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Books We Loved: Ocean Adventures and an Imaginative Princess

07.06.26

I don't typically review children's books on Greer's OC, but when two beautifully written and illustrated books arrived recently, I couldn't resist sharing them. Better yet, I had the perfect test audience: my grandchildren.

The first, Ocean Superheroes by Gabrielle Raymond McGee, takes kids on an underwater adventure while teaching them about the amazing creatures that help keep our oceans healthy. From tiny plankton to whales, the book introduces young readers to real-life ocean heroes and shows how even small actions can make a difference.

My grandchildren were fascinated by the ocean facts and colorful illustrations, and I loved that they were learning while having fun.

Learn more or order Ocean Superheroes here: ocean-superheroes

The second book, The Paper Princess by Elisa Kleven, is a charming classic that is back in print this month. When a gust of wind carries away a handmade paper princess before she's finished, she sets off on an imaginative adventure of her own.

The illustrations are beautiful and full of detail, and the story is sweet, creative and engaging. It sparked plenty of conversation and kept my grandchildren turning the pages to see what would happen next.

Both books were a big hit at our house. If you're looking for something special to read with your children or grandchildren, I highly recommend adding these to your bookshelf.



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Pacific Symphony Unveils Star-Studded 2026-27 Pops Season

07.01.26

Pacific Symphony has announced its 2026-27 Pops Series, featuring a lineup packed with Broadway stars, holiday favorites, iconic film music and internationally acclaimed performers. Curated by Principal Pops Conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez, the season includes performances by Idina Menzel, Cody Fry and Pink Martini, along with original productions celebrating James Bond films, sci-fi movie music and a concert presentation of Chicago. 

The season opens Nov. 6 and 7 with Tony Award-winning Broadway star Idina Menzel, best known for originating the role of Elphaba in Wicked and voicing Elsa in Frozen. Holiday favorite Cody Fry returns Dec. 18 and 19 for his orchestral Christmas performances after multiple sold-out appearances with the symphony. 

Pink Martini All-Stars takes the stage Feb. 19 and 20 with Thomas Lauderdale joined by Ari Shapiro, Edna Vazquez and Jimmie Herrod for an evening blending pop, swing and international music influences. March 12 and 13 brings “Clouds in My Coffee: The Music of Joni Mitchell, Carole King and Carly Simon,” celebrating the legendary singer-songwriters with symphonic arrangements of their classic hits. 

“The Music of Bond, James Bond” arrives April 16 and 17 at Segerstrom Hall with iconic themes from the famous spy franchise and a pre-concert casino experience. On May 7 and 8, “Sci-Fi Showdown: A Galactic Journey” will feature music inspired by beloved science fiction films and television series. The season concludes June 4 and 5 with “Chicago: The Musical – In Concert,” bringing the Broadway favorite to life with full orchestra. 

“All performances are designed to create experiences audiences cannot stream or replicate anywhere else in Orange County,” Lopez-Yañez said in the announcement. 

Concerts take place at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall unless otherwise noted. Pops subscriptions are available now, including seven-concert and customizable four-concert packages. 

For more information, visit Pacific Symphony.



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