Of Mice and Men


By: Jenny Ruben


Today I traveled into the world of; Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. There I was introduced to Lennie and George. To misfits in search of a better life. The two dream of having their own farm with an alfalfa patch. Lennie is kind hearted and too strong for his own good. In an attempt to love and hold animals he ultimately crushes them with his strength. In a way George is Lennie's guardian, George is always looking out for Lennie and keeping him out of trouble. Before the men can have their own farm they will first need to have money. So the two men set out top California to find work. Once at their new residence and play of work, on a ranch they meet their boss Curley a small but mean man. Curley has a beautiful wife who he often neglects and does not treat well. Curley's wife is never given a name, which shows how insignificant she really is. Lennie is  lovable loser would develops an instant liking to Curley's wife. As time goes on the pair are close to having enough money to start their own farm. Unfortunately it all goes down hill from there. The end of the story always makes me cry. Lennie accidentally kills cureless wife (by breaking her neck), and in an effort to save Lennie from being lynched, george kills Lennie. This book is wonderful and tragic at the same time. It seems as though the nice people can never have it all. 


1. This book is one of my all time favorites. The novel is both tragic and moving. I have developed such empathy towards Lennie. This classic does not disappoint. 


2. The authors intent was to write a compelling and moving novel, that shows the time period in which it was written. The author shows how loyalty prevails in the end, and how much we really sacrifice for our dreams.. 

Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix


By: Jenny Ruben


Today after many years I decided to re-read Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. I have forgot how much I liked this book. While the others deal with countless task and missions, I felt this novel gave you a view into the live soy the characters. I felt as though I was able to learn the personality of the characters on a deeper level. This novel is by far the most funny of the series, full of jokes and laughter. My favorite character would have to be Dolores Umbridge, I can not help but giggle every time she puts out another ridiculous decree. I think "ya right there really going to listen". The story follows the trials of Harry and his friends as they strive to get everyone to believe that the evil Lord Voldemort is back. Both my favorite and least favorite scene are wrapped up into one. I really enjoy the battle scene, with Harry, Luna, Kingsley, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Neville, Lupin, Tonks, and Sirius. The scene contains all of my favorite characters working together to active a common goal. It is nice to know that teamwork still exists, even in the magical world. Sadly, one of my "novel" father figures Sirius passes away. Sirius is the kind hearted God Father of Harry Potter. When he died I felt like my heart did too. After many years the book did not fail to meet my expectations. 


1. I am happy to say it still remains one of my favorites, alongside Jane Austin, and Kafka. I love all of the action and emotion portrayed in this book.


2. The authors intent was to deliver a compelling book in her series to satisfy her fans. She wanted to deliver a new kind of literature to kids and adults of all ages. Her fans were certainly not disappointed. 

Hamlet Revisited
By: Jenny Ruben


Today I read a section from Shakespeare "Hamlet". Hamlet is a troubled young man who seeks revenge, upon finding out that his uncle killed his father for his throne. I have great empathy in my heart for Hamlet who has been through so much. I can only imagine losing a loved one. Hamlet seeks vengeance for his uncles actions, and plots to kill him. Upon detecting Hamlet's plot King Claudius sends Hamlet away, unbeknownst to Hamlet the King has ordered Hamlet to be "hit listed" or killed. In the middle of all this he he has his love Ophelia, who he can not be with due to all the drama. Hamlet mistakenly kills his loves father, leaving her distraught and slightly "loony". I 100% agree that this play is a tragedy. It is so messed up that his father is killed, then his mother married his uncle? If this isn't Shakespeare I don't know what is! In a way this play is also a comedy, everything that happens is so ridiculous you just want to laugh!  Apart from the drama and death, I really enjoyed the section it was refreshing compared to most "fruity" novels that are out today. Shakespeare writes his novels as plays to convey a message, it allows you to become the character and experience it for yourself. Hamlet was a great and interesting choice to read. I can't wait to pick the book up again, and find out what wacky drama ensues!

1. I really enjoyed "Hamlet". All of the tragedies I find very funny, because of their message of speech. Shakespeare is always a great read and one of my favorites.

2. The purpose of Shakespeare's work on Hamlet i said to have something to do with his own fathers untimely death. in a way he is telling his own story.

The Grapes of Wrath

"The Grapes of Wrath" By: John Steinbeck 




"The Grapes of Wrath" revolves around a convicted felon and his family as they travel to California, in search of a new life. Tom meets a pastor named Casy, and the two become quick friends. Joad's large family, consisting of siblings and grandparents are along for the ride. Tom Joad and his family deal with many trials on their road to California. The family faces starvation, attacks, and homelessness. Along with  hunger and homelessness, the farmers are ostracized by the prejudice rich "folk". The grandparents can not imagine a new life away from the home they have always known. The grandparents fall into a deep depression and pass away. The first, of many depressing parts of the novel.  California turns from a dream to a nightmare.  Casy the preacher stands up for the famers, and is killed by a police man. Tom Joad tries to avenge the attack and ends of killing a police officer. The new life they always imagined turned into a new life of death and unhappiness. Their lives go up in flames, but the family bonds and leads who they truly are. The only important hint is family. Sometimes to find a new life or beginning, you must reinvent yourself.  The family begins to come into their own as far as discovering their selves, Money and success can not buy you family and love. "The Grapes of Wrath" is a story of turmoil amidst a new life, proving once and for all no one can really have it all.




I personally really enjoyed "The Grapes of Wrath" By John Steinbeck. Apart from the depressing moments the novel is fresh faced. I enjoyed the fact of despite new beginnings, the family still went through hardships. 


Lists would be a great way to organize this novel as it is quite complicated. Making a list of short important statements would allow the novel to be easily understood, so readers can grasp important components.

Reading for College Success

Module: 1.03

1. According to the results of the quiz I enjoy reading fiction. Meaning, that I like to escape when I read novels. I agree with the quiz, I like escaping from my own reality and picking up a good book. 

2. The last thing I read was a sorority guide from FSU(Florida Sate University). I found the reading interesting, and not something I usually pick up. I enjoy learning about the characteristics of certain organizations. Also, it was unique seeing how these "clubs" respond to academics. As well as, how they feel about extracurricular activities.