Name___________________________ Book Project

Date____________________________ Character Suitcase

Character Suitcase Instructions

After reading a novel, you will interpret a character by ‘packing a suitcase’ with tangible and intangible items the character might take on a trip. (Objects may be handmade, computer art, stickers, or small objects.)

Materials you might use:

Small cardboard boxes to use for suitcases, construction paper, markers, colored pencils, glue sticks, scissors, fabric scraps, stickers, computer art

You need to include the following items:

_____ A luggage tag that has the character’s name, address, and destination written on it.

____ Memorabilia to decorate the outside of the suitcase, such as bumperstickers or

mementos from previous trips.

____ Ten items the character would pack. These items may be both tangible and

intangible. For example, Brian Robeson, the main character in Hatchet, packs a

hatchet (tangible) and courage (intangible) because he needs both to survive.

____ A typed explanation stating why the character chose to pack each of the ten items.

It should be written from the character’s point of view.

Typed Explanation should have:

 No more than 3 misspelled words

 Complete sentences / no run-ons

 No more than 3 punctuation or capitalization errors

 Introduction and 10 items with an explanation

Pass Not Pass

( Meets all the requirements of the project) (All requirements are not met)

Example

John Smith Book Project

October 19, 2003 Character Suitcase

Brain Robeson’s Suitcase

Last summer I flew in a Cesna 406 enroute to visit my dad in the Canadian backcountry. When the pilot had a fatal heart attack, the plane crashed, leaving me to fend for myself in the middle of the wilderness. Since I plan to return, I know what to pack for this trip. (This is your introduction form the character’s point of view.)

1. A hatchet: It was my lifeline last summer. Without a hatchet

I would not have been able to chop wood for the fire or have

been able to make a shelter.

2. A twenty dollar bill: I’m bringing this just in case I need it

for tinder to start a fire. I’m also bringing it to remind me that

money isn’t everything in life.

3. A compass: This is necessary to find my way around. I took

a course and learned how to use it last winter.

(These are the 10 items

4. A sleeping bag: Without a sleeping bag, I spent many nights and an explanation

last summer shivering with the cold. This will keep me warm. of why the character

packed each one.)

5. A tent: Wow! To be able to put up a tent without constructing

a shelter is a luxury. I will enjoy my stay instead of worrying about

protection from the elements.

6. A canteen: Since water is essential, I’ll carry a canteen this time.

I might not be lucky enough to find a lake on this trip.

7. A first aid kit: The kit will make it easier to bandage and disinfect

any wounds I might get. It is good to be prepared for emergencies.

8. A candle: To remind me not to lose hope, I’ll light a candle every night.

When I lost hope last summer I became depressed and almost died.

9. A medal for bravery: My hometown gave me a medal for bravery upon

my return last year. It will remind me of the courage I need to have.

10. A picture of my best friend, Terry: The picture will keep me from

feeling lonely and isolated in the wilderness. Having the support of a good

friend gets me through the worst of times.