The sea is a powerful symbol throughout Soul Surfer. Considering Hamilton’s story as a whole, analyze and discuss the various metaphorical meanings of the ocean by reflecting on the following questions:

• How does Hamilton feel about the sea before her accident compared with after?
• Does Hamilton “accept” the sea, even after it is the site of her tragic accident?
• What are the ways the sea represents safety?
• What are the ways the sea represents danger?

Teaching Suggestion: In Soul Surfer, the sea comes to represent life as a whole, both its ups and downs. It is a place where anything can happen, from tragic accidents to chance meetings. To Hamilton, the sea also represents the glory and mystery of God. Encourage students to draw upon what they’ve learned about Hamilton’s faith, drawing their attention back to the book’s central question of why bad things happen to good people. Students might reflect on these questions through independent journaling, and then meet in small groups to discuss the sea’s multiple symbolic meanings.

Differentiation Suggestion: For an approach that incorporates religious topics, students might dig deeper into the theological significance and symbolic connections between the sea and the Christian faith. For example, utilizing the Christianity Today article “