The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Posted by Rochelle Sy Chua On April 28, 2012
I immediately got myself a copy of the book right after I watched the movie, Hunger Games. As far as I can remember, this is the first time that I actually wanted to read all the books right after finishing a movie. I read this first book by Suzanne Collins nonstop on a saturday afternoon and finished it in one sitting! :O
And that goes the same for the next 2 books (Catching Fire & Mockingjay) in this Hunger Games trilogy…
The Hunger Games Book was written as a narration by the main character of the story, Katniss Everdeen.
Plot
North America has been destroyed and now named Panem. The Capitol rules Panem and is divided into 12 districts.
As punishment for the districts’ rebellion attempts in the past (specifically district 13, now destroyed), the Capitol holds an annual televised reality show called the Hunger Games. Each of the 12 districts must draw the names of a boy and a girl between the ages of 12 and 18. These 24 young kids (called ‘tributes’) must fight to the death in an arena created by the Capitol Gamemakers. The one and only survivor will go home to a more comfortable life with money and fame waiting for them.
Prim Everdeen (Katniss’ 12-year old sister) is the only person that Katniss loves above everyone else. So when Prim’s name was called to be a tribute, Katniss immediately volunteered to take her place. Together with Peeta Mellark from District 12, they must fight their way to be the sole survivor of the Hunger Games.
The Hunger Games is intended for kids ages 13 and up. I still feel a bit uncomfortable with kids reading the book considering the many violence, especially the one where kids as young as 12 years old kill and die out of survival. But I guess, every generation is different. Young adults are smarter and they know what is right and what is wrong. We just have to trust that they treat this as fiction and look beyond what the story is all about.
The concept of this kill to survive in a game is not new. There’s Battle Royale which was much more gore and deadly. The reason why The Hunger Games was successful is how the author Suzanne Collins wrote it. While it was disturbing to read murders like snapping necks, killed by spears, arrows, rocks and mutated animals, Collins made sure that we focused on the emotional side of the story. And that of course moved readers like us. We all wanted to find out what will happen with Katniss, Peeta and Gale, when and if Hunger Games will ever stop, and how the story will finally end.
It was successful in its target audience and it expanded to everyone else! I’m older (hehe!) but I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The nonstop suspense kept me from putting down the book. On that day that I was reading The Hunger Games, I only took breaks to go to the washroom or to eat.
Whatever way you look at it, there are lessons that you can find in the book. Whether they are to be applied to your job or to your personal life, there are takeaways and that’s what’s important. As I was browsing through the net, I actually saw different lists of lessons from the book. It was actually impressive! There were lessons for marketers, for social media professionals and even for economy!
On the other hand, I had these thoughts after reading the first book:
- It is vital for us to know what our strengths are and to make good use of them. Katniss knew she can hunt and that definitely helped her thoroughly with surviving in the Hunger games.
- Do not let other people control us and our principles. We have the power to choose. We must be in control of our own lives. I loved the line of Peeta when he told Katniss, “I keep wishing I could think of a way to show the capitol they don’t own me. That I’m more than a piece in their games.”
- Winning does not always bring fulfillment and happiness. District 12 mentor Haymitch, in spite of winning Hunger Games, ended up being a miserable drunk person. We all know why he was like that. Imagine killing tons of people against your will or personal morals, would you be happy with that?
- While you can succeed on your own, it’s better to form alliances. The more people working together, the bigger chances you will succeed. In the Hunger Games, we saw several alliances like Katniss & Rue and the career tributes.
- Having a mentor is great. I used to take this for granted and didn’t take opportunities when I got the chance. In this book, you’ll see how valuable Haymitch is for Katniss. He saved her lots of times during the game and he continued to be a good coach especially for District 12 tributes.
- Lastly, YOU can make a difference. We all can! Look at how Katniss inspired the people in Panem! She became a symbol of change through her actions in the Hunger games.
——————–
The Hunger Games
Suzanne Collins
Paperback: $5.00/Kindle Edition: $5.00
The Avengers Movie Review
Posted by Rochelle Sy Chua On April 28, 2012
One of the most awaited movies for Year 2012 is finally out here in the Philippines (sorry U.S. peeps, we went first)! I’ve been waiting for The Avengers since I saw the after credits from the movies Thor and Captain America. I loved the movies featuring each of the superheroes so I was really overly excited to watch the Avengers. Who wouldn’t want to see all those kick-ass superheroes in one single movie?
The movie, The Avengers, is based on the popular Marvel comic book series ‘The Avengers’, that was first published in 1963 and became a popular comic series ever since. I didn’t have any collection of comics aside from the Archie series but I’ve always been fond of the characters in Marvel comics. I’m just glad that the producers decided to make it into a movie. They didn’t just produce a movie, but they definitely made an AWESOME or should I say, PERFECT adaptation of The Avengers. I was just too impressed that even after a day of watching it, I’m still on a high of the movie. I’m gonna watch it again on tuesday and this time, I’ll make sure I watch it in a better theater.
When Thor’s adopted brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston) emerges to cause havoc on earth and steals the Teseract/Cosmic cube in order to rule the human race, Nick Fury (director of S.H.I.E.L.D.) finds himself in need of a team of skilled warriors to help and save the Earth. He gathered a super kick-ass group of superheroes that could have him with his mission and they are called The Avengers. However, being superheroes on their own, will they be able to work together and fight Loki & his alien army to save the world?
- Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.) – genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist
- The Incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) – man with anger management issues
- Thor (Chris Hemsworth) – hammer-wielding god of thunder
- Captain America (Chris Evans) – righteous and man of morals
- Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) – master archer
- Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) – Russian spy
For all Avengers comic book lovers, I’m sure you already know the story and what’ll happen, but boy, this movie really is made of pure awesomeness. I can’t believe that in spite of creating so many Marvel movies in the past, they can still outperform with a movie like the Avengers!
The movie really blew my mind! It made so much impact not just to me but also to other people who have watched it as I see my Twitter timeline full of raves about the movie! It’s not just one of the most awaited films of the year but it definitely will be one of the BEST films of 2012.
The action scenes, humor, the super sleek one-liners, stunts, the casting and definitely, the performances were just spot on! The Avengers had the perfect formula for a successful film. Each and every superhero were highlighted in the story. The performances of every celebrity in the movie was just so good! Even if they got Mark Ruffalo, who haven’t played Hulk before, was pretty successful. I never even missed Edward Norton or Eric Bana playing the Hulk while watching the Avengers! Mark Ruffalo did so much justice for Hulk. In fact, Hulk is now my favorite Avengers member.
I am so looking forward for the next Avengers movie already!
(I’m sure there’ll be one as after credits of the Avengers proved it).
My Rating for Avengers: 5 out of 5 stars (PERFECT!)
Kenji Tei Ramen House
Posted by Rochelle Sy Chua On April 28, 2012
The weather in Manila is getting hotter by the day. I do not know why I still suggested that we eat ramen last week. I guess, I really wanted to try out Kenji-Tei which has been receiving raves from a lot of people. I did try it out once a few weeks ago but we just ordered 2 dishes and I felt it wasn’t enough for a blog post. So I was glad that friends agreed to have our meet up at Kenji-Tei Ramen House.
Fresh and simple flavors ensure relish incomparable culinary experience true Japanese ramen – that’s the tagline of Kenji-Tei Ramen House. I can’t judge the authenticity of the ramen as I’m not Japanese. All I can say or critique is based on my personal taste, whether I felt if the dishes I tried are delicious or not. That’s just how I always describe my experiences in restaurants.
First up, I liked the interior of the restaurant. I noticed the multiple noodle-like lines all over the counter and ceiling. I believe it’s a strong statement that their ramen is their specialty. It would be such a shame if we don’t try their ramen out, right?
Next, Kenji-Tei’s service tea. I usually don’t order drinks whenever I dine at a Japanese restaurant. I guess I really like the unique taste of Japanese tea. The tea tasted like rice, so I assume that it came from rice broth but I really don’t know. Do you know what those Japanese tea are made of? I really would like to know!
Tempura and gyoza are plastered in every Japanese restaurants’ menu, Kenji Tei definitely has those dishes in theirs. I had to try them out! During my second visit, I did as we waited for our other friends to arrive.
- Yaki Gyoza (Php 188)
You know what? I think I totally forgot that I was sharing this Yaki Gyoza dish because I ate 90% of it, haha! I liked that the meat is packed in the wrapper. You know some other restaurants do have the same amount of meat but they wrapped it loosely making it hard to eat. It’s nice that Kenji Tei has wrapped them perfectly. Every lil bite that I had with gyoza was wonderful. It was pure gyoza goodness which made me want to try their cheese gyoza the next time I visit.
- Ebi Tempura (Php 248)
Breaded shrimp can be ordered 3 pieces (Php 248) or 5 pieces (Php 368). As much as I like tempura, I felt this was a bit overpriced.
- Gohan (Php 68)
I guess with the unbearable hot weather we have right now. You would just want to have rice dishes instead of ramen. If that’s the case, you can order rice with gyoza or tempura. I suggest gyoza, Kenji-Tei’s were really, really good!
Ramen Dishes
There was no stopping me from trying out Kenji-Tei’s ramen dishes. I was so curious that I had to taste two different variants before I finally write it here in HeaRty’s Haven. I ordered Mabo Tofu during my first visit and Seafood Ramen on the second. They’re incomparable because they are different but I liked both! That’s why I think Kenji-Tei is here to stay.
Oh, the spices on the table are not for display. Add some to your ramen and you will feel some difference as it gives more flavors to the dish. It enhances the taste of the ramen and you’ll enjoy it more.
You can order Kenji Tei’s ramen as is but you can also order additional toppings [2 pieces Chashu (Php 48), butter (Php 16), spinach (Php 22), moyashi/bean sprouts (Php 22), egg (Php 20), negi/leak stalks (Php 32) and ramen (Php 32)]. If you ask me, order those additional chashu 😉
The best way to choose which ramen to order is to decide which soup base you want. Kenji Tei has 3: Shōyu (soy based), the Shio (salt based) and the Miso. Once you’re decided with the soup base, you can order the ramen with the toppings of your choice.
- Chashu Miso Ramen (Regular-Php 248, Large-Php 338)
Miso-based ramen served with an array of toppings: braised pork slices, vegetables and egg. The Chashu (pork) really melts in your mouth. the meat was so tender and definitely delicious! That’s why I suggest you order additional of chashu (2 pieces at Php 48) as you surely won’t get enough of it!
- Gomoku Shio Ramen (Regular-Php 268, Large-Php 358)
Gomoku Shio Ramen is one of Kenji Tei’s bestsellers. It was shio-based ramen with mixed seafood, egg, vegetables and pork. Among all the soup base that Kenji Tei offers, I must say I love shio the most.
- Mabo Tofu Ramen (Regular-Php 248, Large-Php 338)
I ordered mabo tofu ramen because it’s unique. I super love tofu and I wondered how it would taste like with ramen.
It was soy-based ramen topped with tofu and spicy sauce. The dish might have looked heavy but I didn’t feel that way. And yes, I can conclude that mapo tofu actually works very well as a ramen dish.
While I browsed through websites reviewing Kenji Tei, I found out that it’s actually a restaurant that started in Paranque City. Apparently, their most famous dishes are cheese gyoza and chicken teriyaki. I had to try those out on my next visit 🙂
——————–
Kenji Tei Ramen House
3rd floor Greenbelt 5, Makati City, Philippines
+63-2-7543098
Sunday-Thursday 11am to 10pm, Friday-Saturday 11am to 11pm
Mediterraneo Movie Review
Posted by Rochelle Sy Chua On April 28, 2012
Shangri-La Mall had a free screening of Mediterraneo courtesy of Philippine Italian Association and Film Development Council of the Philippines last April 24, 2012. I actually didn’t know about it but a friend called me up and said that it looked good and we must watch it.
Good thing we did because Mediterraneo was a totally different movie experience for me! Mediterraneo is considered to be one of the greatest film in Italy. Mediterraneo won Best Foreign-Language film at the 1991 Academy Awards. It was directed by Gabriele Salvatores and screenplay by Enzo Monteleone.
The film is set during World War II and revolves around a crew of eight misfit Italian soldiers who were stranded on a Greek island and were left behind by the war.
The tiny Greek island was called, Kastellorizo. They found themselves less interested in fulfilling their patriotic duty (spot enemy ships and to hold the island in case of attack) and more interested in discovering the joys of life. With their boat destroyed and their two-way radio broken, they gradually made contact with the locals.
They learned to adapt in their new lives. The lieutenant discovered his talent for painting and restores the church, while some become fishermen and goat herders. An Italian solder, on the other hand, fell in love with the island prostitute and marries her. They have all forgotten about their identity and became part of the island community.
As the war ends, the island’s male population return to Kastellorizo and to their wives. The Italian soldiers reluctantly left the island but one of them stayed, after having married. After several years, they reunited at that same island.
The movie really grew on me! In fact, when I try to remember the movie, I tend to appreciate it more and more. I liked the positive spin of Mediterraneo. Imagine the irony as Mediterraneo was on a war setting but love, passion, compassion and friendship defined the whole movie! I’m just glad I was able to watch it. It’s definitely a classic and a well-moved movie!
Oh BTW, the film was sweetly dedicated to ‘all who wish to run away’.
My Rating for Mediterraneo: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Teaberi
Posted by Rochelle Sy Chua On April 22, 2012
My friends know that I’m addicted to tea! If I’m given a chance to choose between coffee or tea, there’s no question that I would answer tea. I’ve been a mainstay in different milk tea places that have been operating here in Metro Manila. I must honestly say though that I change my favorite among them when I got to try better brands.
As of the moment, my favorite is teaberi. I was so impressed that I am raving about it to my friends. I used to rave about another brand but after teaberi, I’m totally sold! Teaberi has the best selection of tea. The taste of their tea is better than other brands too (in my opinion, of course)! It seemed that the people behind teaberi studied carefully about the best formula to make tea.
I wish teaberi will open more branches as it’s going to be such a shame for other people not to discover this tea place! Popular tea parlors here in Manila should watch out for some competition with teaberi.
Teaberi is located at the side of A. Venue Mall. You can just quickly park in front and order for take out. To order tea, just proceed to the counter and choose the drink from the menu pasted on the countertop.
You can also look over their menu on the wall for better viewing. During the time I was there, I ordered one of each among teaberi’s different sets of teas. I wanted to have the complete experience that’s why I ordered a lot. I could always bring them home anyway.
Guests can also opt to dine in. Teaberi has a small area for customers who wanted to hang out. I love the colorful and bright atmosphere of the place.
It’s great for taking pictures too! I remember how I loved my shots there, hahaha!
Prices of tea are toppings-inclusive already but you can order additional for Php 15 each except for cheese froth which costs Php 30. Toppings in teaberi are black pearl (teaberi’s specialty), pudding, taro pudding, grass jelly, nata de coco, coffee jelly, brown ice jelly, aloe, bubble pops and cheese froth.
For sugar-conscious folks, you can let teaberi know how sweet you like your drink to be, whether it’s 100%, 75 %, 50% or 25%.
Here are some of the drinks that I tried out in Teaberi:
- Roast Sencha Milk Tea (M-Php 85, L-Php 95)
What I like about Roast Sencha milk tea is the strong tea flavor. The tea flavor comes out even if there’s milk in it. If you’re a true tea lover, you will like this drink.
- Winter melon milk tea (M-Php 85, L-Php 95)
Winter melon milk tea is becoming popular among tea lovers. It has always been my comfort drink. I like teaberi’s version as theirs is milder.
- Strawberry Green Tea (M-Php 75, L-Php 85)
I’ve tried teaberi’s strawberry green tea. I chose pudding as my topping for this drink. I love that teaberi’s chill tea is the best to fight the extremely hot temperature we are experiencing in Manila right now. It’s very refreshing and can at least alleviate a bit of the hot feeling.
- Lemon Squeeze (M-Php 75, L-Php 85, Hot-Php 65)
I got to try lemon squeeze with bubble pop. Bubble pop are cute little pearls when popped, flavored juice comes out. I got the strawberry pop and I must say, it made the experience of drinking tea more fun & enjoyable!
Lemon squeeze is part of Teaberi’s ‘herbal & fruit infused tea’ selection. The tea comprised of rose hip, lemon juice and lemongrass. Other herbal/fruit infused tea are orange spice, berry medley, peach delight and blackcurrant.
- Cocoa Cheese Froth (M-Php 110 L-Php 120)
A lot of people are crazy over drinks with cheese froth. Teaberi recognizes that and got themselves some creations with cheese froth. They have cocoa cheese froth — a combination of different chocolates. Well, it wasn’t surprising that this drink is one of teaberi’s bestsellers. Chocolate is everyone’s best friend after all! 🙂
- Matcha Black Bean with Roasted Rice (M-Php 95, L-Php 105, Hot-Php 85)
My favorite among the ones I tried out in teaberi has got to be this Matcha Black Bean with Roasted Rice drink! My golly, it tasted soooooooo good! I’m not sure if it was the ground black beans or the tea or the roasted rice, but the whole drink in itself was so yummy!
Teaberi is a haven for tea lovers!
Their specialty drinks are my personal favorites. Have you tried it? You should! Try their Matcha Black Bean with Roasted rice, I’m totally in love with it! Can’t wait to see more branches of Teaberi soon!
——————–
Teaberi
A. Venue Mall, Makati City, Philippines
Mon – Sun: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
teabericafe@gmail.com