Vocal Book Club
Bridge to Terabithia (and more)
We know that reading to/with our young children is a good practice for many reasons, including building a strong bond between parent and child, developing academic as well as emotional intelligence, encouraging critical thinking, etc. The problem parents often run into is running out of compelling stories to encourage a continued reading habit in kids as they grow beyond being read to and develop the skills to read books on their own.
By KJ Aartilaabout a year ago in BookClub
Shadows of the Past
Sophie had always felt the weight of her mother’s expectations pressing down on her. From an early age, Margaret had been a force of nature—charming to the outside world but critical and demanding at home. “You can do better,” she would say, even after Sophie earned straight A’s. No achievement was ever enough; the accolades simply fueled Margaret’s insatiable desire for perfection. Sophie’s childhood was filled with anxiety. Every misstep, no matter how minor, resulted in Margaret’s scorn. “What will people think?” became a familiar refrain. Friends would come and go, but Sophie often felt isolated, afraid to invite anyone into her chaotic home. As she grew older, the cracks in their relationship deepened. Sophie longed for her mother’s approval but grew weary of the emotional toll it took. The constant comparisons to other children, the backhanded compliments, and the suffocating expectations left her feeling like a shadow of herself. After graduating high school, Sophie decided to attend a college far from home. The distance was both a relief and a source of guilt. Each call home became a minefield. Margaret would pepper her with questions about grades, major choices, and even her friends. “Make sure you don’t hang around those who are beneath you,” she’d remind Sophie, her voice laced with disdain. One evening, after a particularly tense conversation, Sophie sat on her dorm bed, tears streaming down her face. She realized that Margaret’s love came with conditions—love that felt more like a burden than a blessing. Determined to break free, Sophie sought therapy. With each session, she learned to untangle her self-worth from her mother’s opinions. She discovered that it was okay to prioritize her own dreams, even if they diverged from what Margaret envisioned. The turning point came during a holiday visit home. When Margaret started her usual critique, Sophie took a deep breath. “Mom, I’m not going to keep doing this,” she said, her voice steady. “I need to live my life for myself, not for you.” Margaret’s face hardened, the familiar storm brewing in her eyes. But Sophie stood firm, the years of emotional weight slowly lifting. That night, she left her childhood home feeling lighter, knowing she had finally asserted her independence. As the days turned into months, Sophie’s confidence grew. She started pursuing her passions, surrounded by friends who celebrated her for who she truly was. While her relationship with her mother remained strained, Sophie found peace in knowing that she was no longer defined by someone else’s expectations. In reclaiming her life, Sophie realized that healing takes time. Though the shadows of her past lingered, she was determined to step into the light, free to become the person she was always meant to be.
By Sarafina Bebeto about a year ago in BookClub
Managing a Relationship Breakthrough Navigating Change with Care
In any relationship, moments of breakthrough can lead to profound changes—whether it’s deepening emotional intimacy, a significant commitment, or a shift in dynamics. While these developments are often exciting, they can also bring uncertainty and anxiety. Here’s how to effectively manage an upcoming breakthrough in your relationship.
By Sarafina Bebeto about a year ago in BookClub
No Choice but to Change
Growing up, Mia always admired her mother, Sarah. Strong and determined, Sarah had raised Mia as a single parent, juggling multiple jobs to provide for them. But beneath that exterior lay a strictness that often felt suffocating. Sarah had a vision for Mia’s future, and she made it clear: success meant following a predetermined path—college, a stable job, and a traditional life. As Mia entered high school, the pressure mounted. “You need to focus on your studies, Mia. No distractions,” Sarah would say, her voice unwavering. Mia, however, dreamed of pursuing art, a passion that brought her joy but clashed with her mother’s expectations. Mia began to feel trapped. The more she tried to express her artistic aspirations, the more Sarah seemed to double down on her plans for Mia’s future. “Art is a hobby, not a career,” she’d insist, dismissing Mia’s dreams with a wave of her hand. One fateful day, Mia decided to enter an art competition at school. She poured her heart into her painting, and when the day of the exhibition arrived, she felt both nervous and excited. As she stood by her artwork, a small crowd gathered, admiring her talent. To Mia’s astonishment, she won first place. When she called home to share the news, she expected her mother to be proud. Instead, Sarah’s reaction was lukewarm. “That’s nice, but what about your grades? You need to focus on what really matters,” she said, her tone leaving little room for celebration. Feeling disheartened, Mia confronted her mother that evening. “Why can’t you just be happy for me? This is what I love!” Sarah’s expression hardened. “Because I want what’s best for you! This isn’t a game. Life is tough, and you need a solid foundation.” Weeks passed, and the tension between them grew. Mia immersed herself in her art, creating pieces that reflected her struggles. But Sarah remained unyielding, insisting on tutoring sessions and study groups. Then came the day that changed everything. Sarah received a call at work—her employer was downsizing, and she was among those laid off. The reality hit her hard: she had no choice but to adapt. Suddenly, the stability she had fought for felt precarious. That evening, when Mia came home, she found her mother sitting at the kitchen table, her head in her hands. The sight struck a chord deep within her. Mia approached cautiously, placing a hand on her mother’s back. “Mom, are you okay?”Sarah looked up, tears glistening in her eyes. “I thought I could control everything, but now… I don’t know what’s next.” In that moment of vulnerability, something shifted between them. Mia realized her mother was just as scared of the unknown as she was. “Maybe we can figure this out together,” Mia suggested. “What if I help you with your resume and you support me in my art?” Sarah hesitated but then nodded slowly. “I’ve been so focused on what I thought was best, I didn’t see how hard I was making things for you.” From that day forward, their dynamic began to change. Sarah started attending Mia’s art shows, cheering her on as she explored her passion. Meanwhile, Mia helped her mother navigate job applications and interviews, building a sense of teamwork they had never had before. As the months passed, both women learned to embrace uncertainty. Sarah discovered new job opportunities and a renewed sense of purpose, while Mia flourished in her art. They realized that life didn’t have to fit a strict mold and that true success could take many forms. In the end, Sarah found a job that respected her skills and allowed for flexibility, while Mia gained the courage to pursue her artistic dreams unapologetically. Their journey taught them both that change, though often daunting, could lead to unexpected growth and deeper connections. Together, they discovered that sometimes, life forces you to adapt, and in doing so, it opens the door to possibilities you never thought you’d embrace.
By Sarafina Bebeto about a year ago in BookClub
Bound by love , Torn by tradition
In the vibrant town of Willow Creek, two couples found solace in each other’s arms, yet their love was overshadowed by the weight of family expectations. Ella and Liam grew up as childhood friends, their bond blossoming into a deep romance. Ella was the daughter of the town’s esteemed mayor, known for her strict adherence to tradition and reputation. Liam, on the other hand, came from a humble background, his parents struggling to make ends meet. When their love was discovered, Ella’s parents forbade her from seeing him, fearing that their union would tarnish their family’s status. Maya and Jake, the second couple, faced their own battles. Maya was an aspiring artist, passionate and free-spirited, while Jake was the son of a powerful businessman who had already arranged a marriage for him with a wealthy heiress. Despite their families’ plans, Maya and Jake couldn’t deny the spark between them. When they started dating secretly, they often met in hidden corners of the town, sharing dreams of a future together. As both couples navigated the challenges of their love, they found themselves drawn together. In a secluded spot by the river, they shared their stories, realizing that their struggles mirrored one another’s. They formed a pact: they would fight for their love, not just for themselves, but for the future of love in their town. Determined to change their families’ minds, they organized a community art exhibition, showcasing the beauty of love in all its forms. With Maya’s artwork depicting their journeys and Liam’s heartfelt poems, the event captured the town’s attention. As families and friends gathered, they began to see the power of love transcending societal norms. Ella’s parents, witnessing the community’s support and the strength of her love for Liam, slowly began to reconsider their stance. Meanwhile, Jake stood up to his father, expressing his desire to choose his own path. Their boldness sparked conversations within their families about love, freedom, and acceptance. After months of struggle and perseverance, both couples faced their families again, armed with the community’s support. It was a tense confrontation, but in the end, love prevailed. Ella and Liam’s families accepted their relationship, recognizing that their happiness was worth more than tradition. Jake’s father, moved by his son’s determination, finally agreed to let him choose his partner. As the sun set over Willow Creek, the couples stood hand in hand, united not just in their love but also in the belief that love should never be bound by family expectations. They had not only changed their own destinies but had also inspired their families to embrace a more open-minded future. In that moment, they knew they could face any challenge together, bound by love and the promise of a new beginning.
By Sarafina Bebeto about a year ago in BookClub
The legend of the man. Content Warning.
In a land shrouded in mist and shadow, where the mountains kissed the sky and the forests whispered secrets, there existed a man known only as Thorne. His story, a chilling echo of ambition and despair, unfolded against a backdrop of untamed wilderness and forgotten legends.
By Qing Blackabout a year ago in BookClub
What Makes a Book Cover Stand Out?
In the competitive world of publishing, a book cover acts as a silent ambassador for the content it encases. The cover is the first point of interaction with a potential reader, and its ability to catch the eye and pique curiosity can significantly impact a book’s commercial success. Here, we delve into the elements that make a book cover stand out and explore how these elements combine to create a compelling visual narrative.
By Hannah millerabout a year ago in BookClub
TikTok Tricks: Maximize Your Engagement & Creativity
TikTok Tricks: Maximize Your Engagement & Creativity TikTok has rapidly become one of the most influential platforms for content creators, offering unique ways to share videos, connect with an audience, and even go viral. But in the fast-moving world of TikTok, mastering the platform takes more than just uploading videos. You need a strategy, creativity, and knowledge of the platform's features. This guide covers essential TikTok tricks that will help you maximize engagement, boost your creativity, and grow your following.
By Mahalakshmiabout a year ago in BookClub
