The Mysteries of Harris Burdick
Narrative Writing Assignment
Using ONE picture from The Mysteries of Harris Burdick, write an original narrative that tells
the story behind what is happening in the picture.
Requirements:
Your narrative must be descriptive and vividly describe, using all story elements, what is
happening in the picture.
Make sure to hook your reader. Make the introduction exciting and interesting.
Plan your characters carefully. What characteristics can you use to describe them? How do
they show those characteristics?
Setting: Make sure to describe your setting. You will need to have at least one descriptive
paragraph in your narrative. The sentences must appear together.
Carefully plan the important events, climax, and resolution of the story. Make it interesting!
You must incorporate the line(s) included with the picture into your story. UNDERLINE
AND BOLD the line(s) in your paper!!!
You must title your story the same as the picture.
Your writing must be at least 2 pages in length, typed using 12 point font (Calibri or Times
New Roman), and double spaced.
You must use appropriate conventions (punctuation) in order to communicate clearly and
effectively (i.e. avoid fragments and run-ons and use appropriate word choice, spelling,
punctuation, and capitalization). Please refer to your punctuating dialogue sheet to help.
Be as creative and detailed as you can and have fun!
Important Dates:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Brainstorming and Graphic Organizer: ______________________
Rough Draft: _______________________
Editing (peer and parent): __________________
Typed good copy with title page: _____________________
Archie Smith, Boy Wonder
A Strange Day in July
A tiny voice asked,
"Is he the one?"
He threw with all his might,
but the third stone came skipping back.
Under the Rug
Missing in Venice
Two weeks passed and it happened again.
Even with her mighty engines in reverse, the
ocean liner was pulled further and further
into the canal.
Another Time, Another Place
If there was an answer
he'd find it there.
Uninvited Guests
His heart was pounding.
He was sure he had seen the doorknob turn.
The Harp
So it's true, he thought,
it's really true.
Mr. Linden’s Library
He had warned her about the book.
Now it was too late.
The Seven Chairs
Just Dessert
The fifth one ended up in France.
She lowered the knife
and it grew even brighter.
The Third-Floor Bedroom
Captain Tory
It all began
when someone left the window open.
He swung his lantern three times
and slowly the schooner appeared.
Oscar and Alphonse
The House on Maple Street
She knew it was time to send them back.
The caterpillars softly wiggled in her hand,
spelling out "goodbye."
It was a perfect lift-off.