Hana's Suitcase

Why does Hana’s suitcase inspire such engagement from audiences? Explore its significance using specific evidence from the text. 

In what ways do the photographs and documents included in the text impact its meaning? Explore how several specific examples impact particular parts of the narrative. 

Read the Introduction, Postscript, and Acknowledgments. Why did Karen Levine choose to write this story, and what methods did she choose to use to portray Hana’s story?

Using external sources, analyze Levine’s portrayal of the events of the Holocaust. What specific events does she choose to highlight, and why? 

The drawings produced by children at Theresienstadt serve an important purpose in the story and have been exhibited in many places. Analyze the function of Hana’s drawings as they relate to the text. Consider including an external example of another child’s drawings from Theresienstadt. Link the drawings to the book’s theme of The Importance of Reckoning With the Past.

Hana’s childhood is abruptly cut short by the Holocaust. Examine the impact of this traumatic change on her personality and behaviors using descriptions from the text. How does Hana’s life show Children’s Resilience in the Face of Oppression?

Fumiko’s investigation is primarily inspired by the children she works with at the museum. Look at several moments where Fumiko interacts with the children and analyze Levine’s portrayal: What is important about the children’s interest in Hana’s story?

While Hana’s suitcase starts the investigation, it is only mentioned in a few brief moments. What does the suitcase symbolize, and how does this change throughout the text?