In the noisy, crowded streets of 1940s Chicago, one lonely boy finds his voice in the quiet pages of a book. Finding Langston tells the story of a young Black boy, Langston, trying to fit into a life he was thrown into after his mother’s death. Moving from the countryside of Alabama to the bustling streets of Chicago with his heartbroken father proves to be an obstacle on his path to healing. While struggling to fit in, Langston faces bullies and cultural differences; yet, during his lowest moments, he discovers a safe haven—the library. It becomes a place where nobody judges him for being a different race, and where he finds a writer who helps him understand the complicated emotions he’s been carrying.

The story takes place in 1940 during the Great Migration, a massive movement of people to the North caused by poor economic and social conditions from racial segregation in the South. At first, Langston feels out of place in his busy neighborhood. Unlike his hometown in Alabama, where everyone doted on him, no one knows his name in Chicago. His classmates tease him for his Southern accent and country clothes, and his father seems distant, focused on keeping a job that could disappear at any moment. One day, while avoiding bullies, Langston stumbles upon a library that welcomes Black readers. It quickly becomes his escape from the noise and sadness of daily life. There, he discovers poetry by Langston Hughes. Through Hughes’s words, he learns to express his emotions and begins to heal. Over time, Langston opens up to his father and neighbors and even befriends a former bully, strengthening his relationships and finding where he belongs. By the end of the story, Langston is no longer just surviving in Chicago—he’s finally beginning to feel at home.

Reading Finding Langston touched a part of me that was similar to the boy in the story, having moved from the U.S. to Taiwan, fitting into a whole different culture and city proved to be difficult, not only emotionally but also physically. I felt connected with the feeling of loneliness and confusion while navigating my way through unfamiliar faces and languages, moving away from friends and a home I recognized, which made me cling to the last threads of my own culture I had kept in my pocket.

One of my favorite parts of the book was when Langston first walked into the library, opening another world for him to hide in, just as I had felt when opening a fantasy book for the first time. Diving into the world of dragons and magic allowed me to escape the worries and stress of the outside world, much like how Langston and other African Americans faced at that time. It reminded me how far I have come from a shy Asian girl to a girl with a bubbly personality, much like how the library changed Langston’s view on his life and the environment around him.

Another aspect I found interesting was how the main character's relationship with his father changed drastically throughout the storyline. Their journey toward understanding each other was emotional and realistic. My mother also helped me on my journey to fit into my environment and allowed me to attend the activities we were unfamiliar with to understand the culture better. By the end, I felt proud of Langston for finding peace, hope, and pride in who he is.

Overall, Finding Langston is a beautiful and inspiring story about loss, courage, and the power of words. Through Langston’s eyes, we see how pain can turn into strength, how loneliness can lead to discovery, and how love never truly disappears even after loss. Lesa Cline-Ransome shows through this book that love and strength can be found everywhere you look, like in a library and in poems. His journey reminds readers that stories and poetry can change lives, and that even in the darkest times, you can always find hope, healing, and the strength to keep moving forward.

"No! No! You can’t do that cruel thing!" said Fern, Mr. Arable's daughter. "He's just an adorable pig." The pig, named Wilbur, had just been born and was going to be killed by the farmer, Mr. Arable. However, Fern suddenly appeared and stopped him, and the pig eventually became her friend. As time passed, Wilbur grew bigger and bigger, and Fern's family could no longer afford to keep him. For this reason, Fern had to say goodbye to Wilbur, who was sold to her uncle's farm. Thus began Wilbur's farm journey.

On the farm, he met many friends, one of whom was a spider named Charlotte. One day, Wilbur accidentally discovered that he was destined to be slaughtered. Charlotte promised to help him. She wove words into her webs, which ultimately helped Wilbur escape his fate. Sadly, in doing so, Charlotte met her own death. This marked the end of the story.

After reading the story, I couldn't help but cry. Although I was in tears, I did not feel entirely sorrowful; on the contrary, I felt comforted. The friendship between Wilbur and Charlotte was profoundly touching. They treated each other wholeheartedly and believed in one another. Their mutual trust was enough to conquer every challenge. For Wilbur, Charlotte was a light in the darkness. For Charlotte, Wilbur gave meaning to her short life. They shared a powerful connection—a friendship beyond description. Despite their vast difference in size, they became the closest of friends. Perhaps this is the true meaning of friendship: it sees beyond appearances.

Unlike many children's books, Charlotte's Web does not avoid topics like death and sacrifice. Instead, it helps us understand the reality of life. People eventually die. In our limited time, we do many things: we enjoy meals with family, go shopping for things we want, and sleep to prepare for another day. However, what gives our life value? For Charlotte, she used her intelligence to save Wilbur. She succeeded, even though it hastened her death. She believed that this was her life's purpose. Her selfless love and sacrifice gave her existence profound meaning. In return, Wilbur took care of Charlotte's children, ensuring that her spirit lived on.

Another important element in the story is the power of words. Charlotte used only a few simple words, but they completely changed Wilbur's fate. The impact of these words was immediate and profound. They transformed Wilbur from a mere farm asset into a local celebrity. This shows that language has the power to create change and redefine value. Therefore, we should use words wisely and not let them become tools that harm others.

In conclusion, Charlotte's Web is a book about friendship and love. I witnessed the sincere bond between Charlotte and Wilbur. Through their journey, I learned about the realities of life and experienced deeply moving friendship. It reminds us to cherish the people around us and to find the true value in our own lives.

The Boys I Know is the first English novel I have ever read, and I never imagined I could actually finish it. As I read it, I feel like going on a journey of growth with the main character, June. It is a story that teaches me a valuable lesson: growing up isn’t just about getting older, but about discovering who we truly are. For June, each of her relationships becomes a crucial lesson that helps her better understand herself.

Growing up in an Asian American family, June feels torn between the traditional Taiwanese values and the open, liberal culture of America. Caught between these two worlds, June has to struggle with many internal conflicts. Besides, her mother constantly compares her with her “perfect” older sister and expects her to follow a pre-planned path. This constant sense of being “not good enough” and “unseen” also deeply affects her later romantic choices.

The first boy she meets, Rhys, is a direct reflection of her inner insecurity. June puts so much effort into their relationship, always giving more than she receives. But Rhys never admits their relationship. This reminds me of my own friendship experience. When my close friend and I went to different senior high schools, I often felt I was trying harder to stay connected, while he didn’t respond as much. It hurt me, just like it hurt June. Luckily, my friend and I later found balance, and our friendship grew stronger. This one-sided effort is just like what happened in June’s childhood, when she constantly sought her family’s approval. But this heartbreak becomes a turning point. It makes her realize that if a relationship requires us to beg for recognition, it’s not the right one. Love should be built on self-respect, and we have to love ourselves before anyone else can.

Next comes Brad, a much more painful lesson. June’s longing for freedom makes her immediately attracted to Brad’s “bad boy” charm. But their relationship grows too fast. When June gets pregnant, Brad doesn’t take responsibility at all. Even after their breakup, he tries to control June. This really makes me angry while reading. To me, this relationship is wrong from the beginning. It shows how dangerous impulsiveness and control can be. Personally, I know I would never stay with someone like Brad. It also teaches me an important lesson: before starting a relationship, we need to be mentally prepared and know our own boundaries. Otherwise, a moment of impulse might ruin our future. From this relationship, June learns to set boundaries and protect herself, taking back control of her life, which turns her from a girl who “rebels against her family” into a woman who “takes responsibility for herself.”

The final boy, Gang, is the ultimate test of June’s growth. He has a similar cultural background, which gives June a sense of comfort and belonging. She thinks she has finally found a safe place, but Gang’s dishonesty and the way he looks down on June shatter her. It is at this moment that June realizes she can no longer tolerate being looked down on. This final betrayal pushes her to stop seeking approval from others and instead turn inward for strength. With this realization, June makes up her mind to leave Gang, proving that she is no longer a child who can be easily dismissed, but an independent person with her own voice and dignity.

Looking back at June’s journey, I see how deeply her relationships are connected to her childhood struggles and how she reveals growth through difficult experiences by choosing her own college. From an unequal relationship, June learns to love herself; from a destructive one, she learns to set boundaries and protect herself; and from a betrayal, she learns to embrace who she truly is. Reading The Boys I Know has also prompted me to reflect on my own life. I realize that the people and experiences we encounter, whether good or bad, all help shape who we are, and that growth often comes from challenging moments. Understanding ourselves, I have learned, is a lifelong journey. After finishing this book, I feel inspired by June’s courage and inner strength, and I feel motivated to face my own experiences with greater confidence. The Boys I Know is a book I would definitely recommend to anyone struggling with self-doubt or whoever wants to better understand themselves.

Late at night, with no presence of light, I look up into the sky, whose splendor I could never deny. Gazing at this glamorous art of nature, I recall the memories of me exploring the wonders of family love while immersing in Madeleine L’Engle’s novel A Wrinkle in Time. I could never have imagined myself getting so emotionally attached to a book merely because of the story it tells, nor could I have pictured myself reading the same book over and over again without getting tired of it, without skipping a page of the adventures experienced by a mediocre girl, Meg Murry.

Mr. Murry, the father of Meg Murry, disappeared years ago, prompting Meg to “tesser,” or space travel, with her brother Charles Wallace, her friend Calvin, and three women who were friends of Charles Wallace. The pack arrived at Camaztoz, a planet of depravity with impassive residents. The children encountered the tyrant of the planet, IT, the commander of this impeccable place. IT deceived Charles Wallace and controlled his mind before Meg and Calvin found Mr. Murry and released him from captivity. To Meg’s surprise, Mr. Murry tessered the three of them away from IT without Charles Wallace. Although terrified and hesitant, Meg returned to Camaztoz with the support of the three women. With the power of love, Meg freed Charles Wallace from the supremacy of the dictator who seemed indomitable, uniting her family back into one complete piece.

If the strength of a person is as precious and admirable as a constellation, then family love is hydrogen and helium that serve as its components, without being seen by others. I feel especially touched by how family love shapes the courage of the characters in the story. Because of family love, Charles Wallace decided to travel to the complete unknown in search of his father. Because of family love, Mr. Murry uses the ability to tesser again despite his torturous experience with this power. Because of family love, Meg returned to the evidently dangerous planet of Camaztoz, clearly knowing the threat that lingers in that place. Although I wouldn’t go through such science fiction-based journeys like the characters did, I would need the power of family love to assist me, to encourage me, and to motivate me throughout my life. Without it, there exists no warmth, no care, and no sense of belonging to me. Despite how family love sometimes feels burdensome due to its capability of limiting and restricting my actions, I should nevertheless respect its rules, obey its orders, and cherish its presence. As a teenager preparing to face this world by myself soon in the foreseeable future, I believe family love is a fuel for fostering the growth of my bravery, just like how it was presented in A Wrinkle in Time.

The luminosity of stars depends most significantly on their origin and the factors that determine how they appear. Similarly, as humans, our unique personalities and values are the result of our family, and especially the spectacular emotion of love that flows within its members. Family love has been shaping my personal traits throughout my life, yet I remained oblivious to its influence. A Wrinkle in Time not only appears as a novel with a story full of thrills and excitement. Rather, it is a reminder to me that I am surrounded by the family love portrayed in this book. It has inspired me to explore the country, the planet, the galaxy, and the universe with family love as the compass of my expedition, pointing firmly and solely towards whatever I want to achieve. With family love, I am ready to fulfill the desires of my bold yet curious mind. Family love never fails to comfort me. I know I am prepared.

A weight of silence pressed against me as I started my journey on Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher for the third time in four years. I remember clearly the unease that lingered when I read it for the first time in elementary school, not fully understanding the power of words and why they would drive someone to take their own life. Revisiting this book for the third time, this time at the same age as the protagonist, Hannah, I’ve gained new perspective from my own experience with bullying, and am now able to better understand how words can make or break someone’s life, literally.

The story follows highschooler Clay Jensen as he learns through seven anonymously delivered cassette tapes the thirteen reasons that led his former classmate, Hannah Baker, to take her own life. Through the series of tapes, Hannah exposes the perpetrators responsible for her suicide. As Clay dives into Hannah’s traumatic past, traveling from one heart-wrenching memory to another, he begins to feel the gravity of seemingly inconsequential actions that many of his peers and teachers brush off as typical high school behavior. These include betraying Hannah’s trust in the face of peer pressure, spreading false, malicious gossip that undermined her character, and finally, Hannah’s sexual assault, all of which racked her and culminated in her death. These events are extremely distressing no matter how many times I’ve read the book; The biggest change I noticed when revisiting the story is that I now understand how imperative this discomfort is in pushing me to think about the often hushed topic of bullying and assault in school.

The theme that spoke to me the most was the power of rumors and how they slowly but surely dismantled Hannah’s reputation and eventual will to live. In the story, Hannah’s reputation was constantly attacked by virulent whispers and the objectification of her body by peers she had considered her friends. Even the memory of her first kiss was manipulated and became a weapon that chipped away at how her classmates viewed her. This was only the threshold of the reasons that led to her death. Hannah’s experience with rumors resonated deeply with me because in junior high school, I too was denigrated by people I once considered my true friends. In a small sense, I could empathize with Hannah’s double devastation at her crumbling reputation and more importantly, her friends’ betrayal. Though this story arc brought up many excruciating memories for me, it also made me feel seen and less alone when dealing with my painful past.

However, although Thirteen Reasons Why brings notice to issues like bullying, mental health, and accountability for one’s actions, it has also faced criticism for its vivid depiction of suicide and seemingly misleading portrayal of trauma. Mental health experts have claimed that such representations can be distressing for readers who are younger or struggling mentally. The story’s dramatic framing of suicide—and the way the characters respond to it—may unintentionally simplify a complex problem or create the impression that self-harm is a form of communicating blame or seeking closure. As a result, I think the book may not be suitable for individuals who find it challenging to contextualize its themes within a broader, healthier understanding of mental well-being.

All things considered, while I wouldn’t consider this novel to be an emotional crutch for readers with a similar history of bullying, I do think it has merits in representing and raising awareness of these lived experiences. As the infamous nursery rhyme goes, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.” Yet, modern psychology and the continuing global mental health awareness campaign have debunked this saying. Thirteen Reasons Why illustrates just that. It shows that words carry weight and that a single off-handed comment can cause lasting pain and regret. Hannah’s story shows how false words and whispers, even from people we trust, can alter someone’s life in ways unimaginable to us. To me, the novel is a constant reminder that everyone is fighting their own battles and that we should always choose kindness where possible, if not for ourselves then for a better world to come.

Growing up and finding your identity is something everyone goes through, but not everyone takes the same path. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman follows Bod, the protagonist, on his perilous journey of growth and self-discovery. His experience is an unusual example of facing challenges and overcoming burdens to become independent.

There are some significant points in the story that symbolize a vital change in Bod's life. The first is when he was adopted by the graveyard after his family was murdered, which marks a start of Bod's extraordinary life. He learned supernatural skills from the graveyard's residents as well as people like Silas and Ms. Lupescu who are free to roam the world. However, he isn't allowed to leave the graveyard since the Jacks, who murdered Bod's family, might still be out there thirstily searching for him. As he grows, his curiosity starts to reach beyond the graveyard, shown in the book as Bod asks "Why amn't I allowed out of the graveyard?” (Gaiman 35) He also directly interacted with the living realm when he met Scarlett who became his conduit to a whole new world and broadened his perspective. This shows how Bod is drawn to the unknown at a young age and leads to his journey of confronting challenges later on.

Bod's first pivotal challenge that prompts his growth is confronting the ghouls. Before Bod fell into the ghoul gate, Ms. Lupescu taught him several lessons about how different beings exist and how to call for help in every language in the world. When Bod was kidnapped by the ghouls, he called for help by summoning the night-gaunts. Later on, they came and fought the ghouls while Ms. Lupescu rescued him. Although Bod doesn't have the ability to defend himself at such a young age, his survival showed the growth of his ability to apply what he has learned to solve problems and reach out for help when necessary.

When the Jacks came for Bod, he faced his toughest and most formative challenge, sparking his greatest self-discovery. Bod showed multiple aspects of growth when he faced the Jacks. First, he showed enormous courage to remain calm and think carefully even in life-threatening conflicts like confronting the murderous Jacks. Secondly, he showed intelligence and strategic thinking when he applied what he had learned from the graveyard, such as tracing the Jacks while he is Fading, to trick them into falling through the ghoul gate. Finally, defeating his adversaries empowered his ultimate self-discovery. In the final chapters, Bod confidently declares his name, "I'm Nobody Owens. That's who I am.” (Gaiman 282) This is the crucial moment in which Bod grows beyond his former self. He claims his name, marking independence and recognition of his identity as Nobody Owens.

Having overcome so much, Bod had to decide if he had grown out of the graveyard. After the conflict with the Jacks, Bod started to lose his supernatural powers. When Bod tried to talk to Alonzo Jones, a graveyard resident, he "pushed his head into the grave, but instead of slipping through the solid matter… his head met the ground with a hard and painful thump.” (Gaiman 296, 297) This demonstrates how as Bod grows, just like all of us, the magic fades from his world and trying to return to it only offers a solid punch from the fist of reality.

Throughout Bod's journey, he faced multiple internal and external conflicts with curiosity and courage. Similar to Bod's experience, I believe stepping out of our "graveyards" — somewhere in which we feel comfortable, however limited — is essential to our paths towards self-awareness. As an adolescent, I will soon have to create a life of my own that is independent of my parents. To prepare for it, I am on my journey to discover what I truly enjoy and make my own decisions, just like Bod when he decided to leave the graveyard. Whether it's participating in AI application camps, competing in writing contests, or setting challenging goals, I push myself to explore various fields and recognize areas that I am passionate about. With each step, I learn what motivates me, what troubles me, and ultimately, who I am.

The novel Frindle by Andrew Clements illustrates the remarkable power of language, imagination, and determination. It tells the story of Nick, a creative boy whose invention of a new word, “Frindle”, spreads from his classroom to the wider world, eventually earning a place in the dictionary. This story not only entertains but also imparts three significant lessons: the transformative power of creativity, the value of perseverance, and the surprising ways in which encouragement can appear.

First, the novel demonstrates the creative power of language. Nick’s simple decision to invent a new word began as a playful act to challenge his teacher, yet it quickly spread throughout his school, town, and eventually much further. His invention shows that imagination and originality, even in their simplest forms, can influence people’s daily habits and even reshape the language we use. This reminds us that innovation does not always require advanced technology or great inventions; sometimes it begins with a single idea, a fresh perspective, or even just a word.

Second, the story emphasizes the importance of courage and perseverance. Nick did not allow criticism or resistance to discourage him. Even when Mrs. Granger corrected him and seemed to oppose his idea, he continued to use the word “Frindle” with confidence. His determination demonstrates that success is not about immediate results but about holding onto one’s beliefs and persisting through challenges. In the end, his persistence transformed a small idea into a meaningful achievement, reminding readers that perseverance can turn creativity into lasting change. This is a valuable lesson for all of us, because in life, people often face doubts, setbacks, or opposition. What truly matters is the ability to continue believing in our vision despite obstacles.

Third, the novel reveals that support does not always come in obvious forms. Mrs. Granger appeared to stand against Nick, punishing students who used the new word and insisting on traditional language rules. However, years later, she revealed in a heartfelt letter that her opposition had been deliberate: she wanted Nick to strengthen his resolve and continue believing in himself. This moment is especially moving because it shows that encouragement can sometimes take the form of challenge, shaping resilience and independence in ways that open praise cannot. It also highlights the role of teachers and mentors, whose guidance is not always about making life easy but about preparing us to face difficulties with strength and resilience.

This part of the story deeply impressed me. It reminded me that even a small act, such as inventing a word, can create ripples that reach far beyond what we expect. More importantly, it highlighted that imagination combined with determination has the potential to bring about real change. In today’s world, where communication spreads faster than ever through social media, one creative idea, just like Nick’s “Frindle”, can capture global attention within days. This shows that the lessons of this novel remain highly relevant.

In conclusion, "Frindle" is not merely a story about a boy who invents a new word; it is a lesson about creativity, courage, and perseverance. It demonstrates that even the smallest ideas, when nurtured with confidence and determination, can inspire others and transform the world. Just as Nick’s “Frindle” grew from a classroom joke into a recognized word, our own ideas, no matter how small, have the power to shape the future if we truly believe in them.

In a world full of complications, there are always differences we struggle to define. Like balancing two sides of a scale, we forever strive for the exact point where the weights are equal. In the name of justice, we fight for equality—sometimes against the unfairness in society, and at other times, guided by the conscience in our hearts. In To Kill a Mockingbird, I see how unfairness manifests in different forms, and with just enough courage, we are all able to stand up to injustice and bring about change.

Turning through the crisp pages, I travel back to the 1930s to Maycomb, Alabama with Scout, a young girl who lives with her older brother Jem and widowed father Atticus. Driven by the natural curiosity of children, Jem and Scout are captivated by Boo Radley, their mysterious neighbor who lives a reclusive life. Rumoured to be a "malevolent phantom", Boo Radley is the subject of constant gossip in Maycomb. The children then set out to test the truth behind the frightening tales. As the story unfolds, their father Atticus, a lawyer, defends Tom Robinson, a Black man falsely accused of raping a white woman. Eventually, Jem and Scout start to face the cruelty of prejudice and taste the bitterness of the adult world.

The book's title, To Kill a Mockingbird, points straight at the theme of the story. To kill a bird that does nothing except sing for us is a sin indeed. Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, the children, and other characters all represent mockingbirds in different ways. Boo Radley, oppressed by his strictly religious family, reveals himself to be a kind and gentle person when he rescues the children at the end of the story. Tom Robinson, an innocent man wrongly convicted because of his skin color, is also a mockingbird silenced to death. Even the children, young and naive, with a hopeful vision of adulthood, are torn and shattered by the harsh prejudice in reality.

Nevertheless, amid the darkness of injustice throughout the book, I feel the light of Atticus's gentle empathy shining through. His words touched me deeply and left me thinking about the true meaning of empathy. He said, "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view . . . until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." Yet, in reality, no one can truly step in another's shoes and experience their life firsthand. The kind of understanding Atticus describes is unattainable, but we can always approach others with sincere effort. I believe the closest we can come is to withhold harsh and hasty judgement, striving to understand others the best we can. Atticus understood Tom, and committed himself to making a change.

The interpretation of courage in the book also responded to one of my long-time questions. What exactly is courage? "It's when you know you're licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what. You rarely win, but sometimes you do.” Atticus's words are like a spray of twinkling stars, casting soft yet powerful light across the darkness. His bravery in speaking out reminds me of Martin Niemöller's poem First They Came. While Niemöller warns of the dangers of silence, Atticus shows us the power of courage: to stand for justice, even when no one else will. His courage and determination to fight for fairness are the very weights that tip the scales closer to equality.

At the end of the story, I finally understood that courage doesn't always mean success. Sometimes, it results in inevitable failure. However, that doesn't make courage any less worthy. Though Atticus and Tom lost in court, their courage sparked power. The power to attempt a change, the power to reveal an ugly truth, and the power to challenge the prejudice in people's hearts. Courage is never about victory. It is all about standing firm in our beliefs.

Amidst the wavering sides of a scale, we are always seeking balance. There may not be genuine empathy in this self-centered world, but the weight of conscience and courage in our hearts is enough to tip uneven scales toward equality.

I have always loved thriller novels since I was young because of the influence my mother brought me. Stories filled with uncertainty, mystery and suspicion have always fascinated me. I found immersing myself in an atmosphere where every character could be hiding a secret and every scene shows some truths lurking beneath the surface fun. These stories lead me to observe raw human nature and to experience a kind of excitement completely different from real life. I especially enjoy feeling the tension, the unpredictability and questioning myself of what might be true.

That is precisely the reason why Wednesday struck me so deeply. This book did not simply meet my expectations but completely overturned them. As I followed the most self-centered girl in the world, Wednesday Addams, I found myself uncovering one unexpected “surprise” after another. Yet each twist did more than shock me; it offered moments of insight and brought me a lot of new ideas. In some ways, Wednesday has become my role model. She is a person who puts her own mission and benefits above anything else, and holds firm to her belief and who never listens to others’ opinions to change her mind. Everything can be sacrificed if it helps her to reach her goals. Her fierce dedication to her own identity and her indifference toward others’ judgment gives her a sense of freedom that I deeply admire.

She once said, “People have FOMO—Fear of Missing Out—but I think I have FOBI, fear of being included.” This line impressed me, not only because it was unique and humorous, but because it revealed a truth about how she views the world. In contrast, I often find myself overly affected by how others think of me. If I do this, will it look weird? I often ask myself. If Wednesday is the puppeteer who pulls the strings of everything around her, then I am the puppet easily influenced by external voices. This sharp contrast between us only made her bold personality even more obsessing and memorable as I read.

Beyond Wednesday herself, the story presents themes that reflect real-world issues. Nevermore Academy, where Wednesday studies, is a school created specifically for “outcasts”—sirens, werewolves, psychics, and other so-called “monsters.” Although these characters are fictional, the label “outcast” mirrors how society often treats people who do not fit conventional expectations. Those with unique hobbies, unconventional identities, or different sexual orientations are often judged, questioned, or isolated. In the book, people in the town reject the Nevermore students out of fear and prejudice. Even more disturbingly, history reveals a leader who was idolized simply because he aimed to eliminate all outcasts. This thread leads Wednesday, using her psychic abilities, to expose the brutality of the past and protect her classmates from repeating that tragedy of being killed. Similarly, our history is filled with cases where entire groups were labeled as lowly or dangerous, with Jewish persecution under Hitler and black people under white people’s ruling being some of the most known examples. Through this lens, the book becomes more than excitement; it becomes a reminder of how easily fear and ignorance can cause cruelty.

Another thing I really appreciate is the storytelling. By using a first-person perspective, the book lets me clearly see Wednesday’s inner changes. I watch her strongly reject friendship at first, slowly realize the importance of people who truly care about her, and deal with her complicated but improving relationship with her family members, especially her mother as a teenager just like me. Even when her life is at risk, she faces every challenge with a strong sense of purpose, which makes her admirable and inspiring.

All of these elements—the exciting plot, the meaningful themes, and Wednesday’s unforgettable personality—make me engaged in the book. It’s a story that once I have the chance I will definitely read it once again in the future.

The novel Some Girls Do centers on the relationship between Morgan and Ruby. Beyond a conventional romance, it highlights their individual growth and the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

In my view, the strongest relationships are those in which both people grow. After coming out, Morgan withdraws from her former school and track team, as it violates the school’s code of conduct. To defend not only herself but also other queer students, she decides to sue the school. However, her family cannot afford a long lawsuit, so they eventually settle. Though disappointed at first, she finds other ways to make an impact, instead of single-mindedly clinging to the case. She gradually comes to realize the value of contributing to the queer community through other ways, and she ultimately makes a real difference.

Ruby, on the other hand, lives under her mother’s strict control. She is forced to fulfill her mother’s unfulfilled dream of becoming Miss America cut short by Ruby’s birth. Her mother’s expectations wrapped around Ruby like a pageant sash that felt heavier with every passing year. She finally voices her own feelings and breaks free from her mother’s control. She wins a scholarship to move out and begins pursuing what she loves— repairing cars. There’s a significant distinction between them. Morgan is “loud” and determined, while Ruby tends to compromise and struggles to voice her thoughts. Because of their contrasting personalities they learn from each other’s strengths.

Their differences also lead to conflict, especially in how they convey love. Morgan burns bright, while Ruby tends to fold herself into quieter corners of the world. Morgan cannot understand Ruby’s quiet way of loving. Ruby, meanwhile, considers it unnecessary to articulate everything. What I admire most is that neither character sacrifices their identity. They maintain their own individual principles while still trying to empathize with each other instead of catering unconditionally. Over time, they find harmony, genuinely believing their changes benefit personal growth. Ruby openly reveals how special Morgan is to her during her final pageant. Morgan’s change is less explicit, but through their conversations, she develops a deeper empathy for Ruby’s perspective and accepts that being in the closet doesn’t mean their relationship is shameful.

“Is it really so radical to think people should be able to date who they want without having to hide or transfer or sue somebody?” It is the sentence that impresses me the most. It reflects the reality that society still struggles to accept the LGBTQ+ community. Though many advocate for equality, the traditional beliefs have taken deep root in people’s minds. From my perspective, considering it natural to fall in love with any gender — rather than seeing LGBTQ+ as a separate group—is a more effective way to promote social harmony. Even though people try to be respectful, the stereotypes and prejudice still persist. We may unconsciously make LGBTQ+ individuals feel different because of the biases shaped by early education. Many of the challenges LGBTQ+ people face come from older generations. Their mindset is already solidified and difficult to change, and many see LGBTQ+ identities as “unnatural”. As a result, many teenagers today are afraid of coming out.

Fortunately, society is improving as awareness of gender equality increases. More people are supporting the community, and influencing the next generation. Although we can’t change the mindset of all elders, we can create an environment which treats LGBTQ+ friendly and equally. Educating children that any sexual orientation is acceptable fosters the development of open-mindedness. As acceptance spreads, I believe no one will be seen as an “outlier “ because of their sexual orientation in the future.

I sincerely recommend Some Girls Do since it allows readers to understand the struggles LGBTQ+ individuals face through vivid description of their conversation and authentic words. I consider it an immersive experience of being a queer girl. By challenging stereotypes and promoting empathy, LGBTQ+ literature pushes the minds closer to gender equality, which plays a vital role in gender education. Besides, by learning how hard LGBTQ+ people try to integrate into society, the novel helps reduce negative stereotypes. Hopefully, one day, no one will have to shrink, hide, or apologize for the way their heart chooses to love.

One important theme in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is that it is absurd but interesting. Everything in the story cannot happen in real life, yet I can’t help but feel drawn to adventures like this. One scene that left a strong impression on me is the race where everyone is a winner. Perhaps it is an ironic reflection on the absurdity and meaninglessness of society. But to me, it also symbolizes life itself—our starting points and endings are different, and we keep running without ever knowing when or why to stop. In the end, however, everyone reaches the same outcome: everyone wins, and everyone eventually leaves this world. Maybe that’s a different kind of fairness.

If the game where everyone wins symbolizes a life in which different paths lead to the same destination, then another memorable scene—the Queen’s croquet ground—represents obedience to authority and the awakening of independent thought. In the story, everyone must follow the Queen’s orders, because if she is even slightly displeased, she shouts, “Off with their heads!” As a result, people stop thinking for themselves and live without thinking. Even though the game is chaotic and the rules are absurd and impossible to follow, no one dares to speak up. Just like in the real world, people often do not question whether the rules are reasonable; they simply obey, afraid to take risks or challenge authority. In the story, the Queen’s orders are never actually carried out, and those who oppose her are not truly punished. If people never try to break the existing rules, they will remain trapped in a lifeless valley of despair. But if one chooses to act, new life can begin. I particularly like this quote: “If we are always cowardly, our lives will be uneventful. At what cost do we become so cowardly that we give up the right to choose?”

At the beginning of the story, Alice simply obeys the Queen of Hearts. However, as she spends more time with her, she begins to express her own opinions and refute the Queen’s absurd ideas, marking the awakening and growth of her thoughts. As the quote goes, “We strive throughout our lives not to change the world, but to avoid being changed by it.” In the story, Alice breaks free from the constraints of authority and develops her own way of thinking; she is no longer a blindly obedient, thoughtless person.

Alice’s awakening makes me realize that in real life, we too often follow absurd rules. But we can choose not to obey blindly; we can be brave enough to propose new ideas and break free from existing dilemmas. Life is a game where everyone is a winner. We all share the same finish line, but we can change the way we run—not merely moving forward with our heads down. We can smooth the rough paths or plant flowers along the way to make the journey richer and more meaningful. Although we cannot change the outcome, through reflection and courage, we can make the journey itself truly worthwhile.

It’s a memorable experience when I first opened The Eyes of the Dragon, a novel written by Stephen King. Though the novel also pulls me into a world of fantasy like other fictional novels, The Eyes of the Dragon feels unlike any other fairy tale stories that I grew up with. Instead of characters who are distinguished into clear “good” and “evil,” the characters in The Eyes of the Dragon are often flawed and weak, indicating a deep connection between the story and the real world. I’m astonished by how a fairy tale could so vividly reflect the struggles in real life, acting as a mirror that helps me to see myself in the characters of the story.

The Eyes of the Dragon takes place in a magical kingdom known as the Kingdom of Delain, ruled by King Roland the Good, a mediocre ruler who’s neither cruel nor great. King Roland has two sons; the elder son, Peter, is a righteous and beloved prince; on the contrary, the younger son, Thomas, is a "regular person" who is flawed and clumsy. One day, the evil Royal Magician Flagg poisoned King Roland with a glass of wine and framed Peter for the murder, seizing the throne for his evil plan of destroying the kingdom. Suddenly, Peter is no longer viewed as the perfect prince who would lead the kingdom to a better future, but a detestable murderer imprisoned in the Needle. Meanwhile, the timid Thomas succeeds to the throne, but his cowardly personality makes him completely manipulated by Flagg. Yet, even though Peter was imprisoned unjustly in the cold tower of Needle, he never gave up on himself, but continued to be resilient and used his clever mind to escape from the Needle. At the end of the story, Thomas and Peter defeat Flagg, and Peter becomes the rightful King, showing how a true King doesn’t inherit the throne through succession but wins it by his virtues.

In the novel, the most memorable character to me is Thomas. Thomas is neither an evil nor terrible character, but simply a love-deprived boy who is jealous of his perfect brother and therefore becomes mentally vulnerable. Though Thomas witnessed the truth of King Roland’s murder, he decides to remain silent due to his jealousy and fear; he doesn’t want to help his brother, who “steals” all the love from him, and is too afraid to face the harsh reality where he has to confront Flagg. As a teenager, I see myself in Thomas; sometimes, I also try to escape from reality due to fear and jealousy. For instance, when I received a poor grade and would possibly fail the class in junior high, I decided to remain silent and ignore it rather than seeking help from others, just because I’m afraid of admitting “I’m worse than others”. My self-esteem fears comparison and makes me jealous of the smarter students, causing me to convince myself that hiding the truth is easier than directly facing it. Yet, at the end of the novel, Thomas chooses to face his mistakes and resist Flagg. Thomas's growth inspires me greatly, making me realize that admitting my weaknesses is not a defeat, but rather the first step toward a brighter future. Thomas’s story and growth in the novel serve as a mirror for me, helping me overcome the struggles I face in reality by teaching me that it’s never too late to start facing my fears and seeking personal growth.

In our lives, there must be a “star” who is perfect and better than you in all aspects. Yet, admitting our shortcomings is neither a shame nor a weakness, but an act of bravery and wisdom; clearly recognizing our disadvantages would help us to begin our path on significant self-improvement. In The Eyes of the Dragon, Stephen King reminds readers that though you might not be as perfect as the prince in fairy tales; however, your flaws are what give you the potential to become a successful person. It isn’t perfection that defines success; with the courage to face all obstacles directly, anyone could become the brightest protagonist in their lives.

In George Orwell’s 1984, the Party—led by Big Brother—controls every aspect of life in a totalitarian society. Through constant surveillance and manipulation of information, it alters reality itself. Winston Smith, the protagonist, works at the Ministry of Truth, where he falsifies historical records to match the Party’s ever-changing narrative.

One of the most haunting ideas in 1984 is the manipulation of truth. The Party’s slogan, “Who controls the present controls the past,” captures the terrifying power of rewriting reality. Winston’s job at the Ministry of Truth involves altering documents so that history always supports the Party’s narrative. Facts become fluid, and truth becomes whatever the Party declares it to be. This raises a timeless philosophical question: if truth can be changed, does objective reality truly exist?

In today’s world, this theme resonates more deeply than ever. The spread of misinformation, deepfakes, and biased algorithms makes it increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction. Different groups create their own “truths,” often shaped by ideology or emotion. Like Orwell’s citizens, modern individuals may come to believe contradictory ideas because of constant exposure to conflicting information—an example of Orwell’s concept of “doublethink.” When truth becomes relative, power belongs to those who can tell the most convincing story.

Philosophically, Orwell’s vision forces readers to consider whether truth is an external reality or a construct shaped by perception and authority. Winston’s ultimate defeat symbolizes the collapse of the individual’s ability to define truth independently. His acceptance that “2 + 2 = 5” represents not only submission to power but also the surrender of reason itself.

This can be seen in real life, reflected in the societal expectations of the modern world, further intensified by the rise of social media. Many students face constant pressure to fit in, dress a certain way, use accepted slang, or hold particular opinions to avoid social rejection. This desire to belong can lead individuals to suppress their authentic personalities, which, in the long term, causes them to lose their sense of individuality and their ability to think independently demonstrating the fragility of truth.

Orwell’s 1984 warns that truth is not self-sustaining; it must be actively sought and defended. Whether through critical thinking, media literacy, or moral courage, maintaining belief in objective reality is an act of rebellion against forces that seek to distort it. Orwell’s philosophy reminds us that freedom begins with the right to recognize what is real. Just as Winston’s struggle in 1984 illustrates the devastating consequences of truth being controlled and manipulated, we too must remain vigilant in defending the integrity of what is true in our world. In the face of misinformation and societal pressure, the ability to question, resist conformity, and seek authenticity becomes a vital form of resistance—not only to power, but to the erosion of reality itself.

It all began when Briony Tallis, a girl with a rich imagination, mistook Robbie's love for her sister, Cecilia as an assault. With her limited perception, she distorted the truth into her own interpretations. Briony's blindness - the true criminal - drove her to accuse Robbie of abusing her cousin. Despite his innocence, Robbie was found guilty and sent to fight in the war for a crime he had not committed. Her ignorance set in motion a heartrending tragedy.

Robbie, with full potential, had just begun his relationship with Cecilia. But after the incident, Robbie plunged into relentless torment. Facing fictitious accusations and the brutality of war, he endured despair, encountered countless casualties every day, and repeatedly contemplated his past. As if that were not enough, the anguish was piled into fury as helplessness crawled onto him. Robbie fumed at Briony's ignorance but could make no change. Briony, who turned out to be "the author" of Atonement, regretted her terrible mistake for the rest of her life.

To me, Atonement is more than a poignant love story; it is a reflection on humanity and the weight of a childhood mistake. What McEwan presents is authenticity; he dissects humanity like a fish, exposing our desires in broad daylight before drenching us in turmoil. Finally, he leaves agony and despair in the burning flame; he reveals the selfishness behind ordinary decisions. Instead of fighting in the front lines, Robbie hid in the shadows, driven by his desire to reunite with Cecilia, while Briony's writings are mere attempts to ease her own conscience. These acts stem not from cruelty, but from the selfishness underlying. Yet, once accumulated, such selfishness becomes destructive.

When I first came upon the film Atonement, I saw life as a fragile stack of faults, so delicate that a single strike could shatter everything. The devastating ending of Robbie and Cecilia lingered in my mind, urging me to search for a parallel world where the two could dwell in peace. Later, my yearning for another ending led me to Ian McEwan's novel Atonement. To my surprise, beyond its surface tragedy arising from ignorance, McEwan weaves a story about the cruel yet intricate nature of humanity itself, unmasking the inherent selfishness of imperfect beings. Atonement - such a desperate grasp at amends, a hope for forgiveness. Yet what was done cannot be fully redeemed, for the act of atonement is nothing but self-redemption - a means to escape guilt, shame, and the unchangeable past.

Still, amid selfish actions lies a glimmer of hope. In her remorse, Briony conveyed hope by reuniting her sister and Robbie in fiction, saying "what sense or hope or satisfaction could a reader draw from such an account?" Both Robbie and Briony embody phases of emotion shaped by pain. In despair, we are left to struggle in the abyss as darkness takes control. Nevertheless, a flicker of hope ignites, and a better future may arise.

Atonement captivates me with a heartbreaking ending, but it is the depictions of humanity that truly touch me. Robbie's love for Cecilia serves as a savior in his darkest hours, teaching me the importance of love and hope. With McEwan showing me the inner thoughts of his characters, I learned to see the bigger picture, that there is more to the surface than meets the eye. Atonement is a mirror that reflects a part of us. When Briony tries to figure out the world, I see my childhood self on her. She and I both lacked a flexible perception, therefore, as we grew, I resonated powerfully with her regrets and fear to confess her wrong. Now, when confronting Robbie's anger, I can also understand his anguish, his doubt, and his powerlessness to change.

Though tragic, Atonement holds invaluable lessons, which bestows me with silver linings for the future. Like Robbie, who clung to the memories of Cecilia, I too, find solace in hope - remembering that in Cecilia's letters, her sincere words are "I'll wait for you. Come back." With hope remaining, we may see in that mirror not despair, but the reflection of a brighter outcome.

In the Chamber of Secrets, J.K. Rowling shows the value of friendship and the importance of perseverance through Harry Potter, a young and outstanding wizard at Hogwarts. His determination to pursue justice, even in the face of several challenges, arouses our inner desire to pursue the ideal. In spite of myriads of rumors against him, he still finds his way to let the truth emerge from the aggressive falsehood. The novel also demonstrates that people should always follow their inner voice when faced with a dilemma between reputation and finding the truth, prompting readers to reflect on their values and decision-making.

Attaining what people crave when hindrances keep surging is difficult. At the beginning of the story, Dobby dissuades Harry from returning to school by various means. First, he sets Harry up and makes Harry stay grounded in his bedroom. Worse yet, he also blocks the entrance to the platform to stop Harry returning to Hogwarts. Although facing such intense discouragement and barriers, Harry still makes his way to Hogwarts, showing his great persistence in his goal. This inspires me that no matter how thorny the situation might become, I should always keep my original intention and solve whatever comes our way.

On the way to success, we may also encounter overwhelming peer pressure and even be framed by doubt and mistrust. In the middle of the semester, many eccentric things happen one after another. Many students and ghosts are spelled and petrified. Considering all the crime scenes involving Potter, many students accused him of the culprit of all cases. However, even in the face of such unkindness, Harry does not explain himself, but take initiative to hunt for the real murderer behind the conspiracy. This is not only an exhibition of steadfastness, but also serves as a reminder of how I react when I am slandered. Last year, a rumor defamed me that I stole the basketball just because I was the only person seen in the last scene. When alleged, I went berserk immediately because my reputation had been severely damaged. Desperately anxious to remove the stigma, I kept arguing with those rumor-mongers, but to no avail. As Harry Potter said, “It is no use denying what I am accused of, because everyone was out of their minds.” Defending oneself as innocent without any evidence could backfire and deteriorate the situation. Not knowing this wisdom at that time, I ended up being forced to compensate the owner and was even mocked as a liar. In retrospect, I wish I could have been more open to adversity. Additionally, I would choose to find out the truth instead of denying what hurt me at once. The clarification of one’s innocence is crucial, but one should not merely mindlessly keep arguing against the rumor.

Courage is also an imperative element on the road to success. After Harry finds the entrance to the Chamber of Secrets, he plucks up his courage to face the fatal danger waiting to torture him. Although it is daunting, Harry still creates a miracle and saves Ginny, the girl Harry is searching for, from Riddle, a piece of Voldemort's past soul. Even though Harry is once in panic and at the edge of death, it is by his courage that eventually enables him to overcome the difficulties. The importance of courage is no less than determination. After all, the power of courage can reinforce your confidence even if the situation worsens. People often have a strong aspiration and great confidence at first, but what allows them to persist in is courage.

I admire Harry’s attitude toward the unknown, the dangerous, and the frustrating predicaments. Even with the slimmest chance, he still rekindles the ember in his heart, finding the beacon of hope guiding one to the ultimate triumph. He is also willing to face any challenges, reminding me that I shouldn't shirk what I am afraid of. As a teenager like Harry Potter, though I am not a wizard as he is, the brave and willing heart — symbolizing the purity and the desire of pursuing the truth — is what we share. Just muster up the courage to conquer the difficulties and leave no regrets!

What is life if not adventure? In a society where time and people are endlessly racing forward, we plan, and because of this, we think we’ve set our futures in stone. From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg proves us wrong. With just a breeze, our plans can easily spiral out of control, and Claudia and Jamie Kincaid’s story tells us how spontaneity can introduce us to new places, new paths, and new selves.

Claudia and Jamie Kincaid, siblings aged 11 and 9 respectively, decide to embark on the greatest adventure of their lives, Claudia because she wants to be different from the tedious role as the eldest of four, and Jamie purely because he wants to. Through Claudia’s meticulous planning, they successfully divulge from their daily routines on an early Wednesday morning, instrument cases filled with clothes and Jamie’s pockets weighed down with gambled money, and arrive at the Metropolitan Museum, ready for the unknown.

Claudia is practical, rational, and strategic. She corrects her brother’s grammar. She decides to camp out in the Met because it’s classy, elegant, and convenient. Every direction they walk towards, every meal they buy, every penny spent is thoroughly considered before presented to the impulsive Jamie. One day, however, Jamie’s random choice of an exhibit to visit and the accidental sweeping of a crowd led the siblings to Angel, a beautiful, breathtaking, graceful marble statue. This sudden obsession with Angel led them through a roller coaster of events and emotions and eventually a train ride to Farmington, Connecticut to meet with the donator of Angel, Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, where they conclude their story by confirming Angel’s creator as Michelangelo and securing the original sketch by the sculptor in Mrs. Frankweiler’s will.

If the siblings had started their journey wanting to escape their normal lives and ended up acquiring Angel’s sketch and Mrs. Frankweiler’s friendship, then what exactly was the purpose of the adventure? Was it why they went, or what they gained? Claudia once said that she wanted to “go back different.” Jamie, on the other hand, said that they had “accomplished having fun.” Like how Claudia and Jamie never expected to fall into the rabbit hole of Angel’s lore, we can never anticipate what the next second brings. We go to school to learn and get our diplomas, but we never could’ve predicted the deep bonds that we form with our companions. Perhaps the popular phrase “Maybe the treasure was the friends we made along the way” is true—we do indeed treasure our friends, who have never been included in our calculations of life’s progression but still manage to worm their way into the equation that makes us who we are.

I had been 11 years old when I first read this book, the same age as Claudia, and had mocked Claudia and Jamie’s nerve to run away for such shallow reasons of escaping responsibility. Now, five years later, I realize that there was more than what met my young eyes; they were shaping their own path with their own young hands. Claudia matured not by shedding her responsibility of being a child, but by being brave enough to venture out and seek her answers, and essentially, that’s just what being an adult—or in my case, being a young adult—is about: to face the unknown future with courage and embrace whatever comes next, as unexpected and unstoppable as it is. And Jamie, though younger and still relatively unchanged even after their adventure, valued the experience more than the end goal, to which he didn’t even have one. His impulsivity made their adventure fun, which in turn made the book more enjoyable, too. With each page, I found myself forgetting to focus on the moral of the story and instead enjoy the events just as they are, appreciating the humor, the intrigue, and the emotions. Claudia taught me to learn from every experience. Jamie taught me to live in the moment. Sometimes, moments are all we should care about. We need not anticipate the effect; it will come to us at the right time.

After all, what is adventure if not just life?

For most of my childhood I grew up on Western dramas and novels, where romance is bold, physical and fast-paced. Recently though, I’ve immersed myself in Asian culture and media, where love is subtle, slow burning, sometimes even forbidden and usually shaped by family, superstitions and traditions. It was in the middle of this cultural shift when I picked up Powerless by Lauren Roberts and it made me view the story from a different perspective, of how love is presented by separate cultures.

In the kingdom of Ilya, only the extraordinary deserve to live; the powerless are either killed or in hiding. Paedyn Gray is one of those— an Ordinary. Since she was a child she had been taught to pretend to be an Elite. The routine has always been lying, stealing and trying to keep up her cover over and over until one day she saved one of Ilya’s princes, Kai Azer and won herself a ticket to participate in the Purging Trials. The brutal competition where the Elites fight between life and death with their powers, which Paedyn undoubtedly lacks. This YA romance fantasy tells a story of survival, love and the dangerous game of power.

The popularity was what first intrigued me to read the book, after actually reading it, I can see why it is so talked about on social media. I’m very picky about what I read, so if I find the narrations or the characters too immature, I will immediately drop it. Most YA books feel like that to me. I can’t feel the characters’ emotions or why they were feeling it, but in Powerless, Lauren Roberts wrote her characters amazingly. We get to see how Paedyn became the strong brave woman she is now and on why she hid behind that mask. For Kai, he was known as the ruthless, coldblooded monster, the future enforcer that was born to kill. We slowly learn that he was once a scared little boy who was forced to become the cruel man he is now. I really love how the word “powerless” was repeated numerous times throughout the book, constantly reminding the readers of who you are when the society defines you by power.

Though the plot itself was pretty interesting, there were still things I didn’t love. Right off the bat it was really obvious early on that Kai, and his brother Kitt were both interested in Paedyn. Which immediately made me think twice about continuing to read because I really despise love triangles, especially the trope when everyone is in love with the female lead. Someone is always going to be hurt in the end and it is also unrealistic. Another thing was how fast we could sense this attraction from the brothers. It was almost like they fell at first sight, like there were invisible strings tying them with Paedyn. There were too many coincidences that felt too cliché or forced to me.

Because of my cultural shift, I couldn’t help comparing this book to the Asian romances I’ve been enjoying. What I loved about Powerless was how raw and lively it was in exploring emotions, something Western writers do best. But at the same time the love triangle and instant attraction was what reminded me of why I’ve started leaning towards the more indirect, slow burning Asian love stories. In the end, reading this book didn’t just show me a story of survival and love, it showed me how different cultures shape the way I understand romance, and how being in between made me appreciate both sides.

The true brutality of human nature reveals itself most starkly when law and order are absent. This idea is the heart of William Golding’s Lord of the Flies, a novel that depicts a group of boys accidentally left on an uninhabited island without the guidance or rules of adult society. Ralph, the athletic protagonist, is elected as the leader of the surviving boys, prioritizing security and rescue over hunting. However, as more boys defect to the impulsive antagonist, Jack, the collective will to survive gradually deteriorates and turns into pure savagery. Initially, I thought Lord of the Flies is simply an absurd allegory. But after the tragic murders of Simon and Piggy, which symbolizes the loss of insight and intelligence, my belief that human nature is inherently good is profoundly altered.

At the beginning of the story, the conch used to call a meeting symbolizes democracy. Seeing the delicate conch as a sacred object, Piggy insists that only the person holding the conch is allowed to speak, yet gradually ignored as Jack and his supporters become impatient. Likewise, boys would rather eat fruits and go hunting than build a hut and maintain the fire. Golding implies the society’s behavior pattern tends to disregard wisdom and intellect when freed from rules. What is happening on this island mirrors World War 2 beyond, exposing the decay of humanity and the forgotten civilization in a lawless and chaotic society. Simultaneously, the vivid narrative gives me the illusion of being trapped in their conflicts, which is close before my eyes, yet beyond my grasp, as if the story is destined to happen this way.

A dead pilot corpse stuck between trunks was mistaken as a wicked monster by the boys. While Simon, who acts as a seer, explains that “maybe there is a beast.” “What I mean is… maybe it’s only us.” (89) He points out it is not the supernatural threat, but underlying savagery and brutality that pollute everyone’s mind. However, the boys choose to believe the speculation, not the truth. Their choice reveals the power of collective belief. Once fear roots in one’s mind, it spreads uncontrollably, eventually the neglected logic and reason will be replaced. Golding emphasizes the power of fear in the scene of Simon’s death. Overwhelmed by panic and imagination, the boys mistake Simon for the beast and brutally kill him during a ritual. The collapse of insight and truth reminds me of how, in real life, people choose to ignore the truth, but to believe rumors and collective prejudice, which appeals to their dread and desire.

Do you believe in humanity? After Pigger is murdered, Ralph becomes Jack’s next aim. “No. They’re not as bad as that. It was an accident.” (184) “The best thing to do was to ignore this leaden feeling about the heart and rely on their common sense, their daylight sanity.” (184) Yet even Ralph, who embodies civilization and order, begins to sense the fragility of morality and persuade himself to believe in humanity. His reliance on “daylight sanity” suggests that civilization is only a thin veil, easily destroyed when violence dominates. At this moment, Golding highlights that humanity relies on a social structure that may collapse at any time, but not the inherent goodness of human nature.

What initially seems like an opportunity to build a well-ordered society ultimately descends into fear, violence, and barbarity. The plot of Lord of the Flies inverts the morality and ideal of The Coral Island. While the two narratives begin with seemingly similar setup, they ultimately lead to completely different endings. So what is the essence of humanity? Good, evil, or neutral? Is the inherent goodness polluted by the environment, or is the evil of humanity temporarily restrained by civilization? No one can ever be certain. Only when the events of the novel happen in reality will the answer be revealed.

Finding Langston by Lesa Cline-Ransome is a short, powerful historical novel about a young boy's emotional journey during the Second Great Migration. It's a clear, heartwarming story about finding oneself, dealing with deep sorrow, and discovering how books and poetry can transform a life.

The story's setting is dramatically separated into two worlds. One is rural Alabama, which represents the painful past. This is a world defined by the harsh rules of Jim Crow segregation, such as the "whites-only" library sign. This place also fills Langston with the anguish of losing his mother. The other setting is Bronzeville, Chicago, in 1946. This is the loud, crowded, and confusing city that makes Langston, the young protagonist, feel overwhelmed, like a lost "country boy." The place where Langston finds comfort in the story is the George Cleveland Hall Branch Library in Chicago. This library is integrated, which means it is open to everyone, and stands in direct contrast to his severely restricted past. It becomes the key place where Langston starts to heal and learn about himself.

The narrative is intensely focused on the perspective of Langston, the 11-year-old boy. I experienced and understood his inner struggle, his loneliness, and his difficulty connecting with his father, Henry. Henry, who resembles many men moving North for work, is strong and quiet, and often fails to provide emotional support to his family. Also, the kind librarian, Miss Cook, act as an indispensable guide, who brings a meaningful impact on Langston, showing the nurturing power of community and education.

There are several major ideas that create the novel’s plot. Foremost is the theme of identity and self-discovery. Langston's life changed when he discovered the famous poet who shared his name: Langston Hughes. This revelation creates a deep connection between Langston and his mother. Knowing that his mother named him after the poet gives Langston a crucial missing piece of his personal history. After that, reading Hughes's poetry makes Langston feel validated and understood, helping him embrace his new self. This plot emphasizes the main themes of the novel: the power of words, and the importance of the library as a powerful symbol of freedom and acceptance. Having access to knowledge and the work of Black authors, especially Hughes, transforms Langston's isolated sadness into a moment of profound personal and cultural connection.

Moreover, literature becomes his ultimate tool for connecting with his past and navigating his future. The main conflict in the novel is person vs. society. In both settings, Langston struggles against his environment. In the south, Langston suffers from the lingering effects of Southern racism, and in the North, he faces new social and economic challenges, including feeling isolated and enduring bullying from city kids.

Finally, the novel concludes not with a loud event, but with a quiet, significant resolution. Through his mother's letters and the solace of poetry, Langston finally resolves his grief and the emotional distance he feels from his father. The knowledge of his name not only validates his thoughtful nature, but also helped him understand his father's protective silence. In the end of the story, Langston ultimately realizes he had found his place in Chicago. With the strength derived from understanding his heritage, Langston finds himself not just in the physical streets, but within the secure, familiar walls of the library. The story ends with the enduring promise of a boy who has found his voice, and in doing so, has found his way home.

Wonder is a heartwarming and inspiring story about kindness, acceptance, and staying strong. The book is about August "Auggie" Pullman, a ten-year-old boy who was born with a rare face condition. For the first time, Auggie went to school after he had homeschooled because of his surgery. Now, he faces the challenge of fitting in at Beecher Prep, a private middle school. The story is told from different characters’ points of view, showing how Auggie’s presence affects his classmate, friends, and family.

Auggie fights with bullying and feels lonely. Many students avoid him, whispering about his face. Julian, a popular but mean boy, often makes fun of Auggie and tries to make others against him. Thankfully, Auggie also finds real friends. Summer, a kind and independent girl, sits with him at lunch from the first day, proving that small acts of kind can make a big difference. Jack becomes one of Auggie’s best friends even though he made mistakes at first. Their friendship shows that the message inside a person is more important than what they look like on the surface.

The story also shows how Auggie’s condition affects the people close to him. His older sister, Via, loves him but sometimes feels ignored because their parents give most of their attention to Auggie. At school, she has her own problem, like changed friendships. Jack feels the pressure of trying to be popular while also doing the right things. Other characters, like Miranda and Justin, deal with their own challenges, showing that everyone faces difficulties in life. These different opinions make the story feel real and relatable.

A big idea in Wonder is the power of being kind. Mr. Browne, Auggie’s teacher, shares a rule: “When you can choose to be right or kind, choose kind.” This lesson is very important in the story. Many characters learn to look past Auggie’s face and see who he really is. Over time, Auggie has earned respect from his classmates, even those who were unkind to him at first. The story shows that small kind actions can make the world a better place.

Another important theme is courage. Auggie faces bullying, stare, and rejection, but he doesn’t let these experiences break him. Instead of escaping and hiding, he faces challenges with humor and bravery. His growth is inspiring, teaching readers real courage is not about being fearless but about staying strong in difficult moments. His journey makes readers think how they treat others and if they judge people too quickly.

Overall, Wonder is an emotional and meaningful book that teaches important lessons about kindness, acceptance, and empathy. Auggie’s story is uplifting, reminding readers true beauty lies within This book encourages people to be more understanding and caring toward others. It’s a powerful story that leaves lasting impacts, makes readers think twice about how they see and treat people who are different from them.