Characters
This is the main character who is sent to a remote Alaskan island instead of going to jail.
Cole Matthews
Garvey used this to compare with Cole's life
cake
What does “banishment” mean?
Being sent away as punishment
Who is the author?
Ben Mikaelson
What does Cole try to do to the Spirit Bear the first time he sees it?
attack it
He is the Tlingit elder who helps guide Cole through his healing journey.
Edwin
what do they pass around so people can have a chance to share/speak
feather
what does Vengeance mean?
Hurting someone because they hurt you first (revenge)
What does Cole eat to survive after being hurt?
Grass, bugs, worms, and a mouse
Why does Cole keep a piece of the Spirit Bear’s fur?
To remind himself of the experience and that it was real. Prove to others as well.
This character was attacked by Cole and now has a chance to speak at the Circle Justice
Peter Driscall
This natural element cleanses Cole after the bear attack.
Rain/water
what does isolation mean?
Being completely alone, with no one around
What lesson does Cole begin to learn after seeing the baby sparrows?
Life is fragile and all living things matter
What might the Spirit Bear symbolize in the story?
Inner strength, respect, healing, and the power of nature
Coles parole officer and instrumental in getting Cole into the Circle Justice program
Garvey
Cole carves this item to show his personal growth and progress.
totem pole
what does Rehabilitation mean?
Getting better after being hurt or making bad choices
What does Cole do in the cold pond?
soaks to calm down
After getting mauled by the bear, what activity did Cole try next?
A) Surfing, B) Playing dead, C) Extreme napping
(Answer: C – He could barely move and slept a lot while healing)
Coles lawyer in touching spirit bear
Nathaniel Blackwood
Edwin demonstrates that this action is a way to reflect and find balance. (release anger)
rolling the ancestor rock
What does empathy mean?
Understanding how someone else feels
Garvey gave this to Cole to say he was hoping he could trust Cole.
What is the at.oow
What is Circle Justice meant to do?
Help heal everyone affected by a crime—not just punish