In Touching Spirit Bear, Cole learns the importance of perseverance, especially when it comes to surviving in a harsh climate like Alaska. When Cole is attacked by Spirit Bear, he's sure that he's going to die—but even though he's weak and horribly injured, Cole quickly learns he has what it takes to survive, including eating live mice and consuming pieces of fish he vomited up (so gross). Cole perseveres when it comes to turning his life around, sticking with the Circle Justice program and even trying to win Peter over and make amends even though the other boy will barely even look at him. Still, Cole doesn't give up—he just keeps on trucking on.
Questions About Perseverance
- How does Cole keep himself alive when he's attacked by Spirit Bear? What does he learn about himself in the process?
- Why does Cole want to return to the island after he's almost died? Back your answer up with evidence from the text.
- Does Cole eventually win Peter over? How?
- Do you think Cole will continue to do the right thing after his experience on the island? Why or why not?
Chew on This
Although Cole continually pushes Garvey away, the parole officer refuses to give up on him because he sees a lot of himself in the boy and knows that he's just lashing out because of how much he hurts.
When Peter Driscal comes to the island, he doesn't want to interact with Cole in any way. But Cole doesn't give up on trying to make amends with him because he knows it's his job to do so, even if it takes the rest of his life.