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The Tales of Rita
Thesis   Open access

The Tales of Rita

Hannah Bailey
University of West Florida Libraries
Master of Arts (MA), University of West Florida
2026

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Abstract

Relationships Storytelling Family Fiction Values or Moral Education
This excerpt from a larger short story collection titled The Tales of Rita explores the dynamic between modern generations and traditional values. From her hospital bed, Hazel is forced to endure company of the elderly Rita and Walter as they tell her stories about their past. At least one tale from Rita and Walter is featured in each short story, and these tales each hold a special lesson that Hazel can apply to her own life. Each short story features symbols, characterization, and comic relief to open the dialogue about the importance of listening and paying attention to details. The primary symbol in the collection is Hazel’s phone. It represents the modern generation’s dependence on technology and not communication between people. Similarly, this collection employs numerous different types of character to create a more diverse environment within the story and keep it interesting to younger audiences. As this collection is written for teenagers and young adults, the range of characters is paired with comic relief to give the reader breaks from the harsh themes of loss, misunderstanding, and betrayal. Walter and Rita try their best to console Hazel and guide her through these feelings, but Hazel is responsible for her own decisions. Will she choose to forgive those who have upset her, or will she cling to her deceptively comfortable reality?
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