I feel that this is especially true with regard to my grandfather, who recently passed away. Papa's passing has made me realize how much he has done for me, and how much of a loving man he was. ... Papa used to tell me stories about his struggles as a naval officer during World War II. ... His stories have taught me that there is a reason behind every struggle, and what really matters is how a person learns to overcome adversity. ... After his passing, I realized how much my grandpa meant to me. ...

• Word Count: 530
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

Each subsequent story draws us deeper into the fascinating history of the painting. ... In another story a couple must sell the painting to feed an abandoned child recovered during a debilitating flood. ... The painting that is a true Vermeer is a representation of something missing in all the characters lives. ... In A Night Different From All Other Nights, a Jewish family owns the painting during World War II. ... Saskia does not want to sell the painting because she believes that it tells the story of the abandoned baby's mother, and does not want the child to grow up without any herit...

• Word Count: 1031
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School