“Dark Matter” by Blake Crouch Book Review By: Sujal Mirchandani

 “Dark Matter” by Blake Crouch Book Review

By: Sujal Mirchandani

The book “Dark Matter” by Blake Crouch is a sci-fi thriller that deals with alternate universes. The story revolves around a college professor, Jason Dessen, who lives a very ordinary life with his wife and kid. When Jason was young, he had big aspirations of being a scientist and inventing time travel, but he gave up on his dreams after he got married and had a kid. He sacrificed his dreams and talents to care for the family. But, he always wondered if it was worth it to value family over his dreams. 

One night, he gets kidnapped and wakes up in a new world which he is not aware of. He realizes that he is not the same person in this world. He no longer has a family nor does he teach astrophysics in college. Instead, he is a talented and respected scientist who has invented time travel. In this world, he is the person he always dreamt of being. But, Jason doesn’t enjoy this identity, and wishes to go back to his own world, with his family. In order to return, Jason goes through many other realities, in which he sees different versions of himself and his family. Ultimately, he returns back to his family and tries to start a new life with them. 

The best thing about this book was that it was very engaging and sparked curiosity. It kept me interested all along and encouraged me to continue reading. It didn’t feel boring or complicated, instead it explained concepts of time travel in a fun and easy way that kept the readers interested. This book taught me how people make so many choices in their lifetimes, each choice leading to a different reality. 

Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book because the topic was very fascinating to think about. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes astrophysics or psychology and I would rate it a 5/5. 

Book Review for "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls Review by Sujal Mirchandani

 Sujal Mirchandani

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a memoir of her life and her unusual experiences as a kid. Jeannette was raised in a strange and chaotic family which forced her and her siblings to face poverty and emotional hardships. Jeannette’s parents failed to provide her and her siblings with basic necessities, which is why they had to take care of themselves from a young age. Jeannette’s dad, Rex Walls, was an alcoholic and spent all of the money on alcohol and cigarettes, and her mom, Rose Mary, was an artist. The family were extremely poor and did not have a place to live, therefore, they were always moving to some different town. Since her parents did not take proper care of her, there were times where she had to eat food from a trash can since there was no food at home. Also, there have been times when she was sexually assaulted, including an incident with her own uncle. Her parents did not pay attention to these issues and believed that the kids had to learn how to solve their problems on their own. After Jeannette turned 17, she left her family and moved to New York in search of a better life where she can live peacefully on her own. 

I personally liked this book a lot since it was raw and straightforward. In this memoir, the author did not hide or change anything about her past, which is what makes it more genuine than other memoirs. This allowed the readers to better understand the author and build a strong relationship with her. Also, the book was paced perfectly which never made it seem boring or repetitive. One thing I liked about the memoir was how Jeannette never criticized her parents even after everything they made her go through. Despite the tough hardships she faced, Jeannette still had respect and love for her parents and did not blame them at all. 

Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to any young adult who is ungrateful for their lives since this book teaches the importance of hardwork and determination through hard times. Lastly, I would give this book a 5/5 because it was very real and had a good message about resilience and perseverance.  

“Intensity” book by Dean Koontz Review By: Sujal Mirchandani

 “Intensity” by Dean Koontz

By: Sujal Mirchandani

“Intensity” by Dean Koontz immerses readers in the high-stakes journey of Chyna Shepherd, a young woman whose weekend retreat to her friend Laura Templton’s secluded, luxurious estate quickly descends into a nightmarish ordeal. Set against the serene yet lonely backdrop of a rural haven, the atmospheric calm is shattered in the dead of night by the sudden, terrifying intrusion of Edgler Vess—a cold, sociopathic killer with an insatiable appetite for chaos. While Vess swiftly slaughters the household, Chyna survives by sheer instinct and unyielding willpower. Yet, rather than fleeing into the safety of the dark, she makes the pulse-pounding, heroic decision to stealthily board Vess’s motor home after discovering he holds another innocent captive, setting off a harrowing rescue attempt against impossible odds.

What follows is an unrelenting, breathless 24-hour psychological cat-and-mouse game that tests the absolute limits of human endurance. Driven by the scars of a traumatic, troubled childhood, Chyna draws upon deep wells of resilience, turning her internal pain into an indomitable armor against Vess’s horrifying depravity and unpredictable mind games. Every second fraught with existential dread, Koontz masterfully weaves Chyna’s emotional weight and haunting flashbacks with the deadly precision of a killer who lives solely for the intensity of the moment, creating an unbearable level of suspense that keeps the reader perpetually on edge.

Ultimately, Dean Koontz delivers a tour de force of narrative suspense, crafting a relentless thriller that is as emotionally profound as it is terrifyingly visceral. His brilliant pacing, rich character development, and masterful command of psychological horror elevate this novel into an unforgettable, nerve-shredding masterpiece. For any avid thriller enthusiast seeking a truly gripping, heart-stopping literary ride, “Intensity” earns an undeniable, enthusiastic 5/5 stars.

Summer Break By: Sujal Mirchandani

 Summer Break

By: Sujal Mirchandani

Summer was my favourite time of year. Back when I was younger, it seemed as though summer went on forever. I used to wake up late, spend my time playing outside, playing games and watching television, and yet the day still seemed very long.

Summer now seems a lot shorter.

I can't say whether it's due to my age or simply because I'm busier, but it seems as if summer is vanishing. You're still celebrating the end of term one moment and the next you're coming across back-to-school advertisements everywhere.

Back in my youth, summer seemed to be a big adventure; I still enjoy it nowadays, but I have more things on my mind such as college, work, studying, sports, and just trying to work out what I'm doing with my life.

It's kind of annoying.

One reason why summer seems different is that I know it won't last forever. When you're a child you don't really consider time at all; you just enjoy the day you're having.

I am always thinking about the speed at which time is moving.

At times I wish that I could return to the stage when I was a small child for a whole summer; not since things were perfect, but because I didn't worry about many things and my greatest difficulty was simply being bored.

It's almost pleasant to be getting bored.

I think that's just a consequence of growing older; things which once seemed normal now become things you miss.

I'm making an effort not to worry about the summer passing so quickly, and I really want to enjoy it while it's happening.

Before I know it I'll most likely be back in a classroom again, thinking about where the summer has got to go.

To be honest, I'm already going to say that it went far too quickly.

Sugar Alcohol by Sarvessh Kannan

Sugar Alcohol by Sarvessh Kannan

 Sugar alcohols are a type of carbohydrate commonly used as a substitute for regular sugar in

many foods and beverages. Despite their name, sugar alcohols are neither traditional sugar nor

the type of alcohol found in alcoholic drinks. They are naturally found in some fruits and

vegetables, but they can also be manufactured for use in products such as sugar-free gum,

candy, toothpaste, and baked goods. Sugar alcohols have become increasingly popular

because they provide sweetness while generally containing fewer calories than regular sugar.

However, consuming too much can also have unwanted effects on the digestive system.

What Are Sugar Alcohols?

Sugar alcohols, also known as polyols, are carbohydrates that have a chemical structure similar

to both sugar and alcohol. Some common examples include xylitol, sorbitol, erythritol, and

maltitol. They are often added to foods as sweeteners because they provide a sweet taste

without all the calories associated with ordinary table sugar.

Unlike regular sugar, most sugar alcohols are not completely absorbed by the small intestine.

As a result, they generally provide fewer calories. Different types have different levels of

sweetness and calorie content. For example, erythritol provides almost no calories, while other

sugar alcohols provide more.

Where Are Sugar Alcohols Found?

Sugar alcohols are commonly found in products labeled sugar-free, reduced-sugar, or no added

sugar. Some examples include:

● Sugar-free chewing gum

● Sugar-free hard candies and chocolates

● Protein bars

● Low-sugar baked goods

● Certain ice creams and frozen desserts

● Toothpaste and other oral-care products

They can also occur naturally in small amounts in foods such as apples, pears, peaches,

mushrooms, and other fruits and vegetables. Food manufacturers use them not only to add

sweetness but also to improve the texture, moisture, and consistency of products. (U.S. Food

and Drug Administration).

One major benefit of sugar alcohols is that they generally have fewer calories than regular

sugar. This makes them useful ingredients in products designed to contain less sugar. They

also tend to cause a smaller increase in blood glucose levels than ordinary sugar, making them

useful alternatives in certain foods for people who need to monitor their blood sugar.

Another important benefit is their effect on dental health. Regular sugar can interact with

bacteria in the mouth, producing acids that damage tooth enamel and cause cavities. Sugar

alcohols, especially xylitol, do not have the same cavity-promoting effect. This is one reason

they are commonly used in sugar-free chewing gum and toothpaste. According to the FDA,

sugar alcohols do not promote tooth decay in the same way that regular sugar does.

Although sugar alcohols have several benefits, consuming too much can cause digestive

problems. Because many sugar alcohols are not completely absorbed in the small intestine,

some travel into the large intestine, where bacteria break them down. This process can cause

gas, bloating, stomach discomfort, and diarrhea.

Different sugar alcohols can affect people differently. For example, sorbitol and mannitol may

cause digestive discomfort in some individuals, especially when consumed in large amounts.

People with sensitive digestive systems may experience these effects more easily.

It is important to understand that sugar alcohols are not automatically healthier simply because

a product is labeled sugar-free. A sugar-free product can still contain calories, fats, and other

ingredients. Therefore, reading nutrition labels and understanding ingredients is an important

part of making informed food choices. (MedlinePlus; Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public

Health).

Sugar alcohols are widely used sugar substitutes that provide sweetness while

generally containing fewer calories than regular sugar. They are found in many

everyday products, including chewing gum, candies, chocolates, and baked goods.

Their benefits include having a smaller effect on blood glucose levels and being less

likely to contribute to tooth decay. However, consuming large amounts can lead to

digestive discomfort, including bloating and diarrhea. Overall, sugar alcohols can be

useful alternatives to regular sugar, but it is important to understand their effects and

consume them in moderation. Knowing how to read food labels and recognize different

sweeteners can help people make better-informed decisions about their diets.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "How Sweet It Is: All About Sweeteners." FDA,

2023.

https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/how-sweet-it-all-about-sweeteners

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "Interactive Nutrition Facts Label: Sugar Alcohols."

FDA, October 2021.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/InteractiveNutritionFactsLabel/

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. "Are Sugar Alcohols Healthier Alternative

Sweeteners?" January 4, 2024.

https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/sugar-alcohol-health-sweetener/

MedlinePlus. "Sweeteners - Sugars." U.S. National Library of Medicine.

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002444.htm

Mäkinen, Kauko K. "Gastrointestinal Disturbances Associated with the Consumption of

Sugar Alcohols with Special Consideration of Xylitol." International Journal of Dentistry,

2016.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5093271/

Selfishness by Sarvessh Kannan

Selfishness by Sarvessh Kannan

 

Being selfish is a behavior that affects relationships, friendships, families, and communities. It

occurs when someone puts their own needs, wants, and interests ahead of everyone else's

without considering how their actions affect others. Although looking after yourself is important,

there is a difference between taking care of your own needs and constantly putting yourself

before everyone else. Understanding this difference can help people develop stronger

relationships and become more considerate individuals.

One of the biggest effects of selfishness is the damage it can cause to relationships. When

someone constantly thinks about themselves, they may ignore other people's feelings, refuse to

share, or expect others to make sacrifices for them. Over time, friends and family members may

begin to feel unappreciated or unimportant. For example, if a friend always chooses what

activities to do without considering anyone else's interests, the other people may eventually stop

wanting to spend time with them. Healthy relationships require cooperation, compromise, and

respect from everyone involved.

Selfishness can also affect communities and teamwork. Whether someone is participating in a

school project, playing a sport, or working with a group, success often depends on people

helping one another. A selfish teammate might take all the credit for a group's accomplishments

while ignoring everyone else's contributions. Similarly, someone working on a group assignment

might refuse to complete their fair share of the work. These behaviors create frustration and

make it harder for everyone to succeed. In contrast, people who cooperate and consider others

help create a more positive and productive environment.

However, it is important to understand that not every action that benefits yourself is selfish.

People need to prioritize their own health, happiness, responsibilities, and personal goals.

Saying no when you are overwhelmed, setting boundaries, and making time for yourself are

examples of healthy self-respect. The problem begins when someone consistently ignores other

people's needs and believes that their own interests are always more important. There is a

balance between caring for yourself and caring for others.

Fortunately, selfish behavior can be improved through small everyday actions. People can

practice listening to others, sharing responsibilities, giving credit when it is deserved, and

considering different perspectives before making decisions. Even simple actions, such as

helping a classmate, allowing someone else to choose an activity, or admitting when you are

wrong, can make a difference. Developing empathy, which is the ability to understand and

consider another person's feelings, is especially important.

Ultimately, being selfish can negatively affect relationships, teamwork, and the people around

us. Although everyone naturally has personal needs and goals, life becomes more meaningful

when people also consider others. Success should not always be measured by what one

person gains, but also by how they contribute to the people around them. Finding a balance

between self-respect and generosity allows individuals to grow while building stronger

friendships, healthier relationships, and better communities.

Too much candy! by Sarvessh Kannan

Too much candy! by Sarvessh Kannan

Candy is a popular treat enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether it is chocolate, gummies,

lollipops, or sour candies, many people enjoy eating sweets because of their delicious flavors.

Although candy can be enjoyable in moderation, eating too much of it can negatively affect a

person's health. Consuming excessive amounts of candy can lead to problems with teeth,

energy levels, and overall health.

One major effect of eating too much candy is damage to your teeth. Most candies contain large

amounts of sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay and cavities. When sugar stays on your

teeth, bacteria in your mouth use it to produce acids that weaken tooth enamel. Over time, this

can cause cavities, toothaches, and other dental problems. Sticky candies, such as caramels

and gummy bears, can be especially harmful because they cling to teeth and are harder to

remove. Brushing regularly and limiting sugary snacks can help protect your teeth.

Another effect of eating too much candy is changes in energy levels. Candy contains large

amounts of sugar, which can cause a quick increase in blood sugar. This may give someone a

temporary burst of energy. However, after the body processes the sugar, energy levels may

drop, making a person feel tired or less focused. Eating too many sweets instead of balanced

meals can also make it harder to get the nutrients needed to stay energized throughout the day.

Additionally, regularly eating too much candy can affect a person's long-term health. Candy

generally contains very few essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber. When

people eat too many sweets, they may replace healthier foods with snacks that provide little

nutritional value. Over time, consuming too much added sugar can contribute to health

problems, including an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Maintaining a

balanced diet helps the body get the nutrients it needs to function properly.

In conclusion, although candy is a tasty treat that many people enjoy, eating too much of it can

have several negative effects. It can damage teeth, affect energy levels, and contribute to long-

term health problems. This does not mean people should never eat candy. Instead, they should

enjoy it in moderation while making healthy food choices. By balancing sweets with nutritious

foods, people can enjoy their favorite treats while taking care of their health.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Get the Facts: Added Sugars.” CDC,

https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/

. American Dental Association. “The Effects of Sugar on Your Teeth.” MouthHealthy,

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “The Nutrition Source: Carbohydrates and Blood

Sugar.” Harvard University, https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/carbohydrates/

World Health Organization. “Healthy Diet.” WHO, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-