Book Review of Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

 

"Look, I didn't want to be a half-blood."

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, the inaugural volume of Rick Riordan's widely celebrated middle-grade fantasy series, offers a compelling modern reinterpretation of classical Greek mythology. This narrative is purposefully constructed for readers in the upper elementary and middle-school demographic (ages 10 and above) who possess an interest in mythic narratives, action-driven plots, and satirical literary devices. The novel masterfully

bridges the ordinary contemporary world with a clandestine realm populated by divine beings, formidable monsters, and prophetic destinies, establishing its place alongside essential quest- based fantasy literature such as the Harry Potter series.

The central narrative is anchored by Perseus "Percy" Jackson, a twelve-year-old protagonist whose life is characterized by academic instability and developmental differences, namely dyslexia and ADHD. The abrupt revelation of his true identity occurs during a school excursion

when his pre-algebra teacher transforms into a monstrous Fury. He soon ascertains that he is a

demigod, the offspring of a human mother and an Olympian deity, necessitating his relocation to Camp Half-Blood, a fortified sanctuary for individuals sharing his heritage. As Percy observes the camp for the first time, the narrative captures his realization: "A lot of kids with learning disabilities, and ADHD and all that. They weren't bad kids. They were just... different." The primary catalyst for the plot is the unauthorized removal of Zeus's Master Bolt, the ultimate symbol of his power, a theft for which Percy is unjustly implicated. He is subsequently mandated to undertake a perilous transcontinental quest, accompanied by Annabeth Chase, the

intellectually superior daughter of Athena, and Grover Underwood, his steadfast satyr protector. When faced with the seemingly impossible task, the critical dialogue occurs: "‘But I’m just a kid!’ I said. ‘You’re not just a kid,’ Chiron told me. ‘If you were, I wouldn’t be bothering with you. You’re a half-blood. That makes you at least partially immortal.’" This expedition's

objective is two-fold: to identify the actual perpetrator and to restore the Master Bolt prior to the summer solstice, thereby averting a potentially catastrophic celestial conflict. Riordan’s genius

lies in the seamless integration of ancient mythological elements, such as the figures of Medusa and Hades’s Underworld, with distinctively American geographic settings like the St. Louis Arch and the Lotus Hotel and Casino. This reviewer found the novel's thematic exploration of learning disabilities particularly insightful; Percy’s struggles are reconceptualized not as deficiencies but as inherent attributes of a warrior, profoundly enhancing the text’s relatability and empowering message. This emphasis on self-acceptance is powerfully summarized by one character’s counsel to Percy: "The Gods can be real jerks sometimes." The consistent implementation of a sharp, sardonic narrative voice, delivered through Percy's first-person perspective, successfully maintains a tone of engaging levity despite the high-stakes nature of the conflict. The principal tension remains: will Percy and his associates successfully circumvent the divine traps and monstrous adversaries to expose the genuine traitor before the stipulated deadline, or will the ensuing divine war lead to the cataclysmic destabilization of the mortal world? The resolution of this core dilemma is reserved for the reader's discovery.

Riordan’s primary authorial intent was ostensibly pedagogical and personal: to craft an engaging mythological narrative for his own son, who faced similar learning challenges, thereby making classical literature more accessible and relatable to a younger audience. The book’s message of resilience and self-discovery is crystallized in a guiding principle imparted to the hero: "If you

want to survive, you'll have to rely on yourself." This objective has been validated by the novel’s immense commercial success, its prolonged presence on literary bestseller lists, and the numerous accolades it has garnered, including recognition as a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year. The novel's enduring critical value resides in its dual capacity to educate the reader on Hellenic mythology while simultaneously presenting a modern, flawed, yet profoundly inspirational heroic archetype. Consequently, The Lightning Thief is highly recommended for its

narrative brilliance, its successful application of mythological allegory, and its positive messaging regarding neurodiversity.

Ikhsan Dhika (30802200017)

Book Review : “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green.

 “My thoughts are stars I cannot fathom into constellations.”

The book novel 

Source : Wikipedia

The Fault in Our Stars is a novel by John Green that combines a teenage love story with philosophical reflections on life, illness, and death. The genres of this book are realistic fiction, drama, romance, and coming-of-age. This book is suitable for teenagers and adults who are experiencing difficulties in their harsh lives. Green writes in a sharp, emotional, yet light style.

The novel follows the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster, a 16-year-old girl with thyroid cancer and breathing problems due to the spread of her disease, and Augustus Waters, a charismatic and humorous former bone cancer patient. They meet at a cancer support group, and their relationship develops through conversation, favorite books, and life-changing journeys. 

The chemistry between Hazel and Augustus feels natural. Their conversations are funny, honest, and meaningful. They are not a clichéd, forced couple, but rather two people trying to live normally even though circumstances don't allow it. Green's realistic approach to the disease does not glorify cancer. Hazel's symptoms, limitations, and fears are portrayed as they are, without making her a “tragic victim” who is only to be pitied.

The movie

Source : Wikipedia

Despite its heavy theme, many of the dialogues make readers smile. Augustus' humor and Hazel's cynicism actually make readers care more about them. This novel is full of reflective quotes about the meaning of existence, the fear of being forgotten, and the idea that even a short life can still have its own “infinity.”

This story raises themes of love, suffering, and how to deal with death in a very realistic way, but also full of humor and heartwarming philosophy.

Love as a form of resistance against transience. Fear of being remembered and forgotten. Accepting that life is not always fair. Opening oneself up even though one knows they will be hurt. John Green navigates these themes with poetic language, yet remains accessible to both teenage and adult readers.

The novel's main strength lies in the characters of Hazel and Augustus, who are incredibly strong and positive despite facing extraordinary injustice in life. John Green successfully writes a serious story about illness and death in a light and entertaining style, without losing the depth of family drama and complex emotions. The novel also features fresh and meaningful dialogue that advances the story, as well as an honest and easy-to-digest writing style. The dialogue is strong and memorable. The main characters are unique, not clichéd. The emotions feel real, not manipulative. The pacing is just right and not drawn out. The ending is powerful and memorable. In addition to its strengths, this novel also has some weaknesses. Some of the dialogue feels “too wise” for the characters' ages (a characteristic of Green's writing). Readers who dislike the young-adult romance genre may find it too melodramatic.

Overall, “The Fault in Our Stars” is an emotionally charged realistic fiction novel, presenting a beautiful yet bittersweet love story, as well as a profound reflection on life and death with a captivating and deeply memorable narrative style for its readers. This book became a No. 1 New York Times Bestseller and also won the Children's Choice Book Award for Best Teen Book of the Year (2013). “The Fault in Our Stars” succeeds in making its readers laugh, think, and ultimately cry. It is not just a story about cancer, but about the courage to love even though you know it could all end at any moment. A touching and worthwhile read, especially for those who enjoy love stories with emotional depth.

By : Naufal Risma Andreansyah (30802300012) 

Book Review: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

 

“And, when you want something, all the universe helps you to get it.”

The Alchemist is a novel written by Paulo Coelho, a famous writer from Brazil. He writes many books about life, dreams, and finding yourself.

The book was published in 1988 and became very popular around the world.

The story is about a young shepherd named Santiago. He wants to find his “Personal Legend,” which means his true purpose in life. During his journey, he learns about courage, listening to his heart, and following dreams.

When I first read this book, I thought the story was simple. I even stopped reading it because I felt it was just about a boy traveling. But when I read it again during my

semester break, I realized the book has a deeper meaning. It is not only about traveling, but also about understanding your own life and your own dream.

One of my favorite quotes is:

“People learn early in their lives what their reason for being is.”

This quote made me think a lot. It means that every person has a purpose in life. But many people are too scared to follow it. They are afraid to fail or afraid to leave their comfort zone. Santiago teaches us that chasing your dream needs courage.

Another quote I like is:

“The secret of life is to fall seven times and get up eight times.”

This quote is simple but very powerful. It means that life is full of problems and failures. But we must keep getting up again and again. It reminds me that it is okay to fall, as long as we continue to try.

After reading The Alchemist, I realized that many people live their life without knowing what they truly want. They choose the safe way, not the way they love. Santiago’s story shows that following your dream is difficult, but it is also beautiful and meaningful.

The book also teaches that everyone has their own “treasure,” which can be

happiness, purpose, or self-understanding not just money or gold.

In short, The Alchemist is a story about dreams, hope, and finding yourself. Paulo Coelho wants readers to believe in their dreams and trust that the world will help them if they are brave enough.

This book is inspiring and easy to read, and it gives an important message about life.

By: Nizam

Book Review: Animal Farm by George Orwell

Comrades, if there’s one story that shows how dreams of freedom can slowly turn into nightmares, it’s George Orwell’s Animal Farm. First published in 1945, this short novel looks simple, a farm, a bunch of talking animals, and a rebellion, but it’s actually one of the most brilliant political allegories ever written. Orwell turns a fable into a mirror of real human society, showing how power can twist even the purest ideals.

The story begins on Manor Farm, where animals are tired of being exploited by their human master, Mr. Jones. Inspired by the wise old pig, Old Major, they rise up and drive the humans away. They rename the place Animal Farm and set out to build a new world where “all animals are equal.” For a while, everything seems perfect, no more humans, no more whips, just unity and hard work. They sing songs of freedom and hope. But slowly, things start to change.

Two pigs, Napoleon and Snowball, emerge as the leaders. Snowball is clever, idealistic, and full of ideas. Napoleon, however, is silent, watchful, and dangerous. Soon, comrades, their friendship turns into rivalry. Napoleon drives Snowball away using force and begins to rule alone. Through lies, fear, and clever manipulation by his spokesman, Squealer, Napoleon turns himself into a dictator, the very thing the animals once fought against.

As the story goes on, Orwell shows how the dream of equality dies, piece by piece. The Seven Commandments of Animalism, once sacred, are quietly rewritten to suit the pigs’ desires. The slogan “All animals are equal” changes to the chilling “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” The irony is sharp and unforgettable, what began as a revolution for freedom becomes another form of tyranny.

The characters are simple but powerful symbols. Boxer, the strong and loyal horse, represents the hardworking class. His motto, “I will work harder,” feels noble at first, but later becomes tragic as his blind trust leads to his downfall. Squealer, the smooth-talking pig, is the voice of propaganda, twisting lies into truth, convincing everyone that Napoleon’s cruelty is for the greater good. And Napoleon himself, comrades, is the perfect portrait of a corrupt leader, greedy, paranoid, and ruthless.

What makes Animal Farm so powerful is how real it feels. Even though the characters are animals, their struggles reflect human society, politics, power, and betrayal. Orwell doesn’t just tell us about dictatorship; he shows how it begins, how it grows, and how people (or animals) let it happen. Every small compromise, every blind belief, every “temporary” injustice adds up until freedom is gone.

The writing style is simple, almost childlike, but that’s what makes it so effective. Orwell doesn’t use complex words or flowery descriptions. He writes with clarity, letting the events speak for themselves. The story moves fast, each chapter revealing a new stage of corruption. You can feel the tension rising, from the excitement of rebellion to the quiet horror when the pigs start walking on two legs.

The ending hits hard. When the other animals look through the farmhouse window and can no longer tell the difference between pigs and humans, it’s both sad and brilliant. It’s Orwell’s way of saying that tyranny can wear any face, even the face of a comrade who once promised equality.

Reading Animal Farm today still feels fresh and relevant. The way Orwell captures the cycle of hope and betrayal is timeless. Whether you think of it as a reflection of totalitarian governments, or simply as a warning about human nature, the story speaks across generations. It’s short, sharp, and unforgettable, perfect for readers who are just starting to explore classic literature.

Comrades, this book is not just about animals on a farm. It’s about us, about the fragile balance between power and morality, about how easily truth can be rewritten, and how revolutions can eat their own children.

By: Baihaki Hakim

NIM: 30802300022

Book Review: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald

By: Alwan Indra Prawira Negara (30802300015) 

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s story The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a unique tale that explores the strange experience of aging backward. Benjamin Button is born as an old man in 1860, surprising everyone around him, and as he grows up, he physically becomes younger while his mind and experiences move forward in time. This unusual twist allows Fitzgerald to explore deep themes about life, aging, and identity.

The story shows how Benjamin’s life is very different from others because his body and mind don't age the way society expects. This causes problems in his relationships, as the people around him age normally. Fitzgerald’s writing is clear and easy to follow, using a tone that is sometimes thoughtful and sometimes nostalgic.

One important theme is the difference between how old Benjamin looks and how mature he feels inside. As he grows younger in appearance, he feels more alone and out of place because society expects people to gain wisdom and respect with age, something Benjamin struggles with in reverse.

The story also encourages readers to think about how time controls the way we live, love, and grow. Fitzgerald’s simple but effective storytelling makes this strange idea accessible and meaningful.

While the story is short, it leaves a strong impression. It makes readers question what it really means to grow old and how time influences our lives. For fans of the movie adaptation, the book offers a different and perhaps more thoughtful experience worth exploring.

Overall, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a fascinating, imaginative story that uses a fantasy concept to explore real human feelings and ideas about life. It is a good read for anyone who enjoys stories that make them think about life in new ways.

Book Review: The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka

 Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis is one of those stories that you don’t just read, you experience it. It’s strange, uncomfortable, and yet deeply human. Originally written in German as Die Verwandlung in 1912, the book tells the story of Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect. From that shocking moment on, Kafka drags us into Gregor’s tragic and surreal life, a story that feels both absurd and painfully real.

At first, the idea of a man turning into a bug sounds like a weird fantasy. But Kafka doesn’t treat it as fantasy at all. Gregor’s transformation isn’t explained, and nobody even tries to understand how or why it happened. Instead, the focus is on how Gregor and his family react to it. That’s what makes this story so powerful it’s not about the “monster,” but about what happens to a person when society and family stop seeing them as human.

Gregor used to be the main breadwinner of his family. He worked hard every day as a salesman to pay off his parents’ debts. But after the transformation, everything changes. His family, who once depended on him, begins to treat him as a burden. His father becomes violent, his mother terrified, and his sister who first shows kindness eventually grows distant and cold. It’s heartbreaking to see how love fades once Gregor is no longer useful. Kafka captures this slow emotional decay so perfectly that it hurts to read.

The most disturbing part is how Gregor himself reacts. Even after turning into a bug, he still thinks like a human. He worries about missing work, disappointing his boss, and letting his family down. He never rebels or asks “why me?” Instead, he accepts his situation quietly, as if he believes he deserves it. This quiet suffering is what makes Gregor such a tragic figure. He’s trapped not just in a monstrous body, but in guilt, duty, and loneliness.

Kafka’s writing style adds to the strangeness. The sentences are calm, almost cold, even when describing horrifying scenes. There’s no drama, no emotional explosion just a steady flow of uncomfortable realism. It feels like watching someone’s life fall apart in slow motion, and you can’t look away. The setting is mostly inside Gregor’s small room, which slowly becomes a symbol of isolation. The more time he spends there, the less human he becomes not because he changed physically, but because everyone else decided to forget who he was.

One of the strongest aspects of The Metamorphosis is its symbolism. Gregor’s transformation can mean many things: the loss of identity, the feeling of being trapped in a meaningless job, or the way society discards people who can’t “fit in.” Some readers see it as a story about mental illness or depression how someone slowly withdraws from the world while their loved ones stop understanding them. Others read it as a reflection of Kafka’s own life, his strained relationship with his father, and his sense of alienation. Whatever the interpretation, the story’s message remains clear: being human is not only about having a human body, but about being seen, heard, and loved.

Reading The Metamorphosis can be challenging. The pace is slow, and the atmosphere is heavy. There’s no happy ending, and by the last page, you’re left with a strange mix of sadness and reflection. But that’s what makes it unforgettable. Kafka forces you to look at the darker side of family, work, and human existence. You start to ask yourself: what defines my worth? What would happen if I could no longer meet people’s expectations would they still care about me?

If you enjoy stories that make you think deeply and feel uncomfortable in the best way, The Metamorphosis is worth reading. It’s not a story you’ll love immediately, but it’s one that will stay with you long after you finish it. Kafka doesn’t give answers he gives questions that echo inside your mind.

In the end, The Metamorphosis isn’t just about Gregor turning into a bug. It’s about us about how easily we turn away from those who no longer fit our world, and how fragile our idea of love and duty can be. It’s a strange, haunting masterpiece that reminds us of the thin line between being human and being forgotten.

Rating: 9/10 — haunting, thought-provoking, and painfully timeless.

Name : Satria lana yudha djuanda

NIM : 30802300001

Book Review: Diary Of A Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

Book Review: Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

By: Bani Khoirul A. (30802300019)

 

Source: Diary of a Wimpy Kid cover

A. Introduction

Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a highly popular children's novel written and illustrated by Jeff Kinney. Since its first publication in 2007, the series has expanded to 20 books as of today and continues to attract a wide range of readers. One of the strengths of this novel is its ability to appeal to both young readers and adults through its humor, simple language, and relatable storytelling. The success of the book also led to several live-action film adaptations, further proving its cultural impact and popularity. The story centers on the everyday life of its protagonist, Gregory Heffley, presented in a humorous diary format.

B. Body

The novel is written in a diary style, following Greg Heffley, a middle school student who records the frustrations, lessons, and awkward experiences of his daily life. Greg is portrayed as an ordinary boy who wishes to be popular, although things rarely go as he hopes. His diary often describes problems familiar to many teenagers, such as bullying, difficult teachers, social pressure, and friendship conflicts. Greg’s best friend, Rowley Jefferson, plays a significant role throughout the story and becomes part of many of Greg’s funniest and most embarrassing moments.

Greg’s relationship with his older brother, Rodrick Heffley, is another entertaining aspect of the book. Rodrick constantly teases and pranks Greg, portraying the typical dynamic between siblings. Despite his mischievous and lazy personality, Rodrick contributes significantly to the humor and development of Greg’s story.

Jeff Kinney successfully captures the awkwardness and emotional ups and downs of early adolescence. His casual and humorous writing style matches Greg’s voice perfectly, making the diary feel authentic. The simple illustrations add charm and enhance the comedic effect of many scenes. Although the book appears lighthearted, it subtly explores meaningful themes such as friendship, family relationships, self-identity, and the struggles of growing up. These themes make the novel relatable for readers of all ages.

C. Conclusion

In conclusion, Diary of a Wimpy Kid is an entertaining and engaging novel that resonates with readers because of its relatable portrayal of middle school life. Jeff Kinney’s simple writing style, combined with humorous drawings, creates a unique reading experience that appeals to both young readers and adults. Its lasting popularity evident through its many sequels and film adaptations shows how effectively the book captures the universal experiences of growing up. Whether read for nostalgia or for fun, Greg Heffley's diary remains an enjoyable and meaningful story for all ages.

Book Review "Marx : A Short Introduction (Second Edition) by Peter Singer"

 Iskur Reza (30802300014)

I.  Introduction

Marx : A Short Introduction (Second Edition) by Peter Singer, this book waspublished by Oxford University Press in 2001. This book provides A short yet insightful overview about Karl Marx Idea, the man, the myth, the legend, the foundation father of one of the greatest idea in history, Marxism. Peter Singer, is a well known Philosophers, best know for his work on ethics and utilitarianism. He introduces Marx not as a revolutionary icon but as a thinker, his idea shape how we understand politics, society and economic.

This book is writen with biographical and philosophical genre, this book is alsosuitable for a high school students, general readers and anyone who curious about Marxism. Singer clear explanation making this book easy to understand even by beginners without worried the complexity and the length like Dos kapital or Communists Manifesto.

II.  Body

Peter Singer’s Marx: A Short Introduction doesn’t tell a story with a characters and plot, but it does take a reader on a journey through Karl Marx's life and ideas. The book start explaining how Marx’s background and experience in the 19th century on Europe shapes the way he thought about society. Singer shows that marx wasn’t just political figure. He was a thinker who trying to understand why people were struggling under industrial capitalism.

Singer also introduce Marx’s main ideas in a way that easy to follow. He explains historical materialism, the belief that the economy and class relation drive how society develop. He also talk about alienation, a concept describing how worker under capitalism became disconnected from their work, from other people and even from themselves. The ideas are explained, not just as theory but as reflections of a real problems people faced during that time.

This book still has a lot to offers like how The economic theory and also Marx’s prediction about the modern world. I found this book is quite interesting, because before i read this book, everyone told me that “the left wings are dangerous za” It makes me more curious about it, at first I didn’t even know what’re they talking about, what’s ‘Left wing' and what’s so dangerous about it but luckily there’s a chance for me to learn this it. 

It’s when I had an assignment about Marxist Criticism on one of my class, when I had this assignment, I know I have to lock in. Days after days I read about Marxist but unfortunately I can’t understand it fully, luckily one of my friends who got the same assignment as me give me his book, Marx: A short Introduction (second edition) once i read the inside, i finally fully understand what Marxism means about how corrupt capitalism is, where Angels gets the idea about hegelianism, and the material that i need on my assignment.

III.  Conclusion

Singer wanted to clarify Marx’s philosophy, separating the man’s idea from the political movement that later misused them. Even though this book didn’t won any award, this book has great, fairness and clarity about one of the most complex thinker in history.

Overall, Marx: A Short Introduction (Second Edition) making Marx’s ideas understandable without oversimplifying them. Singer invites reader to think about how issues of class conflict, labor, and inequality still exist in modern Capitalism. This book is a great starting point for everyone who wants to understand Marxism in a different way. Even after more than a century his question about justice and human freedom still worth to think about today.

Book Review : No Longer Human By Osamu Dazai

 

“What uneasiness lies in being loved.”

No Longer Human is written by Osamu Dazai, who was born with the name Shūji Tsushima in Aomori in 1909. He is a famous Japanese writer known for his works about alienation or inner darkness. Based on Dazai’s experiences, he was able to write about existentialism and alienation themes that explore people who constantly ask “Who am I?” or “What is the meaning of life?” His famous novel, No Longer Human, reflects a deep sense of hopelessness and disconnection from society, showing how someone's search for who they are can end in pain and self-destruction.

 

To be honest, when I first read this book, I didn’t read all of it, and I started reading it again during my third semester break. I thought I had plenty of time to understand the words written by Dazai. At first, I thought this book was just a portrayal of an ordinary depressed person and nothing special. Honestly, I wasn’t interested in reading it at first either because the cover was pink and simple, and I assumed the story would be simple too. It turns out the story is quite complicated. It tells about a man named Yozo, who actually represents the author himself, broken by depression. In the story, Yozo is portrayed as someone who doesn’t understand how to be human. For ordinary readers or those who don’t dive deep into it, it might be confusing to understand what it means, but that’s exactly what makes it interesting.

One of my favorite quotes is “My unhappiness was the unhappiness of a person who could not say no. I had been intimidated by the fear that if I declined something offered me.” This quote touched me because I understand what it means. Sometimes we say yes to everything just to make people happy, but we forget about our own feelings. It made me realize that saying no is not selfish  it’s a way to take care of ourselves.

Another quote that really made me think is “Now I have neither happiness nor unhappiness. Everything passes. That is the one and only thing I have thought resembled a truth in the society of human beings where I have dwelled up to now as in a burning hell.”

This line shows how Yozo feels tired of life and has no feelings left. He believes that everything, good or bad, will pass. I think this quote is very powerful. It sounds sad, but it also tells the truth. Life always moves on, no matter what happens. I believe Dazai was trying to say that sometimes life feels like a burning hell when you lose hope, but knowing that everything passes can help you stay strong.

Reading No Longer Human made me think about how many people hide their real feelings. They smile and act fine, but inside, they are hurting. This book helped me understand that everyone has their own battles, and that’s why we should be kind to each other.

 

In short, Osamu Dazai wrote No Longer Human to show his deep sadness and his struggle to live in a world that feels cold and empty. He wanted people to see how weak and lost humans can feel when they don’t belong anywhere. The book came out in 1948, and since then it has become one of Japan’s most famous and moving stories. It has inspired many movies, anime, and talks about mental health and the meaning of life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rizky Anggara Maulana 30802300017

Learn Before You Judge: Imam Speaks on Trans7’s Mistake

 M.Mishbahul Akrom Nizzamy (30802300037)

Semarang, Central Java, October 29, 2025  The Trans7 program Xpose Uncensored has caused public debate after showing a story about Pesantren Lirboyo. Many people said the show did not understand pesantren life.

Bapak Masirat, Imam of Al-Hadi Mosque, said the program failed to show the real values of pesantren. “They don’t understand that pesantren are built on togetherness and simplicity,” he said. “People in pesantren work hard from nothing to spread knowledge.”

He said that boycotting Trans7 completely was not needed. “Trans7 still has many good programs. This case was just an unlucky mistake for them,” Masirat said. 

He added that the media should learn more before talking about religious schools. “If you want to give an opinion, ask the experts first. Pesantren follow religion, not just common rules,” he explained.

Masirat also said he still watches Trans7 if the program gives positive lessons. “I rarely watch TV, but if it’s useful, I don’t mind,” he said. He hopes Trans7 can admit its mistake honestly and make a new show that educates people about pesantren life. “They should say sorry and make something that teaches viewers about pesantren,” Masirat said.

At the end, he reminded people to stay calm and wise. “This problem should not divide us. Let’s take it as a lesson for everyone  for the media and for us too,” he said. 

NU and Muhammadiyah Santri Have Different Views on Trans7 Pesantren Program

 Rizky Anggara(30802300017)

  

Source: Perbedaan dan persamaan NU dengan Muhammadiyah. ©2015 Merdeka.com

 

Kudus, Central Java, November 2, 2025  The Trans7 program Xpose Uncensored, which aired an episode about the daily life of Pesantren Lirboyo in East Java, has received mixed reactions from Islamic students. Santri from NU and Muhammadiyah both said the program was misleading, but they responded in very different ways.

Apri, a santri from Bustanul Ulum Pati, said the program did not show pesantren life fairly. He believed the host spoke without enough understanding and even mentioned Kiai Anwar Manshur without a clear reason. “If the media want to report about pesantren, they should come and see what really happens inside,” Apri said.

He added that the show’s tone sounded too sharp and one-sided. According to him, the narration focused too much on negative assumptions and ignored the positive sides of pesantren. “Many pesantren help their students continue their studies and even give scholarships. That part is never shown,” he said.

Apri also commented on the online protest that used the hashtag #BoikotTrans7. He said the movement was emotional but understandable. “People were upset because they care about their pesantren, but we should respond with facts, not anger,” he said. He added that protests were fine as long as they stayed peaceful and respectful.

On the other hand, Yusril Izza, a Muhammadiyah santri from Maahid Kudus, had a calmer reaction. He agreed that the program lacked sensitivity but said anger would not fix anything. “We should not fight the media. It is better to take this as a chance to educate them about pesantren,” Yusril said.

He explained that Muhammadiyah students are taught to face problems through reason and discussion. For him, criticism is useful only when it helps people understand. “When something goes wrong, we should explain it in a way that teaches, not attacks,” he said. Yusril believes dialogue can build a better relationship between the media and Islamic schools.

He also said that Trans7  apology was a good first step, but not enough. “Saying sorry is not the end. The media should learn more about pesantren culture and show both the spiritual and social sides of Islamic education,” he said. He suggested that Trans7 invite scholars from both NU and Muhammadiyah to help create programs that give a more balanced view.

Although Apri and Yusril came from different backgrounds, both shared the same concern about how pesantren are shown in the media. Their reactions showed two sides of Indonesia Islamic tradition. Apri, from NU, responded firmly and emotionally, protecting the honor of pesantren and their teachers. Yusril, from Muhammadiyah, focused on calm communication and education to bring understanding.

The Trans7 issue has become more than just a television problem. It has turned into a reminder of how two big Islamic movements in Indonesia can have the same goal but different paths. NU tends to protect with emotion and loyalty to tradition, while Muhammadiyah prefers reason and learning. Both sides hope that the media will report pesantren life with more care, honesty, and respect.

The Duality Between Logic and Belief Regarding the Trans 7 Boycott

The hashtag #BoikotTrans7 recently went viral on social media, raising widespread questions among Indonesian netizens. The controversy began after Trans7 aired the program Xpose Uncensored on October 13, 2025. The episode drew criticism for allegedly demeaning the Lirboyo Islamic boarding school and its senior cleric, K.H. Anwar Manshur, prompting administrators and students to initiate a boycott movement

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Sc : minanews.net

The broadcast was considered offensive due to the presenter’s sarcastic communication style, which many viewers felt framed Lirboyo in a negative and condescending manner. Trans7 stated that the segment aimed to highlight feudal practices in some Islamic boarding schools. However, backlash emerged because the portrayal appeared to generalize and single out one pesantren.

The issue quickly divided public opinion. One group—consisting of pesantren administrators, students, alumni, and supporters—condemned the broadcast and joined the boycott. They argued that the program misrepresented pesantren culture and failed to understand their ethical values and hierarchy of respect toward teachers.

The opposing group agreed with Trans7’s concern, claiming that certain pesantren may indeed exhibit feudal tendencies or even misconduct by a minority of irresponsible individuals. This side viewed the broadcast as a form of critical reporting rather than disrespect.

For the pesantren community, practices such as crouching when greeting teachers, offering gifts, or kissing hands are longstanding traditions symbolizing respect and humility. While these customs may appear “feudal” to outsiders, santri regard them as expressions of gratitude and sincerity in seeking knowledge.

The debate highlights the gap in cultural understanding between pesantren communities and the wider public. Media outlets are urged to approach sensitive cultural topics with greater care and contextual accuracy, while pesantren communities are encouraged to engage in open dialogue to help the public better understand their traditions.

By : Naufal Risma Andreansyah (30802300012) 

FROM SCREEN TO REALITY: SANTRI DEMAND MEDIA ETHICS IN RELIGIOUS REPRESENTATION

 By : Baihaki Hakim

 

Source : Stiestekom

Semarang, 2025  A recent television program aired by Trans7 depicting life inside an Islamic boarding school (pesantren) has drawn widespread criticism from the Muslim community. The segment, which was considered to misrepresent pesantren traditions, triggered conversations about how media should approach religious and cultural issues with greater sensitivity.

For Alexander Vito Dharma Putra, the controversy reveals a lack of awareness from major media outlets when dealing with sensitive topics.

“Memang menyinggung, selayaknya mereka menjadi media besar, mereka harus melakukan riset lebih mendalam dengan isu yang sensitif,” he said.

He argued that a large network like Trans7 should be able to anticipate potential backlash by understanding the values and nuances behind pesantren culture.

For him, this reflected a misunderstanding of pesantren ethics, where apologies are expressed through humility and direct communication, not through public statements or press releases.

Similarly, Muna Dzar Azmi Haqiqi believed that the program’s intention was not necessarily wrong, but its execution failed to show proper understanding.

“Tujuan Trans7 benar, tapi cara penyampaian nya yang salah,” she noted, explaining that each pesantren operates under different traditions. “Nggak semua pondok itu sama, ada yang sesat ada yang benar, nggak bisa disamaratakan.”

However, not all respondents saw Trans7 as entirely at fault. Aryo Wicaksono, a pesantren administrator from Surabaya, considered that the channel might have portrayed something real, but lacked the contextual framing that audiences needed to understand it.

“Kami melihat tindakan memberi uang ke kiai kami adalah sebagai bentuk ngabdi kami. Adapun cara jalan berjongkok seperti itu adalah keharusan yang sudah kami pelajari di dalam kitab,” he explained. “Itu juga adalah salah satu tata krama dalam mengaji.”

The controversy, therefore, is not just about one TV program, it exposes a wider tension between national media narratives and local religious practices. In pesantren culture, such gestures of respect are spiritual, not hierarchical. When presented without explanation, however, they can easily be perceived as feudal or absurd by outsiders.

Several respondents also commented on how Trans7 responded to the backlash. M. Alifullah El Salami, an alumnus of Mambaus Sholihin Islamic Boarding School in Gresik, criticized the way the station’s director issued an apology.

“Metode ataupun langkah meminta maaf yang digunakan oleh direktur Trans7 salah,” he said. “Cara yang meminta maaf yang benar adalah so’an bertemu langsung dengan pihak yang dirugikan.”

Despite the heated reactions, some respondents said they would still watch other Trans7 programs that align with family and educational values. “Masih banyak tayangan yang lebih baik seperti Laptop Si Unyil dan Sahabat Otan,” said one alumnus. However, all agreed that the controversy has shaken public trust and requires serious reflection from the network.

As one respondent concluded, Trans7 must take this as a lesson to improve its internal ethics and cultural literacy.

“Menindak tegas kreator yang membuat konten tersebut, lebih banyak dekat dengan pesantren agar media lain lebih positif terhadapnya,” said Vito.

Ultimately, this incident serves as a reminder for Indonesia’s media industry: freedom of expression must walk hand in hand with cultural empathy. In a nation built on diversity, understanding the soul behind every story is what turns information into wisdom.