Questions

1.Cole was told, "What you do to the animals, you do to yourself," what is your opinion towards this statement?

I think the statement, "What you do to the animals you do to yourself", is true. It is similar to the saying,"What comes around goes around." If you take what you need from the island, and care for the animals, the animals will live in peace. If you harm the animals, the animals may defend themselves and harm you.

Follow-up: How is the saying,"Treat others the way you want to be treated", is relevant to the saying above?

2. How would you feel if you were in Cole's situation when he was mauled by the spirit bear? What would you think of?

I would be terrified. I would have a different view on life. I would think back into the past about all the things I did, and the things I might have regret doing. It is very hard for someone to change so fast, but if I had a near death experience and survived, I would want to turn into a better person.

Follow-up: How would a near death experience affect your life in the future?

3. If Cole had never gone to the island, and stayed in Minneapolis, would he have changed?

If Cole had stayed in Minneapolis, I think he wouldn't have changed. Cole has been to therapists before and they didn't work. Cole kept doing crimes and kept hurting other people. If he stayed, he would have went to jail. If Cole went to jail, it would not have helped him at all. Without the help of Edwin and Garvey and his time on the island, Cole would have been the same boy nobody liked.

Follow-up: If Cole had stayed in Minneapolis, could Garvey have helped him change?