Question

Read Essay and answer questions!

Answer 1

Have you ever been shunned? Introverted? Misfitted with society? The fictional short story, The Strangers That Came to Town by Ambrose Flack will fit you quite well. This story follows Andy, brother Tom, his Father, Mother and those strange Duvitches that just moved in next door on Syringa Street in the recent past. Following a devious trick played on the Duvitches by Andy and Tom, they must repay a debt that may just reveal who the Duvitches are inside.

Strangers, as it will be referred to from here on out, is a very interesting story. The length is not off-putting, despite being able to host a long scene where Andy and Tom are punished for their bad deed to the Duvitches. The story provides this feeling of mystery from the perspective of Andy, "Who are the Duvitches, why are they like this?" Flack uses words such as solemn and faint to illustrate this mysterious, introverted family and their plight. The theme, without spoiling the end, gives the story, in my opinion, a theme of acceptance regardless of difference. The most interesting character, or should one say "characters," are the whole of the Duvitches themselves. Their mysterious, quiet and introverted nature leads to a strong curiosity of them that leads far to the end of the story.

The story is perfect for the near 100 percent of all people who have at some point, felt as though they did not belong, be it after a new school or a new house, you'll feel for the Duvitches. You'll even feel for Andy and Tom after the regretable trick they pull on the Duvitches. Strangers will keep you captivated until the secret of the Duvitches is revealed and even then some.

Answer 2

1. What three specific items do you see as strengths in this writing piece?

2. What is the overall writing piece about? (Be specific.)

3. What are two specific questions that you wish the author had answered about the topic?

4. Identify three weak verbs that could be made more active, and suggest replacements.