Choose 1:
A) The book insert says that Napoli �wanted American readers to learn of the little-known stories of boys in Italy, Hungary, Romania, and other Axis countries who�because they were considered dispensable�were indentured by the Nazis to work for the war effort under inhumane conditions�. You are to research this �little-known story� and write a paper in which you report your findings. First, you will need to find books, articles, and other resources which are about Europe during WWII, then you will need to limit your search by finding information on how the youth from the above countries specifically were affected. If you choose this assignment, you will need to see me early on for a brief �lesson� on how to write a research paper. (4 pages minimum)
B) Throughout the story, several things acquire special significance for Roberto and seem to help him survive. First, there are the stories Samuele tells Roberto, then there is the stone the Polish girl gives Roberto, and finally, there is the thought of joining the partigiani. You are to either write an essay (3.5 pages minimum) or a letter to Samuele (4 pages minimum) in which you explain what these things signify for Roberto and how and why they �keep him going�. You must consider what is �special� about each thing (i.e. What does the stone symbolize, and why a stone?)
A) Aside from the obvious theme of the importance of wearing a helmet while riding a bike, a very important theme in the book is the death of a loved one. How does death change people? How do people try to cope with death? Do they go through different stages? Consider this theme and these questions in light of the story, and write an essay which explores some specific insights the book reveals about this topic. (i.e. Consider what p. 83 says about this topic as well as other pages�you probably will want to read the book through a second time and take notes). 3.5 pages minimum.
OR
B) Address the same topic as above, but in the form of a letter to the author. (same length)
Choose 1:
A) Imagine you are writing a letter to your parents trying to convince them to let you have a dog (or other pet) In your letter, you must write a persuasive argument for why children and pets make good partners. In your argument, show how Billy (a �kid you know�) matures as a result of training, hunting with, and finally losing Old Dan and Little Ann. Your letter should clearly demonstrate your knowledge of the book. (4 pages minimum)
B) After watching the movie Where the Red Fern Grows (based on the book), write an essay in which you compare the strengths/ weaknesses of the movie to those of the book. You are to look for major differences (i.e. don�t say �This character has blonde hair in the book and brown hair in the movie). Think about major differences in plot, setting, character development, themes, etc. Did they leave some very important parts of the story out of the movie? What was the effect of this change? Did they add elements to the story in the movie? What was the effect of these additions? Be sure to support everything you say with examples. You must take notes on the movie and turn them in with your assignment, and you will probably want to watch the movie more than once. (Essay total=3.5 pages minimum)