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351
351
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi J. Hewitt,

I found this essay from the Newsletter I just read, titled,
Reading and Writing Go Hand-in-Hand, referenced by Crys-2015 here I come.

*Content
Great article. Challenging and thought-provoking. Our imaginations do take us to worlds unknown and it's up to us to use them creatively.

*Mechanics
*Syntax
*Punctuation

Almost flawless had it not been for a typo such as the one below I cut and pasted:

These ideas, so cavalier to the adult mind, yet so frustratingly simple through the eyes of the child, are suddenly given just as much validity as any scientific fact the world has [eve][ever] known. [typo, I surmise.]

Just thought I'll point that out since I noticed it and made me pause just a tad.

Keep writing to inspire us and spur us to more creativity in our writing endeavors.

Personal signature as a member of Paper Tiger Team
352
352
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 13+ | (3.0)
Hi R.A. Wilkerson,

Click to go to the WDC Power Reviewers
I found the title of your piece,The Lesser Grandson, intriguing.
I couldn't resist reading it. Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement. My observations and suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

*Content
As far as*Mechanics,*Syntax, and *Punctuations are concerned, I have cut and pasted snippets that you might want to take a second look for tweaking and tightening, such as the following:

“What does the paper say, Peanut?”, [Work on your punctuation marks. The convention is to put commas inside the close quotation mark.]

“Hell, I don't know. It's got your name on it.” [This is correctly done.]

Nobody [never][ever] discovered why he was called that or how he even earned that nickname. [Using double negative is a common error we often see in writing as well as in talking.] [Replace never with ever.]

It may have been the 17 years in which Rick lived in 17 different houses throughout his childhood because of the lack of a steady income; or the 1,000 miles that separated them and their extended family back in Kentucky; or it was just the six people that sat in the guestroom waiting to see what the numbers would tell them.

[Presentation of numbers. According to The Writer's Digest Grammar Desk Reference, If a number can be spelled out in two words or fewer, spell it out. All whole numbers between zero and one hundred will therefore be presented as words. So, should numbers like twenty-five thousand and ninety-nine million, because such numbers can be presented in two words. Numerals should be used for all other numbers.]

The threads [we][were] starting to unravel.

“Dad, what do the numbers means?”, [Being a direct quote, I would treat this sentence as intentional and leave it as is. If it isn't, then, it should be corrected for agreement in number to say, “Dad, what do the numbers mean?”,

[Also, the convention is that commas should be inside the close quotation mark according to The Writer's Digest Grammar Desk Reference.]

Explaining the difficult truths of life just seemed [to] come naturally to Rick. [Insert preposition]

“Okay, it says Richard Allen Wilkerson...”, he paused. “Okay, Peanut, what next?”, Rick prodded after about thirty seconds. [As pointed out earlier, commas should be inside the close quotation mark when tagging.] [Attirbutions]

It echoed in his brain like the kind of laugh that a villain laughs when [they knows] they were off the hook. [they knew][Agreement in number and tense.]

when grocery shopping meant that Don and Alice [were] stocking up on coffee and cigarettes.[Insert]

as a way to show her appreciation for those small [thing.][Replace with things.]

At 11 years old Andrew had no clue what was about to happen [Eliminate mentioning Andrew's age. It was mentioned three paragraphs previous.]

But, easier didn't mean simple and even though Rick knew on the surface what the numbers would mean[,][Insert comma]he also knew what he didn't know.

“...the numbers are 99.998”, and it was over. [This is too abrupt. Needs transition for clarity.]

Peanut never wanted his father. [I'm confused. I take that back. Grandpa Peanut was Rick's Dad, right? And Andrew, Rick's oldest son, is supposedly Peanut's grandson. Why is Peanut suddenly thinking about his own father who was never mentioned in the story?]

Additionally, I gather that if Rick's biological father is actually Peanut, all his four children would then be Peanut's grandchildren. What separated Andrew from his three siblings? Why was he "lesser" than them? I did not see any answer to these questions that are hanging in my brain as I get to the end.

*Dialogue
Good employment of dialogue. Those short conversations bring the reader close to the characters, emphatizing with their sentiments.

*Disclaimer
Bear in mind that the above suggestions and observations come from one reader's point of view. As such, it should not be construed as the one and only way to improve your work. Whatever you see that helps, by all means, use it; ignore the rest of my ramblings.

*Over-all take away
I got lost towards the ending as I just pointed out. Some areas need tightening for readability and clarity. I need answers to the two questions hanging around even after a third read-through.

At any rate, keep writing. It's our ticket to a successful publishing goal.

My personal signature awarded by The Art of Criticism Project Enshrinement.
353
353
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
Hi Survivor48,
Click to go to the WDC Power Reviewers

This review is to welcome you to our community of awesome reviewers.

I found the title of your piece, A Life Taken From Us, intriguing. Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement.

*Content
I can understand your sadness and feel your grief over the lose of your brother. Drug and alcohol are the common culprits in premature deaths of young people. And we are losing, instead of winning, in our fight to minimize their use; much less, eradicate them.


As far as *Mechanics,*Syntax, and *Punctuation are concerned, I have cut and pasted examples of sentences that may need your second look for fixing minor glitches. My observations and suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

When people watch or read the news, it is hard to imagine the devastation that would occur if it happened to our family. [This opening sentence sounds a little skewed or awkward. I'm thinking it might sound better to revise it with something like,
"When we watch or read the news about people with tragic endings, it is hard to imagine the devastation that would occur if it happened to our family."

*Dialogue
You might consider employing dialogues in your exposition in order to engage your reader in your thoughts and put themselves in your shoes.

*Over-all take away
You have expressed yourself so poignantly in this essay. One cannot help but feel the pain and distress you and your family went through with the premature passing of a beloved family member.

Keep writing. It is a catharsis. It is therapeutic to put into writing what your innermost soul feels, which cannot be expressed vocally.

My personal signature awarded by The Art of Criticism Project Enshrinement.
354
354
Review of The sun is asleep  
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (3.0)
Hi Insane,

This review is to welcome you to WDC Power Reviewer's Group. Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening, improvement and revision. My observations and suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

*Content
This story did not clearly define who the characters are to begin with. As a reader, my concentration was interrupted when I couldn't figure out clearly whether the woman and her child were humans or animals. Every other sentence kicked me out. I kept on going back starting all over again.

As far as *Mechanics,*Syntax, and *Punctuations are concerned, I cut and pasted a few examples that need fixing.

pitter patter [pitter-patter ][Compound word]

despritly [desperately][Spelling]

"Mama hold on[.] the [sun's] coming," [punctuation marks]

She pawed at her [mother's] blankets despritly, "Mama hold on the [sun's] coming," she said in a thick and shaking voice[.] [There] was no reply from the woman. The girl counted the ticks of the clock 'tick- tock tick- tock[.]' Her tail swung in time with the clocks.

[The story was fine until I reached the last three sentences in your first paragraph. [pawed? tail?] Is she a human being or a domesticated animal? The change from a little girl worried about her mother to a character with paws and tails dehumanized her. Without a transition or foreshadowing, this unannounced change totally kicked me out.]

After the [doctor's] task was done[,] the cause of death for the woman was the illness in old age the fox, of a broken heart. [Awkward. Reword this sentence. How about this, [After the doctor's task was done, the cause of death for the woman was old age; while the fox died of a broken heart.]

shinned [shined][Spelling]

greive [grieve][Spelling]

*Dialogue
Your dialogue is from the point of view of the little girl who turned out to be a fox. Was the "fox" really talking to the dying old woman? If the personified fox has inner thoughts, you might get away with italizing her thoughts. Do not put them in quotes.

*Suggestions
Use Review/Grammar and Spelling in Word (or whichever you're using) before submitting. If you aspire in getting your writings published, spend extra time in making your work readable and clear.

Disclaimer
In the event, my review sounds to you as though I'm merely blowing hot air, pay close attention to what other reviewers are saying. A not-too-stellar review like mine might be insignificant when others are giving you a glowing one.

*Over-all take away
Your story can sparkle if you take the time to pay attention to mechanics, syntax and punctuations. They are vital in your writing. I do give you credit for getting your feet wet, so to speak. Now that you're feet are wet, you might as well plunge in, right? With that, I say,

Keep writing. As you move along, you'll notice weak spots that need tweaking and tightening. I would love to see this story revised and resubmitted with the necessary tweaks and turns to make it hum.

My personal signature awarded by The Art of Criticism Project Enshrinement.
355
355
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: ASR | N/A (Review only item.)
Hi Megan,

I love your story. I love true-to-life stories for that matter. That's why I love writing for Marcia's contest.

I'm so glad not only for you and your half-sister but for the whole family. What a wonderful coming together. It really swells my heart to read stories of siblings making connections after finding out how closely they're related.

As I'm reading your story, it inspires me to write about another event in my life that I have put in the back burner but is now prodding me to do so. My muse is tugging at my keyboard strokes to do it. So, I'll start it once I'm done with this.

Thanks for sharing a poignant story that many others can identify with in their own lives.

My sig image

356
356
Review of I Remember It  
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
Hi Cecilia,

Click to go to the WDC Power Reviewers

On behalf of WDC Reviewer's Group, I'm doing a review of your work, titled, I Remember It.
Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement. My observations and suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

*Content
I feel the agony of seeming abandonment and neglect the narrator went through in her childhood. Painfully, she remembers her mother's wave goodbye and her father's smile. These two images floating in her memory she did not want to let go because they sustained her sanity and connection in times of loneliness and despair. What a gripping account she accomplished in putting them on paper.

As far as *Mechanics, *Syntax and *Punctuations are concerned, I cut and pasted snippets that were glaring and kicked me out. Take a second look at these examples and rework them for clarity and readability.

I loved to spin in [them ]watching [it] twirl around my legs until I collapsed onto the ground from dizziness. [Grammar skirmish. How about this:
I loved to spin in my dress, watching the skirt twirl around my legs until I collapsed onto the ground from dizziness.

[My mother and father loved each other very much, though it did seem like a strange match, it worked, though they did fight sometimes.] [There is a tinge of awkwardness in this sentence. Consider reworking it. Maybe with something like this:
My mother and father loved each other very much. Though it did seem like a strange match because they fight sometimes, their relationship worked.


Though he scared me and I didn’t like him much [,][Insert] I still loved him [despite that,][delete] because he was my father and I couldn’t help it. [Though and despite used in the same sentence is redundant, as well, as awkward.]

That’s the thing I remember most, me standing in the driveway alone as the wind swept away my tears with my mother waving at me and my father giving me my first small smile [and my last]. [Delete this. You're giving your story away prematurely.]

My mind kept replaying [mother's wave,] [father's] first smile. [Insert apostrophe to show possessive noun.]

[When][Right after] he told her he left.

Mother’s small wave, father's smile. Mother's smile, father's wave, I saw it over and over. Mother's crying, father's happy loving eyes. Mother's laugh, father's nod. Mother's wave, father's smile. [Be consistent with your punctuation marks where needed. In these instances, you're neglecting to insert apostrophes where needed.]

Family members I’d never seen [came]; some crying, others gossiping.

Once everyone left [,] I walked to their graves [,] laid so closely together. I sat down in between them, as if yearning for their embrace.

Later[,] my aunt came to get me. [Insert comma.]

I visited their graves each day sitting in between them like a child should until the sun met the ground and then I walked home after I gave each of them a wave and a small smile. [I'm curious. Is the cemetery a walking distance from where you live? You say you walked home, how did you get there? Show necessary details that satisfies your reader's curiosity.]

My aunt took me clothes' shopping, bought me a tooth brush [,] tooth paste, and other toiletries, nothing else. [Insert comma.]

The officers relieved expression when my aunt came out, both of us experiencing something new at the same time, and the comfort I felt, my aunt’s sobs that filled the air, with me staring numbly at the gray sky. I still did not cry. [This seem to be out of chronology. Expound on this scenario to demonstrate the right time and place where it belongs.]

It was a year and three months later when I saw him.
[This seems to be out of place. Who is the him appearing for the first time in your story? There was no foreshadowing of this new character prior.]

It hurt and I felt nothing. [Inconsistency. Being hurt and feeling nothing is a dichotomy of sorts.] The question hanging over the head of the reader is, "How do you know you're hurt if you cannot feel anything?" The narrator needs to clarify what is meant by this claim.

As to the boy with the tears and the sky, I don't know how to correlate this part into the narrator's world, unless this is Fiction, Sci-Fi or Occult. I have to leave that hanging for now. Suffice it to say I'm pleased to see Anna and Jordan join hands in the end and found companionship with each other.

*Dialogue
The dialogue you employed towards the end broke the monotony of narration. Good job.

*Disclaimer
*Over-all take away

I find this story rambling. I'm confused and lost in chronology of events, time and place. I'm not sure whether they're intentional to show the narrator's troubled spirit, or, it's merely a writing hurdle one needs to jump over. That being said, I suggests major rework to iron out folds and crinkles in the storyline to make it shine, pop and sparkle.

Keep writing, Cecilia. You have it in you to put pen to page.

My personal signature awarded by The Art of Criticism Project Enshrinement.
357
357
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
Hi James,

Click to go to the WDC Power Reviewers

On behalf of WDC Reviewer's Group, I'm doing a review of your work, titled, Drinking to Success.

Here are some observations and suggestions you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement. They are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

*Content
I noticed you submitted this to a contest. Was there a limit to the number of words because this appears to me to be just a snippet of a bigger picture. Was it a prompt limited to a topic? My curious muse wants to know because of the limited scope you allowed yourself to handle. You did succeed in developing two characters and a plot from a simple scene of a mere toast. Good job.

As far as *Mechanics, *Syntax, and *Punctuations are concerned, I cut and pasted areas with minor glitches to fix, such as the following:

“We’ll [be] [Insert] able to steal from bank clerks’ cash trays and store registers at will.

*Dialogue
Good employment of dialogue except for this one:
[Wilber sighed, “All because of the formula you developed working at that biochemical research company that makes us invisible for up to seven hours and…” ]
[This statement is considered a reader-feeder. Try tweaking it to ask a question instead of making a declaration, perhaps, something like,"How did you ever get to be so clever, buddy?" And expand a little from there.]

*Disclaimer
I'm a wanna-be writer just like everybody else here. My goal is to hone my writing skills and ultimately get published. As such, my reviews are based on my experiences being exposed to writing classes and workshops available here at wdc.com and out there in school campuses and community forums. I hope you can gather some insight from observations and suggestions I freely offer.

*Over-all take away
I want to read a sequel to this. I'm curious to see how your creative mind can concoct more twists and turns to advance Wilber and Rudolph's sinister plots, albeit, tempered with lofty goals and gains.

That being said, write away. You're good for it.

Image #2023081 over display limit. -?-
358
358
Review of On Forgiveness  
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 13+ | (3.5)
Hi CajunBoy,

Click to go to the WDC Power Reviewers

On behalf of WDC Reviewer's Group, I'm doing a review of your work, titled, On Forgiveness.

Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement.

*Content
Let me point out first and foremost that after I have read this narrative for the third time, I was still left with the nagging question, "What was the painful family situation all about?" Absent an answer to this question, your reader will feel dissatisfied and cheated. Why is it such a big secret that the writer cannot be honest in baring the truth? Plot and conflict are the elements that make the story a page turner. Leaving them out kills your chance to make your story shine and sparkle.

You see, if you're inclined to pursue it, there's a potential for making a big production out of this bird's eye view you presented showing dysfunctional family dynamics. Don't hold back. Tell your reader what the painful family situation is. Grab the opportunity to make your story a best-seller.

As far as *Mechanics, *Syntax and *Punctuations are concerned, I cut and pasted snippets that were glaring and kicked me out. Take a second look at these examples and rework them for clarity and readability.

[The Holy Spirit spoke to me again.] [When did the Holy Spirit speak to you the first time? There was no foreshadowing of this.]

Paragraph five embodies the crux of your narrative. It is here where you demonstrated your innermost spirituality. It is the turning point leading you to prayer and forgiveness.

[If it had been true that Sylvia said what she had allegedly said..........and I say this not in judgment of her, but did she have an opportunity to confess that before she died?] [Try to reword this sentence without the dots. I see ten dots here.]
[Ellipsis and use: These dots are points and suspension points composed of three spaced periods. All three should fit on a single line of text. They are used in dialogue to indicate that a speaker did not finish his/her sentence, or, to show awkward pauses while talking. The other use is to indicate that one or more words have been omitted because the speaker considers them irrelevant for his purpose. The only time ellipsis are shown with a fourth dot is if the quoted matter is a grammatically complete sentence. No blank space is needed before adding the period.]

Paragraph six has the inclination to preach. Some readers might find it repulsive to be preached. Try a different angle by aligning with your readers instead of pointing your finger at them.

*Dialogue
Try injecting dialogue in areas where there are conflicts, tensions, or tender moments to put life into your storyline.

*Disclaimer
*Over-all take away

I hope the above observations and suggestions helped you notice minor skirmishes that need fixing and tightening for clarity and readability. Ultimately, you're the creator here. Your point of view matters. Do consider your reader's perspective as well because your work rises and falls on how the reader will embrace your presentation.

Write away! You're on to a good start. Keep it up.
Image #2023081 over display limit. -?-
359
359
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.0)
Hi Earthenware,

The title of your piece piqued my curiousity and I decided to spend time with it. Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement.

*Content
What a sad and lonely journey Laura went through in the early stages of her formative and wonder years. In a way, I can put myself in her shoe. I was a teen-age run-away too; but, most likely, for reasons other than Laura's. I tried to erase images and memories of where I came from; but, my journey took me back to a full circle. As the saying goes, "we can run but we cannot hide."

AS far as *Mechanics,*Syntax, and *Punctuation are concerned, I cut and pasted snippets that can use minor fixes. My observations and recommendations are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green. Check out the following examples:

A few months after the addition of a step father [she was expelled.] [Needs clarification as the reader would wonder what the significance is between the addition of a stepfather and being expelled - from where? Obviously, school, right? But, this sentence is unclear. Consider revising, separating the two ideas all together; or in the alternative, showing what the significance is between the two unrelated concepts. In other words, expound a little what the conflict is between the addition of the stepfather in Laura's life; her progress in school; and why was there a collision between the two.]

As Laura was about to take leave of her memories, she thought [of or about] her grandparents' yard. [Missing preposition]

Some memories eluded her as she could not recall the transition, but she [knows][knew] they moved to the brown shingle cottage from a mountain home, where as a young child Laura had spent her early mornings until just after dark outside and in the forest. [Switching tenses. Stay with one or the other.]

*Dialogue
You might use some dialogues and inner thoughts to bring the reader into Laura's mental state; thereby, submerging the reader into her world and wanting to get free from the shackles of loneliness.

*Over-all take away
This would be an integral part of a big story if you're inclined to pursue it. I would love to see how Laura managed to survive and came away a better person on her own merit.

I must say, you got the knack with the written word. Write away!

My personal signature awarded by The Art of Criticism Project Enshrinement.
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360
360
Review of A Risky Purchase  
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.0)
Hi dean,

The title of your piece, A Risky Purchase, aroused my curiosity. I couldn't resist reading it. Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement.

*Content
I take this exercise with a grain of salt because juxtaposing a car sale, or any other manufactured sale in the market with deciding to have a child, in your context, does not fly with me. For one thing, not everyone decides to have a baby on a whim; infact, some happen mindlessly; while others are well planned and prayed for. I understand you're writing this for laughs just to get a chuckle out of your reader. Personally, I take this issue seriously in as much as procreation is bringing life into this world for perpetuity. Unlucky is the human being who has not procreated in his or her own likeness. And the Scriptures consider a barren woman cursed. (See the story of Sarai in Genesis 11; the story of Rebeccah in Genesis 25 and the story of Hannah in 1Sam 1&2.)There is no guarrantee (nor warranty) on how our product will turn out, but we are given a chance in bringing another life into this world. What a privilege and honor that is!

As far as *Mechanics,*Syntax,and *Punctuation are concerned, here are a few examples I cut and pasted that need fixing. My observations and suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

[owners manual ][owner's manual ] [Show possession - possessive noun]

On top of that you usually get a ten year warranty. None of this is available on this common product,.Yet we all want to have one.
[This sentence kicked me out. My criticial muse is asking the question, How do we usually "get a ten-year warranty" if "none is available?" Sentence needs tightening for clarity.]

To discuss this[,][Insert] let's[,][Delete] for the sake of an argument, call a baby a product one can purchase at the local hospital. [Better yet, consider revising it this way, maybe? For the sake of argument, let's discuss this in detail. Let's call a baby a product...and so on and so forth.)

People should at least inquire [of][about] maintenance costs, guarantees and so on.

Before spending so much money on this purchase [,][ask other people what they think. [Insert comma.]

"How to change [a][delete] baby's diapers." [Agreement in number.]

Even after the lack of research material[,] let's say[,] you decide to get one anyway. [Insert commas.]

"Do we get an [owner's manual] or a maintenance schedule?" [Insert apostrophe to show possessive noun.]

*Dialogue
Good employment of dialogue. The interactions are good. They bring the reader into the conversations.

*Over-all take away
Yes, I know what the unknown factor is. As a woman, my life would never have been complete despite material and social successes had I not procreated three beautiful and adorable girls. Yes, they gave me heartaches and griefs during their coming out adolescent years; but, they are still my pride and joy no matter what purgatory they put me through. It's our human need to procreate for perpetuity that gives us satisfaction on this earthly journey as I tried to elucidate in the Content above.

I do have to give you credit for doing a farcical piece, which can be taken with differing POVs, such as mine. Besides, I always enjoy reading your submissions.

Write away! You're good for it.

My personal signature awarded by The Art of Criticism Project Enshrinement.
361
361
Review of Love So Far Apart  
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Montgomery Lee,

On behalf of ** Image ID #1729368 Unavailable ** I'm doing this review for you to welcome you to this Writing.Com community.

Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit this piece for tightening and improvement. My observations and suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

Content
Your words hum so beautifully. I can identify with your intense desire to hold the object of your affection in your arms. Reading your poem transported me back to my own longing to be with my long distance lover 10,000 miles away. I was in the Philippine Islands and he was in New England. I wrote the one and only poem that oozed out of my heart, in response to his longing and desire to be near me. That was forty-two years ago. We have made our dreams come true. Today, we are enjoying our togetherness after raising three beautiful girls, who in turn, gave us nine wonderful grandchildren. Suspend your unbelief: we're more focused on each other now, more so, than ever!

As far as *Mechanics,*Syntax,and *Punctuation Marks are concerned, perhaps, you would want to take a second look at two areas that kicked me out, poetic license, notwithstanding. I cut and pasted them for you to analyze.

But time, [every][ever] growing, haunts my fears most intensely.

I send my wish across the miles to[ she ][her]who holds my heart.

*Disclaimer/*Over-all take away
I'm not a poet but I love poetry. I envy those who can express themselves so poetically in baring their souls, just as you did.

Keep up the good work. You're good for it. I want to see a sequel to this poem, with a happy ending.


My personal signature awarded by The Art of Criticism Project Enshrinement.
Image #2023082 over display limit. -?-
362
362
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Hi Shara:

I'm reviewing this piece on behalf of ** Image ID #1729367 Unavailable ** .

*Content
I'm drawn to your question: Is it a sin to love someone... someone other than the one you are committed to?

My thought is: Is that a question you know the answer to or are you soliciting an answer from a reader or reviewer? Let me read the content and I'll give you an answer at the end.

*Mechanics
*Syntax
*Punctuation

I'm impressed at how well your narrative is presented. Your use of descriptions added color and sparkle that keeps the reader's interest. Except for a missing terminating period in the following snippet I cut and pasted, I see no major infractions in this area.

Occasionally when they slid down my spine, they would send small currents through my whole body, and each time my body shivered just a little in response[.] [Provide missing terminating period.]

*Dialogue
For me, the text message from your husband ("Honey, I'll be home in an hour") and your concluding line (Oh, Dear God, had I just sinned?") satisfied the need for dialogue. These took the reader inside your head and identified with the tension you went through.

*Over-all take away
Because your question, "Is it a sin to love someone... someone other than the one you are committed to?" hinges on the moral judgment from the reader's point of view; as an objective reviewer, I would answer your question with my own question, "Was it love or lust that brought the two of you together, knowing that you're married?"

Your answer to that question would put to rest what value matters to you.

Write away. You have the knack with words.

My personal signature awarded by The Art of Criticism Project Enshrinement.
Image #2023082 over display limit. -?-
363
363
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: ASR | (5.0)
Hi Kraken,

The title of your piece, My Rating Philosophy, aroused my curiosity. I couldn't resist reading it to find out what "floats your boat." Here is my take away on this detailed explanation of your view on how Rating should be handled.

*Content/Over-all Take-Away is summed up in your statement: the review is, or at least should be, more important to the author than the rating... .

I totally agree. Let me share with you my personal experience for the past year my submissions have been reviewed, as well as, doing reviews for others here. I really do not pay attention to the Ratings my work is credited for. I'm cynical when I see how high or how low they are. To me, ratings are gauged by the reviewer's understanding of the storyline; it's readability; and effectiveness on how it affects and influences the reader/reviewer.

Reviewing an essay once, I gave it a three. The author protested. She did not understand why the rating was low on her poem. Well, I did not see it as a poem. There was no poetic formatting or value to it as far as my critiquing muse was concerned. It was not even formatted as a free verse or poetic prose. Be that as it may, I apologized and I stayed away from reviewing those types of writing since then.

Just recently, a reviewer credited me a five for a tongue-in-cheek approach to a personal experience I narrated. The perfect mark gave me a nice feeling to know a reviewer appreciated my hard work. She indicated she couldn't find any flaw in my mechanics and punctuations. Wow! Did I arrive? I thanked her for the high mark.

On the other hand, a reviewer told me my work he reviewed was "Almost Perfect" and gave me a four, I think. Well, Almost Perfect, to me, is a huge compliment because I hear writing comrades and mentors say, "Nobody's perfect. We all make mistakes." Hurray! Almost Perfect put me on Cloud Nine!

Bottom line is, as you aptly stated, the review should be more important to the author than the rating. That, to me, says it all.

(P.S.: Ignoring all the squiggles and figures in your presentation, I'll give you a five because your work is worth it.)

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Rated: E | (4.5)
Hi Sum1,

Great article. Let me parse this point by point to offer you my take away, in addition to saying, "It's a great article."

Point #1: I totally agree. Why apologize? It seems to me, in order to be extra careful in not offending an author, disclaimers are given. They are non-starters though. The negate what we're offering to do. It's like double speak. It does seem as though we succumb to it as a defense mechanism when a response is given to counter-attack what a reviewer initially presented.

Point #2: This ties in with Point #1. Our disclaimers are our extra cover in avoiding the negative impact of an honest and straightforward critiquing.

Point #3: Right on. General observations are not enough. Pointing out glaring errors that jar and offering suggestions on how to tighten them is a reviewer's role. Aha, in light of that, I found something here that may need your little tightening, Jim.

[Something else to consider, is providing a review that has substance to it. [It's not necessary to put a comma in this sentence; in the alternative, transpose the comma after is.]]

Point #4: Using the Review Tool is a good suggestion. It gives the reviewer a point by point guideline on the areas needing improvement. I don't use them all the time, though. Like what I'm doing now for you.

Point#5: I look at ratings with a grain of salt as it is from the perspective of one reviewer. But, if I receive the same rating from more than three reviewers, then, I need to take a second look at my work to see where the weak points are as suggested by the reviewers.

Thanks for sharing these nuggets of wisdom, Jim. Many a time, I've been tempted to write a similar article but never did. You took my words out of my mouth. And that's good enough for me!

Let's write and review away!

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P.S.: You know why I gave you a 4.5 rating, right? LOL.

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Rated: E | (3.5)
Hi Izzy,

Thank you for your trust and confidence in my reviewing style. I'm honored to offer you my personal take-away on this work you submitted.

Here are my comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement.

*Content
What a heartwarming story you presented here. Niklas and Izzy just hit it off right from the start. Izzy is so blessed to have a loving and supportive family especially with her autistic condition. This biographical account is touching. It grips the reader's inner senses.

As far as *Mechanics,*Syntax,*Punctuation and *Dialogue are concerned, I cut and pasted snippets showing where errors can be avoided and corrections can be made. My observations and suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

He’d been waiting impatiently all day for this moment to arrive-he wanted to meet her more than anything in the world. [If you want to use a dash instead of a period, a comma, or a semi-colon, put spaces between the two words so they do not connect.]

He smiled and closed his [book-his ] sister was more important at the moment. [The same as previous.]

“I know you’ve been waiting all day to hold her, so come [here”,][here,"] she said. [Insert comma inside the close quotation mark.]

“What did we name her [,] momma?” [Insert comma]

“Elizabeth, but we’re gonna call her Izzy….unless she’s in [trouble”,][ trouble," ] was mom’s reply. [Use of ellipsis: Delete the fourth dot.]

“Izzy”,[,"] he said in a whisper, [Make a habit of putting your comma inside your close quotation marks. That's the conventional rule in tagging.]

“She’s gonna be a heartbreaker one day”,[,"] dad said behind him.

“Unless someone breaks her heart first[”,][,"} [mom][Mom] answered.

That will never happen[”,][,"] he vowed.

“Mom….she’s….she’s walking[”,][,"] he said, [Remove the fourth dot from the ellipsis.]

“You’re getting to be a big girl now, aren’t you[”,][,"] he asked, making her giggle again.

“I’m a growing kid [,] momma. Besides, I need my sleep to catch up with this one[,”][,"] he answered, tweaking Staffan’s ear again as he sat down.

“She’s never startled like that before[”,][,"]

Dettaärhäpnadsväckande [This is a good one for me. What does it mean?][When you use a foreign word, make it stand out by italizing it.]

Izzy [laying][lying] on the floor

“But I wanted Wicky to pwaywif me[”,][,"] she said.

“Love you too baby girl[”,][,"] he said back.

Over-all Observation and Suggestion: I see that your unsure about the use of punctuation marks in direct quotations and attributions. As a rule, The Writer's Digest Grammar Desk Reference, says, "Typographical convention in the United States requires that periods and commas always be inserted before the closing quotation marks - regardless of whether a direct quotation consists of an entire sentence, a phrase, or a single word."

Tell you what? Type this rule and hang it somewhere by your computer where you can see it when you need it. I do. I surround myself with references because I wobble as I go along. Even then, I still continue to wobble and stumble. LOL.

Keep up the good work. You're on your way to powerful writing.

Write away!

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Review of In Rome in1965  
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Rated: E | (3.5)
Hi

I found the title of your piece intriguing. I couldn't resist reading it. Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening, improvement and revision. My observations and suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

*Content
I see a story within a story here. I do have to say, recounting your adventure in flashbacks need a chronological timeline and focus to avoid confusing the reader.

As far as *Mechanics, *Syntax, and *Punctuation, take note of the following snippets I cut and pasted:

In Italy, in the summer of 1965, I met a girl in a black bathing suit with a lacy décolletage. We took long walks and met several times across southern Europe. Then I went home and fell in love with Loretta. It was my last full summer vacation.
[This introduction is too abrupt. You switched too quickly from the girl in a black bathing suit to falling in love with Loretta. I was left to wonder if these two individuals were the same person or two different ladies oceans apart.]

but the “sixties” didn't mean anything yet, because they hadn't been invented. [Consider using a word more attuned to cultural change instead of having the connotation of being manufactured.]

How about considering something like, "The social and sexual revolution of the sixties was in its infancy and it hasn't taken root yet." Just a thought.

where I was in a [friends][friend's] wedding. [Insert apostrophe to show possession.]

His accent was never a problem-- his profanity was. It never made any sense. He just slipped words into conversation at the rate of two or three obscenities per sentence. This wasn't offensive or particularly obnoxious. It was just so damn confusing; I wanted him to talk with sub-titles. [I like this explanation of how you abhorred the Polish refugee's foul language. Seems to me, he was trying to impress you with his fluency in using colorful English obsenities. Clever.]

The next morning, I awoke with a [start.][What does this mean? Is it some cliche?

I wrote to Loretta from Amsterdam. The museums reminded me of her and her love of art. I was beginning to realize how much I thought about her. I didn't know that was what it meant to miss someone. I never had really missed anyone before. [Three-fourths down your storyline, Loretta resurfaces. Why were you writing to Loretta from Amsterdam if you were already home and that's when you fell in love with her?]

That's where we met the girl from New York with a big grin [and a girl friend.] [If the girlfriend did not have any significance to your storyline, leave her out.]

We went to the opera to see "Aida", more fountains and the beach, hence the black bathing suit. [This is jarring to me. This needs a detailed description to familiarize the reader with unfamiliar scenes or concepts.]

When I returned to Atlanta, I found out that Loretta had never received my letter. I saw her more and more, creating a scene when I couldn't. Not big ugly scenes, just little memorable ones, like introducing myself to her date. I spent most of time outside of school thinking about her. [I see a few issues in this paragraph. Take a second look at this and revise for clarity.]

*Dialogue
Consider employing dialogues to show interactions between characters.

*Over-all take away
I suggests extensive revision and tightening to make this moving adventure reader-friendly. Needs focus and chronology to keep the reader interested. There is a jumble of stories here: First, your trip to Rome with your cousin; Second, meeting the girl in black bathing suit and your on and off liaison with her; Third, your ongoing interest with Loretta back home and finally settling down. Pick one point of focus and make everything else a sideshow. In this recollection, it seems to me that your point of focus is really Loretta but it was interrupted by your overseas trip and other attractions such as the girl in a black bathing suit. Get the flashbacks in their proper perspective. Go back to the drawing board and make this story pop, sparkle and hum!

You can handle it! Or your name isn't Hanlde. LOL.

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Review of Watching Over Us  
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Rated: E | (3.5)
Hi Paul,

I hope you allow me the liberty to visit your port and review your submissions. Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit this for tightening and improvement. My observations italized and suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.

*Content
Nice perspective on survival and resiliency from an eleven-year old's point of view. You can make him more real to the reader if you give him a name.

*Mechanics
*Syntax
*Punctuation

Work on these areas. Pay close attention to punctuation marks. Your story can pop, hum and sparkle if you apply punctuation marks where needed. Here are a few examples I cut and pasted.

After a pause he continues[,]"Oh Shepherds pie that's my favourite my mum used to make it [for] me all the time[.]" [Insert comma, missing connective and terminating period.]

She was old when she died but she looks young now like a puppy[.]"
[Missing terminating period.]

"Ok mum I'll do it[,]" he says and with this he goes back to all his toys and packs them away neatly.

*Dialogue

"Ok Rodney [1][one] question what is it?" the boy asks barely awake. [Write Numbers from one to ninety-nine as words not figures according to standard rule.]

"That's a good question, I don't know why[,]" he smiles and rolls over. [Insert comma.]

Before he falls to sleep the boy says quietly[,] "Mum you don't need to watch over me [.] [You] can go down to the garden and play with Grandma, Granddad and Patsy [.]I'll come and visit you soon. It looks much more colorful down there for you[.]" [Notice the punctuation marks I inserted to improve readability.]

*Over-all take away.
Your off to a good start. Keep writing. Read your draft aloud. Insert commas where you pause to catch your breath; or periods or whatever punctuation marks are applicable. Rewrite. Revise. Consult with Grammar Desk Reference books or manuals when in doubt. I guarantee your output will improve tremendously.

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Rated: E | (4.0)
Hi Elle,

You're so right on. Gone are those days when I get excited anticipating a special envelope in my mailbox.

Handwritten, snail mail letter-writing seems to be a lost art nowadays. In fact, I stopped sending greeting cards altogether except for those who are not engaged in cyberspace socializing. Most of my relatives and friends are on Facebook and we greet each other there. Saves stamps and a trip to the Post Office.

I think the Post Office lost revenues big time with the coming of cyberspace instant communication. My mailbox is loaded with catalogs and flyers. That's about the extent of the kind of mail I now get. Moreover, banking institutions are promoting on line banking and asking customers to sign up for paperless monthly statement of account. I ignore it. I still want my bills on hard copy.

Indeed, we live in a different world now, and some of us, who love tradition are resisting the imminent changes all around. Sad but what's our choice? Either, we go with the flow or be left behind.

Come to think of it. I found my love by the stroke of a pen forty years ago and it transported me 10,000 miles away from the Islands to Mainland USA! I used to keep my eyes on the mailman as he walked in the office, delivering letters everyday. When he looked at me with a big big smile, I knew, he's got something for me.

Thanks for sharing such poignant reminder of where we came from and where we're going. We can cling to our tradition but it seems to be a losing battle with the power of cyberspace technology.

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Rated: 13+ | (4.0)
Hi kaysnrach,
On behalf of Shared seasonal Power Group image I'm raiding your port, looking for some comical stories to review. Fortunately for you, the title of your piece caught my interest, so, here I am reviewing it.

Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement.

*Content
*Mechanics
*Syntax
*Punctuation


He paused, then said[.][,] “Oh. We drive a Prius.”
[Replace period with comma.]

Placing a hand on his wife’s shoulder, he continued[.][,] “We do our part to slow global warming.”

The server, still smiling, asked, “Anything else?” [I see, you have punctuated this right.]

I continued[.][,] “Yes. The reason it has been so universally accepted is a dumbed-down public and a willing media.” [Then, you did it again.]

*Dialogue
You're skillful in your employment of dialoguing. Just need to be careful where to put your punctuation marks with attributions. I think the rule is to be consistent in your usage of punctuation marks especially in dialoguing.

*Disclaimer
*Over-all take away

The above observations and suggestions are purely from one reader's point of view and in no way diminishes the value of your work. Use what you perceive is of value to enhance reaching the Editor's or a Publisher's desk.

You're a character, alright! I can see where your wife is coming from and I can also see that she has come to accept your humor as part of a vibrant relationship worth keeping.

Keep writing those funnies and one liners you're hiding up your sleeve! LOL.


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In affiliation with The Newbies Academy Group  
Rated: E | (3.5)
Hi The ResistanceWriter,

Welcome to wdc.com. I see you just joined this writing community.

*Content
You're so right on with your take away regarding seeming positive reports on unemployment rolls in our country.

The media (in cahoots with the current Administration) are less than candid in their reportage. They always put a spin on whatever statistics are put out there. I like your call to action at the end.


As far as *Mechanics,*Syntax and *Punctuation marks are concerned, I cut and pasted snippets that need minor fixing. My observations are in italics and my suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green. [ ]

Low wages make it merely impossible to provide a [persons][person's] needs, let [a lone][alone] raise a family.[Insert apostrophe to show possession.][alone is one word; this could be unintentional such as auto-correct, eh?]

... [lets][let's] get this nation back on track![Again, insert apostrophe to show possession.]

*Dialogue
None employed. Strictly an article.

*Over-all take away
Good article. Short and to the point. Well-researched with statistics provided.

Now that you have taken a step on a writing journey, take a plunge. Write as much as you can and go as far as you can.You're good for it!

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Review of Why I Write  
In affiliation with WdC SuperPower Reviewers Group  
Rated: E | N/A (Review only item.)
Hi GeminiGem,

Something in your handle gravitates me to you...Is Gemini your zodiac sign? Were you born in May or June? In that case, let me tell you. Gemini is my zodiac sign too and I named my youngest daughter Gemma because she is a Gemini as well. This must be the reason why I'm attracted to your name and your work.

So, here's my take away from this semi-humorous piece; or, should I say, amusing account.

*Content
More often than not, parents are recipients of blame for what went wrong with their children. To some extent, it's true because parents are responsible for their children's formative years. Once on their own, children do have to acknowledge responsibility for the direction they have taken.

That being said, I like the way you put a positive twist to this blame game. If there was such a thing as a positive blame game, this would be it. And your mom and dad would just be elated to receive the most coveted "Blame Parents Award" gold medal.

As far as *Mechanics,*Syntax,and *Punctuation marks are concerned, this essay did not have any that glared at me or kicked me out.

*Dialogue
A smidgen of dialogue gave this article personality. They show how clever your parents were as educators.

*Disclaimer
*Over-all take away

Good work. I bet, your mom and dad would be pleased to read this article extolling their teaching mechanisms applied at home and in the classroom.

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Rated: E | (3.5)
Hi Kyle,

I'm reviewing your Query Letter on behalf of the Newbies Academy Group. Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement.

*Content
Good hook. I hope it catches an agent's attention as it did me.

As far as Mechanics, Syntax and Punctuation Marks are concerned, notice the following snippets I cut and pasted. My observations are in italics and my suggestions are color-coded green [ ].

For starters, your title, The Heroes Query Letter, needs a little fixing. Redo it this way, The Hero's Query Letter. [heroes is plural while hero's shows possession.]

Garen's [life long][lifelong] best friend [Compound word]

Follow Garen as he meets new friends for life, finds love, and faces death at it's greatest degree as the [Pain of Loss][pain of loss] sets in. [Unnecessary to capitalize.]

Since then, I haven't been able to write enough and the ideas keep flowing into a seven part series and at least four [seperate][separate] books. [Misspelling]

*Disclaimer
The above comments are from one reader's viewpoint; as such, they may not conform with other reviewer's take on your material. I present them to you for consideration in the hope that they may eliminate the minor skirmishes I encountered in my reading of this piece.

*Over-all take away
This Query Letter is doable. Have you sent it to prospective agents or publishers yet? Go for it, Kyle. You got what it takes to be a writer.

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Rated: E | (4.0)
Hi Robert,

This review is being made as part of WDC Power Reviewers Group's Dare To Review Raid!

Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement. My observations are in italics and my suggestions are enclosed in brackets and color-coded green.[ ]

*Content
From the perspective of a child-narrator, who may have seen a plane for the first time, it looked like a big metallic bird flapping its wings up there, then bursting into flames. That piqued her curiosity. On the other hand, as a reader, I see a description of the impact of a plane crashing that the child-narrator did not comprehend. She was in awe and her curiousity drew her close to the scene. That child-like wonder will always seek answers just as it did to this girl.

Here are some snippets I cut and pasted that glared at me, which might need tweaking:

When I was young, a giant bird of fire fell from the sky like an exploding star from some far off land. I ran as fast as my bare feet could carry me, but my eyes stayed fixed on the ball of fire. It was a strange bird, not earthly at all. A large, featherless bird with a skeleton of metal. Then it just burst into flame, and I was running. [I like the imagery the author created here.]

I wanted so desperately to save the bird and learn its secrets. I was curious; I wanted to see how beautiful it was up close and I wanted to make sure it wasn’t hurt. [This description might be anti-climactic because the narrator already saw the plane explode.]

The bird vanished over the tall mountain trees to the east.
[The above description was jarring to me. Perhaps the statement, The bird vanished over the tall mountain trees to the east can be inserted some place else or deleted altogether.]

There were men surrounding the bird, and I could hear it moan in misery. [Didn't the big bird burst into flame? How can it be moaning in misery?]

I was not as pretty as [her][she] and not as smart or as good at Quoin.

My neighbor had not been to church [in][for] some time and her skin had started to smell funny.

...Tanta Jesus knows there are better things to do around here [then][than] look for buried treasure.”

I cried to my unsympathetic mom about the unknown benefits of treasure while she tossed me an apron and uttered under her breath[.][,][Replace period with comma]
“Life for your crop. There will be water if God wills it. Hard work keeps the hunger demons away.”

Mom was always right about days when no water was willed and no crops were sewn are the days when the hunger demons come to haunt my dreams. [Break this into two sentences for clarity. Perhaps something like this: Mom was always right about days when no water was willed and no crops were sewn. Those were the days when the hunger demons came to haunt my dreams.]

The angelic sound pleased God and he smiled down on this makeshift camp. [This is author intrusion. You cannot put yourself in God's thoughts unless you're identifying yourself as God himself. Consider revising this with something like ...[ The angelic sound must have pleased God and I could see him smile down on this makeshift camp.]

I did not want to miss the opportunity of seeing this gift from God. [From the sound of this, I surmise the narrator did not know the difference between a bird or plane flying in the sky until she heard the announcement over the radio about the president's plane crashing. That's how she realized it was a plane crashing and not a big bird falling.]}

Mom was always right about days when no water was willed and no crops were sewn; those [are][ were] the days when the hunger demons [come][came] to haunt my dreams.}][Insert semi-colon to break the line of thought before proceeding with the concluding thought]

brand new [brand-new][Compound word]

all of our nuns and teachers [staying][stayed] behind to assist with the aid of the crowd.

I look back now and wonder what exactly was in those boxes and how he had managed to stockpile so many blades under the noses of the would-be victims. [This kicked me out. There was no foreshadowing of this.]

Also, what I noticed missing in the story was a description or an introduction on who Tanta Jesus was. It was not explained how this player came into the picture.

I remember the [creek][creak] of the door and how it needed to be oiled.

*Dialogue
You employed dialogue well.

*Disclaimer
The above observations and suggestions are from one reader's perspective. As such, the author may or may not use them at all. They are offered to give the author a bird's-eye-view of how a reader interprets the material he or she is reading. Therefore, take it if it promotes your story or leave it if it doesn't add value at all.

*Over-all take away
The account of Wanda's experience flying and going into a cave which turned out to be paradise, Eden, or heaven, however it was described, seemed to be an adaptation from the Book of Revelation in the end times. Wow! What a bizarre ending.

Nevertheless, this story needs revision. There is a problem with chronological events that needs tightening to make the story hum.


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Rated: 13+ | (4.5)
Hi GeminiGem,

This review is being made as part of WDC Power Reviewers Group's Dare To Review Raid!

Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement.

*Content
Looks like you did your homework with this biographical account of your grandparent's love and devotion for each other, which started in their home country and culminated in Chicago, USA.

As far as *Mechanics,*Syntax, and *Punctuation marks are concerned, I cut and pasted the following examples for a closer look and tightening:

but instead [Consider using one or the other, not both together.]

When he saw them together, he made it clear he was not pleased to see Else with a young man from the "wrong kind of family". [I always stumble over the use of terminating period when quotation marks are employed at the end of the sentence, just like this example. Let me see what I can gather from The Writer's Digest, Grammar Desk Reference to help us both. Here goes, "Typographical convention in the United States requires that periods and commas always be inserted before the closing quotation marks - regardless of whether a direct quotation consists of an entire sentence, a phrase, or a single word. However, this convention is widely violated." Then it gives this example as faulty: And just like the ending of the song you'll be "alive and doing fine".

That leads me to think that the terminating period in your sentence should be inside the close quotation mark. What do you think? Let me tell you. When I get into a difficulty like that? I opt italizing instead of using quotation marks. My easy way out. LOL.

Any money Else made[,][Insert comma for clarity] her father took to help support the family.

They both had jobs now, but because the state of the German economy[,][Insert comma for clarity] that could change at any time.

Now[,][Insert comma for a pause] she just had to wait.

[She had not made it to America yet, and she was already breaking hearts.][In the context, this conclusion is premature. Consider tweaking with something like, Now she is torn between her devotion to Alfred and her infatuation with Hans...or something to that effect.

*Dialogue
Could be employed but not critical or necessary in this format.

*Over-all take away
What a beautiful and inspiring love story against the backdrop of war and peace and immigrating to America. I'm developing goosebumps as I continue reading this biographical account.

Great job, GeminiGem.

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Rated: 13+ | (4.0)
Hi Jeannie,

This review is being made as part of WDC Power Reviewers Group's Dare To Review Raid!

Here are some comments you might consider when you decide to revisit it for tightening and improvement.

*Content
Experience? Did this really happen to the four friends on Halloween night? Evil lurks all around. As for me, I'd rather not seek them out! Did Lisa and Richard report the incident to the police? A sequel is waiting to be written on the day after, I'd say.

As far as *Mechanics,*Syntax, and *Punctuation marks are concerned, here are some examples I cut and pasted that you might consider taking a second look for tweaking.

Near a rustic old shack, a lone cross stands[,][Insert comma] looks lonely and forlorn.

Tomorrow was Halloween [This is jarring. Consider changing this way: The next day or the following day was Halloween.]

Lisa[ remember][remembered] she couldn’t stop screaming as it wrapped its long, thick body around her and kept squeezing and squeezing until she could hear every one of her bones snap. [Switch in tense]

Harvey cleared his throat and began [seting][setting] the stage for his story. [Misspelling]

He’s staring at the very same place where [I’m] looking. [Switch in POV from Lisa to the narrator which sounds like a fluke to me because the narrator uses Lisa as the main character. Why switch pov? It's out of context.

Richard and Harvey looked at her as if [she][insert] lost her mind, only Rachael looked scared.

*Dialogue
Good employment of dialoguing and attributions.

*Disclaimer
All things being equal, the above observations and suggestions are from one reader's point of view. Take them with a grain of salt.

*Over-all take away
So many ghoulish stories are not as earth-shaking nor earth-shattering as this one is to me. I'm staying home on Halloween night. LOL.

Keep writing, Jeannie. You're good for it.

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