Final
Blog – Use the whole text to respond to both of the following:
1. Is Alex a hero or a
survivor? Or a little bit of both? Give
evidence and reasoning based on the whole text.
2. Record
any lingering questions you have about the story.
I think Alex is a survivor because he survived one of the worst events in history. I think that he is also more of a satisfier than a hero because he hurt Yanek only for his satisfaction and for Stashya's satisfaction. A hero is someone who will only hurt someone if it is truly the right thing to do. Not for satisfaction. I have one question which is: Do you think Alex is only for himself most of the time or not? Another one is: Do you think Stashya will ever see Alex again? If yes, what do you think will happen with them?
ReplyDelete-Ben B
I agree with you Ben. Alex is a survivor. A point I am trying to make, is that he survived through this event, and the book is about that only. I also agree with you on the part about hurting Yanek. Although, he might have done it for safety too. Keep that in mind, people who disagree with you might make that argument.
Delete-Iman S
I disagree with Ben because he only beat up Yenek because if Yenek DID see his hideout, his entire plan of survival could be ruined
Delete-Becca L.
I disagree that Alex is not much of a hero. He saved two people from a murderous German. Although he's more of a survivor, he is still a hero. (Plus, Yanek is a cruel pest!)
Delete- Lily M.
I disagree that Alex is not much of a hero. He saved two people from a murderous German. Although he's more of a survivor, he is still a hero. Plus, the only reason why Alex beat Yanek up was so he could get to the hideout. He also had second thoughts about beating Yanek up, knowing it was a mean trick, so it was not for his satisfaction.
Delete- Lily M.
Alex is actually both because he put other people's needs before his(not all heroes have to save people). He is a survivor because he survived months alone with Snow all by himself. So he is both
DeleteI think Alex is a survivor because he used tools to survive in the ghetto. He made a hideout with a rope ladder in the upper floor so no one can see him. In the hideout he made a bed, blanket, suit, shoes, sheet and coat. He brought candles, flashlight, tablespoon, food, golden chair, pencils and notebooks. He had money, secret passage and found trust. He made friends with Freddy and Henryk and he helped Henryk get better after he shot Henryk. He saved a little girl when he shot at the bad man. He even made friends on the Polish side. Alex is still more of a survivor than a hero.
ReplyDeleteJoseph C
I agree with you, Joseph. Alex was pretty clever to bring so many things with him to help him survive. I also agree that it was good that he made friends along the way! They really helped Alex through the whole situation.
DeleteCasandra G.
I agree with you Joseph that Alex knew good survival techniques to increase the probablity of surviving.
Delete~ John M
I agree because Alex was very clever to think and find things to help him survive.
DeleteBen K
I think Alex is a little bit of both. Why, well because Alex survived until his father came back to find him because he had food and clothing a burner quilts and much more and Alex had money and went over to the Polish side a few rimes to get things. Alex is a hero because he saved Martha when she was being taken from the man Alex also shot a German officer to save Henryk and Freddy. Alex also saved Henryk by crossing over to the Polish side to get the doctor to help heal Henryk. So in my opinion Alex is both a hero and a survivor.
ReplyDelete- Emma Mac
I agree that Alex is both a hero and a survivor
Delete-Becca L.
I think Alex is a survivor because he used tools to survive in the ghetto, like a rope ladder and a pistol and other handy tools. hes also a hero because he killed a man to help a little poor helpless dying little girl he also turned down the opportunity to live with a family where there was food and a good shelter
ReplyDelete-jonathan i
Interesting!!!
DeleteI think that Alex is a survivor and a hero for 3 reasons. One reason I think he is a survivor is that he survived at 78 bird street for 4 months. One reason I think he's a hero is that he saved the girl and the 2 men. Also my reason why I think he's both is that he kept himself alive and help save his life and others. In conclusion that's why I think Alex's a hero.
ReplyDeleteRobert Doherty
#:)
I agree with myself because Alex did all those things. Also he was more of a survivor though.
Deleterobert Doherty
#reply
I agree with you Robert, because he did save a girl which took courage which is a survivor act.
Delete~Cal M.
I agree with you Robert that is a pretty harcore survivor surviving 4 months in an apartment building with limited resources.
Delete~ John M
I hadn't thought about the mental strength it took to survive until I read your piece. Really Great points Robert!
Delete-Becca L.
I didn't think of the mental strength until I read John Ms peice
Delete-Becca L.
i agree with you because everything u said was true ans straight from da book
ReplyDeletejonathan 1
I agree.
DeleteI think Alex is a survivor because he used mantal and physical tools to survive in the ghetto.A survivor is a person who use its surroundings to either make tool or a shelter.He helped a little girl when he killed the man. Alex mad a bed, blanket, sheet,pillow,
ReplyDeleteNathaniel s.
I think Alex is a survivor and a hero because the definition of hero is a man of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities. Alex has helped his father keep hope and help Henryk to survive, which is definitely a noble deed. Also it takes courage to help him when Germans are patrolling all around. The definition of survivor is a person who continues to function or prosper in spite of opposition, hardship, or setbacks. Alex had these because he kept going to fulfill his destiny even when his father was taken away he never gave up hope even in the last part when he was about to but found his father shortly after. Alex kept functioning and prospering. These are reasons why Alex is a hero and a survivor.
ReplyDelete~Cal M.
I don't really agree with you Cal, on the part you said Alex helped his father keep hope. I was wandering isn't Alex who believes in his father and Alex has hope for his father that he will come back? Also Alex keeps hoping that his father will comes back to him that's what keeps Alex going.
DeleteTammy Y.
I agree with Cal VERY VERY VERY VERY much.Alex did do somethings that define a survivor and hero.
Deleterobert doherty
#Cal reply
I think Alex is both a hero and a surviver. I think he was both a hero and surviver because of the reasons listed below. One of the heroic acts he did was he help the 2 members of the resistance and kept one of them for a long time because he was wounded. In order to help him heal he had to make a trip to the polish side witch was very dangerous. I think he was hero because he survived in the ghetto for a very long time. He survived the hunger from finding small bits of food and making then last. He also survived the I think Alex is both a hero and a surviver. I think he was both a hero and surviver because of the reasons listed below. One of the heroic acts he did was he help the 2 members of the resistance and kept one of them for a long time because he was wounded. In order to help him heal he had to make a trip to the polish side witch was very dangerous. I think he was hero because he survived in the ghetto for a very long time. He survived the hunger from finding small bits of food and making then last. He also survived loneliness by reading and looking at people on the polish side.
ReplyDeleteJohn B
I think Alex is a survivor and a hero. I think he is a hero because of two acts he performed. The first one is when he saves Henryk and Freddy. In my opinion any one who saves another persons life is a hero. Another case like this is when he helps Martha, though the man may have not been going to kill her, we don't know what sort of plans he had for her. Though I think Alex is a hero, I also think he's a survivor. First of all, he survived all on his own in the middle of a war as kid, which counts for something. Also, when he made the plan to get rope from the factory, he strategized before he went and on many other occasions. Planning ahead can help you to survive. Also, to improve his situation and give him a better chance of surviving he decided to move from where he was, which ended up helping him a lot. Alex also proves himself to be a survivor by doing what he has to do to survive. Though shooting the German was also a heroic deed, he probably would've found Alex next, so Alex did what he had too. In my opinion it was also the same thing with Yanek. Yanek could have beaten him up and put him in a state where he would not be able to survive or he could've turned him in. To me, even though it may have seemed cruel what Alex did Yanek, it was just another thing he had to do in order to survive. Though I think Alex is a hero and a survivor I think he is a little more survivor than hero.
ReplyDelete-Anna.J
I think alex is a little bit of both.How he is a survivor is he learn new things like making a hideout and learn how to care for himself with only using he's head and things he learned from his father.Which he would never done if only his father was still with him.He's a hero because he saved henyrk.
ReplyDelete-Shaniay C
I think Alex is a hero. One reason I think this is because, Alex saved Henryk and Freddy. He saved them by, when the soldier was doing the laugh that they usually do before they shoot someone, Alex shot the soldier. By doing this he saved Henryk’s and Freddy’s life. Another reason I think Alex is a hero is, even after he saved Henryk and Freddy, he continued to heal Henryk. Alex even risked getting caught to go get a doctor for Henryk. These are the reasons I believe Alex is a hero.
ReplyDeleteCammi M
I think that Alex is a survivor. I think that because in the book Island on Bird Street Alex never really did heroic deeds, or traits or signs that proves he's a hero. Also in the book he did all those searching for food and such for himself, he also needs to survive this period in history. HE searched for food he searched for home and shelter. Even though he saved the little girl that's only one part in the story and most of it he just searched for food and materials.
ReplyDeleteTammy Y.
I think Alex is both a survivor and a hero. One reason that shows he is a survivor is that he lived by himself for 4 or 5 months. In these months he looked for food and made a shelter all by himself. One reason to show he is a hero is that he saved a little girl and 2 men. He didn't think about what would happen to him and shot the pistol at the German soldier. In conclusion, I think Alex is both a hero and a survivor.
ReplyDelete-Tina H.
Alex is a hero and a survivor. He survived the whole 5 months without that much help (he had some help). Throughout the whole 5 months by himself, he learned many skills and learned to survive. Surviving that long by yourself (he did have some company) is what I call a survivor. He saved the little girl Martha when he “knocked a rock against some tin. He also saved Henryk by revealing his secret hideout and allowing Henryk to rest. He also went to get the doctor and later, looked after Henryk.
ReplyDeleteDoes Alex ever meet Stashya again after the war?
~Jason W
I agree with you Jason- Alex is definitely a mixture of both. He survived by himself and he was a hero.
Delete~Derek K.
I do think that Alex is a little bit of both because...
ReplyDeleteWhy he is a Hero:I think Alex slightly passes the definition of a hero because he has saved lives such as Henryk and Snows and Himself (thats what makes him a survivor) but we will get to that later he saved Henryk from the bullet by bringing him to the Doctor.He saved Snow because he kept him alive (he gave him food).What also makes him a hero is that he only killed because it saved another life.He also never used his power in a intentionally bad way what I mean by that is he didn't kill for fun or because he had some really hateful feelings toward the soldiers and everybody else.I also have yet another reason why he is a hero he is a hero because he always had a good mind and a good spirit I mean it doesn’t really mean he is a hero but in a way it does because he never completely gave up hope because if he didn’t think it was his father he probably would have snuck away.
Why he is a survivor:I think Alex is a survivor because he managed to stay alive and he was good at it.He managed to stay alive and he managed to keep Snow alive with him.He managed to stay alive because he never gave up hope (I explained it in the end of the hero).He also stayed alive because he had the will to survive and I know this because like Benjamin Borhegyi’s grandmother explained some people pretty much gave up and commit suicide (hope intertwines with this part) Alex could have commit suicide anytime he even had a gun but he didn’t.He also stayed alive because he didn’t waste his supplies he managed thoughtfully like even though he was very hungry at times its not like he feasted on a bunch of his food he only ate what he needed with some rare occasions,also he didn’t waste his money I mean the ice skating part was a risk but he still had enough.Yet another reason he stayed alive was that he was always aware of his surroundings what I mean by that is he never blow his cover like when the guards were around he didn’t draw attention to himself or the hideout.Another way he stayed alive is he didn’t let his emotions get his way like he didn’t go killing everyone he disliked and except the only thing he did that contradicts that is when he loved Stashya.
~Edward A.
Alex is a bit of both, a survivor and a hero. There are many reasons why Alex can be considered a bit of both. One reason for Alex being a survivor is that he survived by himself alone in the ghetto until his father came despite the things that happened to him. He kept on surviving and didn’t let go ever. A reason that Alex is a hero is that he saved Henryk and Freddy’s lives. Henryk was going to get shot by the german officer but Alex saved his life by shooting the german officer before he shot Henryk another time. The reason he was a hero to Freddy was that if Henryk had died the german officer would have probably also killed Freddy afterwards. Another reason that Alex is a survivor too is that he survived even with the need of more food when he had saved Henryk and Freddy. That is also a reason that he’s also a hero for Henryk and Freddy, he wasn’t greedy and kept the food for himself and let them starve, instead he gave them food and didn’t let them starve even though there was an outcome that he’d be losing more food because there was him and two men. Lastly he was a hero to Martha the little girl because he heard Martha scream and went with his pitol and saw that she needed aid so he shot the guy that was hurting her and may have potentially saved her life. I have a few question still lingering. One of them is, Alex ever going to see Stashya again? What happened to Boruch?
ReplyDelete-Daphnee-Anne G.
I think Alex is both a hero and a survivor. He lived through Hitler's reign of terror, and he had saved two men from a German. Surviving on your own is hard enough, but when there are Germans searching for you and your food is limited? Living can become a burden. But Alex had a strong will to live to see his father, which made him a survivor. It's not about how well you lived, it's that you did that counts.
ReplyDeleteBut my question is: Did Father do the same?
- Lily M.
I think Alex is both a hero and a survivor, because he demonstrates both accomplishments in the book. Alex was first a hero when he saved Martha from the lotter. He was a hero then because martha was being taken away from her parents. and who knows what would have happened to her if Alex hadn’t shot the pistol. Then Alex saved the two guys from the soldier by shooting the soldier, before he shot them. He was also a hero then because, the soldier was going to shoot the two guys. Next when one of the guys that he saved before was hurt and sick. he went to go find a doctor, which was very risky. Because then someone would know about the hideout. Although Alex is a hero he is also a survivor, not just any 12 year old could survive so long under such low provisions. But his is also a survivor because he was able to adapt and improve his environment. Alex is a very smart boy who is both a hero and a survivor.
ReplyDelete- Faith E.
I agree with Faith E.! She brought up a great piece of evidence. I did not think to put that piece about Martha in my response. Good job!
DeleteJane A.
Section 3
I think Alex is a survivor because of many reasons why. One reason is that he survived in the ghetto. Another reason is that he didn’t get caught. Another reason is that he survived a winter storm. These reasons show why Ale is a survivor.
ReplyDeleteDerek C.
i agree with you Derek that you had to be pretty good survivor to survie a harsh blizzard that Alex did.
Delete~ John M
I think that Alex is a survivor, not a hero. I think this because he never been a hero to anyone, but he survived the whole holocaust, which makes him a survivor, but not a hero. I think that why Alex is a survivor is unquestionable because he survived the holocaust. I think he is not a hero because he didn’t do anything heroic. The only thing he did that could be considered heroic is to get the doctor from the other side of the fence, and he even used the money that Henryk gave him, to buy a roll. He shouldn’t have stopped when his friend was extremely sick with fever, and he shouldn’t have used the money for food. That is why I think that Alex is a survivor, but not a hero.
ReplyDeleteI dont think he bought a roll but im not sure.
DeleteSivan A.
That was Emma MEM
ReplyDeleteI think Alex is a little both of both but mostly a survivor. The only reason I think Alex is a bit of a hero is because he saved Henryk. If Henryk had not gotten the medical attention he needed he probably would have died. One reason I think Alex is a survivor is he did not die in the ghetto. The ghetto was a hard and cruel place and Alex was only a child. He had managed to find food and shelter which helped him survive. Another reason I think he is a survivor is he managed to actually live long enough to see his father again. The hope of seeing his father was what kept him going on to live. Though Alex was more a survivor, he was also a bit of a hero.
ReplyDelete~Hayley C.
What happened to his mother?
Where was his father?
I agree with Hayley C. If Alex had not taken food and clothes from himself and let Henryk use them Henryk would have died. That makes Alex a little bit of a hero.
DeleteJane A.
Section 3
I think that Alex is not just a survivor but also a hero. I think Alex is a survivor because a survivor is some one who stays alive in challenging situations. There is no question that Alex not only stayed alive during his challenging time but he also went above and beyond. Alex was able to make friends, allies, and help others in a way were he saved their lives.
ReplyDeleteAlex is a hero in my opinion because he saved the lives of two people. They would have been killed by the German. It was hard for Alex to shoot the German soldier but Alex did it anyway. A hero is some one who does something, not for them selves, but for the safety of others even if it will cause them some problems. That is exactly what Alex did.
Questions:
1. How did father survive?
2. Were is Boruck?
3. Who is the man that was with father when he found Alex and how did they meet?
4. Will any of these questions really be answered?
That was by
DeleteJane A.
Section 3
I agree with you Jane A. Alex did survive in a challenging situation. Those conditions were very harsh. I also agree that Alex is somewhat a hero. He did save Henryk and Freddy. Alex knew the consequences of shooting the soldier but he did it any way. You made really good points.
Delete~Hayley C.
I think that Alex is a hero and a survivor for these reasons:
ReplyDeleteHe is a hero because he saved two peoples life, these two people were Henryk and Freddy. The first instance that Alex saved their lives is when they were about to get shot by the Nazi. Right when the Nazi was going to kill them Alex shot the Nazi with his father's pistol. I think this is heroic because first of all he saved to peoples life, and secondly it takes a lot of guts to shot someone. Also, he saved Henryk's life when he was wounded and weak, so ALex went to the doctor. This was no easy task, he had to climb through a secret passage, move some rubble, and he had to dress like he was going to school, so he wouldn't look like a Jew on the Polish side. He went through all of this to get the doctor which took the bullet out of Henryk. Then Alex took it a step further: he had to take care of Henryk and eventually he got better. This I think shows he is a hero too. So these are my reasons why Alex is a hero.
Also, I think he is a survivor because he had to live alone for 5 months. He fought for food with other people. He had to make a shelter, and he had to stay hidden. So these are some of the many reasons how he survived. He was sort of like a person trapped on a deserted island. The person one that island had to build shelter and Alex did too. The person on the island might have to find food, so did Alex. The person is alone, so was Alex. So the person on the deserted island and Alex are similar in what they did. Though he didn't survive on a deserted island, he had to survive in one of the worst places to live in the worst time period. So it was rough for him but he survived and made it through until he saw his father.
So these are the reasons why he is a survivor and a hero.
My questions are:
Was there a 78 bird Street?
Did Alex ever see Stashya ever again?
What did Alex do after he saw his father?
Did Alex leave the Ghetto?
-Jake G
I can answer one of your questions; it said in the end thingy, that resembled an epilogue, that Alex left the ghetto and went to the forest and lived among the partisans.
DeleteWillie T.
Alex is obviously a survivor, because he has overcome many obstacles to stay alive, but I also think he’s a little bit of a hero. There are many reasons for him being a survivor. First of all, he’s not had much food, but he still finds ways to collect food that will last him for a while. He also is staying in a broken-down, shabby apartment building, but uses homemade alternatives, such as kerosene to warm himself, and other things that will help keep him alive. He’s also a hero in a few ways. Throughout the book, he is told secrets that he needs to keep, and fills their request of secrecy. I also think that Alex is a hero because he stayed and waited for his Father just like he had promised, and that is heroic towards his father because he didn’t let him down. Alex is both a survivor and a hero for many reasons, and has lasted long enough for his father to come back.
ReplyDelete~Isabela G.
Alex is both a survivor and a hero and survivor. It is irrefutable that he is a survivor; his solo survival of the ghetto attests to that. His heroism is up for more debate, though because he saved Henryk and Freddy from imminent doom (not only by shooting the German officer, but by risking himself getting the doctor and taking Henryk under his wing). Through surviving against incredible odds and not forsaking all others in doing this has caused Alex to be both a hero and a survivor.
ReplyDeleteQuestions:
1.) How did Alex’s father escape?
2.) Where is his mother?
3.) Does he meet Stashya?
4.) Where is Boruch?
Willie T.
I think that Alex is a bit of both a survivor and a hero for many reasons. He isn't entirely a hero, because he didn't mostly help out other people, instead only keeping himself alive. On the other hand, he did help Henryk and Freddy when they were about to be killed, and he also helped Martha when she was being followed, so she could also be a hero. However, I think that he is more of a survivor, because he lived mostly on his own, and only actually interacted with Stashya because he likes her. He survived a lot of events by himself, with barely anything to start, only a minimal amount of food, a flashlight, and a gun. The rest were either gifted or looted. Therefore, I think that Alex is a bit of both.
ReplyDelete--------------------------Questions-----------------------------
-Is there/will there be a sequel?
-What happens after the end?
- Does Stashya and Alex ever see each other again?
~Max T.
I think that Alex is both a hero and a survivor. Obviously Alex had survived for so many months on his own, and hiding from armed soldiers. He. managed to scrape out some food for himself, and also managed to find shelter. But, Alex's hero instincts are there, too.
ReplyDeleteHe was a hero because he saved himself and others. He shot a German who was about to shoot someone else. He also saved Henryk's life by taking him to a doctor, and being a doctor himself. In my eyes, Alex is extraordinary!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Questions
~ How did Alex's father make it through ?
~will Stashya and Alex ever be toghether again?
-Casandra G.
Cassandra, can you explain more why Alex is a survivor? Can you give some examples?
Delete-Maya W
I think Alex is a Survivor because he made a lot of decisions that he thought were wrong but ended up being the right thing. For Example, he was thinking not to shot a man who was caring away a little girl but then he shot and ended think that it was the right thing to do because he didn't kill the man our even injure him. Also he made a new home with out any ones help and got food and thought about his father and even got him a coat to wear but gave it to his friend that left him. Also he is a survivor because when the German found his hideout down below he came up with a good and reasonable plan to build a ladder to get to a house were know one could find him!. Alex also was a survivor because when he found necessary goods he thought either he needed it our not to keep space in his hideout, that is survival skill!. He also is a survivor and knew that he could not do all the hunting himself so he used a smart resource around him... Snow!, he used snow to hunt for food. That is why Alex is a true survivalist.
ReplyDeleteQuestions:
-Were is Alex's Mother?
-Who was Alex's father's friend in the end?
-Were they ever going to leave The Ghetto?
Jesus Rodriguez
Section 4
If I made a mistake, I would like you to leave it and forget it was ever there.
ReplyDeleteJesus Rodriguez
Section 4
Alex shows qualities of a hero, yet he also does things that show more of a survival trait rather than a hero through the book.
ReplyDeleteHe is a hero throughout the story many times. First of all, he saved what possibly could have been the lives of people in multiple situations. He saved the girl when he first shot his pistol. He saw that Martha was going to be taken away, so he shot the pistol to save her. This scared the man taking her away. Also, he saves Freddy and Henryk’s lives when the German soldier is pointing the gun at them. This also gains him new friends, along with saving two lives, so that is a true quality of a hero. It was also heroic of him to not give up faith for his father’s return, and persevere through. He would’ve let down his father if he gave up and left his spot, but he wanted to be loyal and not let him down, so he stayed where his father and Boruch instructed him to be waiting. He could’ve gone with Bolek or the Gryns and survive much easier, but he wanted to do what his father said. That’s a hero to me.
Alex is also just a survivor because he technically is breaking the LAW by staying in the ghetto through the whole book. Sure, it’s a terrible law, so, it could also be heroic. He doesn’t necessarily care about others’ survival (with exceptions), more about his own. When he shot the German soldier, he explains, “It was amazing how little I cared that he was dead.” It’s a German, but it’s still the life of a human being. When others are being taken away from their bunker by the Germans, he doesn’t go out to help them, because he wants to survive. His own life matters more to him than theirs, and I think he is right in some ways about that.
So, in the end, I believe that Alex shows traits of a hero and also a survivor throughout The Island on Bird Street.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Questions:
•How did Alex's father get back to the ghetto?
•Will Alex ever see Stashya again?
•Will Alex and his father survive the rest of the war together?
~Derek K.
In my opinion, Alex is both a hero and a survivor. Alex had to survive alone in the ghetto, with no one to look out for him. Alex is a hero because he didn't do things only for himself.
ReplyDeleteI think that the main reason that Alex is a hero is because he is selfless. Not so much that he when the little girl, Martha was being threatened by a man, Alex scared away the man and saved Martha.
Whether or not Alex really is a hero depends on your own definition of what a hero is. I think that a hero is someone who does something for another person that is influential on their lives in a good way.
I think that Alex is a survivor because he had to survive on his own in the ghettos for months. He had to use both physical and mental tools to survive. Alex had to use his surroundings to his advantage, which he did on multiple occasions. For example, when Alex moved to one of the upper floors of 78, he was aware of his surroundings, and took advantage of the fact that nobody could see him up there, so he moved there. Alex used his knowledge of knot-tying when he tied the knots for his rope ladder.
Alex not only survived on his own in the ghettos, but he helped people along the way, therefore being a hero. He took advantage of his surroundings and used the tools he had at hand to survive, which makes him a survivor. That is why Alex is a hero and a survivor.
Questions I have:
-does Alex ever see Stashya again?
-where do Alex and his father stay during the rest of the war? How do they survive?
-what do Alex and his father do during the remainder of the war? Do they join uprisings, do they help fellow Jews escape?
-Maya W
i agree that it depends on your definition
DeleteSivan A.
I think Alex is both a survivor and a hero. One reason to help the Hero reason is that he saved Henryk from dying. He sent Henryk a doctor which he had to cross the polish side for and convince the doctor to help him. He had to be crafty slick and fast to make it through notsuspected as a jew. Another reason to help the Hero part is that he killed a german soldier about to kill Freddy and Henryk. This took guts to succesfully shoot a soldier that was armed, if he missed the soldier would have attacked Alex. This took fast decision making and be brave. Reasons to support Alex being a survivor is that he survived 4 months at 78 bird street. This was not an easy task he had to keep everyting non-chalant so the germans would not realize someone was hiding up there. Also Alex had limited resources. Another reason considering Alex being a survivor is he used his resources wisely. What I mean by that is that Alex used snow to sniff out the food for him and he planned out his trips to the Polish side so he knew how much money he would spend. The last reason is that Alex did not crack. What I mean by that is that the pressure has been on alex to survive so long that most of the people would have gone crazy and just wanted to die. Alex was like the lone ship at sea that did not sink.
ReplyDeleteIn conclusion Alex was a hero as well as a survivor.
~ John M
Questions:
Delete- Where is Alex's Mother?
- What happened to Boruch?
- Will Alex ever see Stashya again?
~ John M
I think Alex is both a hero and a survivor because he lived though this which was really hard he survived,and he was smart and he had 4 drives 2 of them were to see his mom and dad again the 3 was to keep seeing stasha and the forth was he wanted to live.
ReplyDeleteI think he's hero because he killed Nazis and and he help people when he did he also saved the little girl after the father took his food and told stash he was Jewish.He was also brave he never doubted himself either.He made the hideout to he also made friends he couldn't really stay friends with them but he made friends.He also didn't go insane and got something to talk to like in the movie castaway
Nick T
Alex is a true survivor. He survived many months alone in a ghetto; where he scavenged for food, and had to not be seen. a more important question is whether he is a hero or not.
ReplyDeleteI believe that Alex is a hero. For one, he saved many people. He saved Henryk and Freddy by shooting a soldier for them, and by getting the doctor for Henryk. He also saved Martha from the man who was trying to hurt her. I think that he was even a hero to his father. Alex waited for long months for his father to return, and although he was given many offers to leave he stayed. By staying, when his father did come, it gave his father so much joy. I feel that if he hadn't stayed his father might have done something drastic. Like Alex would have done if he thought his father was dead.
Obviously Alex is a survivor, and in my opinion, a hero.
QUESTIONS:
Does Alex ever see Stashya again?
What happens to Alex and his Father after the war?
What had Alex's father been doping during the war?
-Maddie A
FINAL BLOG:
ReplyDeleteI think that Alex is a hero and a survivor. First off, Alex is a hero because of 2 main acts of kindness. Alex saved Henryk, a helpless man who could not fend for himself because of his injuries. Alex also saved Freddie. When a German soldier pointed a gun at the two men, Alex shot him, saving two men. Another reason Alex is a hero is because he saved Martha. When Martha was being captured by a big man, Alex saved her. Alex is also a survivor. He survived about 4 months without his father in the Ghetto, searching for food, and fending for himself for quit a while; all this happened in the middle of a war. I think that speaks for itself! In my opinion, Alex is most definitely a hero AND a survivor.
QUESTIONS:
1.) Do Alex and Stashya ever see each other again?
2.) How long does the war go on after this?
3.) What becomes of Alex and his father when the war is over?
4.) Does Alex ever see his mother again?
5.) When does the wall come down?
IDEA:
Maybe next year there can be an assignment (for E.C.) where you write an epilogue for the story.
-Becca L.
I agree there should be e.c
DeleteAnswer for #5 is when the polish moved into the houses on ghetto side.
Sivan A.
I think that Alex is a hero and a survivor because he survived one of the hardest times in history for a Jew and he did it with very little help. Alex is a hero because he saved many people and out of kindness, helped Henryk.(I do not have any more questions)
ReplyDeleteBen K
I agree that he is both a survivor and a hero. However, he hasn't survived the Holicost, he just survived to see his father again. Also, he hasn't saved THAT many people. Overall though nice job and I agree.
Delete-Elon L.
I agree, Ben. He was definitely a hero because he saved Henryk, and a survivor because he did survive during the war all alone.
Delete-Abigail D.
Alex is a survivor. My main reason is that this book was basically his about his survival, during this time. Alex used different techniques, and tools to survive during the war. He used the kerosene burner, quilts, blankets, rope, the gun, and many other things to survive. Alex was provided with a very limited amount of food. He used the technique of scavenging, found food, and resources in other bunkers that had been abandoned. Alex is also a survivor, because he was living in a bombed house, that anyone could have searched. He did encounter one German when he met Freddy and Henryk, but he shot the German with the gun. He survived the Germans over the many months. Although he did save Henryk, I would not call him a hero. He was just trying to help him until the doctor came. Alex was just taking care of Henryk to pass time, and make sure he survived too. Alex is survivor because he made it through this tough period in time.
ReplyDelete~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Questions:
1) Does Alex ever meet Stashya again?
2) Does Alex ever see his mother again, or is she dead?
3) Where does Alex and his father go?
4) Who was the man with Alex’s father?
5) How does Alex’s father know Bolek?
6) How did Alex’s father survive/make it out of the concentration camp?
7) Will they get caught by the Germans ever?
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Delete|
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This paragraph was by Iman S
I agree with Iman on both the questions and the answer
DeleteI agree on your questions. They make sense and I wonder what will happen as well.
Delete-Abigail D.
DeleteAlex is mostly a survivor but is also a little bit of a hero. Alex saved Henryk’s life by treating him and caring for him with much precision. He is also a hero to himself and his father for persevering through tough times and being brave when it was needed. He stayed alive and saved himself, along with staying for his father. He is mostly a survivor though. He built his secret hideout using what he can. He used his prior knowledge with cutting and more. Alex also took some dangerous routes and dangerous lootings. He probably wouldn’t have thought to do this if he was trying to survive. Also, everything that Alex did was to help him or someone else (even Snow) survive and live. Lastly, he hasn’t been discovered by anyone that opposes a threat to Alex being caught and he hasn’t died. He has kind of got close to dying but he survived (so far at least) and it took a ton load of guts, glory, bravery, perseverance, quick thinking, knowledge, and more.
ReplyDelete-Elon L.
I agree, Elon. Alex is definitely both because he survived for months, and saved Henryk.
Delete-Abigail D.
I think that Alex is only a surviver, not a hero. I think this because he did not do anything heroic, he did not save a life or anything. He was only surviving. Even Stashya was a survival tool. Stashya kept him sane and kept him from depression. It's true that he did have heroic qualities. Bravery, diligence, etc. But, he did not use these traits for heroic acts.
ReplyDelete1. What happens to Stashya?
2. Did Boruch die?
3. What's the mom's story?
Sam S
Sam, I somewhat disagree. You claimed that he doesn't save anyone's life, but if he didn't go to the doctor, wouldn't Henryk have died?
Delete-Abigail D.
I think that Alex is both a hero and a survivor, my evidence of him being a hero is he killed a German and during WWII if you killed a German you were a hero, and my evidence of Alex being a survivor is he lived through the whole war and if you survive you will be called a survivor.
ReplyDeleteThat's why Alex is a hero and a survivor.
-Jon P
I agree, Jon, that Alex was both a hero and a survivor. However, how do you know you were considered a hero if you killed a German? Isn't this only to Jews?
Delete-Abigail D.
I think Alex is a survivor and a hero.
ReplyDeleteAlex lived without getting caught in the ghettos by the germans. He even lived by himself and occasionally some others. He even got to see his father when the Polish decided to open up the wall dividing them. Alex must be mentally strong and physically strong because that is what a survivor has to do to survive. Alex also had hope and that is one of the qualities that a survivor must have. Alex took whatever he needed from the other surroundings.This is is another example of what a survivor must do in order to survive.This is showing that Alex is a survivor.
Alex is a hero because he rescued Henryk from dying from infection he also risked his life for Henryk when he went to go ask the doctor for help. He also had put up with the bully just to get to the other side.Eventually the bully found out and almost called told on him and almost got him in trouble. Alex was helpful and kind to other people along his journey this is what a hero must do.
Alex was both a hero and survivor.
Questions:
Does Alex ever see Stashya again?
How did his mother die?
Does he ever marry Stashya?
~Sonia N
In the book “The Island on Bird Street”, by Uri Orlev I think that Alex was most definitely a survivor. Alex is a survivor because he still had his life when his dad came. He really fought for it and wouldn’t let it go. Next he had a will to survive. At the beginning before we read this book I remember one of the traits was to a will survive and thats exactly what helped Alex get through these rough times. Plus, it was extremely hard to find food and you had to do it while not being seen. You had to stretch your food and not eat a lot even if you were very hungry. In addition, to be able to have that much mental strength and to be able to have that much hope for long period of time even though he did give in eventually. Furthermore, Alex got through a cold winter. He found a way to keep him warm and found a good place to live, not to mention an amazing place to hid. Alex had used strategies and knowledge to survive and and make it through the Holocaust when many sadly didn’t. He has all the traits that we mentioned before about survival. As you can see Alex did better with surviving than most of us would have. I think Alex did an amazing job.
ReplyDeleteSivan A.
I agree that Alex did an amazing job surviving, but wasn't he also a hero to Henryk, Father, and even himself?
Delete-Abigail D.
I think Alex is a hero and a survivor. Alex survived by hiding from the German and all the other dangers around him, he found food and shelter and was very brave. Alex is also a hero because he killed the German solider that was after Freddie and Henryk he also got the doctor for Henryk when he was wounded. That is why I think Alex is both a hero and a survivor.
ReplyDelete----QUESTIONS-----
1) Where is Alex's mother?
2) What happened to Boruch?
3) How did his Father survive?
4) What happened after his Father took him to the woods?
~Audrey O></
I agree with both your response and questions, Audrey. Alex definitely saved many people and survived for MONTHS!!!
Delete-Abigail D.
In the book “The on Bird Street”, by Uri Orlev I think Alex isn’t a hero although he did do some amazing things. First of all, there really is no right answer for this one. If you say yes your definiton of hero is probally different than to someone who says no. I personaly don’t think anyone is a hero. I don’t believe that anyone can be a hero. Although someone can do something noble, kind, brave or an act of kindness. I find these things totally differnt. Alex saved Henryk and Freddys lives but when he was doing it he didn’t do it to be a hero he did it because he felt that it was the right thing to do at the moment. Furthermore, Alex saved Martha just like he did with Henryk and Freddy. I once again for the same reasons think this was more of the right thing to do. I think that people think of a hero when they saved someones life. I bet if Alex didn’t save anyone's lives everyone's answer would turn to no. Now you can see why I disagree that Alex is a hero.
ReplyDeleteSivan A.
Questions:
ReplyDeleteWould have Alex survived if he didn't have hope
Would Alex have survived if he didn't have some of those mental tools?
How many people where killed in the Holocaust?
Is this a true story?
How many people hid in hideouts/ pretended to be Poles
Sivan A.
Alex is partly a survivor and partly a hero, but mostly a survivor. He waits without helping many other people for four months, even though there are many who are in dire need of help. This shows that he is surviving by only trying to keep himself alive. When he helps Henryk and Freddy, though, he is being heroic by saving them from the soldier and taking care of them. He even saves Henryk’s life again by taking him to the doctor. He does a similar thing when he saves Martha. He risks himself for another person by showing himself to the man. Alex stays in the ghetto trying to survive, but also acts heroically during that time.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if Alex will actually meet Stashya at 78 Bird St. next New Year’s Day. I also wonder how similar life with his father will be now compared to their life before the transports. I would also like to know if his mother survived, and, if so, if he ever gets to see her again. I also want to find out what happened to Boruch. Finally, I would like to know how Alex's father escaped the Germans.
Alex is partly a survivor and partly a hero, but mostly a survivor. He waits without helping many other people for four months, even though there are many who are in dire need of help. This shows that he is surviving by only trying to keep himself alive. When he helps Henryk and Freddy, though, he is being heroic by saving them from the soldier and taking care of Henryk. He even saves Henryk’s life again by taking him to the doctor. He does a similar thing when he saves Martha. He risks himself for another person by showing himself to the man. Alex stays in the ghetto trying to survive, but also acts heroically during that time.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if Alex will actually meet Stashya at 78 Bird St. next New Year’s Day. I also wonder how similar life with his father will be now compared to their life before the transports. I would also like to know if his mother survived, and, if so, if he ever gets to see her again. I also want to find out what happened to Boruch. Finally, I would like to know how Alex's father escaped the Germans.
-Jacob B.
In the book An Island on Bird Street I think Alex is both a survivor and a hero. First I think that Alex is a survivor because he survived without his Father and not many other people. For example he survived a Winter, and he survived the harsh and cruel conditions of the ghetto. But I also think of a hero to some. I think he is hero in the eyes of Henryk. For instance Alex kept Henryk well and healthy the best he could and saved him from a German.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if Alex and Stashya will ever see each other again or meet up next New Years?
-John S.
I agree, John. Alex definitely had to be strong to survive such a harsh winter. Also, he did help Henryk, and was definitely a hero. Great job!
Delete-Abigail D.
I would definitely consider Alex to be both a survivor AND a hero. My definition of a hero is a person who either saves someone’s life, or brings lots of joy to someone and is a person that you can rely on. A survivor is a person who survives in very difficult situations, and is sly, knowledgeable, quick, persistent, courageous, and uses his surroundings. Alex is a hero to Henryk and his father, but he also survives for months by himself in the ghetto.
ReplyDeleteAlex is a hero to Henryk because he saved him from possibly dying. Alex was SUPER brave to go out on the street and go to the doctor to save Henryk’s life. Also, Alex had helped Henryk cover his wound with bandages, which showed how heroic he was because he risked his own life to get the doctor’s help, and assisted Henryk’s terrible and unfortunate wound. He was certainly a hero to Henryk! In addition, he was a hero to his father because at the end of the book, Father had not expected Alex to be alive. However, Alex acted like a hero because he didn’t let Father down, and pushed through an EXTREMELY tough time just to be with Father when he returned.
Furthermore, besides being a hero to many people, Alex was also a huge survivor.
For instance, Alex survived SUPER harsh weather conditions in the winter. He was very smart to stay in a closed space with lots of blankets, which definitely showed me his amazing survival skills. In addition, Alex had to deal with the mean Gryns, make his own incredible hideout, hide from the scary Germans, and find food for himself for 5 whole months! He has absolutely unbelievable survival skills, which is why I consider him to be such a great survivor.
In conclusion, I believe that Alex is both a survivor and a hero. He is a survivor because he was only 11 years old, and found a way to live at a very difficult time all by himself! He was smart, quick, and brave--all character traits that a survivor should have. Alex was a hero because he did not let his father down, and helped to save Henryk’s life! Clearly, Alex is an amazing kid who deserves to be called both a survivor and a hero.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
These are my remaining questions:
1. What is life like for Alex and his Father afterwards?
2. What is Alex’s mother doing, and is she still alive? If so, where is she? And does she believe that Father and Alex are dead?
3. What happened to Boruch?
4. What was Father’s journey like before reuniting with Alex?
5. What happens with Staysha? Do they meet up on New Years?
-Abigail D.
I think that Alex is more of a survivor than a hero. It is impressive how he survived all those months, but Alex didn't really do anything heroic. A hero is someone who does something for someone else, and the only thing that Alex did was help Henryk recover.
ReplyDeleteBut of course Alex is a survivor! Alex kept waiting and waiting until his father came. He never gave up. Even when he wasn't allowed to leave his hideout in fear of getting caught, he never gave in. He SURVIVED. Through those tough, cold, scary, and even lonely times, he survived.
And I infer that he would also survive the war. Alex is definitely a survivor.
Julia Y.
I do not agree with Julia Y. I think Alex is a hero because he saved Martha and shot the German soldier who was about to shoot Henryk and Freddy. Other than that I think the response was very good.
DeleteBennett E
I have a couple lingering questions: Who is Father's friend? Where did thy meet up? Can he be trusted?
ReplyDeleteDo the three of them survive the war?
Is Boruch ever coming back?
Do Staysha and Alex end up getting married?
Do Alex and Father move, or stay in Alex's hideout?
Is this book based on a true story?
Julia Y.
I think Alex is a survivor and a hero because he made it through one of the times in history. Alex was a survivor because he made it through the war and survived in the ghetto as a kid he provided himself with food and shelter and a good hideout but, most of all, without his father and a grownup to help a lot of the way then he found Bolek which really helped Alex.
ReplyDeleteAlex was also a hero for him as well as a lot of people. He was hero for Henryk how was dieing and then found the doctor to help save Henryk’s life. Alex also was a hero to Staysha because he helped her find a true love HIM!!!! They got to spend a lot of time together and Staysha loved him. Last but not least FATHER because Alex did not let his father down and survived the war and they got to find eachother again so they be together for ever.
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Questions:
What country did Staysha move to ?
Did Alex and Staysha ever see eachother again ?
Did Alex ever see his mom again ?
What happened to Alex ?
Will K.
I do not think Alex is any of these options. Alex is not a little bit of a survivor or hero, he is a true survivor and a true hero. Alex has been a hero many times throughout the book. The first time he was a hero was when he saved Martha from being taken away to the Germans. Alex fired his pistol and hit the wall. Luckily that was enough for the person who was taking Martha away to drop the bag and Martha then run away. The second time Alex was a hero was when Freddy and Henryk came to number seventy-eight Bird Street to hide. A German soldier came through the entrance and almost shot them while their hands were up. Luckily for Henryk and Freddy, Alex was arriving just at that moment and saved Freddy and Henryk by shooting the German. After Alex saved them he sheltered them. Henryk was hurt, so Alex went through the secret passage at number thirty-two Bird Street to go get the doctor. The doctor gladly came back to number seventy-eight Bird Street to see to Henryk. Alex was a survivor because he ran away while all the people from the ghetto were being marched out, he ran to the old ruins of number seventy-eight Bird Street. Alex ran to the cellar to hide. In the morning, Alex looked through the houses around the ghetto to find things people had left behind that could be of use. Also he built a rope ladder to get up to the higher floors so that nobody could find him. Alex was lucky to have left the cellar because soon after he left Germans broke into the cellar and uncovered a bunker in there. If Alex had stayed they would have found him too. Alex survived all the way through nearly five months until his father came to get him. Given all this evidence Alex is clearly a hero and a survivor.
ReplyDeleteRemaining questions:
What happened to Alex's mom?
Do Alex and Stashya meet up again?
Does Alex live through the end of the war?
Does Alex ever return there?
Does Alex meet Bolek, Henryk, or Freddy again?
Did Freddy die?
Bennett E
Alex is a survivor for many reasons. One reason that Alex is a survivor is that Alex had to survive to stay alive so he is a survivor. Alex was in a hideout from the Poles when they moved into the Ghetto and even before that so that he wouldn’t get caught. Another reason is that Alex had to sneak around to get the resources that he needed. A survivor to me is a person that uses the resources around them in order to survive. Alex used the where he was, what was around him and what he stole to survive. That is why Alex is a survivor.
ReplyDeleteNo remaining questions.
Eleasah W.
Alex is both a hero and a survivor. He survived one of the biggest scars in history. He always did what he did to survive, like he knew Germans were going to come back number 78 and so he did what he had to, and built a rope ladder to the third floor. He is also a hero. Without even thinking he saved the little girl from being killed. (the one who gave him the hair clip). He also used his knowledge about shooting guns to save both Freddy and Henryk. When Alex saw that Henryk was going to die without a doctor, but he risked his life to save him. He also waited five months until his father came back. Alex is absolutely both a hero and a survivor.
ReplyDeleteWhat happened to Alex's mom?
Did Henryk survive?
What next?
Do Alex and Stashya ever meet again?
Matt G
I think Alex is a Hero because of when he shot the German. This was heroic because he saved the life of two other men who deserved to live. Also even in this time of war he was considerate and took advantage of no one.He also was close to where his father was supposed to be most of the time.
ReplyDeleteMichael L
I think Alex is a hero and a survivor, and this is why.
ReplyDelete1. Alex ran away towards the broken down house during a transport to most likely, camps. He has to wait for his father to come back, and hopefully take him away to somewhere safe. In the ghetto, Alex is forced to go out and venture with looters in the night, or to stay put in his hideout. Any Jew that is found out will probably either get killed or be sent to the camps with everyone else who did not run and hide. Alex was able to find food, water, and other supplies to keep him alive during these long months alone. He has to keep Snow fed, and himself. It just gets harder when Henryk and Freddy come to join him. Thankfully, Alex is able to get to the Polish side to get help, food and drink, and meets a girl names Stashya. Both of them are smart enough to be able to communicate with eachother using Morse Code.
2. Alex saves many peoples lives and creates happiness in peoples lives, such as Henryk and Stashya. He sometimes seems to give purpose to people, and although he didn't communicate with some people very much, his Polish friends may have looked up to him, because he was "friends with a girl."
This is why I think Alex is a mix of both.
~Emily E
Oh, and here are my questions:
DeleteWhat happened to the Mother?
Snow?
Do Stashya and Alex ever meet again?
Is there a sequel to this book?
The Doctor and his wife?
Henryk and Freddy?
Bolek and his wife?
The remaining Jews?
What about the camps?
What happened to Boruch?
The Gryns?
His friends?
And where did Alex go..I know the woods but description?
What happend to #78 Bird Street?
Did they ever return to the ghetto? If so, what had changed?
Also, if so, who was there?
Emily E
Alex is both a hero and a survivor. He is a survivor because he fought hard to survive. He looked for food by himself (with Snow). He didn't die from a German Soldier and he didn't die at all.
ReplyDeleteAlex is a Hero because he got the doctor to help Henrik. If he didn't Henrik would be dead. My last evidence of Alex being a hero is saving the girl in the polka dot dress. He scared away the guy taking her away and he had not, who knows what will happen to her.
Q's:
What happened to his mom?
~vanessa
I think Alex is a little bit of a survivor and little bit of a hero at the same time.
ReplyDeleteAlex is a survivor be because , Alex is trying to survive in the ghetto, Trying not to get killed by the German soldiers. He is also trying to find to and feed himself because he is so hungry.
Alex is also a hero. When Alex shot the German soldier , he save to men from getting killed. He also took care of the shot man.
~Sarah S.C.
Question:
ReplyDeleteWhat happened to Alex's mother? Did his mother ever come back to see Alex?
👆By sarah s.c.
ReplyDelete