A CHAPTER ONE REVIEW Sponsored by the NEW Novel Workshop The opinions contained in this review are subjective, with intent to be honest and helpful. Please take that which you find useful, and toss the rest with good cheer. Greetings Dee I am reviewing "Invalid Item" today as part of the "The Chapter One Competition." . THANK YOU FOR INCLUDING OUR MANDATORY PHRASE, "HAPPY SWEET SIXTEEN, WDC!" IN PARAGRAPH 8 ! In the interest of clarity, I will be using the following conventions in my review: Your Words: Bold Black{} My Impressions as I read: Bold Green Editing Suggestions:Bold Red OVERALL IMPRESSION Interesting story involving Deirdre who is not impressed with the 21st century and prefers older times when gentlemen acted accordingly. What I Liked Best: The elements of mystery and the past mingled well and drew me in. WRITING SKILLS AND CRAFT Opening Sentence: We know where Deirdre is and who she is. Good job there. Opening Paragraph: Set the stage for the chapter and who Deirdre is. Plot: Deirdre is writing a term paper about her family and goes in search of information in the library's basement as a storm has started. With the help of her best friend, Kay, the two girls find themselves in spooky situation. Character Development: I liked Deirdre who dances to the beat of her own drummer, and doesn't seem to fit in with everyone else. Though she takes it a little too far expecting someone to open and hold the door for her at college. Kay being her opposite is a good introduction in the story to play off Deirdre. Dialog: Dialogue worked well between the friends and added to the descriptions. Spelling & Punctuation: No issues. Grammar: Her fear turned returned<--this doesn't read well to fascination once she opened the book. Continuity: Story moved well and was easy to keep up with. Good descriptions through out that showcased your main character. Form: No issues Clarity: Deirdre is about to be thrust into a mystery during her research of her family, that was clearly defined. Hook: The term paper, and what Deirdre uncovers. CREATIVITY and PRESENTATION Structure: Good first chapter that introduces your main character. She was easy to identify with and interesting enough to make me care about her. Figurative Language & Vocabulary: Rhythm & Meter: The chapter moved along at a good, steady pace. CLOSING STATEMENT I enjoyed your opening chapter. Your characters were vibrant and easy to picture. The story unfolded well. Good contrast between Kay and Deirdre. Purple Holiday Givings
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