To Bring, or Not to Bring

Stranded on a desert island,

not only a desert, but deserted as well.

If I had but one item to soothe my predicament,

what would I bring?

A book perhaps, to pass the time?

A friend or kin, so not feel forlorn?

Or perhaps a survival guide, a boy scout book;

so I can get out of there quick!

Yes, I would learn how to catch my food,

Build a raft, and shelter too.

Store some provisions,

Find where I am, 

Send out a smoke signal,

And find a swift way back to land.