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2 When an author writes a story he/she usually has a purpose or message to convey to the reader. Many times the author doesn’t come right out and tell the message. The reader has to figure it out from the characters actions, and events that happen in the story. This show has some common messages or themes that may be found in stories. See if you can guess what the hidden message is from each short quote or paragraph. Good Luck Message Detectives.

3 Each event, my dear, has made me what I am today. I am strong because I have survived unusual events. The fight may be long, but the victory will be sweet. a. To get what you want no matter who you hurt b. To look at what others have and try to get it c. To fight for what you believe in and to be thankful for what you have. The author’s message is….

4 If you Think Big, nothing on earth will keep you from being successful. Benjamin Carson a.You should be conceited b. Always believe you can do anything c. Show off and let people see how cool you are. The author’s message is….

5 “ You once laughed at me,” the mouse said. “Now you know that even a little mouse can do great deeds.” a.Don’t make judgments about someone based on how they look. b Small people can’t do what big people can. c. Never trust anyone The author’s message is….

6 “Some of us are timid. We think we have something to lose so we don’t try for that next hill. “ Maya Angelou a.Don’t try new things because you may fail b.Don’t be afraid to try something new c.Do what others say you can do The author’s message is….

7 Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through working for a worthy purpose. Helen Keller a.Material things will make you happy in your life b. Helping others is what really makes you feel valuable in life C, Having money is all you need to be happy The author’s message is …

8 “I know I’ll survive. I’m a fighter” Shirley Chisholm ( First African- American woman elected to U.S. Congress) a.Fighting is the best way to solve problems b. You can fight for things in other ways beside your fists C. Women can beat up men The author’s message is….

9 Everything is funny as long as it is happening to somebody else. Will Rogers a.You can laugh when something bad happens to someone else and not you b.Laughing is good for your health c.Put yourself in someone else’s place before you make a judgment The author’s message is….

10 “ I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.” Bill Cosby a.You must always make others happy b.You must make yourself happy c.Happiness is hard to achieve The author’s message is….