Gillispie School's Grade 2 students recently embarked on a literary adventure with The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, by Kate DiCamillo.
Through thoughtful reading and class discussions, students explored the transformation of Edward, a once-proud porcelain rabbit who began his story as a cold, self-centered doll. As Edward traveled from owner to owner, experiencing love, loss, heartbreak, and hope, students traced how each moment shaped him. Together, they reflected on how he gradually opened his heart, ultimately becoming a character capable of deep love and compassion.
To bring Edward’s journey to life, students engaged in a meaningful hands-on project. Each child designed and dressed their own Edward in outfits inspired by different stages of his travels. From elegant beginnings to worn and weathered moments, the costumes reflected the many chapters of his story.
Then, Grade 2 did something brave.
They tore their Edwards. Each tear represented the heartbreak, separation, and loss Edward endured along the way. This symbolic act reminded students that growth often comes through difficult experiences.
To “heal” Edward, students were introduced to the Japanese art of Kintsugi, a practice in which broken pottery is repaired with gold, highlighting cracks rather than hiding them. The gold in this project represented the people who helped Edward. When we are sad or "broken," the love from our friends and family is the "gold glue" that helps us feel whole again.
Inspired by this philosophy, students mended their Edwards with touches of gold. They discovered that Edward’s scars did not simply fix him; they transformed him. No longer just a plain toy but a "miraculous" one that knows how to be resilient.
This project blended literature, art, and social-emotional learning, encouraging students to reflect on empathy, resilience, and the idea that our challenges help shape who we become.
Find out more about Gillispie School's Lower Elementary and Upper Elementary programs.