... novel. The version that I purchased is a direct translation from its French origin. At times the language was a little rough, however, this fact also added to the books authenticity. The somewhat broken English, creates a sense that the main character, who is French, is actually telling the story. I found myself reading ... has a difficult time comprehending. First, he asks about his mother's death. Meursault does not understand what this has to do with the murder and answers honestly, "I did not want her to die,"" and still does not show any emotion. Second, when he asks why Meursault di...

• Word Count: 1699
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School

... relationship with his mother could not be mended, nor could Calvin and his wife's marriage. Throughout the novel, Judith Guest illustrates several different themes. To start, grief is one of importance. As Beth, Cal, and Conrad struggle with the death of a loved one, they blame themselves rather than ... Conrad feels as if he should have been the person to die in the boating accident that took his brother's life. This drives him to his suicide attempt where he avoids, yet another tragic issue by refusing to forgive himself and apologize to others ("Ordinary People" 274). Conrad also stru...

• Word Count: 2059
• Approx Pages: 8
• Grade Level: High School

... by Scott Smith, the reader discovers how a peaceful, quiet and happy life of a person can be instantly changed by an event which he or she considered to be a sign of happiness and prosperity. However, sometimes those events, which we often dream about, result in a complete destruction of our lives and personalities. Sometimes ... Mitchell - The main character of the novel who lives in a small town of Delphia, 30 miles east of Asheville, Minnesota. He is happily married to his classmate from college. His wife is expecting their first daughter. Hank has a job at Delano Feed and Grain Mill ...

• Word Count: 2209
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: High School