaceted book that switches between the characters June Iparis, a soldier in the Los Angeles City Patrol, and Daniel Altan Wing, the most-wanted criminal in the Republic. This four-part series covers how these two individuals meet and try to overthrow the Republic, making the dystopian novel entertaining and enjoyable to read.
