"Whale Rider" Film by Niki Caro

I really like the movie “Whale Rider” because Paikea, one of the main character, had to struggle with a patriarchal tradition. She fought against this parameter in order to convince Koro, her idolized grandfather, that even though she was a girl, she can be the new chief in their community. Pai achieved many tasks, which were very important for her grandfather. It is incredible that today exist culture where women do not have the same rights as men and they are discriminated only for their gender. Although Pai was a child, she demonstrated that with perseverance, courage, resilience and determination any individual can reach their goals. Undoubtedly, at the end thanks to these qualities she was the rightful successor of Koro.

“Growing Up Old” by Richard Gonzalez

I completely agree with the ideas presented by Richard Gonzalez in his essay “Growing Up Old”. He believes that television negatively influenced our adolescents this is a questionless reality. Also, it is regrettable that teenagers are growing up so quickly. However, we only cannot blame the media because as parents we must care and supervise our children. Today parents are more involved in their own problems rather than in their children' behavior, attitude and friendship. Therefore, as parents, we need to develop a good and honest relationship with our children and help them to live each stage appropriately and completely.

“College Pressure” by William Zinsser

William Zinsser in his essay “College Pressure” shows the most important pressures that most college students usually have to face. He classified these pressures in four groups: economic, parental, peer and self-induced. Also, the author points out how these difficulties affect the student's life. In my opinion, the main effect caused by them is stress and definitely it can lower the student performance. It is pretty hard to deal with any kind of pressure, but students need to learn how to manage them in order to be successful. Life is full of difficult situations, so if you as a student wants to achieve your goals, you need to focus on your studies. In addition, keeping in mind that your priority must be to finish college and be the best in your area.

"My Wood" by E.M. Foster

I really like how E.M. Foster in his essay "My Wood" explains the most important psychological effects that involves being a property owner. These effects include the lose of autonomy, greediness, pretentiousness and selfishness. Definitely, this event can change everyone's life in a positive and negative way. However, I believe that every individual who acquire any possession must manage it with prudence, humility and simplicity. Owning properties do not make you better or more powerful than others. As a result, it is important to keep in mind that you know where you are now, but you never know where you will be tomorrow. Being modest and simple is the key to success.

“Why We Crave Horror Movies” by Stephen King

I disagree with the theory exposed by Stephen King in his essay “Why We Crave Horror Movies”. He said that people need to watch horror movies in order to keep them sane or satisfy their evil instincts. With this assumption, the author is encouraging this type of movies, which from my point of view are more insane than healthy. These movies promote violence and harmful emotions and can contribute to have a corrupted our society. I do not like horror movies because they are full of abominations and atrocities that are present in real life. Human beings are in need of peace and love, so we have to stimulate these feelings if we want to have more sensitive, compassionate and benevolent individuals.

“A Fable for Tomorrow” by Rachel Carson

“A Fable for Tomorrow” written by Rachel Carson relates the destruction of the environment everywhere, a reality to any individual and community cannot escape. The author describes a perfect paradise with birds, flowers, fish and a healthy nature which does not exist anymore. As a result, everything began to change, and we cannot guilt anyone because these damages had been done by ourselves. It is a direct consequence of the reckless use of pesticides, so if we continue to apply it without any control nature will be a fable for tomorrow. We must be aware of the environment’s importance in our lives and take a prompt action in this issue. Nature is our home, so we must protect and take care it.

“Neat People vs. Sloppy People” by Suzanne Britt

Suzanne Britt in her essay “Neat People vs. Sloppy People” compares these two types of individuals in an amusing way. The author believes that the difference between them is more morality than the cleanliness habit. She is in favor of the sloppy people, so she exalts their attitude and actions. I like when Britt said that sloppy ones live in the Never-Never land because they leave everything for later. In my opinion, Britt gives creative excuses for being sloppy. I disagree with her on the fact that neat people are sluggish, selfish, and careless because they throw out everything. In reality, I believe they are more organized, clean and methodical persons than sloppy ones.