I usually do not have Netflix, but right now I am on my one-month free trial and guess what just came out- Stranger Things season 2. I had seen the first two episodes of the first season forever ago at a friend's house. I was intrigued, but also did not have Netflix, so that was the end of the road... until now. I just picked up watching it again and now I am 5 episodes into the first season. I'm hooked and plan to finish all of 1 and 2 by next week; here's why.

1. It's all the spooky, but without the nightmares.

Stranger Things is great because it has some scary aspects and suspense, but you aren't experiencing a lot of fear and dread while watching it. It isn't like watching a horror movie/thriller. This is awesome because it means you can watch three episodes in one day and not feel like you've had a panic attack every time. It also makes it suitable for a larger audience. I would approve it for most middle school and up.

2. It incorporates real life.

Everyone can relate to some aspect of Stranger Things. It isn't extremely dramatized/over the top. There are tears, laughs, fights, cover-ups, friendships, acts of kindness, and acts of cruelty. It truly feels like you could know these character's in real life and see them respond in the ways that they do. While watching Stranger Things you will 100% feel like you are in it.

3. It makes you think.

Government conspiracies, a second dimension, gates to that second dimension, a creature with a long name, wiretapping, telekinesis... How much more could you want?! While watching Stranger Things you have sooo much to ponder about. Like hey, I wonder if I can move things with my mind too. I wonder if the government really does have top secret labs. Oh yeah yeah like Area 51? What about that? ......

4. The character development is incredible.

You learn so so much about the characters in such a short period of time just by their actions and the mess everyone is in. You definitely will be able to strongly identify with at least one of the characters, and by the second episode, you will find yourself rooting for all of them. I feel like I am so much like Barb and Mike personality wise. Oh and by the way, #JusticeForBarb.

5. Its setting.

The eeriness of the group living in the woods and just the vibe of their little suburban town is amazing. Plus this was shot in Georgia! Represent!

6. It teaches valuable lessons.

Like how to sneak into a top-secret government lab. Oh, wait no, I mean actually applicable life lessons. Lucas for example. The character Lucas teaches the viewer the art cynicism and critical thinking. At first, all you can think is goodness, will this guy give it a rest, but after a while, you realize that quite often he asks the important questions and sort of carries the team when it comes to intelligence. Every group needs someone with the skills of Lucas. Eleven teaches the viewer strength and persistence even after long-term abuse. All of the characters are constantly teaching the viewer life lessons, and they're great to have discussions about if you watch it with friends or a club.

With all of that said, go watch Stranger Things on Netflix! Don't have Netflix? Use the free trial! You'll probably finish it before the trial is over.