STORY REVIEW: JUST STUFFED

Name Censored

University of The People

ENGL 1102 – ENGLISH COMPOSITION 2

Nandhu Matta (Instructor)

June 29, 2023

 STORY REVIEW: JUST STUFFED

What is the text about?

The text is a short story about a man that accidentally stop by in a house of a turkey bird, named
Greta, during his turkey hunt amidst of thanksgiving. He mistakenly believes that Greta is a
turkey and that his cousin Russ is in danger. The story led us to think that there is horror element
in the existence of Greta and feel there will be a drastic turn of event before the ending. But we
soon discover that Greta is merely cooking a large potato.

What is the author’s view? How do I know?

The story is told in a third-person point of view with a theme that we usually find in a mystery
story. The main character initially appears to be an eccentric and secretive old lady who may
have malicious intentions. Randy’s thought also led us to think there will be something shocking
in the end. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Greta is kind-hearted and
hospitable. The author seems to suggest that appearances can be deceiving, and it's important not
to judge others based on superficial impressions.

What is the evidence presented by the author to support ideas?

The evidence presented by the author to support the ideas of challenging stereotypes is Greta's
initial portrayal. where she is depicted as an eccentric old lady who mutters about the holiday
and disguises her appearance with silly glasses and a wig. This creates a stereotype of a crazy old
lady, but it is later revealed that she uses these disguises to put people at ease and avoid
judgment.

The story shows that Greta is actually kind and emphatic, despite her initial reluctance to answer
the door, Greta shows empathy towards Randy, a stranger who is lost and cold. She invites him
inside, asks about his well-being, and provides him with a warm meal.

Is the evidence valid? How do I know?

Yes. We find people like Greta in our everyday lives. They show their silliness to make people at
ease around them. Or also people who seems one thing at first but actually have different kind of
personality than our initial thought.
Is the evidence relevant? How do I know?
The evidence provided in the story is relevant as it effectively supports the author's message of
breaking stereotypes, promoting empathy, and embracing kindness towards others. I can know
this by the humor at the ending where it is uncovered that our assumptions before that is wrong.
Greta is actually nice!

Have I heard/read anything similar or dissimilar? What was it?

One story that makes me think this is a horror story is Hansel and Gretel that tells about a witch
that lures people that are lost to her house with the intention of fattening them up and eventually
eating them. The initial part of this story makes me think it’s a similar story.

Do I agree or disagree with the views expressed by the author? Why?

I do agree with the author as We find people like Greta in our everyday lives. They show their
silliness to make people at ease around them. Or also people who seems one thing at first but
actually have different kind of personality than our initial thought.

Word Count :543

Reference:

Mangieri, W. (2023). Just Stuffed. Flash Fiction Magazine.

https://flashfictionmagazine.com/blog/2023/06/13/just-stuffed/