Dear Mask,
I'm a passionate reader, but I've started having a problem. I don't know what books to read! I feel I'm too old for middle grade books but too young for young adult (YA). Do you have any suggestions for what I should do?
Sincerely,
Book Worm
San Jose, CA
Dear Book Worm,
How cool to meet a fellow reader! I personally also enjoy reading, and I too experienced this problem a few years back. The main question I would suggest asking yourself is not the age the book is recommended for but the book’s contents themselves. Only after you find a story with a plot you are very interested in would I recommend asking questions about age. It can even be helpful to read books that are meant for older age groups; that way, you’ll have an upper hand when you eventually become that age.
Happily ever after,
The Mask
Dear Mask,
I have a really big crush on someone in my grade, but I am not sure if she likes me. I sort of want to ask her to a social, but I am not sure what should I do. Should I just admit it and ask her out?
Sincerely,
Unsure Crusher
San Jose, CA
Dear Unsure Crusher,
I know first-hand that it can be hard to figure out if your crush likes you or not. Honestly, I say go for it. Ask her to the social, or even to hang out after school. After all, you only live once! I can tell this is important to you, and I hope it goes well for you.
Sincerely,
The Mask
I have no idea what to get my family for Christmas! The people I need a gift for are my dad, my mom, my 17-year-old brother, and my grandma.
Sincerely,
Little Santa
San Jose, CA
Dear Little Santa,
I definitely know what it feels like not to be able to think of any ideas for presents to get my family. It’s hard to brainstorm good gifts! I have learned that parents and grandparents usually will appreciate anything and everything you give them. If your brother intends to go to college, maybe get him some things he can use at college. If not, you can gift him with an experience, like a fun day out with you. I have received something like that for my birthday and really enjoyed it. You can also ask other people in your family what he might like this year.
Merry Christmas!
The Mask
Dear Mask,
What puppet show storyline or characters for our upcoming “Winter Wonderland Adventure” performances for elementary kids in Lahaina would help keep their spirits positive and up? What will get them smiling and laughing? Many have lost their homes due to the fires in August.
Sincerely,
Aunty Di
Lahaina, Hawaii
Dear Aunty Di,
I know this might be hard for your kids. I feel really bad for them. Here is a suggestion. If the kids are young, like first graders, kindergartners, or second graders, maybe try to perform something about Santa, like how he found his reindeer and named them. If they are older kids, like fourth and fifth graders, try to make it funny. Do something about Santa’s toy factory malfunctioning and all of the elves having to fix everything before Christmas Day. Tis the season for joy and happiness, because it sounds like some of your kids really need it. Be sure to be respectful of other religions and the holidays they celebrate. Try to represent a compilation of different religions and beliefs to make it fun and respectful. I know that you will make these kids feel happy in these times.
Happy Holidays,
The Mask
Dear Mask,
I don't want a lot for Christmas. There is just one thing I need. I don't care about my presents underneath the Christmas tree. I just want my friend to stop singing Christmas songs! More than you could ever know. Please make my wish come true: All I want for Christmas is for my friend to stop singing!
Sincerely,
Unwilling Listener
Huntington, NY
Dear Unwilling Listener,
Christmas music is the best! If your friend wants to sing, just let them sing. At least they’re not singing “Baby Shark,” “It’s Raining Tacos,” or “Crazy Frog.” Or Rick Rolling you. If it's really upsetting to you and they’re not listening to your requests, I recommend just accepting that your friend loves to sing Christmas music. Maybe it will be more fun if you join in!
Mariah Carily,
The Mask
Dear Mask,
I have been playing Fortnite since 2020 and have a lot of Fortnite skins. I was planning to take my girlfriend on a date. But the new Eminem skin just came out and I want to cop it. If I were to get it, I couldn’t take my girlfriend on a date, but it will never come back again. What do I do?!?
Sincerely,
Fortnite Frank
San Jose, CA
Dear Fortnite Frank,
You are in a tough situation. I too have experienced spending lots of money on a game and feeling like I can’t afford extra things I want to do. You should try reconsidering what your priorities are. Take some time to truly think about what you want to do. Get some fresh air, away from your screen, and spend time with those you love. This will help you make your own decision about this matter. Then, throw that decision in the trash and think about this: Girlfriends are temporary, but that Fortnite skin will stay in your life forever. Even when you’re at your lowest point, your inventory always will contain that epic Eminem skin, which will keep you afloat in those moments of despair. Go get that dub!
Run duos with me,
The Mask
Dear Mask,
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on this website are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Almaden Country Day School. Any content provided by our bloggers or authors are of their opinion, and are not intended to replace parental or professional advice.
