There is a lot of criticism towards writers who have convenient orphans as their protagonists. It usually gets rid of the mundane issues of parents holding their children back from their adventures and is thought of as an overused cliche and plot device. However, is it so bad when it makes since in context? For example, my main character is a werewolf, and her family was killed in the attack that ended with her getting turned into a werewolf. That is a typical kind of background story for a werewolf, I know, but I plan to go somewhere new with it. But do you think people would have a problem with the dead family background? It doesn't come up a lot and she doesn't like to talk about it so there is no path of revenge or angst about her past. She's more of a keep moving forward kind of person even though it still hurts.
So would the dead parents be an issue with critics?
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Technically yes, and while i recognize that it is a cliche it does not usually bother me when i see it. Maybe i'm just biased because my protagonist lost her family as well, but honestly i didn't want to write a protagonist who is always having to be worried about her family's safety. That would drag down the plot. As far as cliches go it is one of the most acceptable ones in my opinion. So many stories use it but surprisingly few people seem to complain anout it.
There's nothing wrong with having an orphan as a protagonist. Yes, a lot of plots start off that way but it has more to do with the quality of the story overall, and how you use the cliche.
The main issue you will run into is that it could seem unrealistic if she survives the attack (especially as a little girl) and her parents don't. It doesn't mean there isn't a creative way to do it that will make sense, but it will take a little work.
Critics are just that, critics. They will critique your writing regardless of if your wereperson's parents are alive and kicking or dead as a doorknob. Just write what you want to and if your new idea is going somewhere run with it! Don't limit yourself if you already have an idea in mind. It's better to keep going while you have the muse than worry about if some critic is going to like it.
You don't have to reinvent the wheel to make a good story. Shakespearean plots are pretty simple overall. Don't worry about it.
It reminds me too much of Harry Potter, except that instead of being a werewolf Harry was a wizard. But if you really want to use it by all means go ahead. It's your story. Do what you want with it.