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the hero
by Sue Ragland

Double-click on any word and see its definition from Cambridge Dictionaries Online

In this short story from the East of the Web short story website, we learn about someone who almost goes to war.

Before you read the story, look at the glossary below, which explains words that are important for understanding the text. Then, go to the East of the Web website and read the story. You may choose to print the story out (printable version) or download it (handheld version). When you have finished reading, answer some questions. Finally, do some writing yourself.

Glossary

armistice (n): an agreement between two countries or groups at war to stop fighting for a particular time, especially to talk about possible peace.
bark (v): to shout at someone in a forceful manner.
brag (v): to speak too proudly about what you have done or what you own.
cheer (v): to give a loud shout of approval or encouragement.
destiny (n): the things that will happen in the future.
draft (n): the system of ordering people by law to join the armed forces.
duress (n): threats used to force a person to do something.
ecstatic (adj): extremely happy.
eternity (n): a very long time.
gaze (v): to look at something or someone for a long time, especially in surprise, admiration or because you are thinking about something else.
grind/ground to halt (v): to stop slowly.
implore (v): to ask someone to do or not do something in a very sincere, emotional and determined way.
lament (v): to express sadness and regret about.
muster (v): (especially of soldiers) to gather together, especially in preparation for fighting, or to cause to do this.
regiment (n): a large group of soldiers, or (more generally) any large number of things or people.
rookie (n): a person who is new to an organization or an activity.
scoff (v): to laugh and speak about a person or idea in a way which shows that you think they are stupid or ridiculous.
the inevitable (adj): something that is certain to happen and cannot be prevented.
throng (n): a crowd or large group of people.

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Your turn

Write a story about something that almost happened and send it to us.

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