Victoria Schwab's book deals with humans and monsters, and sometimes they’re interchangeable, depending on the character. The power of music was a good theme to approach, so I did. “I've always found people who play an instrument to be vaguely supernatural. Music is how August nourishes himself, but for Kate, it represents a fear of silence.” Read on

The way rhythms and good vibes coincide through the bass in your headphones is all for you./ Guitar riffs and lyricists, sneakers and ballet slippers. How great — it’s all up to you. Read on

This year we have been challenged by acts of hatred and revenge. As a country, we have yet to see the beauty in our diversity nor recognize the sacrifices we have made to get to where we are now. As an African-American female, I am a minority within a minority. Read on

All I know is that last weekend I was pulled over/ For walking too fast down the sidewalk. “Where you going, black Muslim girl?/Ain’t nothing here for you.” Read on

As everyone is hopping onto the “Hamilton” bandwagon, people must not forget the magnificence of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s first notable work, “In the Heights,” which won four Tony Awards in 2008 and was actually the first hip-hop style musical introduced to the Broadway stage. Read on

You will graduate from college. You will find a balance between being young and a parent to your siblings. I love you. You are truly resilient, boo. Never let someone else make you feel as if you do not belong. Always remember where you come from and the power of giving back. Read on