Tag: family friendly

Blackcoats: Dead Man Walking

Adam, a high school student, struggles to come to terms with his father’s sudden disappearance and the revelation that his father was a scientist for a secret government organization. If that surprise isn’t bad enough, Adam realizes that the biological changes he’s experienced – a sudden allergy to sun and a perpetual state of hunger – might just be the result of his father’s experimentation. Now a “prisoner” within this secret organization, Adam learns that the world is full of far more than just humans and that it might take someone with augmented DNA – an Augment as they are called – to protect and save the human race from extinction.

Blackcoats: Dead Man Walking is the first book in the Blackcoats series by Michael Lachman. While reading, I couldn’t help but think of Men in Black in terms of the secret government organization that deals with paranormal activity. The banter between the characters made for some good laughs, and it was a novel experience for me reading a book with references to modern books and movies. (The majority of books I read are fantasy and/or set in the medieval time period, and they don’t reference Harry Potter or Terry Pratchett.)

I will be honest, it is in reading this book, that I realized my preferred genre is fantasy and medieval stories; apparently, I’m not the sci-fi genre fan I thought I was. This is in no way a reflection on Lachman’s writing. Lachman is a good writer; his writing flows smoothly and makes for an easy read. Despite the fact I prefer fantasy, I was still drawn-in and curious to find out what happened next. The quality of Michael Lachman’s writing makes me confident he will go far as an author, and I look forward to seeing what else he writes in the future. Who knows? If Lachman ever branches off into the world of fantasy, I know I’d definitely be interested in reading it!

Blackcaots: Dead Man Walking is appropriate for all ages; there is no sex or language, and I recommend it to any parents whose kids enjoy sci-fi. This is a book you can read with them and enjoy yourself.

I was provided with a copy of “Blackcoats: Dead Man Walking” free of charge in exchange for my review. I received no monetary compensation.

Secret Society of Second-Born Royals

Ever wondered what would happen if our favorite princes and princesses had siblings? Well, wonder no more. Disney’s Secret Society of Second-Born Royals answers that question. They would be super heroes!

This movie is enjoyable for all ages. While adults my spot a few plot holes, they are not so egregious as to prevent you from enjoying the movie. The ending does imply a possible sequel, and quite honestly, I hope they make one.

Be sure to check it out! It is available on Disney+.

Also, fun fact, there was no profanity in the film, something my sister pointed out to me at the end. She was right, and I am still blown away. The show is rated PG, but I think it could have easily been rated “G”, even with the action scenes.

Worst Witch Season 4

*Minor spoiler.*

I just finished season 4 of Netflix’s Worst Witch. Although I was disappointed (and surprised) to learn that the role of Mildred Hubble was no longer played by Bella Ramsey, Lydia Page does an excellent job of stepping into the role of Mildred Hubble. Fans of the show will find that, despite the change in physical appearance, Mildred Hubble is still the same “worst witch” we’ve grown to know and love. So be sure to check it out and join Mildred on her fourth year at Cackle’s Academy. You won’t be dissappointed!

The Knight Before Christmas

I didn’t actually watch this Netflix movie (actually, I walked in at the end of it – twice!), but my sisters did. They said it was extremely cute and innocent. They liked it so much they watched it again with our cousin.

The story is about a British knight who goes on a quest and finds himself transported to present day New York. On his journey to become a true knight and return to England, he touches the lives of everyone in the town, helping to spread joy, happiness, and Christmas spirit.

In terms of quality, this is akin to a Hallmark film. So if you need a light-hearted, kid-friendly, holiday movie to veg out to, you might want to give The Knight Before Christmas a try.