Michael Howarth Knihy

Timothy Dimmick is a geeky young kid trying to survive his senior year of high school and make good on a promise to his late father: become a world-class ninja and secure his legacy as the "Bruce Lee of New England." But the path he takes is littered with stumbling blocks.His mother's too busy shopping to be a loving parent, his sister lives to get him into trouble, and his best friend is a high-school dropout who is writing the Great American Screenplay from the point of view of a fetus. Tim will go to any lengths to contact his father, including a phone call to a psychic hotline and a s ance conducted by a Turkish exchange student. Also complicating Tim's life are Uncle Jack and his weird ideas about religion, a rap-loving therapist, and an Asian cyber-girlfriend."

Set in Hungary during 1609, the story follows Maria, a talented peasant seamstress yearning for a better life amidst the turmoil of war and disease. Her fortunes change when an old woman reveals that she has been selected by the infamous Countess Elizabeth Bathory to create exquisite gowns. This opportunity not only promises a brighter future but also immerses Maria in the dark and dangerous world surrounding the countess, intertwining her fate with that of a historical figure shrouded in mystery.

From Almost Famous to Whale Rider, this is a fun look at 60 films that best define what it means to be an adolescent. Each entry identifies the genre, provides a brief plot summary, lists the key themes, and explains why the film is an essential viewing for teens everywhere.

Gothic elements play a pivotal role in children's literature, aiding their growth and development. The book analyzes five significant texts, including "Goblin Market" and "Coraline," through the lens of Erik Erikson's psychosocial development theories. Each text is linked to a specific developmental stage, illustrating how themes of anxiety and terror contribute to maturity and self-identity. By confronting fears through gothic narratives, children learn to navigate their emotions and gain insight into their own experiences, ultimately fostering independence and self-understanding.