After reading your Storybook page along with your introduction, I first noticed the eye-catching background! I love the glamour feel of the sparkles of the background! Unfortunately, the picture on your homepage would not load on my laptop. However, the pictures in the introduction were just fine! In fact, I thought the second picture (the one of baby Hercules and the snake). The picture accurately demonstrated Hercules' strength and fearlessness. In my opinion, I thought your introduction was attention-grabbing. I think you demonstrated the character of Hercule's self-righteous mother. I remember the movie and the famous story of hercules, but I think his mother is sort of underwritten since no one recalls her in the story. Your introduction went into just the right amount of detail. I want to know more, but at the same time I feel I got a full understanding of what your storybook will be about. I am eager to know the tasks his mother completed that helped him become the hero in history he is known to be! In addition, I am curious to find out about Hera's husband and what his deceiving acts were. Why would a father of such a magnificent prodigy could possibly want to hurt the woman who bore him.
Hercules is definitely one of the greatest heroes of all-time. I think Disney made sure that everyone knows just how awesome Hercules is, but they definitely didn't show everyone how much Hera intervened in his life. I think most people don't realize that her anger over Zeus' infidelity made her want to take "revenge" on Hercules. That's what I think makes your topic so intriguing. How does Hera respond when Hercules is rewarded with a place on Olympus? Telling his stories through her perspective is going to be a really cool way to shake things up! I really like the overall look of your storybook. It gives your website that ethereal, heavenly feel that I think it needs. Your introduction is great. I like how you have Hera trying to spin her mistreatment of Hercules as tough-love parenting haha. Is anyone going to actually believe that she had him go fight the hydra, just so that he could prove his strength? I also like how she pretty much blames Zeus for everything. And to be honest, it probably is his fault, to a large degree haha. He definitely had a habit of cheating on Hera and fathering demi-gods. All in al, you've got a great start on your storybook, and I can't wait to see where it goes!
I also had trouble loading your homepage, but by the looks of everything else, I am sure I would like it too! I really like the sparkly background for this, it's not too distracting and definitely not bland. I really liked your introduction. It was straight forward and did not leave me with any unanswered questions. I think it is a really cool idea to tell the stories of Hercules from his number one enemy, his step-mother. I think that will put a really interesting twist on the stories and give you a lot of room for creativity to write and have fun with it. I like the images you used as well, especially the one where he is tricking Hera. I didn't read these stories so I thought it was really cool learning that the Milky Way was created by him and Hera. I think that works really well with the background since it is kind of star-like, but maybe I'm looking too into it haha. Overall, I think you did a really good job with the introduction, and you have a really cool idea for a storybook. I can't wait to see what other stories you write!
I really enjoyed reading your storybook this week! I have split up the comments below:
Coverpage Unfortunately, I couldn’t get the image on your coverpage to pull up. I tried it on two different browsers so I’m not sure what happened there. Due to the lack of image, it is hard for me to comment on your coverpage, but I think the background is fun and I like the use of colors. They aren’t too much but bring a fun vibe to the book.
Introduction I thought that your introduction was very well laid out. Your use of details and imagery along with the stories you are going to tell in your book were very fascinating! Your introduction left enough to the imagination that I am excited to read the first story, yet it also told me enough that I know what I am getting myself into. I think telling the story from a different character’s point of view is also really cool!
The First Labor Your first story was a great read. I didn’t know much about the real story of Hercules outside of Disney but I liked that you explained what was going on at the beginning and brought the audience up to speed. Your use of details was great again and I didn’t have a problem following your retelling so I though that was really great. I enjoyed it a lot!
Hello Liza-Ann! I chose your story to read because your title is very eye catching. Part of the reason I took this course was because of my love for Greek Mythology. I love learning, reading, and watching anything involving Greek gods and goddesses. First thing that I thought when I began to read your introduction was that I really enjoyed the explanation at the beginning. It started the story off nicely and helped me understand the story better. The story of Hercules is always interesting and I loved how you’re going to use Hera as a narrator. Despite her being the “villain” it’s always nice to hear their side of the argument, and I think this is a great opportunity for her to do so. I think by choosing this style of writing it’ll definitely show Hera in a new light. You’re very descriptive and I think that’s a great quality to have in a story. Not only is it very helpful for the reader but the author as well. Now that I have read your introduction, I kind of wish that I chose to write over a Greek Mythology. I’m very interested in your story, and am looking forwarding to reading more!
Hi Liza-Ann! From the comments above, it seems as if there were some technical difficulties with your cover page and images not showing up, but when I looked at it, it appears that everything has been cleared up. Nice job with that!
Immediately after opening your storybook, the background caught my eye. I love the color scheme and pattern that you chose; it certainly reminds me of the end of Disney's Hercules, where everything has a soft glow to it. It is very eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing. You definitely have an eye for design, and the technical skills to incorporate it.
Your introduction was well written--it was both interesting and informative. Aside from Zeus's constant infidelity and Hercules's being a product of one of his father's many affairs, I did not know much about the story of Hercules outside of the account that Disney gave. It is interesting to me, then, that you chose to tell his story through Hera's eyes. I liked how it was laid out: the first person narration was a good choice as it provided insight into her plans and actions, and gave the reader more understanding of where she was coming from with each decision.
Overall, great job! I can't wait to come back and read more of this storybook!
I just wanted to say thank you for you feedback about my storybook project. I really appreciate all of your kind words about the details in my story. It's funny that you brought up the word count because that was definitely a struggle for me that week. I ended up at like 980 words, with just a few to spare. But I though that the dates and times of the diary entries were important enough to include, and they helped me keep my writing concise.
I just wanted to stop by and thank you for your great advice and help on my storybook. Your feedback about the content of my retelling of Humpty Dumpty was so great to hear and makes me feel like I'm doing something right so thank you! I hope you have a great weekend!
Hi Liza! I wanted to thank you for the feedback on my storybook! I'm really glad you enjoyed it. I'll be checking out yours with the Hercules myths this weekend! It's always interesting to see what other people are with other ancient myths! Thanks again!
Hi Liza, Thank you so much for you comments and great advice you had for me. I am glad that you liked my Story about Bri. I know you wanted to hear Part 2. I'll be sure and try to finish it so you can finally see what happens to her.
Hey Liza! This is my first time looking at your storybook page and I really like the idea of retelling the stories of Hercules that many of us know so well through the eyes of his step-mother. Since she was so awful to Hercules during his lifetime, it will be interesting to see what she has to say about each situation.
For your cover page, I like the sparkling background that gives Hercules a very heroic lighting. One thing that I would change would be making your image a little bit larger. Since this is the first glance we get for what your storybook will be about, I think that it is nice to make a statement with your image.
For your introduction, I love that you decided to use images even though that was not a requirement! I think that it adds a little extra flare to your story. As for the content of the introduction, I like that you give us some background knowledge on how you are planning to set up the remainder of your storybook. I think that it will be interesting to see how Hera explains her intentions of her misdeeds in order to win favor with Hercules as he starts his life in Olympus.
I thought that it was interesting that Hera explains her dislike for Hercules to be caused by her unfaithful husbands trickery. I mean, I would be a bit upset to if my husband had tricked me into breast feeding a child that was his and not mine! Hera's line, " when I realized what had occurred, I knew that it was now my responsibility to shape him into a great hero..." made me chuckle. It is funny that she could make such a huge claim that she was the one responsibility for shaping Hercules into the hero he is now!.
Overall, I thought that your storybook has a great flow to it and seems to be very interesting! Wonderful job and keep up the great work!
Hi again! I love the idea of your storybook to have Hera tell Hercules’ stories. First of all, I like the collage you used with the statues and paintings of Hercules for your cover page. I think they are great for the look and feel of your storybook. I like your background as well. It wasn’t what I was expecting but it has a type of other worldly feel that I think fits the theme and Hera very well.
I like your introduction. Its interesting seeing Hera twist everything that happened to try and appear, not only as not the villain, but almost the savior of the story. Also, I like how your setting is a banquet in which Hercules is being welcomed as an immortal. It was also clever how every once in while Hera will say something that jabs at Zeus or Heracles, but it’s subtle and she turns it around quickly. This isn’t a big thing, but I would have liked to have the first paragraph labeled as the Author’s note somewhere and maybe separated from the rest of the story by either an extra space or the picture. As I said, it’s just personal preference but I think it would help to separate out the two more.
Your first story was interesting. I liked that you had Hera saying she was actually trying to dissuade the women from attacking Hercules. There would be no one there to deny what she was saying. I thought it was interesting that you had Hercules trying to get the belt for Hera, I thought maybe she was going to try to steal it from him to wear, or something but I think your version turned out very well. The only revision I would suggest for your first story, is that ‘parties’ in the last line of the first paragraph has an extra ‘I’ added. Overall great job so far with your storybook. I look forward to reading more in the coming weeks!
I like your idea of telling these well-known stories from a new angle. So often, stories are told by the heroes, and they get passed down from generation to generation. But what no one knows is that the villain wasn't so bad to begin with. It's always a good idea to hear from both sides.
I enjoyed how your introduction was Hera's speech and how it was set at Hercules' initiation banquet. I also really like how you presented Hercules' trials as tests from Hera. That was a clever presentation.
At the end of your introduction, there is a sentence with an extra verb. "Thus this is where his infamous labors had would come into play." I believe the word "had" is extra here. In your first story, I think Hera's motives for having Hercules get the belt are so funny. She wants to test Hercules, of course, but she also wants to wear the belt to upcoming parties. This is a good way of showing her true character and underscores the fact that maybe these "tests" weren't really in Hercules' best interests.
I enjoyed how much of this story was told in comical confusion. Everyone thinks everyone else is doing something wrong, and it makes for an entertaining storyline.
I also really appreciate the new angle you have brought to the myth. It reminded me of one of my favorite stories - The Three Little Pigs, but where it is told from the wolf's point of you and he plays it off like a whole misunderstanding (he just wanted a cup of sugar, and he has allergies that accidentally blow the houses down). I feel Hera telling it is her way of saying, "I'm not as bad as you think when it comes to this Hercules story!", which I think fits Hera's character in the various Greek mythologies.
Her ability to follow him, disguise herself, and make sure that Hercules gets through his journey in one piece is very interesting and an interesting take on divine intervention...which the gods are notorious for. I really like the story so far and I look forward to getting to read more of the labors of Hercules as told by Hera, because every now and again, you just need a fresh perspective, and that's what really works for your storybook.
The cover page looks nice. Would’ve been nice to see Hera there (perhaps something of her giving Hercules’ the tasks or something) but it looks fine. I especially like your sparkly background, helps give the ‘razzle dazzle’ illusion I feel the whole thing is about. (If you know the song “Razzle Dazzle” from Chicago that sentence will make more sense.) Oh, ok. It’s really good that you have that author’s note at the beginning of the introduction, because you’re going a totally different direction that I thought you were. Your introduction is absolutely clever though - totally sounds like something Hera would say. Also, kudos for finding and using the little-known myth about the Milky Way in order to give Hera her justification. I read the First Labor story, and absolutely love the reasoning Hera gives - her wanting to borrow the belt for some parties. Very believable. Same with the rest of Hera’s actions. The explanations given are just flimsy enough that anyone who knows a little of Greek mythology will know something’s up, but it’s very cleverly put and makes for a highly believable story. Considering things like that have indeed happened in mythos, it was a very clever take on the ninth labor indeed.
Liza-Ann, first off, I really like the idea of telling the stories of Hercules through Hera, his stepmother. Sometimes it is really interesting to get the perspective of the evil character to learn more about their feelings, thoughts, intentions, etc. Looking at your storybook, I really like the theme and look of it with the stars and colorful feel that resembles Greek mythology with a feminine touch - perfect for Hera! I also thought your home page photo was very fitting!
As far as your introduction, I feel like I really learned a lot!! It outlined the who each character was (Hera, Zeus, Hercules), and gave me new insight into how the relationship between Hera and Hercules started and why there was so much 'bad-blood' between the two, so great job there! One suggestion I might make though is that while I thought the idea of Hera pleaded her case to the council about how she actually helped Hercules was a really great one, I wish you would have played it up a little bit more! I feel like the idea of her pleading to a court was mentioned in one line of the Author's Note, but had you made the introduction more dialogue-y with Hera and the council members or something along those lines, I think it will really draw in readers to your storybook!
As for your story, I read the Second Labor. Starting off, I was a little confused when you mentioned Hippolyte's belt. I believe it is in reference to the previous story, but since I did not read that story, I was unaware of the reference. Therefore, I might suggest briefly explaining it in this story. Aside from that, I found this story very interesting and a great example of all the tests Hera put Hercules through. I thought it was really great how much you really re-worked the story and researched various stories in order to piece them together and be able to tie Hera and Hercules in it!!! Overall, good job!!!
First of all, I love how you're taking Hera's perspective with the storybook. I think it is a great opportunity to practice imagine how one would explain their cruel actions, in this case. For example, I like how you imply that Hera puts a sarcastic spin on the word revenge. She seems pretty intend on taking much of the credit for Hercules herself. You do a great job at building her character. For example, I almost roll my eyes when she says, "When I realized what had occurred, I knew that it was now my responsibility to shape him into a great hero and prevent him from abusing the incredible strength he was gifted with." By the way, the collage of classical paintings on your coverpage seem to work well with your storybook. The good thing is that you have a small amount of white space compared to most people.
Throughout your first story, I feel that you still want your readers to see Hera as a goddess with misaligned intentions. For example, you write how she wants to borrow Hippolyte's belt to wear to a few parties. That seems to be her main concern over developing Hercules into a great hero. You must be great at character development!
Hi Liza-Ann. I have not visited your storybook yet this semester and I was excited to read your introduction and first story to see what “The Tales of Hercules as told by Hera” was about. First, I am glad you introduce who Hera was. I have heard of Hercules and I have seen the Disney movie but I did not know the name of his goddess stepmother. I could not believe that Hera was pretending to be doing good when she secretly wants her stepson killed! I was irritated at first with Hera as she immediately blamed her husband, Zeus for Hercules’ misfortune. However, you did a great job with constructing Hera’s argument. She was very convincing in her speech to the God’s that it was Zeus who caused all the problems. I only read “The First Labor” story this time so I could revisit your storybook in the future. You did a great job on changing up the story from the original version. You have made Hera’s character more conniving and creative which is fun for a reader to read! Your home page, set up, theme, pictures, and color scheme all look great and work nicely together. Keep up the good work!
Let me start by saying that your title was the reason I chose your storybook for my “free choice” for this week’s Internet Assignment. I absolutely ADORE Greek mythology, so I was really looking forward to reading your storybook.
I was delighted to see that you also chose to use a collage for your photo on the cover page. I too used a collage and I think it’s a great way to incorporate the different layers you’ll be using.
I like the fact that we’re going to hear/read/see the labors of Hercules through the eyes of Hera. This is definitely a fresh approach to storytelling. I also like how you’ve made it seem as though Hera isn’t really jealous or angry with Hercules and that she has “taken him under her wing,” so to speak. Way to make it your own.
When I read your first story, “The First Labor,” I was pleasantly surprised. I thought I’d read and seen almost every Hercules story and movie, but this story of the Amazon women was one I had never heard before. And again, I really enjoyed the way you turned this story around a bit and made it your own, changing Hera’s true malicious intentions to those of true concern for Hercules’ well-being.
I like your storybook, Liza-Ann. Keep up the great writing….
I was very impressed by your storybook; I can tell a lot of work went into it! The stylistic choices you made for the homepage to your storybook, in my opinion, fit in perfectly with the theme of the tale. The violet gradient background covered in what appear to be stars is not only visually appealing, but has a celestial quality that is very appropriate for the tale of a man (or half god, half man) whose father is literally from the heavens. The translucent backdrop for the navigation box and the soft colored gradient behind your image further invoke this ethereal feeling. While many of the storybooks I have seen have suffered from undersized images on their homepage, yours seems to be an appropriate size!
Your introduction does a great job of setting up the rest of your storybook. Although I was familiar with the character of Hercules, I couldn't recall who Hera was. It was a great idea to include a note about their relationship at the top of the intro! It is interesting to see how Hera twists these tales of Hercules against him. In the first labor she makes it seem as if she is just trying to help, when in reality she is trying to have Hercules killed!
Hey Liza! Wow, what a great storybook you have! I love the background picture you use. It is really beautiful and very eye-catching! This definitely draws in readers to want to read more.
As for your coverpage, it looks great. You have great pictures as well for your coverpage. It gives a little sneak peak about what stories are in your storybook. I really like your idea of retelling the Tales of Hercules from Hera’s point of view. There are always two sides to a story and not enough people hear her side! Great idea!
As for your introduction, you also did a great job on this. I like how you added an author’s note. It is very helpful for readers to imagine what is happening at the beginning of the story. I also love the pictures you added to the introduction. You definitely put a lot of thought into your storybook so that readers could enjoy the overall experience.
As for your stories, they are all very well written! I am very impressed by the detail you added to each story. I don’t think I have any complaints or corrections on any of them. You did a great job and Hera would be proud!
Overall, your storybook is awesome! You pay a lot of attention to detail in all aspects of your storybook! It was a very enjoyable experience visiting your storybook! Keep up the great work!
Hi, Liza! I just ready your second story. Once again, you did a great job taking the original story and making it your own and fit well into your storybook. I love how you continue to make Hera present herself as the helpful step mother but you also include her desire to be the best, like with the accessories and how she always wants to one up all the other goddesses. One of my stories also featured the golden apple tree. It’s really interesting how there are so many variations to the same myths in Greek religion. It makes it difficult to decide what to include but it also makes it easier to make the story work more for what each person needs. I thought it was really cool how we both told a story which focused on the same mythological tree but took it very different ways.
There was only one typo I found and it was just a missing quote mark in the in the second to last paragraph of the story. The quote that stretches from the first to beginning of the second line in the story doesn’t close. “I am no longer content with my assigned job.(“) He continued…” I’ve really enjoyed reading your storybook! You have done a great job!
I remember reading your introduction and being really intrigued. So, I'm back to check in with our hero, Hercules! I still like your idea that Hera is trying to explain herself. She's definitely not the good and protective parent that she tries to look like. Sending her son to steal a belt from an army of Amazonian women definitely doesn't seem like the parental thing to do. I do like that you changed the story to make it look like she was helping Hercules. It is definitely seems like it was nice of her to try and help, but she clearly made things worse, just like she did in the original. I was excited to read about the next task!
Hercules is starting to look like Hera's errand boy haha. First he went and got her a belt, now he's going to get her groceries! I like how you have Hera admitting to making this task more difficult, even though she said she was trying to test him and make him stronger. Of course though, Hercules succeeds because he's Hercules and that's what he does. I do like that he didn't use his strength in this task, instead he used his ingenuity. I really have enjoyed your storybook. Nice work!
Hey Lizz-Ann,
ReplyDeleteAfter reading your Storybook page along with your introduction, I first noticed the eye-catching background! I love the glamour feel of the sparkles of the background! Unfortunately, the picture on your homepage would not load on my laptop. However, the pictures in the introduction were just fine! In fact, I thought the second picture (the one of baby Hercules and the snake). The picture accurately demonstrated Hercules' strength and fearlessness. In my opinion, I thought your introduction was attention-grabbing. I think you demonstrated the character of Hercule's self-righteous mother. I remember the movie and the famous story of hercules, but I think his mother is sort of underwritten since no one recalls her in the story. Your introduction went into just the right amount of detail. I want to know more, but at the same time I feel I got a full understanding of what your storybook will be about. I am eager to know the tasks his mother completed that helped him become the hero in history he is known to be! In addition, I am curious to find out about Hera's husband and what his deceiving acts were. Why would a father of such a magnificent prodigy could possibly want to hurt the woman who bore him.
Can't wait to read the rest of this storybook!
Hercules is definitely one of the greatest heroes of all-time. I think Disney made sure that everyone knows just how awesome Hercules is, but they definitely didn't show everyone how much Hera intervened in his life. I think most people don't realize that her anger over Zeus' infidelity made her want to take "revenge" on Hercules. That's what I think makes your topic so intriguing. How does Hera respond when Hercules is rewarded with a place on Olympus? Telling his stories through her perspective is going to be a really cool way to shake things up!
ReplyDeleteI really like the overall look of your storybook. It gives your website that ethereal, heavenly feel that I think it needs. Your introduction is great. I like how you have Hera trying to spin her mistreatment of Hercules as tough-love parenting haha. Is anyone going to actually believe that she had him go fight the hydra, just so that he could prove his strength? I also like how she pretty much blames Zeus for everything. And to be honest, it probably is his fault, to a large degree haha. He definitely had a habit of cheating on Hera and fathering demi-gods. All in al, you've got a great start on your storybook, and I can't wait to see where it goes!
Liza-Ann,
ReplyDeleteI also had trouble loading your homepage, but by the looks of everything else, I am sure I would like it too! I really like the sparkly background for this, it's not too distracting and definitely not bland.
I really liked your introduction. It was straight forward and did not leave me with any unanswered questions. I think it is a really cool idea to tell the stories of Hercules from his number one enemy, his step-mother. I think that will put a really interesting twist on the stories and give you a lot of room for creativity to write and have fun with it. I like the images you used as well, especially the one where he is tricking Hera. I didn't read these stories so I thought it was really cool learning that the Milky Way was created by him and Hera. I think that works really well with the background since it is kind of star-like, but maybe I'm looking too into it haha.
Overall, I think you did a really good job with the introduction, and you have a really cool idea for a storybook. I can't wait to see what other stories you write!
Liza-Ann,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your storybook this week! I have split up the comments below:
Coverpage
Unfortunately, I couldn’t get the image on your coverpage to pull up. I tried it on two different browsers so I’m not sure what happened there. Due to the lack of image, it is hard for me to comment on your coverpage, but I think the background is fun and I like the use of colors. They aren’t too much but bring a fun vibe to the book.
Introduction
I thought that your introduction was very well laid out. Your use of details and imagery along with the stories you are going to tell in your book were very fascinating! Your introduction left enough to the imagination that I am excited to read the first story, yet it also told me enough that I know what I am getting myself into. I think telling the story from a different character’s point of view is also really cool!
The First Labor
Your first story was a great read. I didn’t know much about the real story of Hercules outside of Disney but I liked that you explained what was going on at the beginning and brought the audience up to speed. Your use of details was great again and I didn’t have a problem following your retelling so I though that was really great. I enjoyed it a lot!
Hello Liza-Ann! I chose your story to read because your title is very eye catching. Part of the reason I took this course was because of my love for Greek Mythology. I love learning, reading, and watching anything involving Greek gods and goddesses. First thing that I thought when I began to read your introduction was that I really enjoyed the explanation at the beginning. It started the story off nicely and helped me understand the story better. The story of Hercules is always interesting and I loved how you’re going to use Hera as a narrator. Despite her being the “villain” it’s always nice to hear their side of the argument, and I think this is a great opportunity for her to do so. I think by choosing this style of writing it’ll definitely show Hera in a new light. You’re very descriptive and I think that’s a great quality to have in a story. Not only is it very helpful for the reader but the author as well. Now that I have read your introduction, I kind of wish that I chose to write over a Greek Mythology. I’m very interested in your story, and am looking forwarding to reading more!
ReplyDeleteHi Liza-Ann! From the comments above, it seems as if there were some technical difficulties with your cover page and images not showing up, but when I looked at it, it appears that everything has been cleared up. Nice job with that!
ReplyDeleteImmediately after opening your storybook, the background caught my eye. I love the color scheme and pattern that you chose; it certainly reminds me of the end of Disney's Hercules, where everything has a soft glow to it. It is very eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing. You definitely have an eye for design, and the technical skills to incorporate it.
Your introduction was well written--it was both interesting and informative. Aside from Zeus's constant infidelity and Hercules's being a product of one of his father's many affairs, I did not know much about the story of Hercules outside of the account that Disney gave. It is interesting to me, then, that you chose to tell his story through Hera's eyes. I liked how it was laid out: the first person narration was a good choice as it provided insight into her plans and actions, and gave the reader more understanding of where she was coming from with each decision.
Overall, great job! I can't wait to come back and read more of this storybook!
Hi Liza,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to say thank you for you feedback about my storybook project. I really appreciate all of your kind words about the details in my story. It's funny that you brought up the word count because that was definitely a struggle for me that week. I ended up at like 980 words, with just a few to spare. But I though that the dates and times of the diary entries were important enough to include, and they helped me keep my writing concise.
Thanks again!
Liza,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to stop by and thank you for your great advice and help on my storybook. Your feedback about the content of my retelling of Humpty Dumpty was so great to hear and makes me feel like I'm doing something right so thank you! I hope you have a great weekend!
Hi Liza! I wanted to thank you for the feedback on my storybook! I'm really glad you enjoyed it. I'll be checking out yours with the Hercules myths this weekend! It's always interesting to see what other people are with other ancient myths! Thanks again!
ReplyDeleteHi Liza, Thank you so much for you comments and great advice you had for me. I am glad that you liked my Story about Bri. I know you wanted to hear Part 2. I'll be sure and try to finish it so you can finally see what happens to her.
ReplyDeleteHey Liza! This is my first time looking at your storybook page and I really like the idea of retelling the stories of Hercules that many of us know so well through the eyes of his step-mother. Since she was so awful to Hercules during his lifetime, it will be interesting to see what she has to say about each situation.
ReplyDeleteFor your cover page, I like the sparkling background that gives Hercules a very heroic lighting. One thing that I would change would be making your image a little bit larger. Since this is the first glance we get for what your storybook will be about, I think that it is nice to make a statement with your image.
For your introduction, I love that you decided to use images even though that was not a requirement! I think that it adds a little extra flare to your story. As for the content of the introduction, I like that you give us some background knowledge on how you are planning to set up the remainder of your storybook. I think that it will be interesting to see how Hera explains her intentions of her misdeeds in order to win favor with Hercules as he starts his life in Olympus.
I thought that it was interesting that Hera explains her dislike for Hercules to be caused by her unfaithful husbands trickery. I mean, I would be a bit upset to if my husband had tricked me into breast feeding a child that was his and not mine! Hera's line, " when I realized what had occurred, I knew that it was now my responsibility to shape him into a great hero..." made me chuckle. It is funny that she could make such a huge claim that she was the one responsibility for shaping Hercules into the hero he is now!.
Overall, I thought that your storybook has a great flow to it and seems to be very interesting! Wonderful job and keep up the great work!
Hi again! I love the idea of your storybook to have Hera tell Hercules’ stories. First of all, I like the collage you used with the statues and paintings of Hercules for your cover page. I think they are great for the look and feel of your storybook. I like your background as well. It wasn’t what I was expecting but it has a type of other worldly feel that I think fits the theme and Hera very well.
ReplyDeleteI like your introduction. Its interesting seeing Hera twist everything that happened to try and appear, not only as not the villain, but almost the savior of the story. Also, I like how your setting is a banquet in which Hercules is being welcomed as an immortal. It was also clever how every once in while Hera will say something that jabs at Zeus or Heracles, but it’s subtle and she turns it around quickly. This isn’t a big thing, but I would have liked to have the first paragraph labeled as the Author’s note somewhere and maybe separated from the rest of the story by either an extra space or the picture. As I said, it’s just personal preference but I think it would help to separate out the two more.
Your first story was interesting. I liked that you had Hera saying she was actually trying to dissuade the women from attacking Hercules. There would be no one there to deny what she was saying. I thought it was interesting that you had Hercules trying to get the belt for Hera, I thought maybe she was going to try to steal it from him to wear, or something but I think your version turned out very well. The only revision I would suggest for your first story, is that ‘parties’ in the last line of the first paragraph has an extra ‘I’ added. Overall great job so far with your storybook. I look forward to reading more in the coming weeks!
Hi Liza,
ReplyDeleteI like your idea of telling these well-known stories from a new angle. So often, stories are told by the heroes, and they get passed down from generation to generation. But what no one knows is that the villain wasn't so bad to begin with. It's always a good idea to hear from both sides.
I enjoyed how your introduction was Hera's speech and how it was set at Hercules' initiation banquet. I also really like how you presented Hercules' trials as tests from Hera. That was a clever presentation.
At the end of your introduction, there is a sentence with an extra verb. "Thus this is where his infamous labors had would come into play." I believe the word "had" is extra here. In your first story, I think Hera's motives for having Hercules get the belt are so funny. She wants to test Hercules, of course, but she also wants to wear the belt to upcoming parties. This is a good way of showing her true character and underscores the fact that maybe these "tests" weren't really in Hercules' best interests.
I enjoyed how much of this story was told in comical confusion. Everyone thinks everyone else is doing something wrong, and it makes for an entertaining storyline.
I also really appreciate the new angle you have brought to the myth. It reminded me of one of my favorite stories - The Three Little Pigs, but where it is told from the wolf's point of you and he plays it off like a whole misunderstanding (he just wanted a cup of sugar, and he has allergies that accidentally blow the houses down). I feel Hera telling it is her way of saying, "I'm not as bad as you think when it comes to this Hercules story!", which I think fits Hera's character in the various Greek mythologies.
ReplyDeleteHer ability to follow him, disguise herself, and make sure that Hercules gets through his journey in one piece is very interesting and an interesting take on divine intervention...which the gods are notorious for. I really like the story so far and I look forward to getting to read more of the labors of Hercules as told by Hera, because every now and again, you just need a fresh perspective, and that's what really works for your storybook.
The cover page looks nice. Would’ve been nice to see Hera there (perhaps something of her giving Hercules’ the tasks or something) but it looks fine. I especially like your sparkly background, helps give the ‘razzle dazzle’ illusion I feel the whole thing is about. (If you know the song “Razzle Dazzle” from Chicago that sentence will make more sense.)
ReplyDeleteOh, ok. It’s really good that you have that author’s note at the beginning of the introduction, because you’re going a totally different direction that I thought you were. Your introduction is absolutely clever though - totally sounds like something Hera would say. Also, kudos for finding and using the little-known myth about the Milky Way in order to give Hera her justification.
I read the First Labor story, and absolutely love the reasoning Hera gives - her wanting to borrow the belt for some parties. Very believable. Same with the rest of Hera’s actions. The explanations given are just flimsy enough that anyone who knows a little of Greek mythology will know something’s up, but it’s very cleverly put and makes for a highly believable story. Considering things like that have indeed happened in mythos, it was a very clever take on the ninth labor indeed.
Liza-Ann, first off, I really like the idea of telling the stories of Hercules through Hera, his stepmother. Sometimes it is really interesting to get the perspective of the evil character to learn more about their feelings, thoughts, intentions, etc. Looking at your storybook, I really like the theme and look of it with the stars and colorful feel that resembles Greek mythology with a feminine touch - perfect for Hera! I also thought your home page photo was very fitting!
ReplyDeleteAs far as your introduction, I feel like I really learned a lot!! It outlined the who each character was (Hera, Zeus, Hercules), and gave me new insight into how the relationship between Hera and Hercules started and why there was so much 'bad-blood' between the two, so great job there! One suggestion I might make though is that while I thought the idea of Hera pleaded her case to the council about how she actually helped Hercules was a really great one, I wish you would have played it up a little bit more! I feel like the idea of her pleading to a court was mentioned in one line of the Author's Note, but had you made the introduction more dialogue-y with Hera and the council members or something along those lines, I think it will really draw in readers to your storybook!
As for your story, I read the Second Labor. Starting off, I was a little confused when you mentioned Hippolyte's belt. I believe it is in reference to the previous story, but since I did not read that story, I was unaware of the reference. Therefore, I might suggest briefly explaining it in this story. Aside from that, I found this story very interesting and a great example of all the tests Hera put Hercules through. I thought it was really great how much you really re-worked the story and researched various stories in order to piece them together and be able to tie Hera and Hercules in it!!! Overall, good job!!!
First of all, I love how you're taking Hera's perspective with the storybook. I think it is a great opportunity to practice imagine how one would explain their cruel actions, in this case. For example, I like how you imply that Hera puts a sarcastic spin on the word revenge. She seems pretty intend on taking much of the credit for Hercules herself. You do a great job at building her character. For example, I almost roll my eyes when she says, "When I realized what had occurred, I knew that it was now my responsibility to shape him into a great hero and prevent him from abusing the incredible strength he was gifted with." By the way, the collage of classical paintings on your coverpage seem to work well with your storybook. The good thing is that you have a small amount of white space compared to most people.
ReplyDeleteThroughout your first story, I feel that you still want your readers to see Hera as a goddess with misaligned intentions. For example, you write how she wants to borrow Hippolyte's belt to wear to a few parties. That seems to be her main concern over developing Hercules into a great hero. You must be great at character development!
Hi Liza-Ann. I have not visited your storybook yet this semester and I was excited to read your introduction and first story to see what “The Tales of Hercules as told by Hera” was about. First, I am glad you introduce who Hera was. I have heard of Hercules and I have seen the Disney movie but I did not know the name of his goddess stepmother. I could not believe that Hera was pretending to be doing good when she secretly wants her stepson killed! I was irritated at first with Hera as she immediately blamed her husband, Zeus for Hercules’ misfortune. However, you did a great job with constructing Hera’s argument. She was very convincing in her speech to the God’s that it was Zeus who caused all the problems. I only read “The First Labor” story this time so I could revisit your storybook in the future. You did a great job on changing up the story from the original version. You have made Hera’s character more conniving and creative which is fun for a reader to read! Your home page, set up, theme, pictures, and color scheme all look great and work nicely together. Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteLet me start by saying that your title was the reason I chose your storybook for my “free choice” for this week’s Internet Assignment. I absolutely ADORE Greek mythology, so I was really looking forward to reading your storybook.
ReplyDeleteI was delighted to see that you also chose to use a collage for your photo on the cover page. I too used a collage and I think it’s a great way to incorporate the different layers you’ll be using.
I like the fact that we’re going to hear/read/see the labors of Hercules through the eyes of Hera. This is definitely a fresh approach to storytelling. I also like how you’ve made it seem as though Hera isn’t really jealous or angry with Hercules and that she has “taken him under her wing,” so to speak. Way to make it your own.
When I read your first story, “The First Labor,” I was pleasantly surprised. I thought I’d read and seen almost every Hercules story and movie, but this story of the Amazon women was one I had never heard before. And again, I really enjoyed the way you turned this story around a bit and made it your own, changing Hera’s true malicious intentions to those of true concern for Hercules’ well-being.
I like your storybook, Liza-Ann. Keep up the great writing….
Hey Liza!
ReplyDeleteI was very impressed by your storybook; I can tell a lot of work went into it! The stylistic choices you made for the homepage to your storybook, in my opinion, fit in perfectly with the theme of the tale. The violet gradient background covered in what appear to be stars is not only visually appealing, but has a celestial quality that is very appropriate for the tale of a man (or half god, half man) whose father is literally from the heavens. The translucent backdrop for the navigation box and the soft colored gradient behind your image further invoke this ethereal feeling. While many of the storybooks I have seen have suffered from undersized images on their homepage, yours seems to be an appropriate size!
Your introduction does a great job of setting up the rest of your storybook. Although I was familiar with the character of Hercules, I couldn't recall who Hera was. It was a great idea to include a note about their relationship at the top of the intro! It is interesting to see how Hera twists these tales of Hercules against him. In the first labor she makes it seem as if she is just trying to help, when in reality she is trying to have Hercules killed!
Hey Liza! Wow, what a great storybook you have! I love the background picture you use. It is really beautiful and very eye-catching! This definitely draws in readers to want to read more.
ReplyDeleteAs for your coverpage, it looks great. You have great pictures as well for your coverpage. It gives a little sneak peak about what stories are in your storybook. I really like your idea of retelling the Tales of Hercules from Hera’s point of view. There are always two sides to a story and not enough people hear her side! Great idea!
As for your introduction, you also did a great job on this. I like how you added an author’s note. It is very helpful for readers to imagine what is happening at the beginning of the story. I also love the pictures you added to the introduction. You definitely put a lot of thought into your storybook so that readers could enjoy the overall experience.
As for your stories, they are all very well written! I am very impressed by the detail you added to each story. I don’t think I have any complaints or corrections on any of them. You did a great job and Hera would be proud!
Overall, your storybook is awesome! You pay a lot of attention to detail in all aspects of your storybook! It was a very enjoyable experience visiting your storybook! Keep up the great work!
Hi, Liza! I just ready your second story. Once again, you did a great job taking the original story and making it your own and fit well into your storybook. I love how you continue to make Hera present herself as the helpful step mother but you also include her desire to be the best, like with the accessories and how she always wants to one up all the other goddesses. One of my stories also featured the golden apple tree. It’s really interesting how there are so many variations to the same myths in Greek religion. It makes it difficult to decide what to include but it also makes it easier to make the story work more for what each person needs. I thought it was really cool how we both told a story which focused on the same mythological tree but took it very different ways.
ReplyDeleteThere was only one typo I found and it was just a missing quote mark in the in the second to last paragraph of the story. The quote that stretches from the first to beginning of the second line in the story doesn’t close. “I am no longer content with my assigned job.(“) He continued…” I’ve really enjoyed reading your storybook! You have done a great job!
Hey Liza-Ann,
ReplyDeleteI remember reading your introduction and being really intrigued. So, I'm back to check in with our hero, Hercules! I still like your idea that Hera is trying to explain herself. She's definitely not the good and protective parent that she tries to look like. Sending her son to steal a belt from an army of Amazonian women definitely doesn't seem like the parental thing to do. I do like that you changed the story to make it look like she was helping Hercules. It is definitely seems like it was nice of her to try and help, but she clearly made things worse, just like she did in the original. I was excited to read about the next task!
Hercules is starting to look like Hera's errand boy haha. First he went and got her a belt, now he's going to get her groceries! I like how you have Hera admitting to making this task more difficult, even though she said she was trying to test him and make him stronger. Of course though, Hercules succeeds because he's Hercules and that's what he does. I do like that he didn't use his strength in this task, instead he used his ingenuity. I really have enjoyed your storybook. Nice work!