Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Critique.
Wonka: The film of 2023
When I first heard of the Wonka film. I wasn't a massive fan of the idea. I have seen a few prequels to other stories that didn't do a character justice, and the moves seemed more of a cash grab than anything monumental. I wasn't sure what to think. I knew the story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Although I had never seen the movies (Orginal or Tim Burton's adaption.) I still knew the story. Of course, no one knew Willy's origin story until this movie.
By Paige Krause 2 years ago in Critique
The White City
'The White City' a part of True Colors Historical Stories of American Crime written by Grace Hitchcock. This adult and maybe even a teen novel is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of a woman named Winnifred Wylde who lives up to her name and a man Jude, a detective who works under her father who does not want Winnifred to get too close to anyone in law enforcement. The story takes place in the year 1892 during the Chicago's World's Fair. These two characters come together to solve a mystery of a missing person. Grace Hitchcock writes stories based on true crime and through her use of language and description of events the reader will get the feel of the time and events of the story.
By Mark Graham2 years ago in Critique
The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail
'The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail' is a youth novel written by Richard Peck and illustrated by Kelly Murphy. This is the story of a little mouse who is trying to find out who he is and where he belongs in the country of England. Everyone knows that one must pay homage to the Queens both human and mouse for they know all of what happens. Richard has written a story that is entertaining and even teaches a few lessons along the way. Kelly has created illustrations that show what the words describe. One will get the feel of the British Empire back in the day.
By Mark Graham2 years ago in Critique
Letters From Rifka
'Letters From Rifka' is a youth novel written by Karen Hesse. This is the story of Rifka, a young girl who with her family is leaving Russia for America. Rifka is in for quite the journey with a few setbacks that she must endure and try to understand. It is a book that is written as a series of letters that she has written in a poetry book of Pushkin to a close friend and confidant.
By Mark Graham2 years ago in Critique
Locomotion
'Locomotion' is a poem story written for youth and adults by Jacqueline Woodson. It is a book that tells the story of boy named Lonnie and how he comes to understand his world from his family and teachers. Lonnie learns a lot just from observations he makes for his writing. This is a book of poetry as if Lonnie was writing it. 'Locomotion' is a book that will shine a light on what is important to us all from one point to another.
By Mark Graham2 years ago in Critique
Don't Tell the Grown-ups
Just re-read a textbook that I had when I was in graduate school. The textbook is entitled 'Don't Tell the Grown-Ups' written by Alison Lurie. This textbook covers famous children's authors from A. A. Milne, James Barrie and several other famous authors. It covers many ideas that adults and children can learn from even though some of the ideas are quite profound in the ways of looking at the subjects and books covered. The textbook is easy to read and does not need to be read from cover to cover for professionals (writers and teachers) to derive meaning from the chapters. One could read whatever chapter they have an interest.
By Mark Graham2 years ago in Critique
The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health and Well-being
In an era characterized by unprecedented connectivity and digital interaction, social media has become an integral part of modern life, shaping the way individuals communicate, share information, and engage with the world. While social media offers a myriad of opportunities for connection and self-expression, its influence on mental health and well-being has garnered significant attention. In this article, we will explore the multifaceted impact of social media on mental health, shedding light on both its positive and negative implications.
By Isabel Loução2 years ago in Critique
Marley and Me
Who remembers the movie 'Marley and Me' that came out years ago, but every once in awhile you could catch on cable. I have seen the movie a few time, but I have read the novel 'Marley and Me' by John Grogan twice and each time it has brought tears to my eyes from the mid-point of the book to the end. This is the story of a couple John and Jen who want a dog but actually the whole package- a house, a dog, children and whatever comes with it. There are many adventures for this couple in learning how to work with Marley all the way towards the end. It is a book that will make you think of growing up and all the changes that animals and humans will need to think about in living life with all the good and the bad that could and does happen. This is definitely a must read for all for it does give a basic understanding of living for self and others.
By Mark Graham2 years ago in Critique
