Fifty Shades of Grey Contains Multiple Layers
By Balbina Yang, Arts Editor
February 23, 2017
Filed under Arts, Books, Movies and Television, Online Exclusives
It has been two years since the release of Fifty Shades of Grey, the first of E.L. James’ erotic drama trilogy. It has been about a week since Fifty Shades Darker, the sequel, came out in theaters and broke top box office records, coming in second behind The Lego Batman Movie. But, why is the franchis...
The Observer’s Must Read Book Recommendations
By Jenna Greenzaid and Sai Sreenivasan, Circulation Manager and Observations Editor
February 21, 2017
When it comes to finding a good book to dedicate yourself to, there is an overwhelming number to choose from. We’ve narrowed down the list with suggestions, from staff and students alike, of books that you’ll be sure to enjoy. “Legend” by Marie Lu Although dystopian novels have become commonplace,...
‘Series of Unfortunate Events’ Delights Viewers
By Nora Holland, Contest Manager
February 21, 2017
If you are looking for a new way to relieve stress after a tedious day of school, look no further than “A Series of Unfortunate Events,” the newest binge-worthy show on Netflix. Jan. 13, “A Series of Unfortunate Events” arrived on Netflix. Based off of the well-known young adult book series...
CHS Students Cherish “Blind Date with a Book” Program
By Sai Sreenivasan, Observations Editor
February 14, 2017
Filed under Arts, Books, Online Exclusives, Top Stories
With Valentine's Day coming up, the Media Center is honoring this holiday and their love for reading with the “Blind Date with a Book” tradition for the third year in a row. The event was started in Feb. 2015 and has been a success among students. For this tradition, the Media Center specialists...
Adult Coloring Books Gain Popularity as a Method of Stress Relief
By Laura Sneller, Public Relations Editor
April 29, 2016
After a stressful week of tests and homework, students typically unwind by napping or watching Netflix. Now, there is a new relaxation method that increases artistic ability while relieving stress—all you have to do is color. Adult coloring books are spreading through the nation as more p...
J.K. Rowling announces eighth Harry Potter story
By Becky Wolfson, Production Editor
February 19, 2016
Last week, author J.K. Rowling announced that she will publish an eighth Harry Potter story, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts I & II, on July 31 Potter’s 36th birthday. Originally a play, Rowling plans to digitally and physically publish the script the day after the show premieres at London’s...
Expand your summer reading list with these books
By Alissa Li and Katie Clem
May 27, 2015
As summer rapidly approaches, students not only buckle down for the final stretch of school but they also begin to make plans for the upcoming break. Whether you find yourself sightseeing in Europe or simply lounging around at home, a book is sure to be good company. The Observer has picked out a couple...
Must-read novel twists typical story of teen love
By Balbina Yang, Features Editor
April 28, 2015
Many young adult (YA) novels rarely remain in the reader’s head after he or she turns the last page. However, Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli, with its perfect blend of teenage angst, friendship and romance, does the complete opposite and even manages to remain in readers’ hearts...
CHS Students Read Black-Eyed Susan Books
By Kim Rooney, Senior Writer
April 24, 2015
Choosing a favorite book is always difficult, but the Maryland Association of School Librarians (MASL) makes it easier by narrowing the choices to 10 books. CHS students who read at least three Black-Eyed Susan (BES) nominee books joined other Maryland students April 22 in voting for the best out...
50 Shades of Rape? Film, novels stir controversy
By Jasmine Baten and Kim Rooney
February 24, 2015
Filed under Arts, Books, Movies and Television
E.L. James’ 50 Shades of Grey has raised controversy over its sexual content and portrayal of BDSM relationships since its publication in 2011 and theatrical release Feb. 13. BDSM relationships refer to bondage, discipline, domination, submission, sadism and masochism between consenting adults. The...
Want to be a novelist? Seven tips for certain success
By Kim Rooney, Production Editor
October 24, 2014
NaNoWriMo, or National Novel Writing Month, is an international challenge for people to write a novel of at least 50,000 words in the month of November. If successful, writers are rewarded with free copies of their books, as well as access to online writing resources. It may seem daunting, but never...
CHS celebrates Banned Books Week
By Kim Rooney, Production Editor
September 25, 2014
Classics like The Great Gatsby and To Kill a Mockingbird might not seem as if they have much in common with popular young adult novels such as Harry Potter and The Hunger Games, but all of these books, and many more, have at some point been banned or challenged. Banned Books Week is being celebrated from...