I Survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005 (Graphic Novel) Comprehension Questions & Reading Journal

I Survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005 (Graphic Novel) questions by chapter

We know this book well. Every question asks about something that happens in its chapter, a moment, a choice or a character, without giving away what comes next. One question per chapter, across all 15 chapters, and every one is editable before you print. The example answers under 3 of the chapters are the ones printed at the front of the booklet.

1. Chapter 1

   What do you learn about Barry, his family, and the place where they live? How does the chapter show that danger may be coming?

2. Chapter 2

   How does Barry feel about Hurricane Katrina at first? What details from the chapter help you understand his feelings?

3. Chapter 3

   The word evacuate means to leave a place because it is dangerous. Why is evacuating such an important choice for Barry's family in this chapter?

4. Chapter 4

   What problems make it hard for Barry's family to get away safely? What do you think might happen next?

5. Chapter 5

   How does the storm begin to affect Barry's home and neighborhood? Describe two details that show the hurricane is getting worse.

6. Chapter 6

   Barry gets separated from his family. What happens, and how do you think he feels in that moment?

   Example answer: I think Barry feels terrified and helpless when he is separated from his family. The storm and floodwater are much stronger than he is, so he cannot just fix the problem right away. I would feel panicked because I would not know if my family was safe. This part shows how quickly a disaster can change everything.

7. Chapter 7

   What does Barry do to try to survive after he is alone? Which action shows courage or quick thinking?

8. Chapter 8

   A levee is a wall or bank that helps hold back water. How does the levee problem change the danger for the people in New Orleans?

9. Chapter 9

   Barry meets or notices others who are also in danger. How do these moments show that the hurricane is affecting many people, not just one family?

10. Chapter 10

    What obstacles does Barry face as he tries to get to safety? How does he keep going even when things are frightening?

11. Chapter 11

    How does Cruz affect Barry's journey? Explain how an animal can be important in a survival story.

    Example answer: Cruz helps Barry because he makes Barry feel less alone. Even though Cruz is a dog, he gives Barry comfort and a reason to keep trying. In a survival story, an animal can be important because it can warn a character, guide them, or give them hope. I think Cruz helps show that friendship can come in different forms.

12. Chapter 12

    What examples of help, kindness, or teamwork do you see in this chapter? Why do those actions matter during a disaster?

13. Chapter 13

    If you were Barry, what would you hope would happen after reaching a safer place? Use what has happened so far to explain your prediction.

14. Chapter 14

    How do the pictures in the graphic novel help you understand the flood, the characters' feelings, or the action? Give one specific example.

15. Chapter 15

    What lesson or theme do you think the author wants readers to remember about Hurricane Katrina and the people who lived through it?

    Example answer: I think the author wants readers to remember that disasters are scary, but people can be brave and caring during them. Barry's story shows how important family, hope, and helping others can be. It also reminds me that Hurricane Katrina was a real event that hurt many people. After reading, I feel like we should listen to warnings and care about people who survive disasters.