... history forever placing the Essex tragedy in the American historical canon. In the Heart of the Sea brings to new life the incredible story of the wreck of the whaleship Essex--an event as mythic in its own century ... It is written with compassion and with attention to detail; the author has done his research, as 50 pages of Notes would indicate. I was particularly impressed with the passages of the book relating to the aftermath of the Essex disaster, ... several Pacific islands. With an innate fear of cannibalism rumored to exist among native tribes, they preferred to brave the famil...

• Word Count: 2188
• Approx Pages: 9

... and forth, like a tennis ball from one side of the court to the other, between her two choices - a new life with Frank or returning to her burdensome life with her family. She stood among the swaying crowd in the station at ... only played by children. In several cases, it is noted in Joyce's work that adults play such games as well. In the short story, "A Mother", Joyce utilizes a situation involving a mother and her daughter's future, to portray the extent to which some may ... and ivory manners were much admired. She sat amid the chilly circle of her accomplishments, waiting for som...

• Word Count: 1686
• Approx Pages: 7

... repeatedly they may forget. Even the show "Inspector Gadget" causes children to become careless in their actions. For instance, when Inspector Gadget gets a new assignment it always says it will self-destruct. He always reads this notice, but never pays it much attention. He carelessly tosses it behind him ... on September 11. Real heroes show selfless acts of bravery and kindness. A hero can be as simple as a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity or a brave as a fire fighter that rushes in and out of burning buildings saving children and adults. Children need to understand the idea of a tru...

• Word Count: 1816
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School