Amulet is a highly popular graphic novel series authored by Kazu Kibuishi. The series follows the adventures of a young girl named Emily Hayes and her younger brother Navin. The story begins with the tragic death of their father, which forces them and their mother to move to an old ancestral home located in a sleepy little town. However, things take a wild turn when their mother is kidnapped by a mysterious creature. This leads Emily and Navin to embark on a dangerous quest in order to rescue her. Along the way, they discover a magical amulet which grants them incredible powers and opens the door to a fantastical world filled with mythical creatures.
7. What’s your favorite po-boy? Where do you go to get it?
We ll start at Luke for 50 cent oysters, then head to Domenica for Gorgonzola pizza, and finally stumble over to American Sector for a pulled pork slider. We ll start at Luke for 50 cent oysters, then head to Domenica for Gorgonzola pizza, and finally stumble over to American Sector for a pulled pork slider.
Along the way, they discover a magical amulet which grants them incredible powers and opens the door to a fantastical world filled with mythical creatures. The series is known for its captivating storyline, richly detailed artwork, and well-developed characters. Each installment takes readers deeper into the intricate world of Alledia, where Emily and Navin encounter various challenges and face off against formidable adversaries.
My New Orleans: 20 Questions with Sasha Masakowski
In this edition of My New Orleans, New Orleans singer and songwriter Sasha Masakowski dishes on her favorite things and places in New Orleans.
By Ann Marshall Tilton
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October 16, 2013
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I had the pleasure of getting to know Sasha Masakowski, New Orleans singer and songwriter, on a recent trip we both took to represent New Orleans in faraway Matsue, Japan. The trip was to help commemorate the 20 th anniversary of the sister city relationship between New Orleans and Matsue, and Sasha was selected to perform at both the official ceremony and the unofficial “Little Mardi Gras” celebration. Our entire group was both humbled and inspired by the tremendous respect Matsue natives showed for New Orleans history and culture. I feel certain that Sasha’s rich voice is still echoing through Matsue’s alleyways.
Sasha Masakowski (photo provided by Hypersoul)
Sasha’s “big break” as a singer came when she won the Big Easy Award for Best Emerging Artist. “Until then, I didn’t think anyone knew who I was, because I was just doing small gigs in dive bars,” she said. “I was in utter disbelief when I won, but it definitely opened a lot of doors. I landed a record deal with Hypersoul shortly thereafter.”
In addition to other artists’ music, fashion plays a large role in Sasha’s inspiration. “Exploring Tokyo’s Harajuku district leaves me feeling elated and amazed,” she said as we sat in Tokyo discussing our trip. “There is so much creativity here. People are bold and innovative, and the Japanese attention to detail, especially in fashion, is very moving to me.”
Sasha has some new projects on the horizon. “I’m collaborating with my good friend and talented guitarist, Cliff Hines,” she said. “We both have strong roots in New Orleans jazz music, but this winter we’ll be touring nationally and recording an album of original music. I’m excited to explore some art-pop and rock sounds in addition to jazz.”
This November, Sasha and Cliff will embark on a three-week national tour, during which they’ll be playing in some of the country’s premier venues, including the Kennedy Center’s Millennium stage, the Kansas City Academy, and Brooklyn’s Shapeshifter Lab. For more information about Sasha’s tour and upcoming project, check out her kickstarter campaign and Facebook page.
20 Questions with Sasha Masakowski
1. Who is your favorite New Orleanian, dead or alive, real or imagined?
2. What first brought you to New Orleans?
I am so proud and so grateful to say I was born in this magical city. I mean, what are the odds? I could have been born in Des Moines.
3. In your opinion – what’s the best neighborhood in New Orleans?
Sasha Masakowski and Cliff Hines on stage with local jazz band in Matsue, Japan (photo by Ann Marshall Thomas)
4. City Park or Audubon Park?
City Park – the nature trail is one of my favorite spots in the city.
5. Describe the best meal you’ve eaten in New Orleans.
A few friends and I coined the term, “Beshhopping.” We hop around to different John Besh restaurants during happy hour. We’ll start at Luke for 50 cent oysters, then head to Domenica for Gorgonzola pizza, and finally stumble over to American Sector for a pulled pork slider.
6. Where’s your favorite brunch spot?
I just discovered Breads on Oak. Homemade everything and great coffee.
7. What’s your favorite po-boy? Where do you go to get it?
8. You’ve got friends visiting and it’s their first time in New Orleans – where are you taking them?
I live right on City Park, so I love taking visitors on long walks – through the park, along Bayou St. John, over to Esplanade Avenue, and through the cemeteries (stopping for lunch at Liuzza’s or coffee at Fairgrinds). I also make sure they check out the Steamboat Natchez and the Audubon Zoo. And of course, we listen to as much music as possible.
9. What’s your favorite neighborhood bar?
Sasha Masakowski (photo provided by Hypersoul)
10. What is your favorite New Orleans cocktail and where do you go to get it?
Gasa Gasa makes a signature “Sasha” cocktail for me when I play there on Tuesday nights. Ask for Dimitri, the bartender, and he’ll make it for you!
11. Snowball or Daiquiri? Where from and what flavor?
Snowball. I like the Pineapple Mint from Beaucoup Juice on Freret Street.
12. Best spot to see live music?
13. Favorite New Orleans musician or band?
14. Favorite New Orleans Festival?
15. Favorite Mardi Gras parade?
Endymion – I live on the parade route so I can watch the whole thing from my balcony!
16. Where do you shop in New Orleans?
90% of my wardrobe comes from U.A.L. and Goodwill.
17. What is your favorite New Orleans Museum?
NOMA – especially the sculpture garden.
18. Where do you go to watch the Saints play?
Sasha performing in Matsue, Japan (photo by Ann Marshall Thomas)
My parents’ house. Watching my dad’s reaction to a good play or a touchdown is a source of amusement for my brother and I.
19. Describe New Orleans in one word.
20. When was the last time you fell in love with New Orleans?
On my recent trip to Matsue, Japan. They put on a “Little Mardi Gras” parade, complete with four marching bands playing “When the Saints Go Marching In,” a full-on second line through the streets in the town center, Mardi Gras beads, and black and gold umbrellas! There was a ten-person brass band playing every traditional New Orleans song in the book – and playing them well! It was amazing to see a city on the other side of the world embrace our culture that way.
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14. Favorite New Orleans Festival?
One of the notable aspects of the series is its ability to tackle complex themes and emotions. It explores the concepts of loss, grief, and the power of family bonds. Through their journey, Emily and Navin must learn to overcome their fears and work together in order to overcome the obstacles they face. The Amulet series has gained a wide fan base, appealing to both children and adults alike. It has received critical acclaim for its engrossing storytelling, stunning artwork, and its ability to address important issues in an accessible manner. With the success of the Amulet series, Kazu Kibuishi has cemented his place as a prominent figure in the world of graphic novels. His work exemplifies the power of visual storytelling and its ability to captivate readers of all ages. The Amulet series serves as a testament to the enduring popularity of graphic novels and their ability to transport readers into extraordinary worlds. In conclusion, the Amulet series is a must-read for fans of graphic novels and fantasy adventures. With its engaging story, beautiful artwork, and memorable characters, it has left a lasting impression on readers around the world. Whether you're new to the world of graphic novels or a seasoned enthusiast, the Amulet series is sure to delight and captivate..
Reviews for "The Impact and Influence of the Amulet Book Series"
1. John - 2/5 - I was really disappointed with the "Amulrt" book series. The storyline was confusing and hard to follow, with so many different characters and plotlines happening at once. I found myself constantly flipping back and forth trying to keep track of what was going on. Additionally, I didn't feel any connection to the characters and their development was lacking. Overall, I didn't enjoy reading this series and wouldn't recommend it to others.
2. Emily - 1/5 - I couldn't stand the "Amulrt" book series. The writing style was dull and uninspiring, making it difficult to stay engaged in the story. The plot felt forced and predictable, with no real surprises or twists to keep me interested. The characters were flat and lacked depth, making it hard to care about their fates. I found myself skimming through the pages just to get it over with. I definitely won't be continuing with this series.
3. Sarah - 2/5 - The "Amulrt" book series was a letdown for me. I felt that the world-building was underdeveloped, leaving many unanswered questions and inconsistencies throughout the story. The pacing was off, with long stretches of nothing happening followed by rushed resolutions. The writing itself was average at best, lacking the descriptive language and emotional depth that I look for in a book. I had high hopes for this series, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations.
4. Michael - 1/5 - I found the "Amulrt" book series to be a complete waste of time. The plot was convoluted and didn't make much sense, leaving me scratching my head in confusion. The characters were poorly written and felt like caricatures rather than real people. Moreover, the dialogue was stilted and unrealistic, making it hard to believe in the story. Overall, I regret picking up this series and would advise others to steer clear of it.