Hope Along the Way

Edward Tulane is an unlikely friend. He doesn’t have a heart. Even though he means the world to Abilene, the girl who considers this toy rabbit a treasure, Edward cares nothing for her, and for no one. His life is all about him. Then one day, he is forced on a journey that takes both him and the reader through interesting plot-twists, and introduces unique and colorful characters.

A lost toy rabbit with a porcelain face is not the usual protagonist, and Edward’s faults include selfishness, impatience, and a lack of love. So why would a reader care to open this book? Most readers want to cheer for someone in whom they see a bit of themselves. Why is this? It’s to gain hope, and usually the ending of a well-told story offers a better future along with personal growth for that person, or, in this case, rabbit. The title, The Miraculous journey of Edward Tulane, gives a hint of hope’s arrival. Any-age reader will connect with this fast-moving classic by Kate DiCamillo.

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Writing Prompt:

A) Fiction - Write a short story about a group of people and a shipwreck. Let hope be a theme in the story, whether it’s the hope for survival, purpose, or rescue.

B) Non-Fiction - As Christians, we are to “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (from 1 Peter 3:15 NIV). In less than 100 words write about this hope.