Golden Feather June 2013

Maurice Hawk School 2nd Grade Writers, 2012-‐2013

Golden Feather A literacy magazine featuring writing and artwork

by second grade students at Maurice Hawk School

June 2013

Artwork by Alexandria Solomon

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Golden Feather, 2013

ARTWORK by: Shreya Tandon

Dear second grade writers,

Thank you for taking the time to write and submit your work to me. I hope that you will continue to pursue other opportunities to share your writing with others. You have a special talent that you should be honored to share with the WWP community.

Fondly,

Miss Toohey


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ARTWORK

Several students created beautiful cover art for our 2nd grade magazine. All are featured below.

Abby P. Robert R.

Akash P. Nikhil C.


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ARTWORK

Ved R. Jonathan T.

Nivedhithaa M. Rohan S.


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ARTWORK

Artist unknown Akash B.

Joshua N. Hiral S.


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ARTWORK

Juliana B. and Joyce Z. Sankalp S.

Rachel L. Anika S.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Dear WW-P Community,

The following pages contain stories written by second grade students. Some writing includes accompanying artwork. Prepare to be fascinated by the writing that our students were able to produce in a short amount of time. Your children and their classmates never cease to amaze me.

The genres of writing are varied and include:

§ Short stories o Personal Narratives o Realistic Fiction o Small Moment Stories

§ Persuasive Reviews

§ Fairytales & Fables

§ Poetry

§ Non-‐Fiction Writing

ENJOY!


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Short Stories

Titanic Exhibition

Author: Aaron D.

“Yay!!!” I shouted, as my mom told me that we were going to the Titanic exhibition. About one hour later, my mom told me and my sister to get into the car. Within a few minutes we were out the door in a flash. When we finally arrived at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, we found a parking space and then we went to the entrance of the Institute.

At the entrance we saw this old plane that looked like it was from the time of the Wright brothers. Then we went inside. We climbed up a lot of steps and then we went inside and bought our tickets and climbed up the steps that led to the exhibition.

The tickets were like copies of the real ones on the ship. Each ticket had a real passenger’s name and the ticket described their family, who they were travelling with and what class they were staying in on board. As we walked round the exhibit we saw many precious artifacts that had been saved from the mysterious sunken ship at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. We saw china teapots and plates, French money and a double-‐sided spoon. “Wow!” I said, “those things look really ancient”.

We saw a film about how the Titanic hit an iceberg and sank, we also got to touch a real ice-‐berg. It was really cold! After that part of the exhibition, we met a lady who was dressed in clothes that passengers would have worn in first class. We showed her each of our tickets and she then told us about that passenger. My passenger ticket was for a man called Mr. Nils Martin Odahl. My passenger was 23 years old when he went on the Titanic. He was travelling alone from Orsjo, Sweden and was staying in third class.

At the end of the exhibition, there were two large boards which showed the names of all the passengers. There was one board for all the passengers who survived and one that showed the names of all the passengers who were unlucky. My passenger was unlucky and he did not survive.

This was a very sad event and 1,502 people died and 755 survived. Ship builders learned a lot of lessons from this tragedy and one day, I hope you get a chance to go to the Titanic exhibition and have a blast!

Thank you for reading this small moment, I hope you liked it.


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Short Stories

Believe it or not!

Author: Aarushi T.

In a faraway town in India called Brahmavar there is a village called Aroor. That’s where my grandpa spent his childhood. It is a small village with only one school. There is also a forest and in that forest there was a Banyan tree. When I first heard about Banyan trees, I thought Banyan was a specific type of fruit. Then I found out that it has something called Aerial roots which means roots that grow above the ground. The roots grow from the branch straight down to the ground. After some time the roots grow thick enough that it looks like a tree with 30-‐40 trunks! I thought trees had only one trunk. Maybe this is why people start thinking that ghosts and goblins live there! This makes me feel like it’s a tree from some fairy tale. So I think Sundar’s (my grandpa) friends started imagining demons living in that tree and spread the story so everyone was very scared. Everyone believed it, of course everyone except Sundar.

They said the demon was red and at night he would scare people and harm them! Maybe even kill them! So people tried not to be too close to that tree or walked far from that tree. Sundar was curious and daring. He wanted proof that there were demons in that tree! Sundar was brave, courageous and did something no one else would dare to do.

That night my grandpa did something very brave. He went to spend the night under that banyan tree. When I heard this part of the story I was so scared I thought he was going to die! He was alone in the dark of the night with absolutely no lights. I am scared even to go to the basement at night with lights on. He sat and sat listening to the wind rustling the leaves and in the night I imagine those sounds sound like there are ghosts in the wind! But no matter what happened there was no demon. In the morning he told everyone “There is no demon, you guys believed such a silly story”

You can choose to believe anything or choose not to believe anything is what I learned from this story.

You may learn something else.


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Short Stories

Jenny and her Bike

Author: Abby P.

Jenny was an 8 year-‐old second grader and she loved to ride the bike she just got for her birthday. There was only one problem with her bike – she had training wheels. Her friend Mia was a kindergartener and she didn’t have training wheels. Neither did her friend Wilson in first grade. Almost everyone in first grade and older was riding on two wheels. Jenny thought, “what can I do? I am not ready to take my training wheels off”. So she walked down the sidewalk to Wilson’s house. She asked if she could go outside with Wilson. He said “sure”. He got his bike out and Jenny ran to her house to get her bike out. When they rode about 2 miles, Jenny said “I want to ask you something Wilson”. “What” asked Wilson. “How did you get no training wheels?”, asked Jenny. Wilson said “it took a lot of practice. The first thing I did was raise my training wheels.” “Oh” said Jenny. “Maybe when we get to the next village we can get some pizza and after that we can go back to my house and my dad can raise my training wheels” said Jenny. “That’s a good idea” said Wilson “and I’m getting hungry”. They rode to a diner, ordered a pizza, and each of them quietly ate a slice of pizza. After that, they paid and went outside to get their bikes. Soon after, they were riding their bikes past the village library. Then Jenny drove her bike through the garage door. Her dad was fixing a tool at the work bench with a hammer. Jenny said, “Dad can you raise my training wheels?”. “Of course” replied her Dad, “but don’t you think you need more practice?”. “No. Wilson has been riding his bike since he was 4!”, said Jenny. “Well OK” answered her dad. He set down his hammer and picked up his wrench. Her dad went over to her bike and twisted them so they were higher. Jenny was so excited that she jumped right out of the garage with her bike and started pedaling. She rode her bike even though it was a little wobbly until 6 o’clock and then she went home for dinner. After dinner she ran outside and jumped on her bike and pedaled till dark. She was so excited that she rode on her own bike. “I want to do MORE bike riding” thought Jenny. The next day she woke up and 6:15am and asked her dad if he would take one training wheel off. Her dad said yes and again got his wrench and twisted a training wheel off! Jenny was a little nervous but got on her bike. She grabbed the handle bars, put her feet on the pedals and started slow but speeded up. She was a little wobbly but didn’t fall! She rode her bike all the way to school. After school, she went home and she read, did some multiplication, wrote a review, and did a balance experiment and wrote about it. Then she went to Wilson’s house and asked if he could come outside and ride bikes. She showed Wilson that she only had one training wheel. Wilson’s dad saw Jenny’s bike and asked her “do you want me to take off that last training wheel?”. Jenny thought about it for a minute and then said “yes”. Wilson’s dad got a wrench and twisted off the other training wheel. Jenny got on the bike -‐ excited and worried at the same time. She pedaled about two feet and then oh no… CRASH! CRASH! She wasn’t ready…


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Short Stories

My Birthday Cake

Author: Abby P.

I was in the middle of my birthday when it was cake time. As soon as I saw my cake I gasped. It was beautiful and wide and big. I loved it. It was so big I wanted to grab it. It was so beautiful I wanted to scrape my fingers in it. I loved it so much. As soon as the cake was in front of me it was lit. I wasn’t sure if I could do it, but I was going to do it. I was brave. I took a deep breath. OK. I would do it. I stared and stared at it. I sighed. OK. I would definitely do it. Then I smelled the sweet taste of the cake. I heard my friends singing “Happy Birthday”. Then I squeezed my eyes shut. Then I took a deep breath and let it out real hard. Then as soon as I opened my eyes I saw smoke rising. And grownups handing out cookies and cake. They also handed out drinks. When I got my cake, I found a plastic mermaid toy in it. I played with it a little but it wasn’t really fun. But I felt the bumpy texture and wrapped my fingers tightly around it. As soon as my piece of cake was in front of me I looked at it. Then I took a bite. And it tasted good and it felt like the frosting was sucking up into my head. After I ate all my cake, I jumped down from my seat because I had a lot of energy and was ready for fun! Then End.

Oyster

Author: Abby P.

Rough and gray as rock

I’m plain as plain can be

But hidden deep inside there is great beauty in me

Who am I?


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Short Stories

The First Day of Junior Sailing Camp

Author: Cassidy T.

Off I went, as I started to walk to Junior Sailing Camp. The camp started at 9 am and went until 12

noon. It was my first day so I had my bag and life jacket all ready for sailing. I walked from my

grandmother’s house to my yacht club until I got there. Inside I was all excited about sailing camp.

The first thing I did was to meet the instructors. My instructors’ names were Beth and Jack. Beth

told me to wait in the attendance room (or the lounge room). A few minutes later it was time to

take attendance, and when they called your name you had to say “yo”. So when they called my

name of course I said “yo”. It took a few minutes, but after attendance was over we met with our

group and told everybody our name. I was in the Pram group, which is a type of a boat. We started

to talk about sailing. Before we talked about the boats and that kind of stuff we talked about the

sails. We learned how to put the sails together and all the stuff we needed to know for sailing. We

also learned how to get all the things ready for the boat. Then came the exciting part where we got

to go sailing. Everybody helped get the boats in the water and the teachers helped us get in the

boats. But the teachers were in to motorboats with us so if we tipped over they could help us.

There were two people in each boat. We practiced sailing in front of the dock first. Then we could

go up river or down to the bay. We practiced and practiced until it was time to stop and put the

boats away. We got out and tied the boats to the side of the dock, because the people that go for

full day still need the boats. Then sadly it was time to go home. My mom came to pick me up and

we said goodbye and then left. It was a good day and I couldn’t wait to go again.


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Short Stories

Garage Sale Hunting

Author: Kohav D.

It was Saturday morning. I looked outside and there were lot of garage sales. I told my mom “Can we go to garage sale”. My mom nodded yes. She said “Let’s go with car”. I said “I want to be green and take my bike”. “OK” said my mom. Then we went to the first garage sale. Nothing was interesting. After that we went to many more garage sales. Still we could not find anything to buy.

I was very disappointed until we came to a sale which had fun stuff. That sale had a bike for ten dollars. It was rusty, but the owner said that it still works. My mom tried it and she found it comfortable. My mom did a little bargaining with the owner and we got the bike for seven dollars. But right after we bought it, we noticed that the pedal was broken but my mom said that we will repair it.

I was so happy that we bought it. Then we rode the bike back home. I think it was a good idea to buy the bike because it was cheap and in good shape. This bike will be useful when go to park or run errands. I love the bike and garage sales!!


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Short Stories

The Gift

Author: Rohan S.

Once I went to Florida for my forth birthday. We stayed in Disney resort for a week. I was very excited to go to the theme parks and meet all the Disney characters. One day I went to the arcade. I wanted to play the water gun game but there was no one to play against me. After a few minutes a boy came. He was older than me (might be 10 years old). We started playing and he won. I was little sad and walked back to my mom. She tried to cheer me up. Suddenly, I heard “Excuse me.” I turned back. The same boy was there, holding a black and yellow frog that he won in the game. He said, “This is for you.” I was surprised and before I could even say thank you to him he ran back to his mom.

Tom

Author: Joshua N.

It was the world series. "We are doing this" Jimmy said. Then he said "Ginny left field, Tom first base, Timmy right field, Pall third base, two innings" but no one except Tom heard. Tom yelled "two innings!" Jimmy's team cheered! "We love two inning" Jimmy's team cheered! That night they tied. Tom saved the day! Because Tom caught a pop fly that was almost a home run and got the final out of the game. Then the game was over as a tie with their opponent.


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Short Stories

Bobby And The Bone

Author: Noah W.

Bobby was a small dog that lived with Jerry, and Rick. Bobby saw a bone. He loved the bone; he wanted to eat the bone. Suddenly the bone started to fly. The bone was gone.

Rick was getting the mail outside. “WOOF, WOOF,” Bobby barked. Rick saw a bone and he got it. “I think this is my dog’s bone, I`ll give it to Bobby.”

“Bobby I got a bone,” said Rick. Bobby was happy! And Jerry came back from his office. “HI!” said Jerry.

Bobby ate the bone. Yummy! And Bobby never lost a bone again.

Bobby And The Flower

Author: Noah W.

Bobby was at a store, for his first time. Bobby saw many flowers.

“Cool,” said Bobby.

Rick bought a flower that Bobby liked. Jerry was shopping with Rick and Bobby.

“Should I buy another daisy?” asked Jerry.

Rick replied, “Yes.”

Bobby jumped, while Rick was checking out. They started to drive home, and … the car took off! So they flew home.

When they arrived Bobby was playing with the flower. He broke the daisy. Rick was getting the other daisy.

Bobby said, “WOOF, WOOF.”

Jerry got mad! And Bobby never broke a flower again.


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Short Stories

Jessica and the Necklace

Author: Hiral S.

Chapter 1 : Excited

It was Friday afternoon and Jessica was sitting on her porch drinking lemonade when the phone rang .Jessica ran to her dad. She sang like always …there is a phone call .Dad picked up the phone. “Is it from grand pa”, asked grand ma. “No”, dad replied “It is from Jessica’s mom”. “My legs hurts “said grand ma, then they all sat down on the porch. Dad told Jessica that they are going to grandpa’s house. “OH my god!” said Jessica. Just then grand ma said, “It’s starting to rain lets go inside”. They all went inside quickly then suddenly thunder rumbled and lights went out. They all crouched on the sofa. “Oh no the power went out” grand ma said. Jessica asked daddy “Is my bunny going to stay with aunt Mercy when we will visit grandpa?” Daddy nodded his head. Just then the power came back. Grand ma gave food to the bunny and dad brought soup and broccoli with rice for everyone. While they were sitting on the dinner table the storm stopped. Jessica and Max her little brother looked outside the window. They said together “oh our bikes are wet now we cannot bike outside.”

Chapter 2 : Wait ,Wait and Wait

Next day early morning dad called Jessica and Max downstairs. They came running down the stairs. Dad was standing with tickets in his hands. “Let’s pack our bags we have to leave for airport in an hour”, said dad. Grandma helped Jessica and Max pack their stuff in their bags and dad helped putting bags in the car, but it took a long time for grandma to get into the car. Then it was a long drive to the airport Jessica almost fell asleep when dad said “we are at the parking place”. Jessica and Max got so tired standing in line for checking their luggage and going through the security check that when they boarded the plane they just ran to their seats. Jessica yelled “I got the window seat” . “Not fair, ”said Max. Jessica told grandma, “Can I have something to eat I am hungry “.Grandma gave them a bars.


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Short Stories

Jessica and the Necklace (continued)

Author: Hiral S.

Chapter 3: Gift From Grandpa

After a long flight the plane landed on New York airport.” I am really excited to see my grand pa”, said Jessica. As they came out of the airport Jessica was surprised to see Mom with grandpa. ”oh my god

mommy is here…..”screamed Jessica. She enjoyed the car ride to grandpa house. “This is the best day ever mom”, said Jessica. Jessica’s vacation at grandpa house was full of fun . Grandpa even took her to show the New York City .When it was time for Jessica to go to the airport grandpa gave her a gift. He moved his hand from his behind with a gift rapped in red with a purple bow. A big smile came on Jessica’s face and she ran to give grandpa a hug. “thank you thank you grandpa. I love you”. She carefully unwrapped the bow and opened the box .She screamed “Grandpa you gave a necklace”. “Yes a special necklace for my special

Jessi…It is my mother’s necklace which I am giving you today. Please take good care of it.” said Grandpa.

Chapter 4: Jessica’s Birthday

When Jessica reached home she asked mom to put the necklace on her. Mom told “Jessi it is a special gift why don’t you keep it for your birthday.” Jessica’s birthday was on Saturday but she cannot wait till her birthday. She went to her dad “Daddy can you put it on me.” Dad help her put on the necklace but he said “don’t lose it”. Jessica played and played with her necklace. When it was time for Jessica to get ready for her birthday party she could not find her necklace. Then she remembered her grandpa’s words “please take good care of it.” And her mom’s words “keep it for your birthday” and her dad’s words “don’t lose it.” Tears came out of her eyes. Mommy and daddy looked around the house for the necklace. Just then Max crawled under the bed and saw a pink flower shirt .There was something bumpy under it. He pulled the shirt and yelled “I found it!” Jessica said “thanks for finding my necklace” and gave him a hug. Her party was a great fun .later Jessica smiled looking at her necklace and said to herself” I will always take great care of my precious necklace”


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Short Stories

Jack and Robert Adventures 1 & 2 Combined Author: Ved R.

It was 6:30 PM. Jack and Robert were playing. “Hey look!” Jack yelled to Robert, “I see a bird!” Robert looked up he started to run. “Wait for me!” Jack said. Jack climbed a tree and jumped back to the ground. Then, he started to run too. Jack and Robert ran so fast, soon they caught up with the bird. Jack and Robert ran up and down the hill, through the park and into the forest. Jack and Robert started to pant. “We’re losing the bird!” Robert said. Jack bumped into Robert. “OH NO WE’RE LOST!!!” Robert yelled, he began walking in circles Jack began counting on his fingers, “1,2,3,4,5”-‐“would you please stop?” Asked Robert. “Do you want to go home?”. A strange voice asked. “Wh-‐wh-‐wh-‐who sssaid that?” Robert quivered and said in a shaky voice. “It is I, The Wish-‐Granting Cat. I will take you home.” “Please do that.” Jack said.

“ These boys want to go home, magic dust.” The Wish-‐Granting Cat said while holding the magic dust in his hand. And POOF! Before they knew it they [Jack and Robert] were safe at home. Jack and Robert went to bed, the next morning they went on a walk. Jack found a sword that could shoot fireballs, on the ground. He picked it up, and took it with him.

“Hey look!” said Jack, pointing to a cave, “Let’s go inside!” Jack and Robert walked slowly into the cave. “I can’t see a thing at all!” Jack said. “ROAR!!!”

“L-‐L-‐L-‐L-‐LION!!!!!!!” Robert screamed. “ROAR!!!!” The voice was even louder now. Jack shot a fireball on the ground. “Hey cool!” Robert yelled. “I can pick the lion up without touching him!” Jack saw the lion floating in the air; He jumped and tried to cut the lion’s tail off. The lion

kicked Jack but now Jack was floating. “ROAR!!!!!!” The lion jumped for Jack, but Jack shot him with a fireball but the lion and Jack fell. Robert picked the lion up, and threw him out of the cave. The lion was taken by surprise and he ran away. Jack and Robert jumped with joy. Would their parents even believe they scared away a lion? Maybe yes, maybe no.


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Short Stories

Journey To Florida Author: Soham S.

I got out off my bus and zoomed to my house. I was going to Orlando Florida ! Once I got in my house i ran to my room to pack up. I was so excited , i wanted to get there as quick as possible ! My mom told me to eat food, after i was done eating. I put Tablet plus its Charger, my favorite toys and other things in my backpack. My parents were not ready, I asked them what are u doing ? They told me to wait. So i waited until my parents were ready to get in the car. I asked them to be quick , we were going to park our car at the airport. So we get into the car.

The journey was long . After a while we stopped at Dunkin Donuts. My Dad got us Hash browns and Donuts and Coffee (not for us). We started eating donuts in the car. After a while my Dad told me we were about to reach the airport . I was glad we were about to reach the airport because it was hot in the car. After we got in the airport we had to go through Security check . Cops were making sure none of the people skipped them. Then we bought Pizza to eat in the plane.

Soon we were ready to board the plane. I started to play games on my tablet . It took long before to plane get started because there were other people who needed to get on the plane. I looked at flight map bunch of times. I wanted to know where in the world we were . The plane was the air. We also ate pizza. I also continued playing on my tablet .But after two hours.... We finally reach Florida!

Learning Tennis

Author: Jonathan T.

On a Saturday morning, when my sister and I were having breakfast, my mom asked me if I wanted to play tennis. “Yeah!” I said cheerfully. Finally I have something to play on Saturday morning. But then my face turned worried. My mom must have caught the look on my face. She asked: “What’s wrong?” I mumbled: “What if I am not good.” “It’s OK.” My mom said, “Nobody plays tennis very well in the beginning.” “Right.” I said mumbling again. So my mom signed me up for the tennis program run by the Princeton Tennis Association. My teacher was Coach Joan. On the very first day of my tennis class, I realized everyone except me already knew how to play tennis. I was shocked. I thought everyone should be at my same level. I even saw some 9 years old in my class! “OMG!” I felt fainted. “I want to go home!” I cried in my heart. But I never said it out loud. I was nervous. I didn’t want to get teased for not playing well. I didn’t want to be embarrassed either. When it was my turn, I was so nervous that I felt cold sweat went down my neck. The ball was coming toward me. Wham! I hit it! I felt really happy. Playing tennis is so fun! Now, I am so looking forward to playing tennis the next season!


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Short Stories

Lost in the Supermarket

Author: Eeshaan C.

“Hey kiddos, look at this”, mom said. Emily Young, the nine year old bookworm, barely took her eyes off her Nancy Drew mystery – grunted in response. On the other hand, Chris, Emily’s twin brother, who was busy pushing the shopping cart so far, readily enquired, “What mommy?” Emily, Chris and their mother were at the Whole Basket – the local grocery super mart. The twins were home from their boarding school for the holidays, and mommy had kind of forced them to join her for the grocery trip.

“Look at this fruit salad. Doesn’t it look yummy?” mommy asked. “Oh mom! Let’s not talk about fruits, please”, begged Chris and Emily at the same time. If there was one food item that Emily and Chris despised, it had to be fruits. It was almost as if fruits were their worst enemy! At home or at school or just about anywhere else they would prefer to eat anything over fruits. And that included fruits in any form whatsoever. Fruit juice – no, thank you. Fruit cake – thanks, but no thanks. Fruit salad – may we please be excused? So their response did not surprise mommy. “Honeybunches, will you please just try this fruit salad once in your life? The Whole Basket prepares the most delicious fruit salad I’ve ever tasted”, mom pleaded while moving on to the vegetable section of the store.

Chris was not even planning to look at the fruit salad box, when a picture on its label drew his attention. “Hey sis, take a look”, Chris waved his palm between Emily’s eyes and her beloved story book. “C’mon Chris, give me a break! Nancy is just about to go down the dark stairs”, Emily whined. “Who cares about Nancy Drew? She knows no magic. But look at this”, Chris impatiently pointed out. “Whatever”, said Emily, and looked up from her novel. “Cool”, she cried out. “Ha ha ha! Look at that strange fruit with a magic wand”, she wondered aloud. “That isn’t just any fruit, Em. That is a dragon fruit!”, replied Chris. “Why does it have a crown on its head”, asked Emily. “Don’t know. I wish we could find out”, Chris added. “Wouldn’t it be fun to actually see a fruit like that?” Emily questioned.

Just then, Chris realized he did not have the grocery cart with him. Instead, he and Emily were holding a wheel barrow loaded with watermelons. He tried guessing what was going on. They seemed to be in a different world. It seemed like forest land all around. And what was interesting, they seemed to have fruits just about everywhere they could see. But there was a difference. All the fruits seemed to be walking or jumping or even running around them. The bananas were jumping from one vine to another, like monkeys. Hundreds of apples were running past them. The strawberries were skipping along, hand in hand. All fruits seemed to have body parts like humans do – complete with nose and eyes and ears and what not. But what was all the noise around them? It seemed all fruits had grim, determined faces and were proceeding somewhere with a purpose.


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Short Stories

Lost in the Supermarket by: Eeshaan C. (continued)

Soon Chris and Emily heard three loud blows from what seemed like a trumpet. That was followed by a series of French Horn toots, and finally a chorus of drum beats. They seemed to have all gathered in the clearance of a humongous field. All fruits were standing all around in a gigantic circle. And in the center of the field was the fruit they saw on the label of the fruit salad box – a big and clearly royal-‐looking dragon fruit! He was perched on top of his royal throne with a magic wand held in his thorny hand.

The deafening noise all around suddenly calmed away after the music, and there was muted silence circling the field. King Dragon Fruit slowly rose to a standing position. Emily was amused to see him hold a microphone in his other thorny hand. “My fellow citizens of Fruity Land”, the dragon fruit began, “We are under tremendous threat.” “The kingdom of Sugar Land is trying to conquer our country and make us all rot. They are trying to take over the kids on earth by producing more sugary products. The kids are increasingly eating that sugary stuff, and are getting less and less healthy by the day. We need to defeat the Sugar Land enemies. We, fresh fruits, have so much more to offer than the Sugar Land products. We have vitamins and minerals and fiber and anti-‐oxidants, whereas they have none. Just empty calories,” the king paused. “We have to persuade the kids on earth that fruits are way better and healthier than those ugly items. I have personally brought in two kids from earth to take our message back for the rest of the kids. Step forward please, Emily and Chris”.

The twins were surprised to hear their names. Why us, they both thought. They went forward in slow, cautious steps, trying not to crush any blueberry, and not knowing what to expect. Just then it started raining. But this was no ordinary rain. Colas and lemon-‐lime sodas were pouring from above. “We’ve been attacked”, shouted king dragon fruit. “Load the canon with the watermelons and let’s take the fight to the enemy camp”, he roared. “Onward ho”, he instructed. Emily and Chris started marching behind the king along with the rest of the fruits, not knowing what lay ahead of them. Will the fruits survive the battle? Will the twins be able to take King Dragon Fruit’s message back to earth? They had so many questions.

Soon they reached what seemed to be the outside perimeter of a monstrous fortress. And standing right outside that with a wicked smile on his face, was none other than a huge lump of sugar. “King Dragon Fruit, it’s all over for you”, the lump of sugar said. “We’ll see about that, King Sugar Rush”, replied the king of fruits, “I have two special weapons.” “Attack, Chris and Emily”, he ordered. But before the kids knew how to launch an attack on the king of the Sugar Land, King Sugar Rush shot out two spears of sugar – one with his each hand. The spears headed straight towards Emily and Chris. “No-‐o-‐o-‐o-‐o-‐o-‐o-‐o-‐o-‐o-‐o”, they cried out together.

“Are you kids ok”, asked mom, who seemed to have hurried back to the fruit section looking for the twins. “Um, we’re ok, mom”, replied Chris. “Yes, we’re alright. Just dozed off for a bit, I guess”, said Emily still holding on to her book. “Alright kiddos. It’s time to check out from here,” said mommy. “Let’s go”, she said, “we’ve more errands to run “One second mom”, chipped in Chris, “Can we buy a box of the fruit salad, please?”


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Short Stories

ELIZEBETH’S BUNNY

Author: Samirah H.

One breezy Saturday afternoon there was an 8 year old girl. Her name was Elizabeth. She was a very beautiful girl. At lunch she asked to her mom “can I get a bunny?” Mom whispered back “no.” Lizzy threw her hands in the air “why not??!!!” screamed Lizzy. “Because” answered her mom. “Because what?” asked Lizzy. “BECAUSE IT’S TOO MUCH WORK!!!!!!!!!!!!” Lizzy ran upstairs to cry. I guess I'm not getting a bunny after all. The next day while mom was cleaning the dishes Lizzy asked if she could have a bunny. “NO!!!! FOR THE LAST TIME NOO!!!!” mom threw her hands in the air and left. Mom is as angry as an angry bird. Lizzy screamed back,”fine I guess I won’t get a-‐“ don’t even say it” mom whispered. Lizzy got scared and ran upstairs again.

The next day, when Lizzy got up, she brushed her teeth, got dressed, found a suitcase, packed her clothes, dolls, electronics and hollered “MOM, PLEASE GIVE ME A YEARS SUPPLY OF FOOD I’M MOVING TO CALIFORNIA!!!!” “YOU’RE WHAT” screamed mom. “what I'm moving to California”

Mom put her hands on her hips, “why?” she said firmly. “Because you won’t let me get a bunny.” Mom thought about it, Lizzy got excited Mom sighed “Fine you can get a…”

“THANK YOU!!!” Lizzy interrupted ““Go get ready” mom said miserably

Lizzy did not go she ran and she wore her outfit with bunnies on it. When lizzy got downstairs, lizzy ran, lizzy jumped and lizzy skipped. Lizzy thought I'm so lucky. Then Lizzy said “Thank you” When lizzy got in the car mom asked her “ aren’t you forgetting something”

“mom, I don’t want to use my own money” lizzy whined.

“Seriously” mom said sternly “Then what” said Lizzy “Your seatbelt” she said annoyed

When Lizzy got to the store she saw where the bunnies were. She looked at them , they were all so cute. Then finally she chose the white baby bunny with black spots. The they bought clothes, food, water bottle, a hat, and a cage. Then when it was time to pay. The sale clerks asked “is this your first pet.” Lizzy nodded

“Then this is your lucky day, you get it for free.” Said the sales clerk

Lizzy named him oreo. “I will put him in my room” But here is the weirdest part, mom sounded happy! Let me tell you something, she is very bizarre. She was as weird as a monkey who knew 234+365.


23


Short Stories

My Memories of San Diego

By Shreya T.

Before I moved to New Jersey, I lived in San Diego for 3 years. I had lots of fun exploring the city. There are many theme parks, beaches, museums, a harbor, an aquarium and the famous San Diego Zoo. I would often go to these places with my family.

At the zoo I loved hearing all the sounds the animals made as I walked from one exhibit to the other. My most favorite exhibit was the bird feeding landing. It was a place where you would feed nectar to the birds. I would hold my arm out with a cup of nectar. The birds would perch onto my arms and drink the nectar out of the cup. It was scary to me because I was afraid of the claws on my skin. But I had fun at the same time.

The SeaWorld is an enjoyable place with lots of shows and splashy rides. I would go there to see my most favorite animal, the dolphins, perform the most amazing show. Some of their tricks were breaching, splashing, tail-‐hopping, and jumping through very high hoops. There were fireworks every night during summertime that made the place more exciting.

A beach close to my home was my family’s favorite weekend spot. It was the Torrey Pines Beach. I loved feeling the warm sand between my toes, building sand castles with my brother, walking over sea weeds to collect sea shells, seeing surfers, boogey boarders, and people playing volleyball. My most favorite thing was seeing the water waves come and go, and not to miss the sunset against the horizon.

The San Diego harbor was a busy colorful place. Along the harbor there was a park where kids flew kites and one could see horse drawn buggy go by. I would run around and climb tress with my brother and hearing the soft music of the carousel close by. I couldn’t resist having a few rides.

I have fond memories of San Diego and I really wish to visit this city again.


24


Short Stories

My New Bed

Author: Kimberly L.

When the pretty golden sun was just beginning to peek out between the puffy clouds and it was about seven-‐thirty, my mom came in to wake me up. I felt tired, but I felt very good! Because I knew that I had woke up in my new bed for the first time! It was clean white with purple knobs, it also had drawers, a shelf, two cubby spaces, a pull out desk, (with a thin cubby space and two drawers) and three steps up to the bed! I had my pink, blue, green, and yellow Shnooks and cuddly pillow pets next to me and my blanket folded at the end of the bed so I didn’t really need to fix it. But I didn’t want to get up. “Do you want to go snuggle in my room a little bit?” my mom asked me softly. “Yes!” I replied “This is going to be so much fun!” I thought. “I love having snuggle time with Mommy in the morning!” I climbed down the steps of my bed and down to the ground. I put on my monkey slippers and shuffled into my mom’s room with her and my dog Beauty. In my mom’s room I saw my dad. “Yay!” I thought. “Daddy’s going to be here all day! I love having Daddy take off from work!” My dog came over and sniffed him, it was cute and funny! I climbed into bed and we all fell asleep my dad, my mom, my dog, and me.

On the First Day of Skating

Author: Rachel H.

On the first day of skating, I was skating around the rink. There was a kid section and a grown up one. At first I didn’t know it, but I went to the grown up section. I kept on bumping into classes. But then a Mr. came up to me. He said something, but I didn’t listen obviously. That’s when I went to that same ol’ place again. He told me again, “All right, I’ll take your badge off if I say this the 3rd time, “this is the adult side, so stay on yours. So, bye.’” And I never went to the adult side. Ever.


25


Short Stories

The Golden Feather

Author: Alexandria S.

One day a beautiful golden bird was gliding through the sky. He was twirling and dropping and spinning. All the kids in the park started to look at him because his dancing looked very magical. He dropped a few feathers, and a few kids started catching them. There were only three lucky kids who caught the feathers that day. I saw it with my own eyes. One girl turned into a princess with a golden dress when the feather touched her nose. When the second kid caught the feather, the feather turned into a golden retriever that had golden sparkling eyes. When the last kid caught a feather, he started flying, and as he was flying he left an awesome golden trail. Nobody in the crowd could believe what they saw that day, so they started to try to explain what happened. Some people said that when you catch a golden feather you catch the bird’s magic. Other people said that you will get the birds power. And a few people said you would get the birds talent. But a wise old woman stood up in the crowd, and in a screeching faint voice she said, “ Legend says that when you catch a golden feather, your dreams will come true.” Everyone believed the old lady and all the people started to walk away, except for one little girl. She looked up and saw one more golden feather falling from the sky. She reached up, caught the golden feather and made a wish...

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26


Short Stories

Coralyn

Author: Regan W.

“Tell me again why you have to move”. “Because my dad got a new job! Rrrrrrrr!”

She was as mad as an angry lion mom. Honk! Honk! “That’s my mom, Bye!”

Coralyn stomped in the house. “Why do you look so grumpy?” inquired Coralyn’s mother. “Jack’s moving”

yelled Coralyn. “You will find new friends.” Coralyn felt rage shoot up her back. Her face was red hot. “How

could you do this to me?” shrieked Coralyn as she slammed the door.

She was as angry as a dinosaur. She really wanted to jump. She wanted to scream. She wanted to pound the

world to smithereens. And then her anger slowly turned to sadness. She knew it wasn’t her mom’s fault. She

started to cry. Boo hoo. “Coralyn!” called her mother. I baked some cookies for the new neighbors.

Coralyn’s mom made the best cookies. They were absolutely wonderful, positively perfect, and especially

delicious. “OK” sobbed Coralyn. When they were at their new neighbors house they rang the bell. Ding

Dong! A lady answered the door. “Hello, we’re your new neighbors. We brought you some cookies.” “How

nice.” “Abby” called the lady. Soon a pretty blond girl came downstairs. She was about Coralyn’s age. “How

about you two go run along then. Coralyn, you can show Abby around”.

“OK”. They ran outside. They talked. “You just moved here, eh?” “Yeah.”

“Hey, I have an idea. Why don’t you come to my house to play”. “OK” They ran up Alexander Road and made

a left on Medick and raced into Coralyn’s backyard and climbed into her tree house. It was very nice. The

neighborhood is a very nice place. “So what do you want to do?” “Do you like catch?” “Yeah.”

They played catch and hoola hooped. “Hey, I think my mom has more cookies”. So there you have it. Those

girls became best friends. “I hope you don’t move”.


27


Short Stories

Nellie’s Big Problem

Author: Becca S.

Nellie was in love with art. At home she played with Scratch Magic. At recess she sat down at the picnic table and sketched. In art class she made the best pictures. At recess Joe ran to Nellie. “Do you want to play?”

“No,” she said.

Joe looked upset and ran away. Nellie felt bad. She decided she would play. She thought for a second, will someone take my supplies? Will they leave it alone? They’ll leave it alone. She ran after Joe.

“Wait,” she cried, “I can play,”.

She ran to Joe. She left her supplies o the bench. Joe was playing ball with Jenny and Eddie.

Nellie gave Joe a big smile, “Can I play?” she asked anyway.

Joe sighed. Jenny looked at Eddie. Eddie looked at Joe.

“Ok,” sighed Joe.

They bounced the ball back and forth. Up and down. Side to side. They had lots and lots of fun! Nellie forgot all about her supplies because she was having so much fun!

Bring went the bell! Joe, Jenny, and Eddie raced to the classroom. Nellie ran to the bench and get her stuff.

“No, “ she cried.

Jenny came rushing over.

“What happened?” she asked.


28


Short Stories

Nellie’s Big Problem (continued)

Author: Becca S.

“My stuff is gone,” she hollered.

Jenny gasped. Jenny and Nellie looked everywhere. Nellie was sad. It was the best art set ever. It had everything: pencils, crayons, Sharpies, good erasers, paints, brushes, stencils, markers and colored pencils. She loved it.

The next day Nellie, Joey, Jenny and Eddie walked to school together. Jenny and Nellie told Eddie and Joe about Nellie’s supplies.

“Wow, that weird,” said Eddie

“Yeah”said Joe, “it is.”

They walked into the classroom. They saw on Jillian’s desk something that wasn’t hers.

“There’s my supplies,” Nellie screamed.

Mrs. Lane came rushing over.

“Ms. Lane, Jillian stole my supplies!”

Ms. Lane frowned. Jillian was drawing with Nellie’s markers. Nellie grabbed her supplies.

“I am sorry,” said Jillian “it was an accident.”

“I thought you didn’t want it,”

Then Nellie realized something. Jillian did not have any crayons or anything.

“You can have it. Sorry,” she said.

She shoved the art supplies into Jillian’s desk. Nellie felt horrible. But also she felt good.

She helped a friend. She went through a lot of trouble trying to find that thing but it was worth it.


29


Short Stories

My First Experience as a Reporter Author: Emma K.

I am writing about my first experience as a reporter. I was selected by our Children's pastor to interview the people of our church. The reason I was doing the interviews was for the monthly show we have for the Children's Ministry. Every month we have a virtue we focus on. The virtue of the month was cooperation. Cooperation means to work together, to help each other, and to build each other up. Two people are better than one. They had me interview different people with different jobs to see how they cooperate and work with each other.

I felt nervous and my stomach curled up inside me as we walked inside the church. I felt like running back toward the car, but it was too late. I could hear Pastor Shaun and Miss Amy (Miss Amy is the Director of the Children's show) welcoming my Mom. "Too late to run back for sure," I thought. As we walked in, Pastor Shaun told my Mom that she can just drop me off and come get me later."Darn it!" I thought to myself. I became anxious and started to think about how I may mess up. Then my thoughts got interrupted by a loud, "Hello, Emma! Are you ready to start your job as a reporter?" That was Pastor Shaun. He gave me the script and we headed off.

The first person I interviewed was a person named Giovanni. I felt my heart pumping in my chest. Butterflies were flying around in my tummy. I asked my first question, "What do you like most about your job?” While I was waiting for an answer, I thought to myself, "This isn't so bad!" Giovanni answered, "I like my job because I get to help people in this church." I started to pepper him with more scripted questions. "This is actually really fun!" I thought. Then it was time to start asking my own questions. Yeah! I thought hard and, the first question that came to my mind was, "What is the letter of the week?" Giovanni looked startled and a little confused. He slowly answered, “G?" I know that question is a little odd but my Mom asks my little brother that question all the time so I decided to use it. I just couldn't think of anything else at that moment. This was my first interview and I'm still new at this. As we walked toward our next interview, I prayed that I will get better with the questions.

We had five or six more people to interview, and my prayers were answered! I got better with each interview. It also became easier to think of questions as I interviewed more people.

After we finished the interviews, they had me report from behind a desk and discuss what I had been doing. They also wanted me to speak about the real purpose of the interview exercise. I practiced with Pastor Shaun a few times before they took a final take and we were done. By that time, my Mom had come back to pick me up. We went into Pastor Shaun's office and reviewed and edited the entire tape together. Wow, the final tape was awesome! I was so excited and couldn't wait for the rest of the church to see it. As my Mom and I walked back to the car, I asked my Mom, "I love this! What can I report on next?"


30


Short Stories

Sharing Food

Author: Joyce Z. Once there were two BFFs named: Melody and Alison. One day Alison brought chocolate chip cookies and Melody brought potato chips for snack. At snack time they were talking about a play date with two girls name Emily and Elizabeth, until their teacher said... “Melody and Alison come here now.’’ They were scared. What if something really bad happened? But they still went to Ms. M (the teacher) Ms. M asked them, “Do you share food in school?” They both said, “No.” “Then, why did you just share?” Asked Ms. M. “But but but we...” Before they could finish, Ms. M said with anger, “No buts and go to the principal’s office NOW, take this note with you.” As they walked down the hallway, they trembled with fear. When they reached the principal’s office, they gave her the note and sat down nervously. They crossed their fingers that they won’t get in big trouble. As the principal read the note, she got madder and Madder and MADDER until she said, “You can not share food in school. Do you understand?” “Yes.” Melody and Alison said softly and sadly. “I want you two to write an apology card, and at the end of the day I want you to read it to the class.” Said the principle. Then Melody said shyly, “But but but…” “No buts and get to work NOW!” The principle said as she handed them an index card. At the end of the day, Melody and Alison presented their apology card. After they were done, Emily stood up and said, “I was sharing food with Elizabeth at snack time today. Shall we go see the principle now?” Little tears came down Elizabeth’s cheeks. She nodded and said, “Yes. We were sharing food.” Ms. M turned to Melody and Alison and said, “So it was Emily and Elizabeth who was sharing food, not you guys. Am I right?” Melody and Alison nodded. Then they said, “We were trying to tell you that we were not sharing food but you didn’t listen.” “I’m sorry I didn’t listen. I promise I will listen to everything you say starting now.” Melody and Alison smiled. Then Mrs. M turned to class and said, “There is no sharing food in school. Does everyone understand?” Everybody nodded. The next day, Mrs. M called Melody, Alison, Emily, and Elizabeth to her desk. Guess what she gave them? That’s right! A star student! They were extremely happy!


31


Short Stories

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS

Author: Lucy S.

I went to a basketball game at nighttime. It was very dark when Dad and I got there. It was not only my dad and I, we went with some other people who gave us their extra tickets! Can you believe that?! We went to Wendy’s before the game but that is another story.

Can we just go on with the story?

Ok....

“Beep” They just scored a basket! My dad and I were really excited!

One of my favorite jokes was when one of the players threw the ball to the referee on purpose.

“Why did you the throw the ball to me?” yelled the referee.

“‘Cause you were wide open,” joked the player.

So, “no points!” yelled the referee. but that wasn’t part of the story;).

Can we just go on with the real story?!

Ok....

The Harlem Globetrotters are really funny. “Ha Ha!” I laughed.

I ate cotton candy, funnel cake and drank lemonade. I also got a basketball and at the end of the game I got it signed by firefly!

Can we just go on with the story?!

Ok....

Then the game was over and the Harlem Globetrotters won.

Can we just go on with the story?

Well, that was the end of the story.


32


Short Stories

DAREDEVIL DRAGONS

Author: Srujan K.

Once upon a time a long long time ago in a deep forest there lived two dragons. They were Ally and Hale, they were best friends .Ally was big and fat and Hale was tiny and brave. Once when they were playing hide and seek a huge cloth fell and they both were searching with the fire light breath. Then they came out of the cloth, they saw evil dragon ninjas were surrounding them , they were flapping their wings because they were afraid and the mama and papa dragons were baking ginger bread man’s and then the children dragons shoot fire and they go back two steps, and they got some tricks, and then the children dragon took a soda can and they throwed it on to evil dragon ninjas, then from the soda can all the gas came out and they couldn’t see nothing, and the children dragons called in their own language for “mama and papa” and they all scared , and they played another trick of making a fire with two rocks and made the evil dragon ninjas escaped . And they all lived happily ever after.

Test of Taekwando

Author: Rohan A.

“Rohan” announced Master Steven. Excitedly I got up and walked to the middle of the room. I saw many people looking at me. I was anxious. My body was shaking. “Do a Front Snap Kick” Master Steven demanded. I first got in my position. My feet were balanced and my fists were clenched. I slowly bent my leg and snapped the kick. Kea! You say kea so somebody punches you or kicks they do not knock the air out of you. Confidently whenever time they said a number, I used to kick. I raised my leg bent and kicked.Kea! I quickly found my balance. I was looking at the mirror and staring at my reflection. I could hear Master Steven, “Do a roundos kick”. Immediately, I raised my foot , took it back and extended it to the side. Kea! I took a deep breath and exhaled….I was relieved.

“Axe Kick”. I heard the other students talking…I had to stay focused. I lifted foot up and kicked it straight down as if I was chopping something in half”Kea!”. I was satisfied that my hardest kick was over. “First form” yelled Master Steven. The first form is a combination of sixteen easy movements. It’s my time to show people how great I am. Although I am the highest belt in my class but I am ready to go to the next belt. I completed the first form successfully. I was nervous if I passed or not. “Rohan you passed” said Master Steven. I sighed in relief.


33


Short Stories

Our Burning Smokey Problem!

(a realistic fiction story about a global issue)

Author: Swadesh S.

There is too much pollution in the world. Thousands of industries produce carbon emission that depletes our ozone layer. This leads to global warming and the Greenhouse Effect. Let me tell you how it all came to me.

Last summer I was in Australia visiting some of my friends on a farm. It was a hot summer afternoon. Me and my three other friends were playing on the farm. At the farm there were lots of animals such as Dingoes, Kangaroos and Tasmanian Devils. Due to scorching heat, all the animals looked very pale and sluggish. While we were playing, one of the smallest Dingoes abruptly fainted. We all rush to the poor animal and took him into a shade.

"I think its too much radiation and heat caused by Greenhouse Effect and global warming", I said.

"What is that supposed to mean?" my friend Eric asked.

Well, I said, Greenhouse Effect is when the thick smoke from pollution blocks and traps the Ultra Violet (UV) radiation on the Earth's surface. Global warming caused by depletion of ozone layer is certainly not helping. We should do more research about it on our uncle's Computer.

While our Uncle took care of the fainted Dingo, we went to his Computer room to search for more information. Nowadays you can find everything and anything on Wikipedia.


34


Short Stories

(Our Burning Smokey Problem) continued

Author: Swadesh S.

You see, there is layer of gases in the stratosphere called the Ozone layer. The Ozone layer protects our world from the Sun's UV rays. When carbon emission enters the atmosphere it eats away the Ozone. That's when Global Warming occurs. The Greenhouse Effect is a process when UV rays get trapped under the thick smoke and increases the earth's surface temperature.

Isn't that scary? I said. Yes, very ....how can we solve this problem, Swadesh? My friend Tom asked.

Well ....umm ....there is a lot of research going on at Universities and companies to solve this problem. I recently ran into a company -‐ Damascus Fortune (http://www.damascusfortune.com/) that is turning carbon emission into carbon nano material at the factories where they produce this pollution. Once this technology and other technologies become widely available, we might reduce carbon pollution. This will also help reduce Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming.

Wow .....that would be awesome! Said my other friend Tyler.

I think all of us should do additional research and solve this problem for the future as we grow, I said. We enjoyed the rest of the Summer playing and learning more about Global Warming and the Greenhouse Effect.

Sam

Author: Aditya S.

One sunny day a mouse named Sam came out of his hole, "What a good day!" he said. Then he saw his enemy it was grumpy Mat the cat! "I'm going to the city hall and steal the shiny gizmo rock ! ''You can't!''Cried Sam.But then it was too late! Because the evil Mat the cat already stole the special rock. And he escaped with the rock on his bike.

"Why did he steal the rock?" I have to be a detective Sam thought. Sam raced on his scooter following Mat.

A lady spotted Sam, she said''What are you doing in such a hurry. " Did you see a cat?" Asked Sam.

"Yes" replied the lady.Sam raced down the road. And finally, he caught Mat.And he called the police to catch Mat the cat.Then Mat ended in jail.The police gave the special rock as a reward for catching the thief. "It sure is good to be a detective." said Sam Happily.


35


Short Stories

The Big Game

Author: Justin H.

Jermey was changing. The coach came over. He handed him a folded piece of paper. Jermey unfolded the paper. He gasped. I am replacing both injured centers, he thought. Suddenly, He turned pale because it’s a big game.

When they called his name on the loud speaker, Jermey the star forward came on the court a bit nervously. He faced O.J. Bernard, the future hall of fame from the Jems for the jump ball. When the referee threw the jump ball, Jermey jumped and then tipped it to his team mate side. O.J.’s eyes’ widened when Jermey tipped the jump ball.

Game started. Jermey burst into five blocks and six three pointers, giving his team the Chaser’s 18 points right before half time. The Jems was leading by two though because Jermey fouled O.J. and O.J. made both of the free throws. At the last second of the game, Jermey made the winning hook shot. When the game ended, the Chasers had won by two. Jermey’s coach gave him a high five and said: “Good job! I knew you can do it!”


36


Short Stories

The Lost Necklace

By Satvik D.

One bright, sunny morning near the African Savannah, Jake and his family were getting ready for a safari. Jake is 9 years old and reads tons of mysteries and from that knowledge he is a good problem solver.

After they got ready, Jake and his family went on a jeep that had a driver. They went

around seeing animals like rhinos, buffaloes and lions. They had enjoyed the trip. After the safari Jake’s mom made a yummy dinner. After dinner Jake’s mom realized she wasn’t wearing her lucky necklace on her neck. She screamed “Where’s my lucky necklace!” Everyone began searching but they couldn’t find it. Jake suggested searching the jeep. Since it was night and dark everywhere, Jake and his family decided to search the next day.

The next day they began searching. They couldn’t find the necklace but Jake spotted a

stone that similar to the stones on his mom’s necklace. So Jake thought the driver could have stolen the necklace after it fell in the jeep from his mom’s neck. Jake started looking for more clues to find where the necklace is. As he was searching he found another stone, it led to another jeep. He was thinking that the necklace would be in the other jeep. As he was walking around he saw a stone and next to it was the necklace!

To prove that the driver was the culprit, Jake came up with a plan. He ran to the nearest

police station with the necklace. He was wearing gloves. He shared the plan and what happened with the police. Jake’s plan was for the police to search for fingerprints on the necklace and the steering wheel of the first jeep. They were the same and matched the driver of the jeep. The driven went to the jail. Jake was happy he solved the problem and his family gifted with a mystery book.


37


Short Stories

MY PINK JACKET

Author: Riya K.

One day my mom put my white jacket in the washing machine with my sisters pink shirt.

While I was playing outside, my mom called me in for a second.

"Riya!" my mother cried. "Yes!" i answered.

"Come look!!" Dun dun dun...

"Come look!" My mother shouted. "I am in the Family room." "What happened?" I asked.

I took my first step into the family room when I saw my Mom holding what used to be my

White jacket. "I'm sorry honey," she said. "OH NO.... IT IS NOW PINK!!!" I shouted.

"Why don't you try it on?" my mom requested.

"Ok" i agreed. "It's worth a shot," I said as I slipped my arm through the sleeve of my jacket.

"WOW!!" my mom exclaimed. "You are dazzling!" "Thanks, I actually do like it! It's kinda cute."

I ran outside to see how my sister Jiana liked it. "Wow where did you get that jacket?" she asked.

"I didn't buy it silly! Mom accidentally washed it with your pink shirt." I explained.

When my Dad got home from work, he saw my jacket and asked, "Did you Girls go shopping

today?"

"Not quite." I said. "It turned pink in the wash."

"Cool." he said, and headed inside.

When he got in, I heard him and my mom discussing getting it back to white.

"You don't have to!" I quickly responded. "This one is my favorite jacket!!"


38


Short Stories

SANJANA AND THE LOST DOG

Author: Neena N. Sanjana loves feeding her pet dog Ruby. Ruby likes to play a lot and sleep too. Every 4 hours Sanjana takes her dog for a walk. One day Sanjana took her out for a walk. Her friend Samantha came along too. They went to the end of the road and came back to eat lunch at Sanjana’s house. Ruby kept running around the whole house. By that time they almost finished their lunch. When the dog was taking a nap, they decided to play outside. After a while, Sanjana’s mom called her and said” Could you please take Ruby out for a walk?” “Okay” said Sanjana. When Sanjana came inside she couldn’t find Ruby. She and her friend Samantha started looking everywhere but they couldn’t find Ruby. Sanjana was very sad. She kept thinking where she could be? She did not here any barks. Sanjana told her mom that Ruby was missing. Her mom asked her to check the yard but she was not there either. It was almost dinner time. Samantha’s mom called her back home. Samantha said “Good luck finding Ruby”. After Samantha left, Sanjana heard a noise outside. She followed the noise and she kept following it till all of a sudden “RUBY” Sanjana yelled. Ruby had her babies. She was very happy to see Ruby and her puppies. She went inside and told her mom she found Ruby and her babies in their neighbor’s backyard. They are so cute! They are cuter than little kittens. Her mom was so happy to hear about it. Samantha called and asked “Did you find Ruby?” Sanjana replied “Yes” and she added “She also had babies.” She invited Samantha to see the puppies. Samantha thought they were cut e too! She wished she had a puppy . She played with the puppies for a little while and went back home. Sanjana was glad to have Ruby back!

THE TIME I HURT MY LEG Author: Roshni S. I was running out of the library… “EKK!... Meep.” I started to explode with tears. My knee was completely bloody. I fell off the side walk and scrapped my knee very badly. It burned so, so much! When my dad saw me, his face flashed in horror. He zoomed up to me and put me in the car. I soon found out that the blood was dripping down my leg onto my shoe. I started to cry even louder. I just hoped my dad could get home very quickly. My leg was killing me! When I got home, my mom quickly cleaned up the blood and put a bandage. Before going to bed, my dad told me a great story to make me feel better but my leg was so painful that I ended up sleeping with my mom and dad.


39


Short Stories

Touring Around Paris

By Thara E.

I went on a vacation to Paris and some of the sights I saw were different than the sights here in Princeton. Here are the sights that I would like to tell you about.

Tuileries Gardens was a place filled with flowers, people relaxing and ducks in a pond. It was a gorgeous day so it made Tuileries Gardens even prettier with the sun peeking through the trees. I had never seen such a big park before.

Sacre Coeur, which means Sacred Heart is a large church on top of a hill in Paris. We climbed 300 steps up the dome but it was worth it! I saw an amazing view of Paris from the dome. When we went into the church, there was a priest conducting a mass in French. They had beautiful stained glass windows.

Luxembourg Gardens was a beautiful place with lots and lots of statues and I know that it is famous for all of its statues. Many of them were of former queens of France. There were lots of pretty flowers and the trees were trimmed to look like rows. Lots of people were sitting on the grass with towels and they were chatting and relaxing as well as eating because it was a nice day.

Versailles was a palace with crazy luxurious rooms. Most of the rooms had gold covered walls and chandeliers. My favorite room was the Hall of Mirrors because I could almost feel that people were dancing and could admire themselves.

I had a wonderful time going to Paris and it was a lovely visit. It was very interesting to see all of the large buildings and they looked like they were glued together. I will always remember this fun trip because it was so different from the sights I normally see around Princeton.


40


Short Stories

WE CAN STILL BE FRIENDS!

Author: Nikhill C.

“And Spiderman saves the day!” screamed Joe. “Quit it!” said Joe's big sister. Joe was playing with his toy Spiderman. And Spiderman had just defeated the bad guy. “Dinner!” called Joe's mother. “Coming!” replied Joe, excitedly (he loved eating!). For dinner they had pizza, Joe's favorite!

After dinner, the doorbell rang. Ding dong! It was Joe's best friend, Tom. Tom was holding Spiderman in one hand and in the other hand, he was holding Batman. “What's that?” Joe asked, pointing to Batman. “You don't know him?” said Tom shocked. “He's on all the commercials! He's the famous superhero named Batman. He's the best! You have to get him!” “Okay,” said Joe. “I'm going to try.”

The next day, after pleading with his father for a long, long time (and agreeing to clean his room), Joe finally got his own Batman. But, to his surprise, he did not want to play with him much. Suddenly, the doorbell rang. Ding dong! It was Tom. This time he only had Batman in his hand. “Did you watch the TV show? It was awesome! Remember when the -‐ ” “I didn't watch that show. I don't like Batman much.” “You don't?” asked Tom with his eyes almost popping out. Then he pushed Joe. Joe started to cry. “Cry baby,” Tom whispered as he walked away.

Seconds later, Joe's mom came. “Honey, what happened?” she asked. “I don't like Batman, so Tom pushed me,” Joe said. “It's okay to not like something that others like. Because we're all different,” his mother explained to him. “Ah, I get it,” said Joe, thinking. “I get it.”

The next time Tom came over, Joe opened the door and said, “We are all different.” Suddenly Tom understood not to bother Joe, simply because he did not like Batman. “It's okay for us to be different. We can still be friends,” Tom agreed.

~~~~~~

Do you like Batman? Or Spiderman? Or both? And what about your best friend? What does he or she like? Does it matter?


41


Fairytales & Fables

CINDER LILY

Author: Sneha D.

Once upon a time there was a beautiful girl named Lily. Lily, her mom and dad lived in a small, old, dirty cottage with only three tiny rooms in it and had little flower beds in it. All the rooms had small fireplaces with burnt fire wood in it. One day Lily’s father went to work and died while cutting wood. Lily’s mother remarried. Her new husband had two sons, they were ugly and mean. They were jealous of Lily. One day Lily’s mom went to work and was never seen again. After this Lily was sitting by the fire when her brothers came in and said “you’re mother died” Lily was very sad to hear this and she started crying. Then her brothers yelled “Dad weird Lily is sitting by the fire again!” Her step dad yelled at her and said “from now on we will call you Cinder Lily and you will work for us like a slave”.

She had to work for them from morning till evening like cleaning the house, cooking, washing dishes and washing their clothes. She had no time for herself and they made fun of her food and teased her for all the things she did. Her friends were never allowed in the house and she was not let to have any free time. She was very unhappy with her new life.

Then one day there was a fair in the town and Cinder Lily’s brothers were invited to the fair. They said Cinder Lily cannot go to the fair as she had to stay home and do house work. After her brothers left she started to weep. Her friend saw her sitting outside and weeping. Her friend asked her why she was crying. Lily said “my brothers get to go to the fair and have fun but I don’t”. “Oh! Don’t worry “said her friend, “you can go to the fair and your brothers will not know about it, I will give you some clothes and shoes to wear they will not recognize you”. There is one condition “you have to be home by midnight as your brothers will come home by then and I have to go to the movies at that time and I need those clothes, but you can keep the shoes, because I do not fit into it” she said. Lily went to the fair and had so much fun. There she met Prince Max and she went on all the rides with him and ate ice cream. She lost track of time. Then she heard the big fair cock strike twelve and she ran, Prince Max ran behind her but could not get her. While she was running she dropped her shoe. Prince Max got the shoe and he promised that he would marry whoever fit into the shoe. Then he started looking for the person who would fit into the shoe. While searching he came to a tiny cottage (Cinder Lily’s Cottage). She tried the shoe on and it fit her. The Prince was happy to see Lily, they got married and her friend got married to Max’s brother and they lived happily ever after!!!!


42


Fairytales & Fables

Day Dreaming Devatha

Author: Nivedhithaa M.

Once upon a time there was a man named Devatha. He was very poor and he spent all his time day dreaming. One day, a generous man gave him a pot of flour. Devatha accepted the flour with pleasure and placed it besides the bed. After a while, he lay down in his bed and started day dreaming. In his dream, he sold the flour and bought two goats. He fed the goats well and made them plump. He sold the goats and bought a pair of cows. He also made lots of cream, butter and milk. He sold a part of them for money and the rest he used it to open a sweet shop. Soon, he became a rich business man selling precious stones to the king. He also started advising the king about the precious stones and how to use them. The king was very pleased with Devatha and gave his daughter to him in marriage. Devatha had two children and he dreamed as if his children were running around and making lot of noise. To silence them, Devatha waived his hand around madly in the air. Suddenly, one hand stuck the pot of flour. CRASH! The pot fell down and broke into tiny pieces. The flour was scattered on the floor. “What was that noise”, he said jumping up and looking around. His dreams were shattered. There were no goats, no cows, no milk, no sweet shops, no princes and no children. All that Devatha saw was a floor covered with flour. Devatha realized how foolish he had been. He wished he had never day dreamed. Then onwards, he never day dreamed again till the end of his days.

Moral: Don’t waste your time in idle Day-‐Dreaming


43


Fairytales & Fables

The Greedy Brother

Author: Aditya S.

Once upon a time, there were two brothers. One brother was greedy and the other not so much. One day the brother who was not greedy got fed up, from the other brother’s greediness. So the other brother decided to teach the other greedy brother a lesson. So the brother said to the greedy brother ‘’Brother, eat this cake’’ the greedy brother replied ‘’it is all mine! So the greedy brother started eating rapidly. The greedy brother ate the cake with one bite! So the brother gave the greedy brother another cake! The greedy brother ate cake all afternoon until at midnight the greedy brother said in a moaning voice ‘’No More!’’ ‘’Yes More, because you are very greedy!’’ The other brother replied. Then the greedy brother realized that he should not be that greedy. So from that day on he never became greedy again!

The end!

And the moral of this story is: do not be greedy and think about your self.

ONE FLOWER

Author: Amanda L.

One day a flower named Lily was all alone in a shady pond. She was not like the other Water Lilies that had dried out. She felt very alone so she came up with an idea! She could pretend she was dried out too so that she did not feel alone. But she still felt alone. Then she said to herself, “I should move to another place.” But something bothered her. It was a bee that was flying near her! “I knew I was not totally alone!” she shouted. “I wonder if I’m the only flower left on earth. It can’t be.” She looked around the pond. Nothing was there any more, just two more bees. But then she heard something! It was another bee. “I wish I were a bee so I wouldn’t be alone anymore,” she thought. Sadly she didn’t get her wish. However, three days later she saw two stems. “I am not alone!” she screamed with joy and hope!


44


Fairytales & Fables

Power vs. Peace

Author: Sankalp S.

Long ago there were two kingdoms, Andaman and Nicobar. George was the king of Andaman and, Patrick was the king of Nicobar. Patrick was the noble king, George was the cunning king. Patrick always thought about peace and prosper, and at the same time, he maintained a group of a well trained army to protect the kingdom, from enemies. He was very enthusiastic, and wanted to learn new things every day. He had established many schools to educate its kingdom people. King George was a dishonest king. His motto was to only fight and capture other kingdoms. He had many kingdoms in hand, but, he always had agreed to capture the most organized island, Nicobar. In order to occupy Nicobar, he sent one of his messengers to King Patrick. King George gave the messenger a 3 ft. tall glass bottle, filled with sand and asked the messenger to convey the message to king Patrick, I have these many uncountable soldiers, so, surrender or, be ready for war.

When the messenger told King Patrick, what he was told to say, King Patrick burst out laughing. Then he gave the messenger a bottle that was identical to the other one in the messenger’s hand, which was filled with water, and told the messenger, “Tell your majesty It is his decision but I have these many soldiers which are uncountable and always united. So if your majesty still wants to have a war, then we shall do so.” Later the next day after returning from Nicobar, “He told his King, King Patrick has given me this bottle full of water”-‐the messenger held it up to the king-‐ “And this is what he told me (the messenger continued to tell what King Patrick had said).” Then King George understood that King Patrick was a wise and a strong king and he knew that if he had war with Patrick he would be defeated. So, instead of declaring war, he asked to be friends, and as a wise king, King Patrick accepted the offer. Then both kings lived happily ever after.


45


Fairytales & Fables

The Three Little Pigs

By Kamran V.

There were once three little pigs who left their mother and set out to make their fortune. The little pigs ran this way and that way, looking for something to build their houses out of.

The first little pig decided to make his house out of paper. The second little pig decided to make his house out of leaves. And, the third little pig decided to make his house out of metal. So, the three little pigs each built their houses.

Now, one day, it just so happened that the Big Bad Wolf was walking by the first little pig’s house and smelled pork! He followed his nose and came to a house of paper. He said, “Little pig, little pig, let me in!”

The first little pig said, “No! Not by the hairs on my eardrum, eardrum, eardrum!”

So the Big Bad Wolf said, “Then I will huff and I’ll puff and I’ll blow your house away.”

And the wolf blew the paper house in.

The first little pig took the paper and made it into the first getaway thing he could think of – a paper airplane. He got on the paper airplane, and when the wolf blew at him again, he blew the first little pig and the airplane to the second little pig’s house.

The second little pig said, “Come in! Come in! The Big Bad Wolf is coming!” So, they went into the leaf house and closed the door.

Soon, the Big Bad Wolf came to the second little pig’s leaf house furious at how he had been tricked. He said, “Little pig, little pig, let me come in.”

The little pig said, “No! Not by the hairs on my eardrum, eardrum, eardrum!”


46


Fairytales & Fables

Three Little Pigs ( continued)

Author: Kamran V.

So, the wolf said, “Then I’ll huff and I’ll puff and I blow your house in.” So he huffed and he puffed and he blew the leaf house in.

Quickly, the two pigs taped a bunch of leaves together and both got on the giant leaf. When the wolf blew the giant leaf one more time, the two little pigs sailed to the third pig’s house of metal and landed right on the doorstep.

The third little pig shouted, “Come in! Come in! The Big Bad Wolf is coming!” And they closed the door just in time.

“Little pigs, little pigs, let me come in,” cried the wolf.

“No! No! No! Not by the hairs on our eardrums, eardrums, eardrums,” said the three little pigs.

So, he huffed and he puffed and he huffed and he puffed, but the house wouldn’t budge. “I am coming up the chimney,” said the wolf.

Meanwhile, the third little pig taped a knife to the bottom of the chimney, and when the wolf came down: “Ouchies!!!”

He cleaned the wolf up and sold him to the butcher’s market for $1,000. And that was the end of the Big Bad Wolf.

The two little pigs whose houses got knocked got down built new houses out of metal, too. And they all lived happily and safely ever after.


47


Fairytales & Fables

The Beautiful Wish

Author: Akash B.

Once upon a time there lived a golden phoenix that was magical. One day the phoenix accidentally dropped one of its feathers without knowing. The night has fallen and there was a poor man who found the golden feather. He picked the feather and then figured out that he can make 3 wishes. He went ahead and wished to be wealthy and rich. His wish was granted and from nowhere popped out billions of dollars. The man enjoyed all his wealth for many years. Then the man remembered about the second wish and he wished for a mansion this time. He was happy to live in the mansion and he helped a lot of poor people who were in need of money. The last wish he wished for was to become a good citizen in life. After he got all his wishes which came true he was happy forever.


48


Fairytales & Fables

The Story of the Guineapus and the Platypig

Author: Reed H.

Once upon a time, there was a platypus and a guinea pig and they were best friends. They met when they were two years old on a ride at the Santa Monica Pier in California where they lived.

“Hi, I’m Waddle,” said the platypus to the guinea pig. They were sitting next to each other on a ride with swings.

“Hi, Waddle. My name is Fluffles,” said the guinea pig.

From then on, they were like two peas in a pod. They ended up going to the same elementary school and until they were in second grade, they walked to school together everyday. After school, they went over to each other’s houses for play dates where they would read, color, and dye their hair together.

Then one day in second grade, they were in the same class with an armadillo named Shelly. Shelly said to the guinea pig, “Hey, snaggle tooth, why are you eating carrots? You’ll lose all your teeth! That’s gross!”

Then the platypus stood up for his friend Fluffles and said to Shelly, “Stop teasing my friend!”

Shelly said in front of everyone, “Who cares? I don’t see why you’re friends with that silly, snaggle-‐toothed guinea pig. You have nothing in common with her!” Everyone in the class laughed a very loud laugh that shook throughout the whole school. Fluffles was so upset she cried and ran out of the classroom.

Instead of sticking up for Fluffles, Waddle agreed with Shelly and laughed along with all of their classmates. He was thinking about how silly Fluffles’ snaggle tooth looked.

Waddle walked home that afternoon by himself and a big part of him was missing Fluffles’ company. Once he got home, his Mom asked him if anything happened at school because Fluffles was supposed to go back to his house for a play date.

“Something happened at school, but I don’t want to talk about it,” he said.

Waddle’s Mom responded by saying, “We can talk about anything. If it’s something bad, I know we can work it out.”

Waddle knew he had done the wrong thing, so instead of telling her, he shrugged it off and ate his snack. He knew that he would be in trouble if he told his Mom what he had done to Fluffles. The next day at school, Fluffles didn’t talk to Waddle and sat all by herself during snack time. When Waddle walked into the cafeteria for lunch, he looked around, searching for Fluffles. She hadn’t spoken to him all day! Someone must have told Fluffles that he didn’t stick up for her when she left the classroom.


49


Fairytales and Fables

The Story of the Guineapus and the Platypig (Reed H.) continued

Maybe, Waddle thought, Fluffles is eating her lunch with the teacher.

For the rest of the week nothing changed. Fluffles didn’t talk to Waddle and Waddle was too embarrassed about what he did to talk to Fluffles. When Waddle walked home after school he was lonely. When Waddle walked to school he was also lonely. When he had finished his homework and had no one to play with, he was still very lonely without Fluffles. Sometimes, things would happen to him during the day, like he would think about the book he was reading or he would remember something funny his Mom did in the morning, and he’d want to tell Fluffles, but couldn’t.

By Friday, he decided it was enough! After school, Waddle ran to Fluffles’ house and knocked on the door.

“Hi, Waddle. What do you need?” Fluffles’ Mom asked. “Hi, Mrs. Flower,” Waddle said. “I really need to talk to Fluffles.”

Mrs. Flower let Waddle into the house where Fluffles was. The two of them went upstairs to Fluffles’ room. Waddle could tell that Fluffles was still upset because she was pouting and putting her face down on her bed.

“Fluffles, I have to tell you I’m sorry for laughing when you left the classroom.” “I never thought you would laugh at me,” she said.

Waddle felt sad. He didn’t mean to be a bad friend and he could tell he hurt Fluffles’ feeling. “Every day I’ve had to eat my lunch in the bathroom stall because I am too upset to eat in the cafeteria with everyone,” Fluffles went on. “I really needed my best friend.”

“I know I wasn’t a good friend. I promise to always stick up for you. I will never laugh at you again,” Waddle promised.

Fluffles smiled and agreed to forgive him. “I don’t think we are so different anyway,” said Waddle.

“We’re not!” Fluffles exclaimed. “We are such good friends that I think I’m half guinea pig and half platypus.” “You’re a guineapus!” Waddle screamed with laughter, but the good kind this time because they were laughing together.

“And you’re a platypig!” Fluffles screamed. They gave each other a big hug and promised to always stick up for each other no matter what.

The moral of the story is that it’s okay to be different. The author got this story idea from his own life.


50


Fairytales & Fables

The Three Little Pteradadons

Author: Riya L.

Once upon a time there was a mother pteranodon.

The mother sent children to seek there fortune and told them about the BIG BAD T REX .The next day they set off to find their fortunes. She also told them to build their house out of strong material and to stick together.

They came to a place where there were three roads, each in different directions. Each pteranodon went in a different direction but there houses were close.

The first pteranodon just finished his grass house, when the T-‐Rex came. The first pteranodon rushed inside and shut himself in. The T-‐Rex said, “Open up, or I’ll push your house down!”

“Not by the skin on my skinny skin skin” howled the first pteranodon!

“Then I’ll push and shove your house down,” said the T-‐Rex, and he did. The first pteranodon was sad. Then he escaped to the house of the second pteranodon. The second pteranodon was watering her plants and along came the big bad T-‐Rex! As he came the first and second pteranodons rushed inside the sandhouse of the second pteranodon. The T-‐Rex said “Open up, or I’ll push and shove your house down!”

“Not by the skin on my skinny skin skin,” howled the first and second pteranodons!

“Then I’ll push and shove your house down,” said the T-‐Rex

The first and second little pteranodons escaped to the house of the third pteranondon. The third pteranodon, who had been putting the last brick up, listened as the first and second pteranodons told her about the T-‐Rex. She locked her doors and windows. By mistake, she forgot to close one of the windows, which was right above the pot. All of the Pteranodons huddled in the corner, as the T-‐Rex said, “Little pteranodons, little pteranodons, let me come in.”

“Not by the skin on my skinny skin skin,” said the pteranodons.

“FINE! THEN I’LL PUSH YOUR HOUSE DOWN” said the T-‐Rex.

The T-‐Rex pushed and shoved with all his might, but the house wouldn’t budge. He saw the window, right in front of the kitchen, and the T-‐Rex put his head through the window. But, pteranodons had heated up the pot.His head fell in the steaming pot! Then, they lived happily ever after (without the T-‐Rex).


51


Fairytales & Fables

The Magic Jewel

Author: Navya A.

Once upon a time there lived a girl named Bella. She was a nice girl and had good manners. One day after rain she saw the end of the rainbow in her backyard, but instead of a pot of gold there was a passageway. So she went in and was lifted up in a cloud and saw thousands of fairies painting, flying and having fun. Then a beautiful light purple unicorn appeared in front of her. She said that her name is Mimi and explained why she came there. She said that it is because the magic jewel was missing from fairyland and the fairy queen thought that Bella was kind and smart so she chose her to help find the magic jewel. And she said the same thing to me and other fairies. We are all going to be your partners so hop on my back and I will take you to the other fairies. They are really nice. So she took Bella to Rose & Rachel; the other two fairies. They had a great time and helped her make a cottage. They said that we should stay here for a week. So Bella stayed for a week while the fairies showed her around the fairy shops and the kingdom and many other areas. At the shops; they got her dresses, a wand and wings. When they went to the kingdom; the queen asked Bella what type of magic she wants. She said anything you wish your Highness! The queen was so impressed; she said that you have the magic of all magic where she can choose any magic that she wants; any time.

The week was over and it was time to go. So everyone got ready to leave. They went to the Kingdom to say goodbye. The Queen told them that the jewel is somewhere in a cave in a forbidden forest. Bella was scared and excited. Mimi felt uneasy and the fairies were anxious. Bella calmed Mimi and got everyone ready and they set off. As they were flying Mimi realized that danger was coming. She told Bella and they decided to land. And sure enough danger came. There was a giant troll twenty times bigger than a dragon and was stomping near them. The fairies were scared and so was Mimi. Bella knew that she had to do something so she told her wand to give her the power of fire. She slayed the troll in half.

Everyone was really happy. So after all the excitement was over; they walked till night and they made a tree house to spend the night in. The next morning they walked again and they met a Phoenix; who said he was nice and bring them no harm. He led them a step closer towards the jewel. They were hungry so they had a feast and they went on. Then Rachel said that we have reached Snake Valley and snakes would wrap around and sure enough the snakes started wrapping around them .Then Bella used her magic to get them off! They walked till midnight. The next morning they got to the area of the magic jewel but they had to answer a question like what goes on four legs then two legs and then three legs. Hmm..... aha! Bella had got it. It was a human. Because when humans are babies they use their hands and legs which is like four legs and when they are older they use two legs and when they are really old; they use two feet and a walking stick. When she went to the Castle; she was crowned and everyone was happy.


52


Fairytales & Fables

The Three Little Fish and the Big Bad Shark

Author: Aspara S.

Once upon a time there lived 3 happy fish. They were happy until a shark came . Every time the shark came near the fish,the fish used to swim away. One day, the fish moved to a tropical reef . The fish made new friends. The next day, the shark came again. But the shark brought another shark with him ! Now the fish were really scared. They made a plan . Their plan was that they would bring food that would last a year . They would stay in their home for a year. A year passed they got out of their home and saw the 2 sharks were still there ! So when the fish got out of their home,they saw millions and millions of sharks! ''Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh'' screamed the fish. The fish swam for their lives. All the fish were gone because the sharks ate the fish. The fish went out the back door .

Once the fish left, sharks broke into their home and damaged it. When the fish went out the tropical reef, they couldn't find any of their friends that they made. Then they saw a den they went into the den. They wondered whose den it was. 2 seconds later they found out whose den it was,it was the king of the seas den. They told the king of the sea about the sharks. He said they could stay with him.


53


Non-‐Fiction

American Girl Dolls

Author: Sangeeta Q.

Do you have an American Girl doll? If you do, this is the perfect book for you. This book will tell you how to pick an American Girl doll, safe places to keep it, and what types of personalities they can have. All these tips will help you take care of your American Girl doll. If you do not have an American Girl doll, that is fine, you can read this book and wait until you get one. I prefer to write down these tips. Enjoy!

Personality

Is it smart? Does it wear glasses? Does it play a sport? When you pick your American girl doll you have two choices for your doll’s personality. Choice one, your doll comes with a personality. These types of dolls are girl of the year dolls or historical character dolls. They also come with their name and where they come from.

Choice two, is my American Girl doll also known as “just like me doll” which looks like you. This type you get to pick its personality. I have one just like me doll and a girl of the year doll. My doll’s personality is nice, creative, smart, calm, and friendly. If you are stuck, Inner Star University can help you. I got help from them.

Safe Places to Keep It

“Mom! She touched my American Girl doll.” That is one thing that you don’t want to happen. Instead of you leaving your American Girl doll on your bed or someplace someone who you don’t want to touch it will get it. Some safe places to keep your doll are in your closet or in a box you can put under your bed and in your mom’s closet or with your mom. When you are done playing with it, put it in your safe place. I keep my American Girl dolls in my room. My sister can’t touch it because I also tell her she can’t touch it. You can try that strategy too. Anywhere which is safe is fine.

How to Pick an American Girl Doll

There are so many dolls to choose from. Which one will you choose?

Step 1: Look around the store checkout which American Girl doll is like you or which ones you like. Step 2: Pick up a small paper with the name of the doll and the picture of the doll and the price of the doll.

Step 3: Then look through your papers and pick one go back and get your doll or bring the paper to the desk to check out

I hope you liked this book. You learned about safe places to keep it, how to pick an American Girl doll and Personality. If you want more information or how to log on to log on to inner university you can go to the American Girl doll store or online. Thank you for reading.


54


Non-‐Fiction

How to Understand and Take Care of A Baby

Author: Faiz M.

I have a baby sister (her name is Anarkali but I call her Anar) who is one year old. I wanted to share an instruction manual for how to understand and take care of a baby based on my experience with my sister.

1. You must have patience and perseverance (I know that means keep trying until you are successful).

2. Babies can feel many things. When the baby shows his or her emotions:

a. If the baby is crying (or wailing, you might say), then they are lonely or uncomfortable.

b. When they are very loud, they want something, such as their toys, an iPod or computer, say.

c. Or when they are smiling, they are happy.

3. If the baby is behaving oddly or funnily (like, scratching themselves), then they might want their food or milk.

4. You can communicate with a baby by doing actions – like if the baby is trying to climb hardwood stairs, they might fall off, so lift the baby off the stairs and bring her or him upstairs or downstairs (depends on whichever floor they want to be on).

5. I expect you will already know what to do with a baby’s diaper.

6. When it is eating time, if the baby is not eating (I mean, refuses to eat), then it means they don’t want any more (because I’m sure they are not hungry). You should feed the baby baked potatoes, pasta WITHOUT sauce, and French fries (which is basically fried potato). The baby can’t have any candy (for example, chocolate, marshmallows, lollipops, or ice cream). They can have some sweet things like fruit (like apples – but make sure it’s apple SLICES and NOT a full or half apple).

7. Make sure the baby’s clothes and shoes are the right size. Usually size one or two will fit them but not size ten or twelve. Sizes are important. I am a size seven or eight but my shoe size is twelve or thirteen.


55


Non-‐Fiction

Taking Care of a Baby (Faiz M.) continued

You can’t play violent games with a baby because they are so delicate. You should play, for example, pat-‐a-‐cake, or ‘who is the loudest’ (which is a game I made up).

You should put the baby in a crib for sleeping. Or a bed that has bars around it. Otherwise the baby might fall out while sleeping.

Babies can play with rattles, toy cars (for driving, not for throwing), and balls, like a tennis ball (but not small ones that they can choke on). The baby also may like musical animals that when you press the buttons, they play music.

They CANNOT play with a basketball hoop.

Babies are small, cute, and lovable. They can be very VERY fun to play with.

Let’s discuss where babies can play and where it’s dangerous for them to play. They CANNOT play on the sidewalk or on the road (because in the road, a car or bicycle can run over them). They CAN play on the grass or on a carpet (as long as they don’t spit up on it).

Make sure they don’t get near electronics because those might break (for example, a laptop or iPad or an iPod).

To put the baby to sleep, sing them a gentle song or put on their mobile. If the baby does not like sleeping in the dark, you can put them in bed with the lamp on.

These are my suggestions. I hope they will help you in taking care of your babies.


56


Poetry

Fire

Poet: Albert Zhou

Fire burns in the sun,

fire is there when you are mad,

fire is there when you camp.

Fire is there when you smoke,

fire is big, hot and red,

fire can be anywhere!

Tree

Poet: Allison S.

Whispering softly in the wind

Leaves gliding off, searching for homes; their transportation: Wind

Glistening with perfect white snow in the winter.

Blooming with cherry blossoms,

white tulips and creations of all kind is their spring routine.

I’ve waited so long to climb him in the summer and I happily do so.

Crunch, crispy gold and brown creatures sit below me in fall since he has let them free.

He’s been a white monster, a colorful bouquet, a summer climbing ladder, and a beautiful giver.

I wait again to see his next cycle of beauty.


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Poetry


58


Poetry

BUBBLEGUM

Poet: Caitrin G.

Bubblegum, bubblegum, oh what fun!!

I will get a pink one.

I chew and chew and then Pop! Pop!

I get another one.

1…2…3… POP

EXPLOSION!!!!

I Love Spring


Beautiful flowers,

Of different colours,

Are in full bloom

Taking us away, from winter’s gloom.

I love spring,

And all that it brings.

The cool breeze,

Wiggles the flower,

Petals falling,

And swirling, like snow shower.

I love spring,

And all that it brings.


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Harry Potter

Author: Aarushi T.

Do you have trouble thinking about what book to read? If you do, Harry Potter books are the books for you! Harry Potter is an exciting book series

written by J.K. Rowling, and it’s the best! If you want to read a exciting series, read Harry Potter! Harry Potter is amazing for 3 main reasons: it’s exciting, interesting, and it’s kid friendly!

Harry Potter books are exciting. It’s about a young boy (almost a teen) who gets sent to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. At Hogwarts, Harry has lots of specials and Quidditch matches-‐ and

still finds time to fight Tom Riddle (a.k.a. Lord Voldemort, the Dark Lord )!Don’t you want a book filled with witches, wizards, and their magic? Of course you do! Since you want books like that, read Harry

Potter!

Harry Potter is interesting. For example, 100% of the people in my family think Harry Potter is phenominal (including me!)! Before I started reading Harry Potter, I thought it was weird. But my parents kept on begging me to it until one day, we went to the library. My dad went straight to the HARRY POTTER section and said, “You’ll read Harry Potter when we get home.” I was so angry, Harry Potter was the last book I read! But as I read it, the book became even fun! Later, I got the next book! That’s why you should read Harry Potter.

Harry Potter is kid friendly. When I read it, I feel like the main character( a wizard who fights evil and plays Quidditch ). Can you imagine a whole school full of witches, wizards, and their magic? That’s what I imagine! Since you want a book like that, read Harry Potter!

In conclusion, Harry Potter is exciting, interesting, and kid friendly. You should read Harry Potter!


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Persuasive Reviews Golden Feather, 2013

Persuasive Reviews

Book Review: James and the Giant Peach

Author: Aditi P.

Do you like adventurous stories? If you do then James and the Giant Peach is the best book for you. When I am reading James and the Giant Peach I feel like I’m entering another world. James and the Giant Peach about a boy named James who goes on an adventure with his friends The old green grasshopper, Miss Spider, the Ladybird, the centipede, the earthworm, the silkworm and the glowworm on a peach. Along the way, James escapes from his horrible aunts Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker. I love this book for three main reasons.

It is very funny. For example, the centipede (a huge pest)sang a really funny song about all the disgusting foods he ate. (When I first read James and the Giant Peach, the song seemed more disgusting then I thought it would actually be. Then I read it over again and then it seemed pretty funny to me. Some of the other funny foods the centipede ate were Ladybug burgers and grasshopper soup. Another funny part was when James and his friends were on the peach, flying high above the ocean, there happened to be ship sailing below the peach and the captain of the ship saw the big, round , yellowish ball. He screamed when he saw what was on the peach. His screams seemed really funny to me.

I like that James is a really caring friend. For example, when the centipede fell of the side of the peach when he was singing a song with his eyes closed, James jumped of the side of the peach and swam in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean to find him and bring him up back on the peach. He is a caring friend to the earthworm. For example, when there were sharks on the side of the peach, James had a great idea but the earthworm was scared the seagulls, which were part of James’s great idea, would come swoop down and eat him. But James comforted the earthworm that it would be all right.

I like that everyone has a part in everything when someone is in need. For example, when the centipede fell of the peach, everyone had a part in trying to get him back up onto the peach. And also when Miss Spider went down on the other side of the peach everyone helped.

Everyone will love this book because there are many exciting moments that both kids and adults will enjoy. I give this book a million out of a million peaches! Thank you very much. So what are you waiting for? Go to the nearest bookstore and buy a copy of James and the Giant Peach!

P.S. After you’ve read the book, you’ll want to see the movie.

The movie is not better then the book, but you’ll love it anyways.


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Persuasive Reviews

Movie Review: Guardians

Author: Aditi P.

Do you like fun and awesome movies to watch?

If you do then I have a great recommendation. RISE OF THE GUARDIANS!!! I’ve watched many other movies and Rise of the Guardians is definitely the best! This movie is about Jack Frost and his friends Tooth Fairy and her babies, Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, and Sandman and their adventure to make the kids believe in them and in what they do. Along the way, the tooth fairy’s babies get captured by the evil Boogie Man. And also after that, the Sandman gets defeated by the Boogie man (named Pitch). Boogie man uses his evil powers to makes kids have bad dreams and drain out all the power which gives kids good dreams from the Sandman’s body. Will the Guardians defeat the Boogie man and get the kids to believe in them and in what they do? You will have to watch the movie to find out. I love, love, love this movie for three main reasons:

1) It has many funny parts that make me laugh out loud. For example, when Santa Claus accidentally lands in the Easter bunny’s home and sees what it looks like, he comes out and shouts NIKOLAY-‐RIMSKY-‐KORSAKOV!!! One would expect him to say Oh my god or OMG, instead. It is funny that NIKOLAY-‐RIMSKY-‐KORSAKOV is a famous composer and pianist.

2) All good characters in the movie stand up for each other when they are in need. For example, at the end of the movie when Jack Frost fights with the Boogie Man with his staff, the Boogie Man challenges him to figure out who will take the place of the Guardians if they get defeated and amazingly all the kids who believe in the Guardians came out of their houses and showed lot of support.

3) It puts you on the edge of your seat to find out what happens next. It is very mysterious and exciting. Especially during the climax of the movie where Jack Frost fights with the Boogie Man. It makes you very curious if the Guardians will defeat the Boogie Man and get the kids to believe in them.

Kids of all ages will love this movie and maybe adults will like it too. Everyone will love this movie because the mysterious parts are fun. I give this movie 5 out of 5 Guardians! Hope you will be able to catch this movie soon.


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Persuasive Reviews

Book Review: Tale of Despereux

Author: Anzana B.

Parents, are you looking for a great book to read tonight? The Tale of DESPEREUX by Kate DiCamillo is a very serious book that teaches your child love, honor, and courage. It is about a tiny mouse with very big ears that goes on a adventure to save the Kingdom of Dor, from the dark clouds and to save the princess from Botticelli and his rats. The problem is Botticelli and his rat might eat the Princess Pea! If this sounds like a good story, you can buy the movie or get the book. In my opinion, I think the book is better because you can make your own picture in your mind. That’s important because it will make more sense and so it’s more fun.

I have the Deluxe Movie Story Book. It has the pictures from the movie and it has the same detail, but is shorter than the original book. It also has some pop up pictures and a flipbook, which are great because kids like pictures. A young child might not understand the story without the pictures. It would be more complicated if there was a sentence that didn’t really make sense. So parents, make sure you read your child this book! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT!!!


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Persuasive Reviews

Book Review: BHAGVAT –GITA

Author: Ansha S.

Do you enjoy reading books that are ancient? Do you want to live a peaceful, good life? If your answers are "YES" then this might be the best book for you.

This book is a book that is godly and Shrila Prabhupad wrote it ( he is a great devotee of Lord.) This book is basically telling you how to live life ... how to live a nice one, a peaceful one, it's taking you to the right path of life.

What basically is happening in the book is Arjuna ( best friend of Lord Krishna) is in the biggest event of his life ... a war! When he sees his relatives on the other side he doesn't know what to do so he asks Krishna( God) what to do ... And this BIG, HUMUNGOUS book is what Krishna responded. If you don't like reading and you like T.V. then you can watch the MahaBaharat, its bascially the same thing but more details and stuff like that.

If you want or choose to read it you are on the right path to the right life!

Book Review: Rainbow Magic Series

Author: Amanda L.

Rainbow Magic is a series of books that I am sure you will enjoy. Daisy Meadows , who is the author, writes magical stories about different kinds of fairies, pets, and places. There are also two characters in all her stories. Kirsty and Rachel who are best friends go on adventures together. Very often, the girls need to help the fairies because there is an evil man named Jack Frost who wants to capture the fairies. He wants them because the fairies have special powers that he wants. I would rate this series with four stars. I hope that you get the opportunity to read the series. Hopefully, you will get to read the whole series and enjoy them as much as I did.


64


Persuasive Reviews

Game Review: MineCraft

Author: Brian L.

Do you know what Minecraft is? Minecraft is a game where you are a guy named Steve who lives in a world of blocks called Minecraftia. I think Minecraft is awesome! Minecraft is awesome because of three main reasons:

1. You get awesome material. 2. You can build amazing things. 3. Minecraft is about survival.

Minecraft has awesome materials. For example, you get netherack which can burn forever. Even in water! You can also get glowstone which can glow. This gives you light so that you can see better in dark places. It’s so much fun to get the awesome materials because you can build with them and they are really useful.

You can build amazing things in Minecraft. Once I built an amazing Greek temple. It had a pool and 4 arrow dispenser-‐cannons. It also had a lava moat! Parents know that you should get more creative, and Minecraft is a very creative game!

Minecraft is the best because it’s about survival. For example, you have to defend yourself against monsters and mobs. Survival mode is hard, but you can explore and travel in Minecraftia. Gamers think that survival games are more interesting because you have to be clever in order to be successful and that takes more skill.

If you like to build amazing things and play entertaining games, then Minecraft is for you!

I give Minecraft 5 out of 5 blocks.


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Persuasive Reviews

Food Review: Macaroni and Cheese

Author: Caitrin G.

Do you like healthy food? If you do, I think that its time for you to have macaroni & cheese. Macaroni & cheese is melted cheese on pasta. It is served in different places such as McCffreys or Fridays.it can even be home made! I have tried different types of macaroni but I can’t decide which type I like better because I love them all! Macaroni and cheese is a perfect snack for 3 main reasons:

1. You can make it with different types of pasta. 2. You can make it with different types of cheese. 3. You can include it as part of your healthy diet!

The pasta used in macaroni has different types like wheat or grain.

That’s good for adults because most kids like unhealthy food, but kids will love the healthy food in macaroni and cheese. There can also be different shapes like rainbow, bowtie, twisty, straight, doughnut shaped and square.

The cheese on macaroni is scrumptious because there are different types like feta, swiss, provolone, muenster or American cheese. If you want macaroni and cheese you need to pick out which cheese you’ll like. My favorite cheese is muenster or chedder.

There are really healthy stuff in pasta that includes calcium and fiber.there is also healthy stuff in cheese like vitamins. In conclusion, macaroni and cheese is so great that I give it 10 out of 10 mac and cheese.If you like macaroni and cheese soooo much then why don’t you try it?

Toy Review: American Girl Dolls

Author: Jasmine Z.

Do you like dolls? If you do, I encourage you to go to an “American Girl” store! One reason you should go to an American Girl store is because there are a lot of options. Also, if you buy the doll that is not the girl of the year, you can buy them accessories whenever you want. Lastly, you should go to the American Girl store because if you buy any one of the American Girl dolls, it comes with a book.

You can find “American Girl” stores in New York, Chicago, Boston and many other places. I hope you enjoy the American Girl dolls!


66


Persuasive Reviews

Movie Review: Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone

Author: Charlie W.

Flash! Something came out of a wand! Do you want to know the best movie in the world? Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. It has friendship. It’s action-‐packed. And it’s funny.

Its funny because when Ron says “Sunshine, daisies, bottom-‐yellow. Turn this stupid, fat rat yellow!” it made me laugh so hard I fell off the couch, especially because the rat didn’t turn yellow.

It has friendship because Ron, Harry and Hermione are friends who look after each other when they need it. And together they fight off the bad guys such as Lord Voldemort.

It is action-‐packed when Harry goes into the Dark Forest and he sees a shawdowy, dark figure and a horseman. The shadowy figure was drinking unicorn blood and Draco, who was with Harry, starts running. The shadowy figure, who was Lord Voldemort, followed them and the horsemen saved Harry by running towards him. How often do you see a horseman? His body is attached to the horse and Lord Voldemort is scared of horses. I don’t want to give away of the good parts such as Fluffy, the three-‐headed dog so I won’t say more about the action.

I think this movie is great because it teaches you about friendship and people that are always there for you. And it’s funny and full of action. It keeps you on the edge of your seat like you want to jump onto the TV and scream “HAHA!”

I give this movie 5 out of 5 wizard spells!


67


Persuasive Reviews

Restaurant Review: Conte’s Pizza

Author: Sophie H.

Do you like pizza? If you do, then go to Conte’s pizza. If you like Capuano’s then you would like Conte’s pizza better. Are you ready for cheesy, yummy, saucy pizza? Then get in the car right after you read this!

One reason you should go to Conte’s is because their pizza is awesome in my opinion. You can get different toppings on your pizza. You can get any topping you want. For example you can get plain pizza, pepperoni pizza, pineapple pizza and a lot more. I personally like the plain pizza because I don’t like any toppings on my pizza. “The best crust in the world,” says Eli Herbst, my brother. You can get different sizes. If you are really hungry, I suggest you get the large pizza, if you’re hungry then I suggest you get the medium size.

Another reason why you should go to Conte’s pizza is because there is a bar to get drinks, before you sit down. You can also eat at the bar but I suggest you don’t because it is more comfortable to sit at the table. Here’s a suggestion, my family and I decided to go to Conte’s and also decided to go early because that is when it gets crowded. You should probably go there around 5:00 to 5:30 because that is when it starts to get crowded. Also you order your pizza when you enter and before you sit down. What also happened to us, since we went early we got to sit down and get our food in less time. If the door is open when you walk in look to your right and you might see the chefs making the dough and putting yummy delicious cheese on the pizza and sauce and also putting it in the oven.

Lastly you should go to Conte’s is because you can watch television while you’re waiting for your food or eating your food. Usually on television there is sports, so if you like sports than put your eyes on the TV. One time my brother and dad watched TV the whole time until our food came and they were happy. For example the sports on the TV are tennis, baseball, football, golf and sometimes swimming.

Are you ready for cheesy, yummy, saucy pizza? You can also get take out. Their phone number is (609)-‐921-‐8041. Conte’s pizza is at 339 Witherspoon Street in Princeton, NJ. What are you waiting for get in the car and go!


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Persuasive Reviews

Book Review: The Mark of Athena

Author: Eeshaan C.

The Mark Of Athena is an excellent book in a series called The Heroes of Olympus. It is based on ancient Greek mythology and ancient Roman mythology. The book is about some kids with amazing abilities because they are demigods, which means they are half-‐god, half-‐human. This group of friends named Annabeth, Leo, and Jason go to a Roman camp and find Annabeth’s long-‐lost friend Percy. I love The Mark Of Athena for so many reasons, and here are just a few. It is funny, mysterious, very exciting, and has a lot of knowledge in it. In this persuasive review I am going to persuade you that The Mark Of Athena is awesome!

The Mark of Athena is funny because the author, Rick Riordan, makes funny little quotes. For example, Coach Hedge keeps on singing the theme songs of TV shows. Another example is when Jason gets knocked out cold twice in a row! This book is so funny!

The Mark Of Athena is a mysterious book because it has a bunch of twists and turns. For example, after Annabeth defeats the giant, she falls into Tartarus with Percy.

The Mark of Athena is exciting because it has a lot of battles, prophecies, and really brave characters! An exciting battle is when Leo gets possessed by a bread spirit (it’s really weird) and starts attacking his allies’ camp for no reason! One prophecy is when seven half-‐bloods shall have to save the world, and the prophecy was:

“Seven half-‐bloods will answer the call,

to fire or lightning the world must fall.”

One of the bravest characters in this book is Percy Jackson, the main character. Percy is very brave because he always takes risks. For example, once he actually went into Tartarus with Annabeth to save their friend Grover. It was so exciting because Tartarus is a pit where no mortal has ever escaped!

So now are you convinced? I really hope so. I’ll see you at the bookstore to get The Mark of Athena!

I give The Mark of Athena 5 out of 5 Riptides or 5 out of 5 ballpoint pens!


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Persuasive Reviews

Restaurant Review: Cheesecake Factory

Author: Gianna D.

Are you thinking about what to eat for dinner tonight? If you are, then think about the Cheesecake Factory! The Cheesecake Factory is a nice restaurant that has lots of locations. You can pick anything you want! I’ve been to many restaurants, and the Cheesecake Factory is one of the best! The Cheesecake Factory is awesome for three main reasons:

1. The food is delicious, 2. The waiters and waitresses are nice, and 3. The restaurant is pretty.

The food is delicious! My favorite is the kids chicken. When you bite into their food, you feel a wave of happiness. All of the menus are delicious! ( including the desserts! ) If you want to have delicious food, go to The Cheesecake Factory!

The waiters and waitresses are very nice. If you take a long time choosing, they wait for you. If you have a spill, they help you clean it up. They can balance a lot of things at a time. If you want nice waiters and waitresses, go to The Cheesecake Factory!

The Cheesecake Factory is very pretty. There are stain glass windows; there are marble floors, and colored lights everywhere. If you want pretty things, go to the Cheesecake Factory!

Do you want to go to The Cheesecake Factory? If you do, I’ll see you there! Come on, what are you waiting for, your child?

On a scale of 1-‐5, I give The Cheesecake Factory a 100!


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Persuasive Reviews

Game Review: New Super Mario Brothers

Author: Faiz R.

This game has excitement and adventure as you travel to eight worlds from valleys to roaring volcanoes. In this game you have a verity of super powers. In each level there are three star coins. If you collect them you can get toad houses and secret levels.

You could play two player games and collect stars. Whoever has the number of stars you need to collect they win. There are five courses you can pick from. You also have super powers. If you collect one hundred coins, you get a lives or super powers.

The goal of the game to save princes peach because she was kidnapped by bowser Jr. There are a lot of bad guys in every world. In the first boss castle, you have to fight with bowser Jr. In the second boss castle, you have to fight with bowser or other characters.

Have fun playing this game. It’s a five star game to me!

Book Review: Stanley and the Magic Lamp

Author: Kevin S.

Stanley and the Magic Lamp is great! It’s about a kid named Stanley meeting a genie and makes wishes.

I like this book because there are lots of strange things that happen. For example, the genie makes

a liophant (its basically a lion mixed up with an elephant)!

Kids will like it because it’s funny. Parents will like it because you can read it as a bedtime story.

I give this book 5 out of 5 lamps!


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Persuasive Reviews

Book Review: Jack Stalwart

Author: Jonah L.

Jack Stalwart: The Caper of the Crowned Jewels is the best! And why is that so? Well, because a guy named Jack Stalwart lives in England, and he is a secret agent that has to catch these bad guys that are trying to steal the crown jewels. But Jack doesn’t now who the thieves are. I know what you’re thinking, it takes place in England and you will think it’s boring because of all the kings and queens live or used to live. But that’s not true! Jack Stalwart is awesome because of three main reasons:

1. It’s surprising! 2. It has a lot of action! 3. There’s a lot of chasing bad guys!

Jack Stalwart is surprising. For example, Jack Stalwart doesn’t know who did the crime, stealing the crown jewels. Everyone knows that it’s tempting to read a book when there’s something that you don’t know, like who did it. You’ll be tempted to read this book so you can figure out who stole the jewels.

Jack Stalwart has a lot of action. For example, he uses a lot of gadgets. You know that kids like gadgets and stuff. Gadgets are awesome because people use them to catch bad guys or see where the bad guys are. Jack Stalwart uses one gadget to look behind the curtains in a magic show. I would use that gadget to see through walls, like if my sister was in my room I could use it to make sure she isn’t horsing around on my bed with my toys.

Jack Stalwart starts chasing those bad guys again, but he trips and falls on his bottom. Will he catch the bad guys, or will he keep falling on his bottom? You will have to read it to find out!

I give Jack Stalwart: The Caper of the Crowned Jewels 100 out of 100 jewels!


72


Persuasive Reviews

Book Review: Wemberly Worried

Author: Julia M.

Wemberly Worried is the most awesome book in the world! Wemberly Worried is a book about a girl named Wemberly who did not want to go to school. The problem is Wemberly worries way too much! For example, she worries about if her parents were still at home over night and she worries about what would happen if she spills juice on her favorite doll. Will she ever stop worrying? You’ll have to read the book to find out! I think Wemberly Worried is awesome because it has little pictures to go with every sentence, it’s from my favorite author (Kevin Henkes), and Wemberly is a mouse and I love mice.

Wemberly Worried has awesome little pictures. For instance, there is a little picture of Wemberly and another mouse named Jewel peeking at each other. This picture is awesome because it shows that they both have a little doll and that makes me think that they are a lot like each other.

Wemberly Worried is from my favorite author, Kevin Henkes. He’s my favorite because he writes funny books. For example, the book Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse is a really good book also. If you liked that book, then you will like Wemberly Worried.

In this book, Wemberly is a mouse and I love mice! Wemberly is a little cute mouse and so is Jewel. I love mice because they’re small and cute. If you like mice, then you’re going to like Wemberly Worried.

I give this book a big thumbs up! So what are you waiting for? Get in the car right now before it’s too late to go and buy the book!


73


Persuasive Reviews

Food Review: Tacos

Author: Karsten G.

Do you like crunchy healthy food? If you do tacos are the perfect food for you!

Tacos are a U shape chip that can fit many healthy foods in side! I’ve had other foods

and they where good, but to me tacos are the best! Tacos are the best for 3 solid reasons-‐yummy, healthy, and easy to make!

Tacos are healthy. For example, it’s loaded with chicken, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes! I know that tacos are a couple chips combined into a U shaped chip! Therefore it’s a good and crunch chip that has food inside. Don’t you want good crunchy healthy food? Of course you do! Since you want to eat healthy food eat tacos!

Tacos are yummy. For example, the hard crunchy taco shell is hard, crunchy, and delicious! I know that a lot of people love chips, a taco is shell is the same thing except a little more bigger. Therefore, if you eat tacos they will be so yummy you will want more and more! Don’t you want a good yummy food? Eat tacos!

Tacos are easy to make. First you get the taco shells, then you make the chicken, next you chop the lettuce, then slice the cheese, and next you chop the tomatoes last you put the chicken, lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes in the taco shell! I know that people don’t have a lot of time, so you can make it in a few minutes! There for, if you want some time to do some thing else it would be very helpful to make tacos! Don’t you want to cook some thing easy to make? Of course you do! Since you want a good food easy to make eat tacos!

Tacos are so good! They’re yummy, healthy, and easy to make. I highly recommend that you consider eating tacos!!!!!

I give tacos 5 out of 5 tacos because I LOVE TACOS!


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Persuasive Reviews

Book Series Review: Unicorns of Balinor

Author: Kimberly L.

Unicorns of Balinor is an awesome series by Mary Stanton, and I so adore it. In this series, an evil force called “The Shifter” stole Princess Arianna’s parents and her brothers. To protect her, the unicorns of the celestial valley send her to another world... our world. Princess Arianna and her bonded unicorn The Sunchaser, Lord of the Animals, have to go on quests for magical items such as the royal scepter and The Sunchaser’s horn. I love this series for three main reasons: it has daring adventures and missions, it has cool twists, and it’s not all unicorns and princesses -‐ despite the fact that there is magic and dragons, there is danger as well.

Unicorns of Balinor has daring adventures and missions! Kids know that adventures and missions make stories so much more fun and exiting! For example, fifteen out of eighteen respondents in my survey said that they really liked adventures and missions, and the other four said they liked adventures and missions a little. None of them even said “not sure.” Therefore, you probably love it if you’re a kid, and you should read it.

Unicorns of Balinor has cool twists. For instance, you do think Lori will be sent through the gap but you don’t think Arianna and The Sunchaser will be sent through the gap. “I feel so surprised when the twists come!” said Aarushi, age seven of West Windsor. You’ll love the cool twists and surprises, too.

Unicorns of Balinor has magical danger. For instance, in one book Arianna and The Sunchaser have to sneak past The Shifter’s gaurds and get the last piece of The Sunchaser’s horn and have to walk through the fiery field. You’ll feel scared and full of suspense just like I do when I read this series, and want to keep reading!

In conclusion, Unicorns of Balinor is awesome! It has adventures and missions, it has cool twists, it has magical adventures. I highly recommend that you consider reading this series, because I give it ten out of ten horns up!

Unicorns of Balinor is fantastic

With magic, and dragons, and adventures, and missions

Long may the princess rein.


75


Persuasive Reviews

Movie Review: Life of Pie

Author: Akash B.

I will give “Life of Pi” a 5 star rating. It has amazing animation and it has awesome photos. “Life of Pi” was also a very interesting story.

“Life of Pi” was about a boy with a family and the whole family was moving to Canada. There was a storm and the boat sunk! Pi’s family died, but Pi was still alive. This movie is how Pi survived.

I think this movie was a total success. And if you like tigers you will love this movie. There was a good part when flying fish started to attack. There was a good part when Pi was little when everybody teased Pi and called him pee-‐pee. And when Pi wrote the number Pi everybody cheered: “Go pee-‐pee!” “Go pee-‐pee!”

“Life of Pi” won many Oscar Awards. The actors and the creator did a great job of making the movie.

At the end they might surprise you.

A Place Review: Dance Corner

Author: Juliana B.

Are you tired of just doing plain ballet? If so, come to the Dance Corner! At the Dance Corner you can do ballet, Hip Hop, tap and more! I have gone to the Dance Corner since I was two and I have always loved it!

One reason you should go to the Dance Corner is that they include children of all ages. Even grown-‐ups who aren’t children can take classes at the Dance Corner!

Another reason you should go to the Dance Corner is that the teachers are SO nice. I have had a lot of teachers there and they are all nice… and funny!

Lastly, if you are really good at dancing, you can be in dance competitions. The Dance Corner has dance teams for ballet, tap, jazz, Hip Hop and more!

As you can see, there are many teachers and students who love the Dance Corner. You will too! See you there!


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Persuasive Reviews

Review: Shows are Awesome, and helpful too!

Author: Lucas P.

Do you like comfortable things to put on your feet? If you do, then let me give you some advice: Go to a shoe store! Shoes are very helpful. For example, you never get your feet dirty. When you go to a shoe store, they always have your size! Therefore, I personally think you should get some shoes.

Did I mention that having no shoes on outside is very uncomfortable? Shoes are very useful because 1: You hardly get your feet dirty. For example, if you want to play in the rain, you should wear your shoes. [Or your boots.] 2. You never get your socks wet! 3. if you don’t wear shoes, your feet will be freezing! 4. If you wear only socks, they will go squish, squash! And it’s very annoying. 5. There are many types of shoes. Like Velcro, and laces. Velcro is for children who can’t tie laces yet. Laces are for children and adults who graduated from Velcro when they were little.

Since it is very likely you will like shoes, go to your local shoe store and let me give you your last bit of advice: Get some shoes!

Well, I know what you are thinking. Shoes can be stinky and dirty. But turn “stinky and dirty” over to your feet. Do you want your feet to be stinky and dirty? Duh, of course you don’t! Well, I guess it’s okay to take your shoes off once and a while.

Can you remember 5,859-‐ I mean 3 reasons why shoes are AWESOME?? I bet you can. Shoes are fun, comfortable, and well, great! So don’t forget. OKAY??! I don’t want to be staring at your toes all day, so what are you waiting for? GET SOME SHOES!! I give shoes 10 of 10 shoes! And besides, you could put powder in your shoes to make them smell better. If you go to a shoe store, they give you a balloon or a lollipop once you’ve gotten your shoes. So I’m telling you, If you don’t like shoes, YOU ARE MISSING OUT!

I don’t want to end this review now, so I will keep on typing. When you walk into a shoe store, there is almost always a nice man or woman waiting for you. They help you find the shoes that you want. So I want you to put getting shoes on the top of your priority list.

The good news is that you can pick whatever shoes you want. They can be light-‐up, laced, or even Glow-‐in-‐the-‐dark. So for the third time…

GO! GO! GO! Please! Now I am begging a little. [By the way, I am going to end this review so you have some spare time to get some shoes.] So good bye!

If you already have shoes, congratulations!


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Persuasive Reviews

Transportation Review: Airplanes

Author: Marc B.

Do you like fast traveling? If you do, you would love airplanes. Airplanes are the best way to travel! If you’re planning on a trip to Europe, Asia, Africa or Australia don’t go with the slower car or boat, go on an airplane! The first jet-‐engine planes were built starting in 1944 and they went 100 miles per hour -‐ think how fast modern planes go! Airplanes are great for three main reasons: they are fast, comfortable, and they are almost any were in the world!

When something is fast, you can have more time on your vacation. Who wouldn’t want more time on their vacation?

Who wouldn’t want to travel on a soft chair where you can sit, relax, and even lay down and sleep! You can also look out the window at the view, or you can pull a plastic shield over the window so there is less light if you would rather sleep on the plane!

Trust me, worrying about finding an airport is not a problem. America, Europe, Asia and Australia are full of airports! Besides, which other way would you go to all those places besides by a slow boat? On an aircraft, of course! You would sometimes rather fly over the ocean, not sail on it.

So, the next time you are planning a vacation, pack your suitcase, get your passport and head to the airport!


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Persuasive Reviews

Book Review: Beezus and Ramona

Author: Mira K.

Beezus and Ramona is a great book! It is about a four year old girl named Ramona who exasperates and bothers her older sister named Beezus in many different ways. For example, one time Ramona was pretending that she was Gretel from the fairy tale Hansel and Gretel, so she shoved her doll in their oven. I thought this part was really funny. I like this book because it has more than one problem (not like most other books). Along the way, Ramona does more crazy things such as throwing 1,000 tantrums. I think this book is just right for kids from ages 5-‐18 because it has words that are not too easy and not as tricky as some other books. It may also interest parents/adults too, because Ramona is cute, funny, and very exasperating in her books. This will entertain you and interest you. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars so go to the library or a book store and get Beezus and Ramona today!

Place Review: The Opera

Author: Maria M.

Do you like to go to the movies? If you do, you will like the opera! I’ve been to the opera many times, and I’ve always had a good experience.

For example, I went to The Magic Flute and I loved it! It is a story about a girl how she went with a prince she loved, but her mother was angry with her. Her mother was evil Queen of the night, and the prince was Sun’s son. And there was also a man who played the magic flute and he was saved by three maiden.

Reason why you should go to the opera is because if kids go, they get pillows to sit on. When I go to the opera, I always get a pillow to sit on. In my opinion, the opera is better than the movies because in the opera you can sit on a balcony. Another reason why you should go to the opera is because if you don’t understand what they are singing, they have translators. They are so helpful! Lastly, you can get a sandwich or a snack when the act ends. I always get a cookie when the act ends! Some flavors are chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin.

What are you waiting for? Hurry up and get to the opera! It is a lot of fun and it is not what just grown-‐ups do.


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Persuasive Reviews

Book Review: Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief

Author: Guhan H.

Hey kids! Are you looking for the best book in the world? Well stop looking because it has been found! Percy Jackson is one of the many series written by Rick Riordan. He also writes other astounding series like The Kane Chronicles, The Heroes of Olympus and many others. There are five books in this series: The Lightning Thief, The Sea of Monsters, The Titan’s Curse, The Battle of the Labyrinth and The Last Olympian.

I have read only the first book, The Lightning Thief. I got it from the Maurice Hawk Library. It is about Greek Gods like Zeus, the sky God, Ares, the God of War, and Poseidon, the Sea God and also the father of Percy. Percy’s real name is Perseus. At first, he was just a normal kid in a normal world… until he figured out that his teacher, Mrs. Dodds, was a hag! A hag is a type of witch. During that time, Mr. Brunner, his history teacher, gave him his bronze sword, Riptide. Percy swung the sword and his teacher became no more than a pile of dust! The most important part in the middle was that he went to Camp Half-‐Blood. Half-‐blood means that you’re half-‐god and half-‐human. Percy soon figures out that his best friend, Grover, is a satyr. A satyr is half goat and half human, so Grover is also counted as a half-‐blood. Percy also spends the book searching for his mother who disappears in the beginning of the book. Will he find her? If you want to know the rest, read the book to find out!

Rick Riordan has included amazing descriptions of Gods and people. A good example is the description of Thalia, daughter of Zeus: “She had unruly black punk-‐style hair, lots of eyeliner around her stormy green eyes, and freckles across her nose”. That description was so good that I could imagine exactly how she looked. I also liked another description which was the description of Medusa. Here it is: “Medusa had a pale face and on top of that, she had writhing serpents”. That was also very good and I could imagine how icky she looked. Rick Riordan has also put lots of dialogue in his book. There is no page without dialogue in the Lightning Thief. There is also lots and lots of adventure. If you like adventurous, get Percy Jackson! It is adventurous because the three main characters Percy, Grover and Annabeth go to many different kinds of places such as Olympus. How do you get there? The answer is simple: just take a special elevator up 600 floors to the top of the New York Empire State building and you’ll find yourself sitting amongst the Gods.

So, if you like cool characters and crazy adventures, this is the book for you! Don’t leave Percy Jackson hanging out in the library; go grab it before anybody else gets it! I love it and you will too!


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Persuasive Reviews

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81


Persuasive Reviews

Review: Puppies

Author: Julia M.

Do you like cute little animals with soft fur? I'm sure your probably thinking ohhh if your talking about chinchillas than I am not reading this book. Good news I'm not talking about chinchillas!

I'm talking about cat's . Ha ,ha, ha I tricked you today we are talking about puppies !

I like puppies for many reasons but I will only share 1. I like puppies for their cuteness!! I personally think that puppies are adorable! I like when you call their name they come running to you.

I also like the amazing tricks they know. I give this book a big thumbs up. So what are you waiting for. Get in the car right now before it's to late to get a Puppy!!!!!!!

Movie Review: Shrek

Author: Navya A.

Shrek Forever After is an awesome movie! This movie takes place when it’s Shrek’s baby’s birthday and he gets angry (you will find out why in the movie) so he smashes the cake and he goes out to get calm. He finds Rumplestiltskin, who says he can make Shrek’s life better -‐ but then Shrek is sent to a different world where nobody knows him, not even his closest friends! Rumplestiltskin said that he has to get a true love’s kiss from his wife, Fiona but she doesn’t remember him! Will he live? Will he get his wife back? You’ll have to find out what happens next by watching it!

I love this movie because it’s adventurous, funny, and cool! It’s adventurous because he went to a dungeon! It’s funny because there are tricks, such as jokes and lots more! It is cool when Shrek goes to the other world!

Shrek Forever After is the movie for you! I give Shrek Forever After 100 out of 100 ogres!


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Persuasive Reviews

Movie Review: Rainbow Tribe

Author: Hope P.

Bored? Looking for a movie on Netflix? How about Rainbow Tribe? Rainbow Tribe is a movie that kids of all ages will love. It is about a man who has cancer and needs to find his happiest memory. His happiest memory is… summer camp! He goes to a summer camp as a counselor where you pretend that you’re a Native American Tribe. There are seven kids in his tribe and they all have a different personality. His tribe is the Apache.

This movie kids ages eight and older may like because it is funny and sometimes inappropriate. Younger kids, like three, may cry because of the inappropriate parts. That’s why I would give this movie five stars!

This is a movie that your whole family can enjoy!

Restaurant Review: Macaroni Grille

Author: Anika S.

Do you like eating out at restaurants? Well, if you do, you will LOVE MACARONI GRILL!! I have been there a Lot of times and always had a good experience. This is why I am here. So, my first reason you should go to Macaroni Grill is just after you walk in you are seated at your table. So, are you thinking about going there yet? Well, if you aren’t then here is another reason: you should go there because the second you are seated they give you your menu and tell you their name. So, if you are not thinking about going there yet, I will give you a few more reasons you should go there.

1. The tablecloth is paper and you get crayons to draw with so your child will be occupied while you order your meal.

2. They always give you an appetizer of bread and oil for dipping. 3. Macaroni Grille is an Italian restaurant, and does not keep you waiting for your

food. Macaroni Grille is located on Route One right next to On the Border. I hope to see you at Macaroni Grille!


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Persuasive Reviews

Food Review: Chicken

Author: Rithvik B.

Do you want something that is healthy and yummy? Do you want something that your family will love? Well, if you do, chicken is wonderful for you. Chicken is healthy, yummy, and amazing. 8 out of 10 people in Mr.Wilson’s class like and eat chicken. ”I like chicken, but not too much” says Aditya, age 7 from West Windsor. I love chicken, too! I love chicken for three main reasons. It’s healthy, it can be spicy or mild, and they’re different kinds.

Chicken is the best because it is very healthy. Chicken is healthy because it gives a lot of protein. Protein is good for you! If you want something that is healthy, chicken is right for you!

Chicken is the best because it can be spicy or mild. The more gravy you put, the spicier the chicken will be. Be sure to not feed babies spicy chicken feed them mild. The less gravy you put the more mild it will be. Maybe a kid could have spicy chicken. Adults can also have spicy chicken. If you want something like that chicken is spectacular for you. Now, are you convinced?

Chicken is the best because they’re different kinds. I had many different kinds of chicken and I loved them all!!! Each kind of chicken has a fantastic taste. If you want something like that, chicken is awesome for you. Now, are you convinced? I hope so, but if not, I hope my last paragraph will convince you.

I know what you’re thinking. Too much protein makes you fat. And I know you don’t want to be fat, do you? Well, if you exercise and eat chicken, you will get fat MUSCLES. And some type of spicy chicken is healthy. So what are you waiting for, get chicken!


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Persuasive Reviews

Sports Review

Author: Siya J.

Do you like sports? You should -‐ I love sports. I love sports because they are so much FUN!!! Sports are something to play. I have 3 favorites: soccer, dance, and gymnastics. I love sports for three main reasons:

1. Sports can give you energy,

2. You can get strong from playing sports.

3. Sports are super duper fun!!!

Sports can give you energy. For example, when you play sports you run. And kick the ball in soccer, right? You get energy because of all the fast things you do. Energy is important because if you don’t play sports you will get week.

You can get strong from playing sports. For example sports can make you stronger because of the bar.like when you go up and down.

Sports are super duper fun!!! Because of all the people is 1 of the reasons but.

For example 8 years old Anzana SAYS soccer is fun!

Sports are very fun. For example all of the kids in Mr. Wilson’s class LOVES sports . SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR GO PLAY SPORTS!!!!!!!!

Book Review: The Sisters Grimm

Author: Rishabh K.

Everyone should read “The Sisters Grimm” because the books are awesome. It’s really a good book because it is long and interesting. It’s about two girls Sabrina and Daphne that are like detectives because they want to find their parents. Charming, the mayor tries to be as good as he can to help Sabrina and Daphne find their parents.

So my advice is to read “The Sisters Grimm” for as many series as possible. If you read “The Sisters Grimm” and “The Magic Tree House” in comparison, you will notice that “The Sisters Grimm” is better and I indeed enjoyed reading the books.


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Persuasive Reviews

Pet Review: Spiders

Author: Sophia K.

Do you like creepy, crawly, and scary things? If you do, a pet spider is absolutely perfect for you! I know you are probably thinking “Ew, I do not want a pet that is creepy, crawly, and most of all scary! Okay, I understand – but even though they are creepy, crawly, and scary things on the outside they are really cool on the inside!!! Spiders are cool pets for three main reasons: you can see how they grow, their silk is very strong, and spiders help the environment!

If you have a pet spider you can see how it grows and see its life style without wasting your time reading a book. I mean, books are okay, but seeing a spider is better. For example, you can see them growing by when spiders are little to when they have babies. This is scientific because you can write your own book and learn new stuff, too.

Spider silk is very strong. You know what silk is, right? For example if you braid a huge clump of spider silk it will be stronger than a gorillas bone!!!! This is scientific because if you get a pet spider you can try it your self!!!

Spiders help the environment! You are probably thinking, but how? Well, you hate mosquitos. Right? Well spiders love them. Spiders love them so much they eat them! That means you will not get bitten!

In conclusion, you can see how they grow, spiders, silk is very strong, and spiders help the environment. I give spiders 8 out of 8 spider legs!!! SO WHY ARE YOU WAITING GET A PET SPIDER!!!!!

Food Review: Soda

Author: Jahnavi S.

Do you like healthy food? If you answered yes, you will probably agree with my advice. Soda is in the junk food category. If you try to make a balanced diet you should NOT pick soda as one of any of your drinks. Soda has so much sugar: it can make you have diabetes and make you fat! Next time you drink soda, MAKE UP YOUR MIND!!! Soda has a lot of flavors like Fanta, Ginger Ale, Cola, Coke, Sprite, etc. Even though it has a lot of flavors doesn’t mean you should drink it. If you’re going to a party and you see soda as one of your drinks, you should just take a little bit of ginger ale because ginger settles down your stomach. This is why I would give soda a zero out of five stars.


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Persuasive Reviews

Sports Review: Trenton Thunder Baseball is Terrific!

Author: Robert R.

If you are bored on a weekend the perfect thing to do is go to a Trenton Thunder baseball game!!! One reason you should go to a Trenton Thunder game is in the 7th inning stretch, some people get tennis balls and throw them on to the field and there is a hula-‐hoop and that’s your target. The second reason you should go to a Trenton Thunder game is the tickets are cheap. For example, the tickets for kids are only 8 dollars. Can you believe that? The third reason you should go to a Trenton Thunder game is if you have your birthday party there, you get to throw the first pitch on the field. For example, I went there for my friend’s birthday party and I got to see him on the field get to throw the first pitch. It was cool seeing my friend throw the first pitch! The fourth reason you should go to a game is every Saturday night they have fireworks after the game, and you are so close to the fireworks! The final reason that Trenton Thunder baseball games are terrific is that they have very cool mascots named Strike and Boomer! These mascots like to visit kids in the stands, and they might even give you a high-‐five when they walk by!

I hope I encouraged you to go to a Trenton Thunder baseball game. See you there!


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Persuasive Reviews

Place Review: Trader Joe’s

Author: Kevin S.

Do you like shopping? If you do, try the best shopping place in west Windsor, TRADER JOE’S! Trader Joe’s is an awesome shopping place located in many places, my favorite is the one in west Windsor. I’ve been to many shopping places and Trader Joe’s is the best! They should call it Trader’s Best! Trader Joe’s is the perfect shopping place for three main reasons: it’s cheap, you don’t need to worry about your kids, and there is almost everything you need.

Trader Joe’s is cheap. For example one fruit strip is only forty nine cents! People know that cheaper is better. Therefore if you go to Trade Joe’s you could be saving money! Don’t you want to be saving money? Of course you do! Since you want to save money, go to Trader Joe’s!

At Trader Joe’s you don’t need to worry about your kids. For example, they give stickers to your kids! Parents know that stickers make kids happy. Therefor if you go to Trader Joe’s your kids may be the happiest in there whole life! Don’t you want your kids to be happy? Of course you do! Since you want your kids to be happy go to Trader Joe’s.

Trade Joe’s has almost everything you need. For example, when you go in there you see crackers and flowers and lots of other things! People know that a store has almost everything you need is a place that they want to go. Therefore if you go to Trader Joe’s you could get more things. Don’t you want to get more things? Of course you do! Since you want to get more things go to Trader Joe’s.

In conclusion Trade Joe’s is the best! I know what you are thinking. Why don’t you go to a place like Weagman’s and Sam’s Club? Because again Trader Joe’s is cheap, you don’t need to worry about your kids, and there is almost everything you need. I’ll be waiting for you at Trader Joe’s.


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Persuasive Reviews

Restaurant Review: PF Changs

Author: Vaanya M.

Welcome to P.F Changs! P.F Changs is a Chinese cuisine restaurant. When you walk in, usually it has a lot of people. It’s a large restaurant. There are many tables packed together. There are mothers, fathers, kids and grandparents all enjoying happy meals. You would like it there. The waiter comes and gives you a tasty selection of P.F Changs’ sauces. Then you choose an appetizer. Some of the appetizers are: Bang-‐Bang shrimp, dumplings, pork ribs, and chicken lettuce wraps. I love the steamed chicken dumplings. You must try it. After that, you get the main course. You can choose from a variety of rice or noodles preparations. I would recommend the Singapore Street noodles. The dessert menu has some very yummy stuff like fancy cakes and ice creams. The part I look forward to is the end of the meal when each person gets their own fortune cookie!

It is always fun to celebrate birthdays here. The nice waiters surprise you with a cake and even sing for you. I would suggest you not to try this if you are easily embarrassed J

You must have realized by now that PF Changs’ is one of my favorite restaurants. I hope that you like it as much as I do. Bon Appetit!

Review: Reading!


I love reading! I sometimes wonder why I love reading so much. When I read a book, it makes me feel as

though I am a part of it. I come across new words that help me improve my vocabulary. Reading cheers

me up when I am sad. I always carry a book with me wherever I go and read it whenever I want to. Books

are a great company when I am traveling, waiting for the doctor, on vacations and best of all when I am

sick. I think everybody should cultivate the habit of reading at least a few minutes every day. Books truly

are man’s best friend!


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Persuasive Reviews

Restaurant Review: Taco Bell

Author: Varun K.

Do you like good food? If you do, you’ll love Taco Bell, the best food in America! Taco Bell is even one of the greatest places in the world! Taco Bell is the one for you! They have yummy, cheesy food. I’ve had many meals, and Taco Bell is the best places that I have ever had in my life for three main reasons: They have shiny, clean, polished floors!, They have tasty, cheesy veggies, They have cool prizes!

Taco Bell is the cleanest place because they sweep and polish their floors. Kids know they don’t like dirty floors. For example, every weekend they clean the floors. Every weekend! Can you believe it?! Whenever you don’t know what to eat, go to Taco Bell. Ask your parents to go to Taco Bell today!

Taco Bell is also tasty. Everyone knows that melted cheese is delicious and tasty. For example, melted cheese and sauce is wonderful for food. When you want tasty food, go to Taco Bell for tasty food. Whenever you’re sick of home food, go to Taco Bell! Don’t you want tasty food? Of course you do! Ask your parents to go to Taco Bell!

Taco Bell has cool prizes, such as tops, little board games, and tiny skateboards. Whenever your parents order toys, you get to choose a toy that you want! Cool prizes make it more fun to go to Taco Bell! Now you know that Taco Bell is the one for you! I give Taco Bell 5 out of 5 golden nachos!


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Persuasive Reviews

Movie Review: Ice Age Continental Drift

Author: Vrutika S.

Ice Age Continental Drift is an awesome movie! It’s about a mammoth named Manny with his gang-‐ Diego the saber-‐toothed tiger, Sid the sloth, and Sid’s grandma, along with Elle the mammoth, and Manny and Elle’s teenager mammoth daughter, Peaches. Plus they go on many adventures. But there is also a squirrel. He has his favorite acorn but the squirrel puts the acorn in the earth-‐ CRASH! BOOM! He’s in the center of the earth! Then he makes the whole world crack into half! Meanwhile, the gang is having fun when-‐ CRASH! BOOM! They are spread out with the gang but only leaving Elle and Peaches alone when the whole world is cracking in half (that’s how the countries and continents were made)! Then all of them go on many adventures including meeting COTS ( A.K.A Captain Of The Seas ) who is a gorilla who thinks he is a COTS + his gang all fight and if Manny and his gang win they go back to home and if COTS and his gang win, they will really be COTS and Manny’s people will not get home. Will Manny’s friends survive? Or will they be dead meat? Find out when you see the movie!

I love this movie because it shows how many mistakes you make even when you are an adult. For example, Manny made a mistake when he hit the gorilla but it worked out. Now you can also tell your child that it is ok to make a mistake and things still work out.

This movie is great for kids because it shows how much parents are and how much you have to respect your parents. Like for example, Peaches didn’t like her dad bumping in conversations and after that, she didn’t see her dad for about 3 more days! This important because you might not respect your family and the next day, something bad happens. This movie is also great for parents because it would teach them how much your child is important. For example, Elle hardly took care of Peaches and then, bad stuff happened.

I love this movie so I give it 5 out of 5 acorns!


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Persuasive Reviews

Restaurant Review: Macaroni Grill

Author: Ved R.

Many people go to Olive Garden, but I think you should go to Macaroni Grill. I have been there

many times. It is in the Market Fair on Route 1. One reason why you should go to Macaroni Grill

is because you are seated right away. For example, most times that I’ve been there my family

and I didn’t need to wait for our table.

Another reason why you should go to Macaroni Grill is because you will be occupied while you

wait for your food. For example, if you have a kid, he or she can color on the paper tablecloth.

Also, the waiter will give you delicious rosemary bread to eat with olive oil while you wait. The

next reason why you should go to Macaroni Grill is because their food is yummier compared to

Olive Garden. My dad says, “Macaroni Grill’s Bruschetta is much tastier than the Bruschetta at

Olive Garden.” I personally think the pasta at Macaroni Grill tastes delicious. In fact, you can

create your own pasta. You can’t create your own pasta at Olive Garden. Macaroni Grill’s create

your own pasta has many options such as, different types of pasta, toppings and sauce. Their

Chicken Marsala and Lasagna are also good. I personally enjoy the pasta with chicken. The

fourth reason why you should go to Macaroni Grill is because their food isn’t too expensive. For

example, their meals are mostly $13.00 or less and their appetizers are mostly $5.00-‐$6.00.

The last reason why you should go to Macaroni Grill is because there are special menus for food

allergies and diets. For example, if you have a certain food allergy the waiter will give you a

menu with food that doesn’t contain the food you’re allergic to. If you decide to go to Macaroni

Grill you should go on your birthday because they’ll sing Happy Birthday to you in Italian! Hope

to see you there!

GOLDEN FEATHER LITERACY MAGAZINE JUNE 2013

Thank you to all of the second grade writers and artists who submitted their

work.

Thank you to the teachers who inspired their students to become writers through

their guidance and support.

Thank you to the parents who helped students to submit their work

electronically and for encouraging your children to share their work with others.

Golden Feather June 2013

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Transcript of Golden Feather June 2013