Blocks of large familiar words stared back at me as I opened up one of my cherished childhood novels: “The War That Saved My Life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. This Newbery Honor Book felt light in my hands, the wrung out paper and yellow-faded edge carrying me back into the world of Ada, Jamie, and Susan – a world that once felt like my own.

Ada, a ten-year old English girl, has a clubfoot. Such “disability” resulted with her own mother resenting her and keeping her at home to save embarrassment. In the miniscule flat, Ada suffers from her mother’s cruel treatment, only seeing the world through her window. When World War II breaks out, she seizes the opportunity to escape the cage and break free, to the countryside, where no amount of chains and cuffs can stop her from breaking through the wind and bathing in the sun. She and Jamie, her younger brother, meet Susan Smith, a middle-aged lady who accepts them into her home and takes great care of them, bringing new light into Ada’s life for the first time.

The leap Ada took led her to a new world. Here, away from her mother, Ada learns to live with her cripple, falling in love with riding horses and tasting the life she always dreamed of. Butter, Susan’s pony, became her joy and escape, flying her across endless fields of flower and freedom. Regardless, war goes on and they live under constant fear, the cacophony of bombing and crashes haunting their dreams, filling their days and nights with dread. Through it all, Susan became the mother figure to Ada and Jamie, offering them a true home that embraces the children for exactly who they are, healing hearts she never scarred. A bittersweet mix of loss and Ada’s new found family ends the story, where war finally resides but millions now walk amongst the stars.

The paradoxical title: “The War That Saved My Life” ironically encapsulates Ada’s journey, a war that set the world ablaze but also destroyed her mother’s oppressive prison, granting her the long awaited freedom to discover where she belongs. For Ada, the war is more than a political strife and hardship, but rather symbolizes the turning point of her life, a helping hand in battling her mother’s wicked confinement. Bradley depicts Ada as a stubborn but determined character from the beginning, despite the sufferings, she transforms from being a girl crawling in the shadows to one who’s finally “standing.”

I also find myself drawn to Susan’s gentle, selfless spirit.. In a matter of one night she takes on the demanding responsibility of two children, all while dealing with the insurmountable grief from the death of her best friend Becky. Once isolated and shut off from the world, bound by her sorrow, Susan discovers a new purpose in caring for Ada and Jamie, where she heals her broken heart by accepting pieces from them. It takes courage to open up to others, especially after losing all hope, but Susan’s story serves as a beautiful example for how sometimes helping others heal, can also mend our own wounds.

“The War that Saved My Life” is precious to me in every way possible, a sliver of hope that even in the darkest of times, love and courage endure. Ada’s story is both tragic and encouraging, her bravery and perseverance was my role model as a child, and a nostalgic reminder as a teenager. She may have lost her first home, but it brought her a life of freedom where she can roam free, a life undefined by the uniqueness of her foot, a life far above the chaos and misery, a life worth living. Ada taught me that happiness is not found in material things, but in freedom, laughter, and love.

War can be devastating, but perhaps it is in the most tragic hours, we finally find the door to love and happy endings, opened widely, embracing us into a world of light and true victory.

After reading the unsettling story, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, the image of the three figures lingering at the security fence separating Jews from the outside world was deeply engraved on my mind. These three figures were Bruno, Shmuel, and Bruno’s father, the Commandant.

Bruno, the son of a military official, sat at the fence, hoping to explore a world he could only imagine. He longed to get away from the dullness of his new home and relished the long-anticipated friendship missing in his new life. He smuggled food for his starving friend in exchange for his spiritual wonder. To fulfill his dream of witnessing the other side of the fence, where he thought the grass should be greener, he clad himself in the striped pajamas, eventually marching away to death and sharing the fate of his friend and countless Jews in the concentration camps.

Shmuel, a Jewish boy whose birthday coincided with Bruno’s, also bore a striking resemblance to Bruno. He sat at the fence, legs crossed and eyes staring down at the ground. His attempt to escape from a bully, fill his stomach, and savor Bruno’s companionship meant risking danger so he could loiter in this haven every afternoon. Regardless of his decent education and nice manners, his ethnicity doomed him and his family to death in the Holocaust.

The Commandant, Hitler’s loyal follower and executioner, searched in vain for his beloved son Bruno for months. He accidentally found the part of the fence where Bruno always sat and traced the path Bruno took before he trespassed on “Out-With Camp.” Reliving Bruno’s last moments, the Commandant was dumbstruck. Only after he lost his son did he have some empathy for those who he had long despised and slaughtered.

The trio might appear worlds apart, yet they displayed considerable similarities. Firstly, they all desperately headed to the fence, to seek havens, to derive sustenance, or to retrieve something dear to their heart. They all showed kindness when friends were in dire need of support. Bruno shared food with Shmuel and helped Shmuel look for his father even in treacherous weather. Shmuel patiently bore stinging questions from a naive Bruno and forgave his betrayal in Lieutenant Kotler's presence. The Commandant offered a job to Maria, their family maid, so that she could sustain herself with dignity after her mother’s decease. Ultimately, they all ended up being ensnared by their own persistence—whether a longing for adventure, dogged determination to be reunited with a family member, or indomitable allegiance to the leader of the country. These three characters showed that the boundary between evil and good could be blurred. They showed that the identities of heroes and villains could be unclear.

The fate of Bruno, Shmuel, and the Commandant was a glaring reminder of how brutally discrimination could hurt—whether physically or mentally. Unfortunately, the act of discrimination still remains ubiquitous. Daily, we witness people suffering due to their different religions, ideologies and ethnicities. Discrimination may be a punch in the stomach, a hate message in the inbox, a mean remark on social media, or more often than not, indifference to others’ need in adversity.

The portrait of the three characters wrung my heart. They were all innocent in some way but strangled by the atrocities induced by discrimination. We must all be aware of and challenge discriminatory acts before it’s too little, too late.

Out of Africa by Karen Blixen is a deeply evocative memoir that transports readers to colonial Kenya, offering an intimate glimpse into a world both dynamic and eternal. Through masterful prose, Blixen portrays the Kenyan landscape not just as a backdrop but as a living, breathing entity. Her language elevates the natural world to near-mythical status, weaving a narrative that resonates long after the final page.

The book unfolds not through a traditional plot but as a series of vignettes, each capturing life on Blixen's coffee farm, her interactions with the Kikuyu people, and the ethereal beauty of the Ngong Hills. This episodic structure lends the memoir a dreamlike quality, akin to walking through vivid, cherished memories. Blixen’s reflections seamlessly intertwine personal anecdotes with grander meditations on nature and human relationships, creating a story both intimate and universal.

Blixen’s reverence for Africa shines throughout her narrative. Her descriptions of its landscapes—sunlit plains, rugged hills, and vibrant wildlife—are so vivid they seem to pulse with life. Giraffes stride majestically, lions exude a regal presence, and birds flutter with light and color. Through Blixen's eyes, Africa is a land of raw beauty and boundless spirit, almost a character in its own right.

Central to the memoir is Blixen’s complex relationship with the native Africans, particularly the Kikuyu people who worked on her farm. While her perspective sometimes reflects the paternalistic attitudes of European settlers of her era, her writing also conveys profound respect and affection for the people and their culture. Blixen’s observations on the cultural gulf between Europeans and Africans are thoughtful, and her interactions reveal an earnest effort to bridge that divide with empathy. The Kikuyu are not mere figures in her narrative but its soul, portrayed with dignity and mutual respect—an approach rare in much colonial literature.

The memoir’s emotional core is Blixen’s profound connection to Africa, suffused with a bittersweet longing. Her love for the land is palpable, yet her reflections carry a wistful acknowledgment of impermanence. The Africa she adored becomes a paradise slipping from her grasp, culminating in her poignant departure—a departure not just from a place but from a life she had hoped to embrace forever. This sense of loss is underscored by her unfulfilled wish to be buried on the African plains, a symbolic testament to her enduring bond with the land.

Blixen’s writing explores universal themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in an ever-changing world. Her words capture the fragility of human endeavors and the transient nature of life, offering readers a chance to reflect on their own connections to places and moments they hold dear.

Though some may critique Blixen’s colonial perspective as outdated, Out of Africa remains a literary masterpiece. It is both the homage to the spirit of Africa and a meditation on memory, human connection, and the passage of time. Through her exquisite prose, Blixen immortalizes her experiences and the timeless allure of a land that continues to echo in the hearts of her readers.

Katherine Applegate’s The One and Only Ivan invites readers to see the world through the eyes of Ivan, a silverback gorilla confined to a glass enclosure in a shopping mall. Told from Ivan's perspective, the story explores profound themes of captivity, freedom, and the moral responsibility humans bear toward animals. Applegate crafts a deeply moving narrative that challenges readers to confront the ethical implications of exploiting animals for entertainment while inspiring empathy and action.

Ivan is the heart and soul of the novel. Though he refers to himself as “just Ivan,” his observations and thoughts reveal remarkable depth and sensitivity. Once a wild gorilla, Ivan has spent years in captivity, performing for mall visitors who treat him as an amusing spectacle rather than a sentient being. Over time, he grows accustomed to his enclosure, numbing himself to the monotony and loneliness of his life. Yet, his vivid memories of the jungle and his late family linger, exposing a quiet yearning for freedom that he has long suppressed.

Ivan’s transformation begins with the arrival of Ruby, a baby elephant taken from her family and placed in the same shopping mall circus. Her vulnerability awakens Ivan’s protective instincts and reignites his long-buried desire for freedom—not just for himself, but for Ruby, too. Through Ivan's growing determination, Applegate masterfully portrays the resilience and courage it takes to challenge the status quo and fight for justice, even in seemingly hopeless circumstances.

Ruby, young and innocent, symbolizes the cruelty of captivity. She quickly becomes the center of Ivan’s world, embodying both hope and responsibility. Her endless questions about life in the wild force Ivan to confront truths he has long ignored. When Ruby endures abuse from their trainer, Mack, Ivan’s protective instincts propel him to act. Ruby’s presence not only stirs Ivan but also sparks a shift in the human characters who witness her plight, such as Julia, the compassionate daughter of the mall’s janitor.

Among the humans in Ivan’s life, Julia and her father George stand out as symbols of hope and moral awakening. Julia, a budding artist, sees beyond Ivan’s stoic exterior and treats him as an individual rather than a curiosity. Her quiet acts of kindness, such as giving Ivan crayons to express himself, foster a unique bond between them. George, initially complicit in the mall’s exploitation of animals, undergoes his own transformation as he begins to recognize the animals' suffering. Together, they represent humanity’s potential to act as allies in the fight for animal rights.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is Mack, the mall owner and ringmaster, who views the animals as commodities. His apathy and mistreatment of the animals serve as a stark reminder of the exploitative systems that prioritize profit over empathy. Through Mack, Applegate critiques the commercial entertainment industry’s role in perpetuating animal suffering.

Two pivotal moments define the narrative. The first is Ivan’s discovery of his artistic talent, encouraged by Julia. Drawing becomes Ivan’s voice, a way to communicate his dreams and emotions. His painting of a zoo, a safe haven for Ruby, becomes a turning point in the story. It’s through his art that Ivan ultimately inspires human intervention, leading to the animals’ rescue.

The second is Ivan’s courageous plan to ensure Ruby’s freedom. Overcoming his initial doubts, Ivan leverages his intelligence and creativity to orchestrate their escape. This climactic moment underscores the novel’s central message: even in captivity, the will to fight for justice and freedom can prevail.

All in all, The One and Only Ivan challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of animals, urging them to see creatures like Ivan and Ruby not as sources of entertainment but as beings with thoughts, emotions, and a right to live freely. The story highlights the suffering that animals endure in captivity, compelling readers to reflect on industries like circuses, zoos, and animal shows that profit from this exploitation.

Are we living in a shaped world? Is everything happening around us arranged by the Elders? It’s nearly impossible for us to answer these questions. Most people in the community don’t truly comprehend the world they live in; they aren't even conscious of why they are obeying the rules set by the Elders. Why do they take pills every morning only to suppress their stirrings? Why can't they point out the differences between individuals? Why are they compelled to share their feelings and dreams during daily rituals?

Initially, as a reader, I thought the residents of the society were really dull. If I were in their shoes, I would undoubtedly have explored the vibrant world and exposed the truth to the public. Nevertheless, after reading the whole story, I reflected and realized that I was just like them, not knowing why I strive for good grades, aim for a top university, and relentlessly pursue the illusion of fame. In Taiwan, the majority of parents often say that what they do is all for the benefit of their children. I believe the committee thinks so as well. The Elders lay down numerous unreasonable rules so as to maintain order in society and protect people from making wrong decisions. Furthermore, instructing people on the “right” way is not enough. In order to uphold social stability, the Elders try to assimilate everything, controlling the climate for crop harvests and flattening hills to ensure convenient transportation.

Fortunately, in the community, there exists a Receiver and a Giver whose duty is to memorize and transmit all facets of human experience, including emotions, colors, and history. They can observe anything they want and lie to others when necessary. However, despite these advantages, they have to bear more loneliness and anguish that others have never experienced, validating a famous saying, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Unlike the pain resulting from a bicycle fall, they even have to endure spiritual pain that most people can’t imagine, which makes the job special and honorable. Moreover, they can gain wisdom from pain and give advice to the Elders. Reflecting on this, I realize that the role of a student is similar to that of a Receiver. We learn from textbooks and absorb the information not only for exams but also to make the society better. Although we are not as almighty as the receiver is, we all have our strengths. We can make use of our knowledge and gather everyone’s efforts, distributing pressure evenly among everyone, rather than burdening one individual.

Despite not being the Receiver or the Giver of this community preventing me from telling whether we are living in a shaped society or not, there is still something I can do: cherish what I have, perceive the world with empathy, and make the world a better place with what I learn. By doing so, I can confront the complexities of our existence with purpose and confidence, feeling the multicolored world and various inner feelings that residents in the book have never experienced.

Jack London’s The Call of the Wild is much more than an adventure story. It’s a tale of survival, transformation, and the primal connection between humans, animals, and nature. As I read about Buck’s incredible journey from a domesticated pet to a creature of the wild, I found myself reflecting on humanity’s relationship with animals and the environment—a relationship often marked by exploitation and neglect.

At the heart of the story is Buck, a St. Bernard-Scotch Shepherd mix, who is ripped away from his comfortable life in sunny California and sold into the harsh reality of the Yukon Gold Rush. His transformation from a pampered companion to a leader of a sled dog team reflects a profound theme: the resilience of the natural world and its ability to adapt and thrive when pushed to the edge. Buck is not just a character; he is a symbol of the instinctual power and intelligence inherent in all living beings, waiting to be awakened when survival demands it.

One of the most striking scenes in the novel is Buck’s first encounter with the harshness of his new life. He witnesses a fellow dog, Curly, being brutally killed by a pack of huskies. This moment is both shocking and pivotal, marking Buck’s realization of the "law of club and fang" that governs the wild. It’s a brutal initiation into a world governed not by comfort but by primal instincts and survival of the fittest. For me, this scene underscores the fragile line between civilization and savagery—a line that humans often blur when they exploit animals for their own gain, as seen in the cruelty inflicted on the sled dogs by their handlers.

Buck’s relationship with John Thornton, however, offers a counterpoint to this brutality. Thornton is one of the few humans who treats Buck with kindness and respect. One particularly touching scene is when Buck demonstrates his loyalty by pulling a sled laden with a thousand pounds of cargo to win a bet for Thornton. This moment highlights the deep emotional connection between humans and animals—a connection that thrives on mutual respect rather than coercion. Thornton’s relationship with Buck serves as a powerful argument for compassionate treatment of animals, reminding us of the loyalty and love they offer when treated with care.

Yet, Buck’s ultimate call is to the wild, where he joins a wolf pack and embraces his primal instincts fully. This final transformation raises thought-provoking questions about freedom and the cost of domestication. While Buck’s journey is unique to his circumstances, it echoes the plight of countless animals forced into lives that strip them of their natural instincts and dignity. It compels us to rethink our own actions—whether through deforestation, pollution, or exploitation—that disrupt the balance of nature and harm the creatures we share the planet with.

London’s evocative descriptions of the Yukon landscape also bring the natural world vividly to life, from snow-covered trails to the howling wilderness. However, as much as the novel celebrates nature’s beauty and power, it also serves as a reminder of its vulnerability. The human greed that drives the Gold Rush parallels modern environmental issues: the destruction of habitats for resources, the mistreatment of animals for profit, and the broader disregard for the ecosystems that sustain us.

The Call of the Wild ultimately challenges readers to consider their place in the natural order. It’s a story that not only celebrates the untamed spirit of animals like Buck but also calls for introspection about how we treat the natural world and its inhabitants. In an era where climate change and environmental degradation are urgent issues, London’s century-old narrative feels more relevant than ever. It urges us to protect the wilderness that Buck found solace in and to extend compassion to the animals that enrich our lives in ways we often take for granted.

With a clever, mischievous, and imaginative mind, Tom Sawyer pairs up with Huck, his best buddy, and embarks on a series of adventures—visiting a graveyard, being pirates, searching for treasure, and so on. These journeys are not always fun-filled though, as sometimes things turn out to be boring or troublesome, and Tom is even tormented by his conscience. Under Mark Twain’s pen, I travel back to the mid-19th century and see for myself what it is like growing up in the American South through Tom’s perspective.

The story is set in a village by the Mississippi River and centers around two young boys Tom and Huck. At first glance, it’s a funny and entertaining read, right up young adults’ alley. As I delve into it, I realize the author actually adds several dimensions to the story. Tom’s adventures are figuratively an odyssey, during which he experiences joy, fear, frustration, dilemma, etc., and eventually it is his growth that shines through.

Tom’s carefree adolescence is reminiscent of the joy of childhood. One of the most hilarious scenes in the novel, Tom’s using reverse psychology in fence-painting, celebrates the innocence and freedom of childhood, reminding readers of the importance of enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Children are happy because they are content with simple things and empowered with imagination. Yet as they become adults, they tend to grow obsessed with obtaining more things, which leaves them feeling stressed and unfulfilled. To become happy again, it is advisable that adults view the world through the eyes of a child. In fact, no matter how sophisticated we become, deep down we all have a tiny part of Tom within us, a component that allows us to be playful, childlike, and imaginative.

The novel also covers the sensitive topic of rebellion versus conformity. Tom often grapples with societal expectations, illustrating the tension between individual desires and social norms. He is force to live the life that his aunt set for him, and his skipping classes describe the yearning to leave the orthodox life behind and run away to free and wild places. Twain captures this spirit and reflects the struggles that people encounter when they need an escape from reality.

Another serious issue that the story addresses is moral ambiguity. There are times when Tom navigates moral dilemmas, thinking critically about right and wrong. When Tom and Huck witness a man being murdered by Injun Joe, they initially agree to remain silent about the matter, for they are afraid Joe will seek revenge. Nevertheless, after Tom learns that Joe has frames someone else for his crime, he is troubled by whether he should tell the truth. In the end he plucks up the courage and informs police that Joe is the real killer. Not until then do I realize that under Tom’s naughty characteristic lies a heart of gold and integrity. He shows his bravery by risking his own safety to help the innocent person be set free.

What impresses and touches me most is the vivid portrayal of the warm and subtle interaction between Tom and his aunt. Compared with resourceful and optimistic Tom that blows everyone away, Aunt Polly first appears to be strict and stuffy, always nagging Tom to behave well. Even though Tom feels restrained by his aunt’s lecturing most of the time, he still has a deep affection for her, knowing that what she is doing is out of love and care.

Imagination, innocence, rebellion, and courage are prominent in the story. These themes resonate across generations, making the story timelessly relevant. In fact, it is amazing how the novel allows me to relive my childhood and grow up with Tom, experiencing the innocence and the joys of adolescence again. No matter how many times I savor the book, I still gravitate toward Tom’s attitude towards life, being fascinated by the witty dialogues and captivating plots and definitely rewarded with plenty of good laughs as well as fresh perspectives. After all, life is full of possibilities for young adults. As Twain said at the end of the story, “It is strictly the history of a boy so it must stop before he grow up to be a man.”

The book "The Year I Stopped Trying" was started by a brilliant Catholic student, Mary Davis，who forgot to do her history homework one day. She had always pursued perfection and couldn’t accept that she might make mistakes, but after fifty-two torturous minutes of waiting, she found that she wasn’t scolded by her teacher. She began to think about why she had worked so hard before, so she decided not to do her homework on purpose. In the course of doing her self-degradation project, she faced friendship, love, family, and other problems that most teenagers encounter. Through this opportunity that came about without working hard, she was given time to look into her heart, feel her true self, and overcome the confusion caused by her family and classmates. Finally, she continued to live with a new attitude. It’s a story full of growth and reflection.

This book requires careful reading to grasp its message and comprehend Mary’s personal growth. Initially, I was puzzled by the author’s pacing, but by the end, I realized it was a deliberate and skillful way to portray Mary’s mental journey while maintaining narrative fluidity. For instance, Mary believed having a boyfriend would distract her grades, so she approached Mitch, whom she had briefly dated as a child. Surprisingly, she fell in love with him but feared the relationship when Mitch reciprocated her feelings. After much struggle, they chose to remain friends. Later, Mary discovered she was a lesbian, developing feelings for Elyse, a gay coworker. This revelation clarified her inability to commit to Mitch—she hadn’t yet understood her true self.

Following Mary’s perspective allowed me to reflect on my own experiences and avoid some of the confusion she endured. I chose this book for its title, which stood out in a fast-paced world focused on constant striving. However, the story went deeper, encouraging self-reflection, healing past wounds, and bravely facing one’s true self. Its ultimate message is that accepting ourselves paves the way for progress and inner strength.

The supporting characters were equally impactful. Mary’s little brother and Ingrid, the student council president, taught her that “not everything needs a reason, people are free to choose their paths.” Their novel, non-preachy approach was both convincing and inspiring. Mary’s interactions with Peter, such as calmly resolving a misunderstanding about her not completed homework, also added warmth and realism to the story. These relationships played a pivotal role in Mary’s transformation, showing the value of connection and understanding.

What sets this book apart is its grounding in reality. Mary faces everyday struggles like demanding customers, heavy workloads, and difficult managers, making her relatable to modern teenagers. It taught me the importance of finding the right book at the right time to guide us through challenges and self-discovery. While it resonates deeply with students, its themes of life’s uncertainties make it valuable for anyone seeking direction.

Reading this English novel was initially daunting, but with the help of an online dictionary, I translated and absorbed its lessons. Over time, I improved my vocabulary, gained insight into expressions, and began to enjoy reading English books. This experience not only increased my confidence but also motivated me to continue exploring and growing through literature.

Charlotte's Web, penned by the esteemed American author E.B. White, is a literary gem that stands the test of time, captivating readers of all ages with its profound themes and timeless narrative. My recent revisit to this classic from my elementary school days revealed a new depth of understanding, as the pages unfolded to unveil layers of wisdom that resonate across different phases of life, which struck me deeply.

At the heart of Charlotte's Web lies a poignant exploration of friendship that transcends and transform the ordinary. The unlikely bond between Wilbur, the endearing pig, and Charlotte, the wise and articulate spider, serves as a testament to the transformative power of genuine connections. As I immersed myself in their tale, I couldn't help but reflect on the significance of such relationships in my own life. The novel prompted contemplation on the role of empathy and understanding as pillars of strength during challenging times, mirroring the characters' reliance on these virtues to navigate their own trials.

The theme of mortality, delicately woven into the fabric of the narrative, prompted profound contemplation within me. Wilbur's journey and the gentle exploration of life and death on the farm compelled me to confront the inevitability of change. The cycles of life depicted in the story served as a metaphor for the complexities of existence, inspiring me to ponder my own perspectives on mortality and the resilience required to navigate life's ebb and flow. In the face of Wilbur's challenges, I found myself considering how I, too, can approach life with grace and courage.

Moreover, the interconnectedness of all living beings portrayed in the story left an indelible impression on my consciousness. The diverse cast of characters, be they human or animal, played unique roles in the broader narrative, emphasizing the intricate web of existence. This realization fostered a heightened awareness of the interconnected nature of the world, instilling in me a sense of responsibility for the well-being of others, irrespective of their perceived significance. The narrative underscored the profound truth that every individual, no matter how seemingly insignificant, contributes to the rich tapestry of life.

In conclusion, Charlotte's Web extends beyond its role as a charming narrative; it is serves as a catalyst for introspection on themes that resonate universally. The values of friendship, the inevitability of change, and the interconnected web of existence became vivid focal points for contemplation. E.B. White's masterpiece not only entertained me once again but also sparked a renewed appreciation for the enduring lessons embedded in its pages. As I closed the book, I carried with me a deeper understanding of life's intricacies and a sense of gratitude for the profound impact literature can have on the human soul.

One of Us Is Lying discusses social issues such as teenage identity, the pressure of social expectations on individuals, and the test of friendship and trust. Each character has his or her own hidden truth and faces pressures from family, school, and peers. The book focuses on the cost of truth and the pain of revelation, as well as how individuals find themselves in the face of societal expectations and how they finally come to terms with who they really are.

The book explores social issues that are closely related to adolescents, the most prominent of which are the pressures of "identity" and "social expectations." Each of the main characters in the book is in the same stage of high school as we are, facing different pressures from family, school, and peers. Bronwyn, as the top student at school, is burdened with her family's expectations of her success, and this external expectation leads her to make choices that go against her conscience, such as cheating on tests. Addy is the “perfect girl” at school, but her life is controlled by her boyfriend, and she has lost her sense of self. Cooper excels at baseball but is unable to reveal his sexual orientation to the outside world, which suffocates him with hidden pressures. Nate comes from a broken home and is repeatedly judged negatively by society because of his background, even though he doesn’t want to follow that path. The secrets of each character reveal how societal expectations affect the behaviors and choices of teenagers, giving us a very clear sense of the impact such pressures have on our formative years.

In addition, the “test of friendship and trust” is also an important theme in the book. When four students from different backgrounds become suspects in Simon's death, they have to cooperate with each other to uncover the truth. In the process, they gradually develop from strangers to allies, and even friends. This subtle shift in relationships shows how they can change under pressure, especially when everyone has their own secrets, and trust can be fragile. As the story develops, the emotional tension between these characters is palpable—from suspicion and mistrust to finally treating each other with honesty, which made me smile.

For me, One of Us Is Lying places me in the shoes of a teenager, perhaps because it's about teenagers the same age as me, so I can easily understand their thoughts and behaviors. I think this book is more than just a mystery; it's a reflection on growing up, secrets, and social pressures. Through the growth and change of the characters, the author shows how teenagers struggle between self-identity and social expectations in the face of outside pressures. Each character's story felt very real to me, highlighting the complexities and confusion of youth. Their experiences are not only a reflection of their personal growth but also a reflection of the over-expectations that modern society places on young people. I think I may have seen a reflection of myself in them.

This story takes place in a refugee camp in Kenya and is filled with hope, presenting a sweet yet distressing tale. The main character is Omar Mohamed, a teenage boy who, despite his young age, demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility and intelligence. He must care for his younger brother, Hassan, who is extremely kind and loves animals. Unfortunately, Hassan has a condition that makes him different from other children, requiring extra support from those around him. This unique bond between the brothers adds depth to their journey, highlighting both their struggles and resilience.

The brothers were born in Somalia, but their lives were forever altered when war broke out in their homeland. The conflict not only destroyed their community but also tragically separated them from their mother. Faced with the harsh realities of war, they had no choice but to leave their hometown in search of safety and a new beginning, which ultimately led them to the refugee camp in Kenya. Despite the challenges they faced upon arrival, they encountered a generous and selfless woman named Fatuma, who treated them like a foster mother. Fatuma's nurturing presence provided the care and support they desperately needed. In this new environment, Omar took on the role of caretaker for Hassan while Fatuma handled domestic tasks, creating a harmonious and peaceful daily life for them.

One pivotal day, everything changed when a teacher recommended that Omar attend school to pursue his education. Initially, Omar was resistant to this idea, feeling that his brother needed him and not wanting to abandon his responsibilities. Consequently, he rejected the suggestion. However, after experiencing a significant event in his life, he reconsidered the opportunity presented to him. As he navigated his educational journey and worked towards earning his high school diploma, both brothers were offered a life-changing opportunity to settle in America permanently. This change had the potential to transform their lives in unimaginable ways.

Fortunately, they successfully made their way to the USA, where Omar, through his intelligence and determination, gained admission to a university. As the story reaches its conclusion, everything takes a happier turn. Although Omar is still searching for their mother, he remains hopeful, believing that she is watching over them from afar, guiding them through their struggles. This enduring sense of hope and connection to their mother provides Omar with the strength to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

In my opinion, this story touched my heart deeply. First, it unfolds against the backdrop of a refugee camp in Africa, where life is unstable and many people suffer from hunger. In such circumstances, the opportunity to go to school is a luxury that not everyone can afford. Second, the power of love is evident in the relationships between Omar, Hassan, and Fatuma. Even during difficult times, they find sweetness in supporting one another. Last but not least, Omar’s courage shines through; despite the bumpy ride he has endured, he remains determined to seize every chance that comes his way.

Almost every child has heard the story of Peter Pan, a classic tale that has captivated generations. This story vividly satisfies many children's imaginations of the fairy tale world, where magic and endless adventures await. In the story, Peter Pan symbolizes the yearning for eternal childhood, representing an unwillingness to face the troubles and responsibilities that come with adulthood. However, in the real world, there is no Neverland. Reality demands that we confront challenges, especially during critical moments. Avoidance or escapism only makes problems more complex and difficult to resolve. Learning to take responsibility, or “carry the can,” is a significant milestone in personal growth. True development arises from the process of facing challenges head-on and overcoming difficulties, no matter how daunting they may seem.

While Peter Pan’s life appears to be carefree and full of whimsy, it is not without its constraints. His refusal to grow up and his decision to live and play at will come at the cost of forming deep, meaningful relationships. This limitation highlights the consequences of perpetual immaturity. On the other hand, characters like Wendy and the other children choose to return to reality, where they face the complexities of life. In doing so, they gain emotional fulfillment and the richness of human connection. This contrast illustrates an essential truth: rather than endlessly debating between freedom and constraint, we would do better to find a harmonious balance between the two. True freedom doesn’t come from shirking responsibility but from understanding how to navigate life’s inevitable challenges with grace and determination.

Peter Pan’s refusal to grow up carries a significant price. In many cultures, growth signifies assuming responsibilities, adhering to social norms, and striving for personal achievements. By clinging to eternal youth, Peter remains confined to the realm of childhood, never experiencing the profound joys and challenges of adulthood. He misses out on some of life’s most enriching experiences, such as romantic relationships, the bonds of family, and the satisfaction of self-fulfillment. His story reflects the universal struggle between the desire for freedom and the necessity of responsibility. It serves as a reminder that while freedom is alluring, the depth and diversity of life often come from embracing accountability and personal growth.

From a philosophical perspective, Peter Pan’s eternal youth symbolizes a rebellion against the relentless passage of time. Time, as an irreversible natural phenomenon, shapes our lives and propels us toward growth. Peter Pan’s existence represents a surreal challenge to this universal law. Yet, by evading the natural progression of life, he forfeits the opportunity to experience its richness. His refusal to engage with time's inevitable flow ultimately limits his understanding of life’s depth and beauty. This paradox reminds us that growth, though sometimes painful, is a necessary part of the human experience.

When I was a child, I loved hearing the story of Peter Pan, captivated by its magic and adventure. However, revisiting it as an adult has brought new layers of meaning and insight. Many dismiss fairy tales as mere fantasies, but a closer reading often reveals profound lessons hidden within. Every story, no matter how whimsical, carries its own moral. Peter Pan’s tale teaches us about the importance of balancing freedom and responsibility, facing life’s challenges, and embracing the inevitability of growth. Through these lessons, we learn to appreciate the beauty of both childhood wonder and the fulfillment that comes with maturity.