We Get Down to It in the Last PTP of 2025
The State of the Paper
The last paper of 2025 is here. Here on Substack I started posting the monthly publications in May. It truly has been so fun to bring you a new paper each month. Having a deadline every thirty days or so, has given me the accountability and consistency that I have looked for in the past. The paper has provided me with an excuse to look around at the world and develop those odd ideas I have into articles. I have expanded my repertoire, and gained a new drive for writing. I have all of you, dear readers, to thank for that. Because without your interest, this paper would have folded long ago. I can’t thank you enough for reading the words I clack out every month, it means quite a lot. In the vein of interest, I would implore you to think upon what your favorite article or piece was from this year. I would greatly enjoy knowing what grabbed your attention the most from PTP in 2025.
On the note of writing, I have a short story for you this month. The concept was first thought of in West Virginia; the wording started while in Ireland; and finally the story put together in Philly. This story has traveled quite a bit before landing in your inbox. But before you can get to it, I have reordered Ruth’s book corner so that it does not come last in this edition. The short story will be the final piece. I am adverse to making the Ruth fans scroll all the way down to get to their favorite mouse columnist. As always, thank you for reading and I will see you in 2026!
-Niall
Ruth’s Book Corner
What better time of year to read a family comedy drama then right before the holidays. Jennifer E. Smith’s Fun for the Whole Family follows four siblings as they reconnect and repair their relationships with one another. This all takes place over the course of a spontaneous family trip to Nort Dakota. As serious as it may sound, there is humor to be found within the pages.
The book manages the balance between levity and heavy notes quite well. The narrative inhabits all four of the siblings’ perspectives and I found each one to be an interesting if not vibrant character. To top it all off, snow plays a major factor in the story. I found it to be a great way to welcome in the winter weather. Looking for a well paced family drama that might have your little mouse eyes tearing up at the end? Look no further then Fun for the Whole Family.
-Ruth the Mouse
P.S. If you want to know my favorite holiday literature, look no further then Clement-Clarke Moore. The profoundness that he was able to bring to all of mouse kind is something to be celebrated.
Down to the Bone
This story has been removed from this republication.