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whippederi · 1 year

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Blogpost #4

The Sun Is Also A Star by Nicola Yoon

SUMMARY

"The Sun is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon is a young adult romance novel that explores themes of love, fate, and the power of connection. The story follows two teenagers, Natasha Kingsley and Daniel Bae, who meet one fateful day in New York City.

Natasha, an aspiring scientist and practical thinker, is on a mission to prevent her family's imminent deportation. She is skeptical of love and believes in the power of logic and rationality. On the other hand, Daniel, a dreamer and poet at heart, is constantly pressured by his Korean immigrant parents to pursue a career in medicine. Despite this, he secretly harbors a passion for writing.

When Natasha and Daniel cross paths, they feel an instant connection, and the universe seems to conspire to bring them together. Over the course of a single day, they embark on an adventure through the city, sharing their dreams, fears, and personal histories. Despite their differences, they begin to fall in love, challenging their beliefs and preconceived notions about life and destiny.

The novel explores various themes such as the complexity of relationships, cultural identity, and the significance of choices. It also delves into the concept of the "butterfly effect," suggesting that even small encounters can have a profound impact on one's life.

As Natasha's deportation deadline looms, the couple faces the difficult question of whether their love is strong enough to overcome the seemingly insurmountable obstacles in their path. "The Sun is Also a Star" offers a thought-provoking and heartfelt exploration of love and the ways in which it can change lives, leaving readers to ponder the connections we make in a vast and unpredictable world.

OVERVIEW

"The Sun is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon is a captivating young adult novel that explores themes of fate, love, and the interconnectedness of our lives. The story centers around two teenagers, Natasha Kingsley and Daniel Bae, who have a chance encounter on a bustling New York City street. Natasha, a practical and scientific-minded girl, is facing deportation with her family, while Daniel, a dreamer and poet, is under immense pressure to pursue a career in medicine, as dictated by his strict Korean parents.

Over the course of a single day, the narrative weaves between Natasha and Daniel's perspectives, highlighting their distinct backgrounds and the challenges they face. Despite their initial differences, the pair finds themselves drawn to one another as they embark on an unexpected journey through the city. As their connection deepens, they question the role of destiny and choice in their lives, contemplating whether love can truly conquer all.

Yoon's novel beautifully explores the complexities of love and the impact of the universe's vast intricacies on our lives. Through the alternating narratives of Natasha and Daniel, the author delves into their individual struggles, dreams, and fears, while also addressing broader issues such as cultural identity, family expectations, and the pursuit of one's passions. "The Sun is Also a Star" is a thought-provoking and heartfelt story that reminds readers of the profound connections we can make with others, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty.

STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

"The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon is a young adult novel that has received critical acclaim and has a large fan base. While the book has its strengths, there are a few weaknesses worth noting. Here are some potential weaknesses of "The Sun Is Also a Star":

Pacing: Some readers may find the pacing of the story to be slow or uneven at times. The book alternates between the perspectives of the two main characters, Daniel and Natasha, and includes various tangents and subplots. This narrative structure can cause the pacing to feel disjointed or drag in certain sections.

Unrealistic Timing: The novel takes place over the course of a single day, which some readers may find unrealistic or too compressed. The characters experience intense emotions, make life-altering decisions, and undergo significant personal growth within this short timeframe, which can strain believability for some readers.

Lack of Depth in Supporting Characters: While the main characters, Daniel and Natasha, are well-developed and complex, some readers may feel that the supporting characters are not given enough depth. The secondary characters, such as their families or friends, are often portrayed in a more one-dimensional manner, which can make it harder for readers to fully connect with them.

Predictability: The plot of "The Sun Is Also a Star" follows a familiar pattern of star-crossed lovers defying the odds to be together. While the book explores themes of fate and the impact of small moments, the overall trajectory of the story can be predictable for readers who are familiar with this type of romance narrative.

Use of Scientific and Philosophical Concepts: The inclusion of scientific and philosophical concepts, such as quantum physics and the existence of multiverses, may be off-putting for some readers who prefer a more grounded or realistic approach to storytelling. These concepts can feel abstract or unnecessary within the context of the main narrative.

From its engaging narrative to its thought-provoking themes and diverse cast of characters, 'The Sun Is Also a Star' by Nicola Yoon shines as a captivating young adult novel. This critically acclaimed book explores the complexities of love, culture, and identity, all within the span of a single day. Let's delve into its strengths and discover why readers have been drawn to its unique storytelling and compelling characters.

"The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon is a critically acclaimed young adult novel known for its unique storytelling and compelling characters. Here are some of the strengths of the book:

Engaging Narrative: Yoon presents a captivating and emotionally charged narrative that keeps readers hooked from the beginning. The story unfolds over the course of a single day, creating a sense of urgency and intensity.

Multicultural Representation: The book explores themes of culture, race, and identity through its diverse characters. Yoon skillfully addresses the complexities of being a first-generation immigrant and tackles the challenges faced by individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

Complex Characters: The characters in "The Sun Is Also a Star" are well-developed and multi-dimensional. Natasha and Daniel, the main protagonists, are both relatable and authentic, each with their own unique struggles and dreams. Yoon delves into their thoughts, fears, and motivations, making them feel like real people.

Thought-Provoking Themes: The book touches on various thought-provoking themes such as fate, love, family expectations, and the power of choices. Yoon explores these topics in a nuanced way, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and the impact of their decisions.

Intertwined Narratives: Yoon skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives and storylines, providing a rich and layered reading experience. The book includes not only Natasha and Daniel's perspectives but also glimpses into the lives of secondary characters, which adds depth to the overall narrative.

Beautiful Prose: Yoon's writing style is lyrical and poetic, enhancing the emotional resonance of the story. Her descriptive language and vivid imagery create a vivid backdrop for the events unfolding in the book.

Realistic Romance: The romance between Natasha and Daniel is portrayed in a realistic and genuine manner. Yoon explores the complexities of falling in love amidst personal challenges, societal expectations, and differing perspectives, making the romance feel authentic and relatable.

Social Commentary: Alongside the central love story, "The Sun Is Also a Star" provides social commentary on issues like immigration, systemic racism, and the pursuit of dreams. Yoon raises awareness and encourages readers to question societal norms and prejudices.

Overall, "The Sun Is Also a Star" excels in its engaging narrative, diverse characters, and thought-provoking themes. It is a book that resonates with readers, evoking emotions and sparking meaningful conversations about love, identity, and the interconnectedness of our lives.

CLOSING SUMMARY

Nicola Yoon's novel is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that tells the story of Natasha and Daniel, two teenagers who meet by chance in New York City. Natasha is a practical and scientific-minded girl whose family is facing deportation to Jamaica, while Daniel is a dreamer and poet who is struggling to live up to his parents' expectations. Over the course of a single day, their lives intertwine, and they embark on a whirlwind romance that challenges their beliefs and explores the complexities of fate and love.

Throughout the novel, Yoon explores themes of identity, destiny, and the power of connection. Natasha and Daniel come from different backgrounds and have different aspirations, but as they spend more time together, they discover the commonalities that bind them. Yoon delves into the concept of fate and how it can shape our lives, raising questions about the balance between free will and predetermined events. The story also highlights the influence of family and societal pressures on individual choices, as Natasha and Daniel navigate their own desires amidst external expectations.

Yoon's writing is both lyrical and introspective, delving into the characters' innermost thoughts and emotions. Through alternating perspectives and richly developed characters, she explores the complexities of love and the power it holds to change lives. "The Sun Is Also A Star" is a poignant and heartwarming tale that reminds us of the profound impact we can have on each other's lives and the beauty that can be found in unexpected connections.

-- Erica Halcon Fagarang

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whippederi · 1 year

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Blogpost #5

Whispers of Timeless Tales: A Cinematic Exploration of "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

SUMMARY

"Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott is a classic coming-of-age novel published in 1868. Set in Concord, Massachusetts, during the Civil War era, the story follows the lives of four March sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. The book is loosely based on the author's own experiences growing up with her three sisters.

The novel begins with the sisters facing various challenges while their father is away serving as a chaplain in the war. Meg, the eldest sister, is a responsible and nurturing young woman who dreams of a traditional life. Jo, a tomboyish and independent spirit, aspires to become a writer. Beth, the shy and gentle sister, finds solace in her love for music. Amy, the youngest, is artistic and somewhat spoiled.

Throughout the book, the sisters navigate the complexities of growing up, facing societal expectations, and learning important life lessons. They find love, heartbreak, loss, and personal growth. The story explores themes of sisterhood, love, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness.

The March sisters are supported by their strong and loving mother, Marmee, who guides them with wisdom and kindness. They also made friends with wealthy neighbours, Theodore "Laurie" Laurence, who becomes a close companion and confidant.

As the girls mature, they each face their own trials and tribulations. Meg marries a poor but kind man, Jo discovers her passion for writing and establishes herself as an independent woman, Beth battles illness, and Amy travels abroad to pursue her artistic talents. The novel portrays their individual journeys and how they remain connected as a family.

"Little Women" explores the importance of family, the pursuit of dreams, and the strength of women in a time when societal expectations limited their choices. It is a heartwarming tale that highlights the power of love, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit.

OVERVIEW

"Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott tells the story of the four March sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, growing up in Concord, Massachusetts, during the Civil War era. The novel follows their journey from adolescence to adulthood, showcasing their joys, struggles, and personal growth. The story begins with the sisters facing challenges while their father is away serving in the war. The responsible and nurturing Meg dreams of a traditional life and eventually marries John Brooke. Jo, a tomboyish and independent spirit, aspires to become a writer and forms a close bond with their neighbor, Theodore "Laurie" Laurence. Beth, the shy and gentle sister, finds solace in her love for music, while the artistic and somewhat spoiled Amy longs for refinement and adventure.

The March sisters navigate the complexities of growing up, facing societal expectations, and discovering their individual passions. Jo, in particular, struggles with her desire for independence and her growing feelings for Laurie. As the girls mature, they encounter love, heartbreak, loss, and personal triumphs. Beth's battle with illness and eventual death serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life.

Throughout the novel, the importance of family and sisterhood is emphasized. The sisters support and inspire each other through their respective journeys, and their strong bond remains unbroken despite their differences. Their mother, Marmee, provides guidance and wisdom, nurturing their virtues and helping them navigate the challenges they face.

The novel explores themes of love, friendship, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. It also offers social commentary on the role of women in the 19th century, challenging traditional gender norms and emphasizing the value of female ambition and independence.

In the end, "Little Women" celebrates the strength of familial love and the power of personal growth. It leaves readers with a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and a reminder of the enduring bonds that shape our lives. The novel continues to captivate readers with its relatable characters, timeless themes, and insightful portrayal of the human spirit.

STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

"Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott has several strengths that have contributed to its enduring popularity:

Character Development: One of the book's greatest strengths is its rich and relatable characters. Each of the March sisters possesses distinct personalities, dreams, and flaws, allowing readers to connect with them on a personal level. Alcott skillfully develops their growth throughout the story, portraying their individual struggles, triumphs, and personal transformations.

Themes of Sisterhood and Family: The novel beautifully captures the complexities and dynamics of sisterhood and the bonds within a family. It explores the joys and challenges of sisterly relationships, emphasizing loyalty, support, and unconditional love. Alcott portrays the March sisters as a united front, showcasing the strength and importance of familial connections.

Social Commentary: "Little Women" offers insightful social commentary on the role of women in the 19th century. Alcott addresses societal expectations, gender norms, and the limited opportunities available to women during that time. Through the character of Jo, she challenges traditional gender roles and highlights the importance of female ambition, independence, and intellectual pursuits.

Moral Lessons: The book imparts valuable moral lessons and virtues, promoting qualities such as kindness, generosity, humility, and perseverance. Alcott weaves these lessons seamlessly into the narrative, creating a story that is both entertaining and instructive, allowing readers to reflect on their own values and choices.

Timeless Appeal: Despite being set in the 19th century, "Little Women" remains relevant and resonates with readers across generations. Its themes of love, friendship, family, and personal growth are universal and timeless, making the story relatable to readers of different backgrounds and eras.

Emotional Resonance: The book evokes a range of emotions, from joy and laughter to sorrow and empathy. Alcott's ability to capture the emotional depth and struggles of the characters makes the story emotionally engaging and creates a lasting impact on readers.

Overall, "Little Women" stands out for its well-crafted characters, compelling themes, social commentary, moral lessons, enduring appeal, and emotional resonance. It continues to be celebrated as a beloved classic that inspires and touches the hearts of readers worldwide.

While "Little Women" is widely regarded as a beloved and influential novel, it is not without its weaknesses:

Sentimentality: Some readers may find the sentimental tone of the book to be overly saccharine or melodramatic. The characters often express their emotions in exaggerated ways, and certain events may come across as overly idealized or sentimentalized, which can be off-putting to readers seeking a more realistic portrayal.

Predictability: The plot of "Little Women" follows a relatively predictable trajectory, especially in terms of the romantic relationships of the characters. The story adheres to some conventional narrative arcs and can be seen as adhering to certain societal expectations of the time, which may be seen as lacking in surprises or twists for some readers.

Lack of Diversity: The novel has been criticized for its lack of diversity in terms of race, ethnicity, and social class. The story primarily focuses on white, middle-class characters and does not explore the experiences or perspectives of individuals from marginalized backgrounds. This narrow representation may limit the book's relatability and relevance for readers seeking a more diverse narrative.

Limited Agency for Female Characters: While "Little Women" explores the constraints placed on women in the 19th century, some readers may find that the female characters are ultimately confined to traditional roles and societal expectations. Despite challenging some gender norms through characters like Jo, the resolution of the story reinforces certain traditional gender roles, potentially limiting the book's progressive potential.

Pacing and Length: Some readers may find the pacing of the novel to be slow, particularly in the early chapters. Additionally, the book is quite lengthy and contains passages that could be seen as digressions or overly detailed, which may deter readers seeking a more concise or fast-paced narrative. It's worth noting that these weaknesses should be considered in the context of the time the novel was written, as societal norms and expectations were different.

Despite these weaknesses, "Little Women" continues to be celebrated for its enduring themes, memorable characters, and the impact it has had on generations of readers.

CLOSING SUMMARY

In the closing chapters of "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott, the March sisters have grown into young women, each following her own path. Meg has married John Brooke and is starting a family of her own. Jo has found success as a writer and has established a school for boys with the help of her Professor Bhaer, whom she eventually marries. Beth's health continues to decline, and she passes away, leaving a void in the family. Amy, who has grown into a mature and accomplished artist, returns from Europe after Aunt March's death.

The story concludes with the remaining March family members coming together, realizing the importance of their bonds and the value of their shared memories. They reflect on their experiences, the lessons they have learned, and the love they have for one another. Marmee, the girls' mother, continues to guide them with her wisdom and unconditional love.

The book's closing chapters emphasize the strength of family and sisterhood, even in the face of loss and change. The March sisters have come of age, overcoming challenges, pursuing their dreams, and finding their own paths in a society that often limited their options. Alcott leaves readers with a sense of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of love and familial connections.

Overall, the closing of "Little Women" serves as a reflection on the growth, trials, and triumphs of the March sisters, highlighting the timeless themes of love, resilience, and the importance of family bonds.

-- Erica Halcon Fagarang

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whippederi · 1 year

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Blogpost #2

Embracing Diversity: Challenging Homophobia and Fostering Equality in Religious Communities

As I read the narrative, it occurred to me that the majority of cultures and religions consider all LGBTQ+ individuals to be sinners simply because they were not born straight. One of the cultures we have here is that they sprinkle Bible verses and daily reminders that homosexuality is a sin. Unfortunately, these religious beliefs that oppose the other gender still exist today. Because they were taught that God created only one man and one woman, many religious people despise individuals who lack a fixed gender. By not making them feel like they belong in our society, they judge and, at worst, disparage them. It is ironic because the Lord's Word encourages loving your neighbor and all that He has created, yet these people tend to spread hatred and create the belief that people who were not born straight will go to hell because they are possessed by demons, worship Satan, or do not read the Bible. We cannot deny that the majority of religious people do not accept other genders because they believe that they were sent from hell to destroy straight people and that they are encouraged to sin by adoring the same gender or by being someone they are not. In addition, by signing this petition, you are a catalyst for enacting such stringent legislation, which could eliminate existing discrimination and serve as a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ individuals. The LGBTQ+ community should be its own rainbow in the darkest of times. Nonetheless, we must recognize that we are already crossing boundaries.

It affected me because I have a religion as well as my family that perceives religion should not promote the act of being homophobic, being straight would not bring them directly to heaven when they die. Truly, this would not be easy to implement this kind of attitude fo r this might step the pride of men and women, thinking that we are favoring the LGBTQ+ community. This will only work if we seek equity between genders. This kind of promotion will be implemented to stop the violence and suffering that other gender has been experiencing all throughout the history. We should always consider ourselves in their shoes because we would not be able to understand them unless we experienced what they encountered. Also, maybe by implementing a strict law like this could at least eradicate the discrimination that has been happening and might be able to become the ray of hope for those who are part of the LGBTQ+. Religious people should become the sun in their cloudy and dark days for the LGBTQ+ people itself will serve as a rainbow. In the other and, we should also consider the fact that we are already stepping boundaries. If we seek equality then this should start by respecting each gender for if you stick to your religious beliefs, you should automatically understand that God does not allow homophobic and pretentious people in His kingdom.

I personally think that due to the fact that just a few religions support anti-discrimination, particularly gender equality, among the LGBTQ+ population, we should not only encourage them, but also set an example for others by demonstrating what we know with the help of the church. Sowing the seeds of empowering people who do not identify as boys or girls, enabling them to speak for themselves, and promoting the development of an open society in which everyone is empowered and free to pursue their own interests are all critical goals that religious people should demonstrate since they are considered as children of God. The damaging aspects of gender discrimination will be eradicated worldwide by confronting homophobes and making it illegal to intimidate others on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Moreover, we must put an end to stereotyping, which is especially prominent when it comes to issues of diversity. The success of an ideology can be judged in terms of how widely it is adopted by young people. With this in mind, whether or not a person's gender, age, race, religious beliefs, or sexual preference is recognized by all should not be determined by his or her gender.

-- Erica Halcon Fagarang

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whippederi · 1 year

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Farewell

#decided

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whippederi · 1 year

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Blogpost #3

THE SNIPER by Liam O'Flaherty

❛❜One man can change the world with a bullet in the right place.❞ - Malcolm McDowell

An Analysis of Liam O'Flaherty's Short Story "The Sniper" by Erica H. Fagarang of Grade XI - Curiosity (STEM 1)

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whippederi · 1 year

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Blogpost #1

A Poem About Death

by Erica H. Fagarang

Wind through the sky that have passed by,

Birds that flee and sang so high,

With life that I've lived up to die,

The reason why I wouldn't say goodbye,

Only to realize life is worth no ally.

My smile and giggles were out of reach,

No source or shot of the sunrise in the beach,

Lifeless pastor that talks the preach,

No money or amount of treasure, which is which,

Never made a potion but with darkness’ bewitched.

Listen to the beat of the heart that never grew,

Runaway alone in the neighborhood that's blue,

Promise no five seconds of summer that'll screw,

Bet all of my cards even the four of spades; I'll threw!

I'm not even part of the band but will I make it through?

Who would bear to hear thoughts about some stories?

Or would stay up all night just to watch with favorite movies?

Waste time with the life filled with all-time favorite fantasies,

Tell every character that hates and loves up to these,

Do I never get tired of hearing those, should I give up then please?

Life that is like an open book that's rough and tough,

Easy to read but this won't be any of bluff,

Say I became interested into comprehending this stuff,

A whole dim page that'll be cut into half.

A story where the wolf gets tired on keeping the huff and puff.

People learn from death not to give up hope, to never stop looking for even a little glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel, and to cling to life tenaciously in the face of adversity and agony no matter how challenging the situation may become. In reality, death conceals a secret truth and beauty about love and life, and the way it is spoken of is poetry. I now have a better understanding of how the people who have passed away feel, and it also gave us the impression that we are walking in its own shoes. The poem emphasizes the passing had an effect in many different ways, whether it be in regard to love or to life in general. This has only made me want to do my best every day, to not let sadness consume me, and to strive harder because there are people out there who suffer more and are fighting for more hours and time for their life, while some of us are able to roam around freely without having to worry about the clock of our life sentence.

-- Erica Halcon Fagarang

#poem #poem of the day

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