The document summarizes three stories that demonstrate perseverance through adversity: 1) In "The Giver", the main character perseveres as the Receiver of Memory after learning of the world's pains and losses. His daughter previously held this role but could not handle the truths. 2) "Ernie" perseveres after being sent to a group home upon his mother's death by finding comfort in growing flowers and connecting with others. 3) "Malcolm X" perseveres after his father's death and time in prison by joining the Nation of Islam and transforming into a powerful activist. All three characters strengthened in the face of challenges like loss of loved ones and incarceration. They were able