Category Archives: Novel

Comprehension Questions – We Are Family

We Are Family

by LeBron James and Andrea Williams

Grades 4-7; Genre - Fiction; GRL not known; AR pts. 7.0

For each kid, Hoop Group was more than just a chance to ball; it was an escape, a dream, a family. Now their prospects seem all but impossible—but then the world hasn’t met Jayden, Tamika, Chris, Anthony, and Dex before. Determined to have their shot, the five new friends scrap, hustle, fight, and play hard to save their season to prove that sometimes a chance is all it takes. Some mature content.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe Jayden, his situation and his motivation. Jayden is beginning 7th grade, he and his mom live with his grandma, he sleeps in the bed and feels guilty while his mom sleeps on the couch, his mom works for an attorney and she is trying to make ends meet; he has a deal with his grandma that he can practice basketball in the morning if all of his homework is finished the night before; he is practicing basketball to be able to play professionally, to help his family get into a better living situation p.1

Chapter 2

  1. What lesson did Roddy teach Jayden that morning? It’s important to tackle challenges that get in the way of a goal
  2. On the bottom of page 18, Roddy uses the word “paint”. What does this word mean on the court? It is the rectangular area directly under the hoop, also known as the "key" or "free throw line"

Chapter 3

  1. Why does Jayden decide to keep the shoes? His mother got them for him and left a note saying she believed he could do anything he set his mind to and that the shoes are to be a reminder of that p.22
  2. Why did Anthony pick on Tyson the year before and why was he mad that Tyson handed everything over? He was hoping Tyson would put up a fuss to start a fight, but since Tyson didn’t, Anthony started the fight anyway p.25
  3. What does Anthony enjoy? Creative writing p.27

Chapter 4

  1. Explain why Coach Beck’s news was so devastating? Everyone knew Hoop Group was their only opportunity to get exposure to prep schools, which were the schools they wanted to go to p.35

Chapter 5

  1. Describe two emotions in this chapter and explain why the characters felt that way. Ex. Dejected-Tamika’s father didn’t choose her to be a captain and chose Jayden over her to run Hoop Group; Pride-Coach chose Jayden to be over Hoops Group and told him he was looking forward to coaching him the most out of anyone. He complimented Jayden and told him he has real potential and to stick with basketball p.47

Chapter 6

  1. Describe Chris’s father. His name is Cam and he’s not happy that Coach Beck retired. He is cooking up a scheme so Hoops Group can continue; his brother is basketball star, Kendrick King; served time in jail for a previous scheme involving his brother and now Kendrick isn’t talking to him; jealous of his brother and is always trying to prove himself p.50
  2. Describe Dex’s home situation. His mom is a single mom working full time at a diner; she’s also going to the community college to get her associate degree, so she doesn’t have a lot of time to spend with him; he cooks dinner every night and waits alone until she gets home at 8:00pm, his friends are not a good influence, so he has distanced himself from them; he watches a lot of YouTube p.54

Chapter 7

  1. Summarize this chapter. Jayden, Chris, Tamika, Dex and Anthony are the only ones who show up for Hoop Group; Tamika claimed the title of captain and the boys play two on two. Chris and Jayden start to fight and Anthony breaks it up. Chris and Jayden leave. p.60

Chapter 8

  1. Choose a character highlighted in this chapter and describe what struggle they are facing and their attitude as they deal with it.
  2. Jayden: Coach Beck stepping down from Hoop Group; he quit
  3. Tamika: discouraged since her father doesn’t believe in her; Hoop Group is going to win tournament
  4. Anthony: his mother and father are struggling with some things; this is still being developed in the story, but he copes with his struggles through poetry p.66

Chapter 9

  1. What Hoop Group progress did Tamika make in this chapter? She convinced principal Kim to be the chaperone so Hoop Group could continue p.81

Chapter 10

  1. After Anthony shares what is happening in his family, he is surprised to see Tamika’s response. On page 94, “Anthony is frozen, weighted by the gravity of Tamika’s judgement-free acceptance.” How is gravity used in this context? This is a heavy subject, and Tamika has chosen to accept Anthony and his struggles, and it really means a lot to him. He understands that her behavior is unusual and isn’t to be taken lightly p.94

Chapter 11

  1. Why is Tamika against asking her dad for help? He always discourages her and she feels rejected by him p.101

Chapter 12

  1. Describe Hoop Group practice in this chapter. Dex gets Chris to go by saying he’ll help him with his papers. Practice went well without any fighting. They realize Jayden isn’t playing in either group. Chris agrees that if they can convince Jayden to join Hoop Group, he’ll join too p.104

Chapter 13

  1. Why does the Ballers Group feel shady to Jayden? The star players were sitting on the bench most of the game; Cam might have just been telling Jayden what he wanted to hear to get him to join; they were charging money p.115

Chapter 14

  1. How is Tamika a good leader and coach in this chapter? She doesn’t worry that their team lost to 10-year-olds. She instead focuses on how they worked together and how each person has improved p.126

Chapter 15

  1. What is one characteristic that Dex showed in this chapter. Explain. Courage-to stand up for Anthony p.141

Chapter 16

  1. Why did Chris decide to attend Hoop Group at the end of the chapter? His dad said the Ballers didn’t need him and he felt let down, rejected p.152

Chapter 17

  1. Describe the game against Austinberg and the impact it has on Jayden. Hoop Group has only four players, but they kept fighting until the end even though they lost pretty significantly. Jayden was impressed with how the players on Hoop Group came together and played so well as a team. He realized how much he misses playing basketball p.156

Chapter 18

  1. What message does Roddy give Jayden in this chapter. To not lose sight of the future as he tries to figure out the present and that he needs to take care of himself before he can take care of others p.164

Chapter 19

  1. During Tamika’s conversation with her dad, he got upset at her. What reaction do you think she was looking for? She probably thought he would be proud of her for continuing Hoop Group and for what she has accomplished p.175
  2. Where did Tamika find support? Her mom encouraged her to keep fighting and to show her dad she can accomplish her goals p.178

Chapter 20

  1. Summarize this chapter. It’s the morning of the Shoot, Dunk and Spin Classic and Jayden is trying to distract himself by working on his English assignment. Grams reads it and encourages him to follow his dreams. Roddy calls and asks Jayden to fill in at a pizza booth at the Classic and he accepts p.179

Chapter 21

  1. How did Hoop Group do in the competition? Tamika and Dex took first place in their contests; Chris took third and Anthony was in the middle of the pack. They were getting ready to forfeit the last competition and go home, but Tamika saw Jayden running to the judges table to sign up and join their team p.186

Chapter 22

  1. Summarize how Jayden performs in his contest? He wins! It came close but he dug deep and came out victorious p.199

Chapter 23

  1. How has Hoop Group changed throughout the story? There are less people, but those that are there are dedicated and need it. Everyone’s skill has improved and they work well together p.216

Chapter 24

  1. Do you agree with Tamika’s words and actions towards her father? Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer p.217

Chapter 25

  1. What influenced Tamika to change her mind so rashly about her future and basketball? Her dad’s fall and close encounter with death; she realized that what her dad thought was more important than her stubbornness p.224

Chapter 26

  1. What influenced Coach Beck’s change of heart and his new commitment to Tamika? He felt the presence of the Lord tell him to love Tamika better p.230
  2. Have you ever had an experience where you or someone you know has felt the presence of the Lord? Explain. Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 27

  1. List two exciting things that happen in this chapter. Kendrick King has shown up to the game and agreed to coach the Hoop Group program; Hoop Group wins the tournament; Chris is humble and gives the play to Jayden p.233

Chapter 28

  1. At the end of this story, Jayden wanted to think about his win, his mom’s new job and the power of hope. What does the phrase “power of hope” mean to you? Listen to your child’s answer p.247
  2. What did you like about this story? Listen to your child’s answer

Comprehension Questions – Son Ward

Son Ward

by E.A. Loghry

Grades 8-12; Genre - Action Adventure

In a quiet valley kingdom untouched by war and strife, King’s falconer Shain becomes the unexpected choice for Son Ward- the heir to the throne. Holim, the King’s nephew, full of jealousy and wounded pride, strongly opposes the decision. As Shain wrestles with his new calling and the responsibility it entails, he must choose whether to become the man the King sees in him or give in to his own doubts and insecurities. Will Shain rise to his King’s call and prove himself as the kingdom’s leader, or will Holim’s schemes succeed in derailing his path to the throne?

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Summarize the introduction to this story. Shain is the king’s Master Falconer; he was called in to the king, and the king chose him to be the heir to the throne after he dies; Shain accepted, but wasn’t happy about it; he wants to rebel against the idea; the king’s nephew was there and could possibly cause problems p.1

Chapter 2

  1. Summarize Shain’s background? His great-grandfather betrayed the king and let assassins in the castle to kill the king; the king was well guarded, and didn’t die; Consequently, Shain’s great-grandfather had to clip his favorite falcon’s feathers so he couldn’t fly again and he was banished from the castle p.16
  2. Why is Holim such a threat to Shain? He is the king’s nephew and wants to be king; he killed his brother so he could easily kill Shain; there’s also speculation he hurt his uncle the king p.20

Chapter 3

  1. Describe Shain’s attitude about being king. Why? Grumpy; negative; he’d rather be out with his birds; he feels out of place in the castle p.26

Chapter 4

  1. What characteristics does Shain have that the king has chosen him for? Loyalty; love for what he is dedicated to; strong and can withstand Holim p.40
  2. How do those qualities make him a good king? Once Shain has accepted his role as the king, he will give all that he has to serve and be a good ruler; has confidence not to let Holim manipulate him and is strong so fight off Holim

Chapter 5

  1. Describe Trygve and why it is strange the king would tell Shain to trust him? He is the castle cook and we found out he is the king’s counselor; he is also Tok’s brother; he’s an old man full of wisdom and authority p.47

Chapter 6

  1. Do you think Shain should trust Brindel? Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer p.62

Chapter 7

  1. What attitude did Shain begin to have in this chapter? He started to embrace his new life and realized he needed to get the guards’ respect and approval p.68

Chapter 8

  1. What is holding Shain back from embracing the kingship? He’s worried he will fail; he is short-sighted and can only see one path to earning back the respect for his family p.76
  2. What will the scuffle between the guard and Holim’s mercenaries hopefully do? Discourage the mercenaries and Holim from trying to take the kingdom p.85

Chapter 9

  1. How could the scuffle possibly backfire and work against Shain? One of the guards was injured badly. If he dies, the guard will blame it on Shain p.94
  2. Why does it show good character of Shain to work with Karth and seek out Trygve’s counsel in this chapter? He is showing humility which is exemplary of a good leader p.95
  3. Now that we know Holim a little better, describe him. He’s the nephew to the king; he wants the throne; uses his charisma to manipulate others to get what he wants; he’s selfish, devious, a liar, seeks power instead of seeking to do good p.100

Chapter 10

  1. Summarize Trygve and Tok’s history; they are foster brothers; Trygve’s father was the king’s cook and when his father died, Trygve became the cook but he was young so the king had a noble family take care of him; this family was Tok’s; Tok’s father led an important battle against robbers and won; the king was grateful and promised to take care of his family since he died soon after; the king did, but the next king wasn’t aware of the deal and Tok and Trygve lost everything and they had to move to a small house in the village; their mom lived with them then died at a young age due to the loss she had throughout her life p.112

Chapter 11

  1. What did the king mean when he said, “he has changed his love “on page 123? Listen to your child’s answer
  2. Why can’t Shain take the man who attacked him prisoner? Holim will kill his father p.129

Chapter 12

  1. Describe the shift in Shain and how it came about? He began to take on the responsibility of being king; he was attacked on the way to visiting his father and he lived; the guards went on strike until there was a coronation; three guards became friends to Shain p.136

Chapter 14

  1. How has Karth been a good friend to Shain, specifically in this chapter? He helped him put his father’s affairs in order; he accompanied Shain to his father’s and buried him while Shain retrieved what he needed from the house; he took the box and let Shain run ahead to see what was going on with the King; he warned Shain about Holim’s reinforcements and helped him come up with the good idea to have the king sign a declaration to remove Holim from the castle p.147

Chapter 15

  1. Who was the person who wounded Shain off the path when he was traveling to his father’s? Holim in a disguise p.160
  2. Why does Shain think some guards have changed their loyalty? The guard stopped Holim from killing the king and didn’t hurt Shain or Karth p.164

Chapter 16

  1. What decision did Shain need to make during the battle in this chapter and what did it mean? Whether or not to go to the mews and save the falcons; he didn’t, he stayed to fight for the king and the kingdom; it means Shain has accepted his new responsibility and has given up his old dream p.174

Chapter 17

  1. Why did Shain release Tok from the army? The army had been divided and needed to be rebuilt with a new leader p.180
  2. How did Shain convince the people to love him? They saw his loyalty and love for the king as they fought Holim and army p.182

Chapter 18

  1. Did you agree that Shain became the person he wanted to become? Listen to your child’s answer. Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer
  2. What did you like most about this story? Listen to your child’s answer

Comprehension Questions – The Fort

The Fort

by Gordon Korman

Grades 5-8; Genre - Fiction; GRL W; AR pts. 9.0

The morning after Hurricane Leo rips through the town of Canaan, friends exploring the widespread destruction discover an underground bomb shelter. Text has violence, physical abuse, criminal activity, bullying & references to substance abuse. Themes include ableism.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe Evan Donnelly. He has an older brother and they live with his grandparents because their parents went to drug rehab; his brother has a friend who is not a good influence; Evan’s in 8th grade and his town was just hit with a hurricane; he and his friends are checking to see if the fort made it through the storm p.1
  2. Who’s Ricky? Another boy who’s house was hit with a tree during the storm and is staying at Evan’s for the day while it gets fixed.

Chapter 2

  1. Who is telling the story in this chapter? Mitchell Worth p.9
  2. How do you know? the chapter is named after him p.9
  3. Predict what Ricky and Evan found. Listen to your child’s answer p.15

Chapter 3

  1. What is clever about the author’s writing style? Each chapter is told through a different character’s eyes p.16
  2. Were you correct in your prediction from Chapter 2? Listen to your child’s answer
  3. Why do the boys feel they can claim the bomb shelter as their own? The guy who built it is dead; no one else knows about it p.23

Chapter 4

  1. Why does C.J. purposely crash and hurt himself on his bike? He needed a stunt to cover up how he really got hurt, which was on his skateboard on a railing at the library and crashing after trying not to hit an older woman p.28

Chapter 5

  1. How is Jason different from the other boys he is friends with? He has a girlfriend p.32
  2. Why is everyone worried to eat the food at the fort? It’s 40 years old p.38
  3. Would you eat it? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 6

  1. How was Ricky a good friend to Evan today? Evan’s brother Luke and his friend Jaeger wanted Evan to steal money from a business owner; as Evan got near the cash register, Ricky came in the door and gave Evan a reason to leave p.46
  2. Why is Evan worried about his brother? He makes bad choices when he’s around Jaeger and begins to act like their parents p.50

Chapter 7

  1. What does Ricky realize about his new friend group? They don’t need him to have fun or really care if he’s part of their group p.56

Chapter 8

  1. What did C.J. and Mitchell learn in this chapter? That the utensils from the fort are real silver p.63
  2. Why are the utensils black? As silver ages over time, it turns black p.63

Chapter 9

  1. How is Ricky proving himself to his new friends? He is quick to think, got them $85 for the fork at the pawn shop and helped Mitchell when he was in trouble; he is showing them that he is a good friend p.67

Chapter 10

  1. What heavy responsibility does Jason need to worry about that is too much for an eighth grader? His divorced parents put him in difficult situations where he has to explain his family situation to police p.74

Chapter 11

  1. Why doesn’t Marcus and C.J.’s mom want the police to be called? Marcus hurts C.J., that’s why C.J. is hurt all the time p.80

Chapter 12

  1. Do you agree with Ricky’s response to Luke and Jaeger’s question about the woods? Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer p.89
  2. What should Ricky tell them about the Fort, the money and the snacks? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 13

  1. Explain why Evan covered for Jaeger when grandma asked about the broken ceramic doll? He didn’t know what Jaeger would do if Grandma called the police; he’s worried something bad will happen to her p.101

Chapter 14

  1. Describe what happened in this chapter. C.J. and his parents go to a hockey game. Marcus, his stepdad, gets angry and hurts his mom and C.J. They get in the car and Marcus is upset, ashamed and apologizes, promising to never do it again p.101
  2. Does C.J. believe Marcus’s promise? Why, or why not? No. Because this is a cycle that repeats itself because Marcus won’t get help p.108

Chapter 15

  1. How is Mitchell watering his ex-therapist’s herb garden and why? Peeing on it because he is angry at him. He can’t receive help because his mom lost their insurance when she was laid off p.117
  2. Do you agree that Mitchell should be doing this? Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 16

  1. Why does C.J. feel stuck in his home situation? He can’t call the police because his mom will deny what Marcus is doing and she will defend him p.122
  2. Explain why this is unhealthy for her and C.J. to stay in this situation? It’s protecting a man who deserves to be in jail and shows her son that her abusing husband is more important than him and her p.122

Chapter 17

  1. Why does Luke think Jaeger is good for him to be around? Makes him tough and Luke thinks Jaeger has good ideas; he feels rejected by his grandma p.125
  2. How did Luke and Jaeger manipulate Mitchell and why? They told him they would tell the police how he peed on the therapist’s garden and that his mom would need to pay attorney fees to keep him out of juvenile detention; to get him to tell them where they are getting the money from p.129

Chapter 18

  1. Jason finds himself in real trouble with his girlfriend and possibly the police. Do you agree that he should talk? Listen to your child’s answer p.137

Chapter 19

  1. Name one characteristic C.J. showed in this chapter and explain. Courage for standing up to his mom; sadness because he misses her and he’s sad about the situation they’re in; determination to not put up with an unhealthy and abusive situation; irritation because Ricky is watching him very closely etc. p.138

Chapter 20

  1. What is Mitchell avoiding and why? His friends and the Fort; He doesn’t want to tell his friends that Luke and Jaeger are blackmailing him; he also doesn’t want the Luke and Jaeger to follow him to the Fort p.150

Chapter 21

  1. What is one of the perks to Janelle knowing about the Fort? She will help it get cleaned p.157

Chapter 22

  1. How did Ricky figure out what is happening with C.J.? He saw Marcus at Home Depot and how he behaved to an employee he supervised; he also connected the other details he’s observed about C.J.’s behavior p.160

Chapter 23

  1. How did the friends support C.J.? They believed Ricky when he told them his suspicions and they caught him staying at the Fort and didn’t let him be alone. They showed him know they were there for him p.173

Chapter 24

  1. Summarize this chapter. C.J.’s friends are helping him out and as he heads back to the Fort to sleep one night, he sees Luke and Jaeger; they follow him, but he loses them when he gets knocked down by a branch. He hears their car leave and he is able to go to the Fort p.175

Chapter 25

  1. How did Ricky help Mitchell feel better in this chapter? They helped him understand that Luke and Jaeger can’t black mail him because Jaeger won’t go to the police p.191

Chapter 26

  1. C.J.’s mom did a very courageous thing in this chapter. What is it and what could be the negative consequences of it. She packed her bag and decided to leave Marcus. Marcus could kill her and C.J. p.196

Chapter 27

  1. Explain Ricky’s status with the four friends and if he is being accepted by them. He’s able to hang around them since he found the Fort. It’s taken time, but he’s slowly gaining each person’s respect through his good ideas, his loyalty, and the initiative he’s shown p.203
  2. List one characteristic Ricky has shown to gain their respect. Ingenuity; courage; initiative; respectful; stands up for himself; confidence p.204

Chapter 28

  1. Have you been in a situation you didn’t want anyone to know about? Explain. Can you relate to Evan and C.J.? Listen to your child’s answer p.206

Chapter 29

  1. How does Janelle handle Luke and Jaeger? She threatens to call her dad who’s a policeman p.212
  2. Why does that stop the older boys? They don’t want to get any attention from a police officer because they are consistently breaking the law p.212

Chapter 30

  1. What is the consequence of C.J.’s mom not turning off the location finder on her phone? Marcus finds them in the bunker p.216
  2. Are you surprised that Marcus would lose his cool in front of C.J.’s friends? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 31

  1. Summarize this chapter. As Jason and Janelle get to the Fort the hatch is open; Luke and Jaeger pounce on them and go into the Fort with Jason; Janelle finds her phone and calls 9-1-1; Marcus grabs Jaeger by the throat and Jaeger pulls out his pocket knife and stabs Marcus; Marcus lets him go and drops to the ground but Jaeger won’t let anyone call an ambulance; the police arrive and arrest Jaeger and take Marcus to the hospital p.218

Chapter 32

  1. What does Mitchell come clean with in this chapter? That he peed on the herbs the spaghetti is made with p.231

Chapter 33

  1. Why is the white flower blooming in the cactus symbolic at the end of this story? It shows that hard things can be beautiful; these friends have struggled to accept each other, stand by each other and have grown together. What a beautiful way to end the story. As their friendship strengthens and blooms, so did this flower. It can also symbolize that times in life can be difficult, but by working together and supporting each other, they can be overcome  p.238
  2. What did you like about this story? Listen to your child’s answer

Comprehension Questions – Little House on the Prairie #1 Little House in the Big Woods

Little House in the Big Woods

by Laura Ingalls Wilder

Grades 2-3; Genre - Historical Fiction; GRL Q; AR pts. 5.0

The Ingalls family is snug in their Wisconsin house in spite of blizzards, wolves, and the lonely forest.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe the setting in this story. 1800’s; Wisconsin when only a few settlers had begun to develop the land
  2. Who’s the main character and her family? Laura, her older sister Mary, Carrie her younger sister, and her Ma and Pa p.2

Chapter 2

  1. List and describe the chore/day you would enjoy the best. Listen to your child’s answer p.29
  2. What’s comforting to Laura during the long cold winter? Safely being inside the cozy cabin with the fire p.38

Chapter 3

  1. Summarize this chapter. Laura and Mary helped Pa clean and load his gun; Pa told a story when he was young about how he should have listened to his father and being alone in the woods in the dark p.45

Chapter 4

  1. Compare how traveling was back in the early settler days to our day today. Early days, they traveled in sleds pulled by horses all covered in blankets and bundled up; today, we can jump in a vehicle, train, or plane and have a heater to keep us warm p.64
  2. Describe how the children made “pictures”. They’d fall from a stump and land in the snow, trying not to touch and make other prints in the snow p.65
  3. Summarize the story Uncle Peter shared and why it was so scary. Aunt Eliza wanted to go to the spring, but the dog wouldn’t let her; later they found a panther had been in the tree above the spring; the dog saved her from the panther p.68

Chapter 5

  1. Describe a Sunday for Mary and Laura and compare it to your Sunday. Mary and Laura’s-take bath Saturday night; sit quietly all day; couldn’t play with toys or each other; couldn’t sew; could look at pictures in the Bible or animal book; listen to your child’s answer p.84

Chapter 6

  1. Tell me the stories of the two bears in this chapter. 1st bear: It was dark, and Laura went to help her mother milk the cow; they thought the cow had gotten out of the barn; there was a gate, but mother couldn’t open it all the way to get to the cow, so she slapped the cow and realized it was a large bear; she and Laura hurried to the house and made it safely in; 2nd bear: Pa was coming home from town in the dark and saw a bear standing in his way off the road; Pa didn’t have his gun, so he picked up a branch and ran at the bear; when he hit the bear he realized it was just a large stump p.104

Chapter 7

  1. Explain sugar snow. It’s a spring snow that keeps the trees just cold enough to extend the the maple syrup harvest p.127

Chapter 8

  1. Was this a fun chapter to read? Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 9

  1. Why hadn’t Laura known the sky was so large? She and her family lived in the woods with trees all around them, they couldn’t see the vastness of the sky p.164

Chapter 9

  1. Why is Laura jealous of Mary? Mary has golden hair, she looked good and sweet, the storekeeper commented how pretty she was, she kept her dress clean and minded her manners, her candy had a poem on it p.175

Chapter 10

  1. How did Pa get honey in this chapter? He found a bear eating honey from a tree; he chased the bear away, cut down the tree and filled all the containers he brought from home p.195

Chapter 11

  1. Can you answer Laura’s question? How is Charlie a liar? He cried out like he was in trouble three times and there wasn’t anything wrong p.211
  2. Does this remind you of another story? The boy who cried wolf

Chapter 12

  1. Summarize this chapter. Ma and Laura made hats out of straw; It was time to harvest the garden and grain; Pa convinced his neighbor to hire a threshing machine to come and separate the wheat; it took all day and the girls helped their Ma prepare dinner p.221

Chapter 13

  1. Why didn’t Pa shoot any animals when he went hunting? He was too curious watching them p.232
  2. Tell me a part of this story you really enjoyed. Why? Listen to your child’s answer 

Comprehension Questions – The Westing Game

The Westing Game

by Ellen Raskin

Grades 6-8; Genre - Fiction; GRL V; AR pts. 8.0

Sixteen game players, heirs to Sam Westing's fabulous fortune, are all suspected of his murder. This book is part mystery story, part play-along game, and part do-it-yourself puzzle.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Summarize the introduction to this story. A mysterious salesman rented six apartments to previously chosen tenants in one day on Lake Michigan; some tenants were honest working people and others were fit for prison and one was a mistake p.1

Chapter 2

  1. What deal did Turtle make? Do you think it was a mistake? $2 for each minute she stayed in the Westing house; listen to your child’s answer; two high school boys went in and ran out; one ran off a cliff and died and the other had warm blood on his hands and is in the insane asylum p.8
  2. Describe Chris. He has an ailment; sits and looks out the window; observant; smart; waiting for his brother, Theo, to bring him food from the cafe they own; close to his brother and trusts him p.8

Chapter 3

  1. What did most everyone notice in this chapter? Smoke coming out of the Westing house chimney p.10
  2. List a character and why they’re intriguing. Turtle Wexler, Flora Baumbach, Doug Hoo, Sandy McSouthers, Judge Ford, Chris or Theo, Sydelle Pulaski; Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 4

  1. Summarize this chapter. Turtle went into the Westing house and lasted 12 minutes; she saw a dead body and read in the paper that it was Samuel Westing; the beneficiaries to the Westing estate p.16

Chapter 5

  1. What did everyone gather for in this chapter? The meeting to go over Westing’s will p.22

Chapter 6

  1. Summarize what the will said. Sam Westing was murdered, and he knows who it is; the other heirs need to figure out who it is so Sam can rest in peace p.28

Chapter 7

  1. Who would you want to be paired with if you were playing? Why? Listen to your child’s answer 

Chapter 8

  1. Why was someone after Sydelle’s short hand notes? She took them at the meeting; they will know what was said p.52

Chapter 9

  1. Why was Turtle’s mom nice to her? So she’d share her clues p.56
  2. Why did Mr. Hoo decide to go to the party? People may share their clues p.57

Chapter 10

  1. Why is Angela so upset in this chapter? She’s tired of being what everyone else wants her to be; she isn’t able to be herself p.59

Chapter 11

  1. What did the characters learn in this chapter? Turtle’s real name; why her mother nicknamed her Turtle; Sydelle’s shorthand notes are written in Polish p.64

Chapter 12

  1. Why are people’s prized possessions missing? There’s a burglar in the building p.70
  2. Why would Westing include a burglar in the game? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 13

  1. Define what a bookie is. A bookie, short or slang for “bookmaker,” is someone who facilitates gambling, most commonly on sporting events. A bookie sets odds, accepts and places bets, and pays out winnings on behalf of other people.
  2. Who do you think is planting the bombs? Why?  Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 14

  1. Do you know where the phrase, “may God thy gold refine” comes from? Listen to your child’s answer p.86

Chapter 15

  1. Why did Turtle always have a radio playing and an ear plug in? To listen to the stocks
  2. Why did she care so much about the stock market? She thought that’s what Samuel Westing wanted them to do with the money he gave them p.88
  3. Who is George Theodorakis? Theo and Chris’s father; he loved Violet Westing, but she couldn’t marry him p.94

Chapter 16

  1. Why did Angela think Turtle was lucky? She could do and be whoever she wanted p.96
  2. What observation did Chris make that connects Otis to the Westings? He limps p.99
  3. Do you think Angela was the bomber? Listen to your child’s answer
  4. What incriminating evidence do you think Turtle took from Angela’s bag? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 17

  1. Who do people think could be the murderer? Why? Otis; their questions lead back to him p.103

Chapter 18

  1. Explain what happened to Flora’s daughter. She has disabilities and died of pneumonia at 19 years old p.106
  2. What’s happening to each pair as they work together? They’re starting to become friends and help each other p.113

Chapter 19

  1. What mistake did Westing make? Explain. At the beginning of the story one person was invited to live at the tower but they were a mistake. Westing invited Sydelle Pulaski instead of Sybil p.119

Chapter 20

  1. What philosophy about this game do the judge and Sandy have? Westing’s out to punish one of the heirs p.123
  2. What do they know about Mrs. Westing? Not much, but that she was forcing her daughter to marry a crooked politician and decided to kill herself p.124

Chapter 21

  1. What’s the judge’s connection to Sam Westing? Her parents worked for him and she grew up in the Westing house; she played chess with Westing and he insulted her; he paid for her education and she never repaid him back p.127
  2. What has Sydelle figured out at the end of the chapter? What the clues mean; the clues are the song America, the Beautiful p.133

Chapter 22

  1. Who is the burglar? Why? Madame Hoo; to get money to go back to China p.134
  2. Why is Crow scared to go to the meeting at the Westing house? She knows she’s in danger p.141
  3. Who does Sandy and the judge think Crow is? Mrs. Westing p.141
  4. Who do they think Otis is? Do you think they’re correct? Sam Westing; listen to your child’s answer p.141

Chapter 23

  1. Why do you think Sandy glared at Crow in this chapter? Listen to your child’s answer p.148
  2. Who gave herself up as the murderer? Crow p.155

Chapter 24

  1. Do you think Sandy is really dead? Listen to your child’s answer
  2. Predict what’s going to happen. Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 26

  1. Predict who the fourth person is Sam Westing impersonated. Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 27

  1. What did Turtle need to do to win? Show up at the fourth persons home, Dr. Eastman; all of Westing’s pretend names included a direction p.174

Chapter 28

  1. Who got married in this chapter? Crow and Otis p.176
  2. Which character is getting help from the judge paying for their education? Chris p.177

Chapter 29

  1. Summarize this chapter. The heirs all arrive at a party to honor Doug who won an Olympic gold medal. There were updates given for each character p.179

Chapter 30

  1. What’s the conclusion of this story? Turtle never told anyone she won the prize and who Julian Eastman really was; she married Theo, they didn’t have children due to the possibility of passing on what Chris has; Julian, or Sandy, dies of old age and Turtle hurries home from the funeral to spend time with her niece Alice p.182

Comprehension Questions – Ella Enchanted

Ella Enchanted

by Gail Carson Levine

Grades 4-7; Genre - Fantasy; GRL U; AR pts. 8.0

In this novel based on Cinderella, Ella struggles against the childhood curse that forces her to obey any order given.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What’s Ella’s curse and why can’t she get cured of it? To be obedient to commands; the fairy that cast it on her won’t remove it and she’s the only one who can p.3

Chapter 2

  1. Describe Char. The prince; friendly; smart; curly hair; polite; kind; sense of humor p.10
  2. Describe Ella and her father’s relationship. He likes formality, Ella doesn’t; he didn’t want her around and be in the way; she doesn’t want to be near him and was always glad when he was away p.10

Chapter 3

  1. Summarize this chapter. There was a wake for Ella’s mother’s death; Dane Olga and her daughters came to pay their respects; Ella gave her daughters a tour and invited them to eat; Ella learned that Mandy was her fairy godmother p.16

Chapter 4

  1. What did Ella learn about fairies in this chapter? They don’t like to do magic in front of people; people only like the idea of fairies; they shouldn’t do big magic, it could have bad consequences; she’s of the Friends of Fairies line p.24
  2. Why is Ella and her father uncomfortable around each other? They don’t know each other very well; they haven’t spent a lot of time together p.30

Chapter 5

  1. What warning did Mandy give Ella in this chapter? To make sure her father never learns of the curse p.37

Chapter 6

  1. What danger is Ella and the little gnome in? The ogre commanded her to bring the child to him and he will hurt them p.44

Chapter 7

  1. How did Hattie figure out the curse on Ella? She and Olive were fighting over Ella’s necklace, and she saw Ella’s predicament of sharing it when she didn’t want to p.51

Chapter 8

  1. Describe the book Mandy gave Ella. It’s magic; shows scenes of what’s happening in real life; if someone else looks at it, it’s a boring book p.57

Chapter 9

  1. List three things that happened to Ella on her first day at finishing school. They arrived being chased by ogres; she hadn’t eaten for three days; the girls were all embroidering but Ella had never touched a needle; she met a friend named Areida and learned her language; the Sewing Mistress got angry at her for not sewing and sent her to her room without supper and breakfast the next morning p.60

Chapter 10

  1. Why did Ella thrive in each subject except penmanship? The mistresses of each subject would order her what to do except in penmanship p.72

Chapter 11

  1. What unfair command did Hattie give Ella? To end her friendship with Areida p.80
  2. Why is it unfair? Areida is Ella’s only real friend and comfort

Chapter 12

  1. What’s Hattie’s weakness? She wears a wig p.83
  2. What decision did Ella make that night? To leave finishing school and hopefully find Lucinda, the fairy who gave her the curse p.86

Chapter 13

  1. Who helped Ella in her journey? The elves p.90
  2. Describe Ella’s visit with the elves. They were kind to her and saw who she really was; she showed them her fairy book and they showed her some treasures; they gave her the wolf treasure, put her on a pony with food and sent her on her way p.91

Chapter 14

  1. How did Ella stop the ogres from eating her? She used their language on them and soothed them to sleep p.102

Chapter 15

  1. How did Ella and Char help each other in this chapter? He and his knights saved her from getting eaten by the ogres and she helped tame them so the soldiers wouldn’t get hurt p.103

Chapter 16

  1. Why is Ella excited to make it to the wedding on time? Lucinda will still be there to hopefully break her curse p.117

Chapter 17

  1. List two ways Ella knew she had seen Lucinda at the party. Her tiny feet; she bestowed a gift the giants didn’t look happy about; she disappeared and reappeared in front of people p.121

Chapter 18

  1. What command did Lucinda give to change Ella’s attitude? To be happy with her gift, so now she’s ecstatic to obey p.127
  2. What’s Ella’s father going to do with her? Marry her off so he can be rich again p.129

Chapter 19

  1. What snapped Ella out of being happy to obey? Mandy commanded her not to be p.140
  2. Why is Ella’s father marrying Dame Olga? The Earl lost much of his wealth in a fire so he is marrying Dame Olga for her money p.141

Chapter 20

  1. Do you agree or disagree that Lucinda’s gift was actually positive? Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer p147

Chapter 21

  1. Summarize this chapter. Char and Ella spent the evening together exploring the castle, dancing and sliding down the stair rail p.148
  2. Why would Hattie make Ella pay? She’s jealous Ella spent time and had fun with the prince p.156

Chapter 22

  1. How did the fairy book help Ella? It showed a journal entry from Char so she knew what he was thinking p.160

Chapter 23

  1. List two ways this story parallels Cinderella? Ella was sent to her room so she couldn’t see the prince; she became a servant to her stepmother and sisters; she had to cook and scrub the floor

Chapter 24

  1. Why are Char and Ella writing to each other in this chapter? Char has gone to Ayorthaian to live for a year p.172
  2. What did Char tell Ella in his letters? His strengths, weaknesses, that he loves her and wants to marry her p.173

Chapter 25

  1. What helped Lucinda learn her gifts were horrible? Having to be obedient and be a squirrel p.193

Chapter 26

  1. Why couldn’t Lucinda take back Ella’s curse? She renounced big magic p.196
  2. How did Lucinda help Ella in this chapter? She provided a coach with footmen and horses to go to the ball; gave her a necklace and tiara p.203

Chapter 27

  1. What’s the purpose of Ella going to the balls? To see and hear Char p.207
  2. What did Ella do that caught his attention? She spoke in Ayorthaian and sang with him; she was familiar to him p.208

Chapter 28

  1. Why has Char promised to never marry? He was so hurt by Ella p.219

Chapter 29

  1. How did Ella break the curse? Her determination to protect Char and her country; she loved them enough p.228

Epilogue 

  1. What did you like about the ending of this story? Explain. Listen to your child’s answer

Comprehension Questions – The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden

by Frances Hodgson Burnett

Grades 5-8; Genre - Fiction; GRL U; AR pts. 13.0

After the sudden death of her parents in India, Mary Lennox is sent 'home' to England, and the Yorkshire estate of a distant relative. Sad and lonely, her only interest lies in a secret garden, abandoned after a tragic accident. With the help of Dickon, a local country boy, and Colin, her guardian's invalid son, Mary's spirit is reawakened as they bring the garden back to life.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe the main character and how she became alone. Mary Lennox; disagreeable looking, spoiled, sickly, thin, yellow hair and face, born in India; was raised by a servant because her mother didn’t want her since she was a girl; her parents, Ayah and other servants died of cholera; she was alone and was going to live with her uncle p.7

Chapter 2

  1. Describe Mrs. Medlock. Mary’s uncle’s housekeeper; short and stout; stern and would take no nonsense from children p.16
  2. Describe her uncle’s house. has a hundred rooms with doors that are mostly locked; gloomy; on the edge of a moor p.17

Chapter 3

  1. Define a moor. Miles of wild land without trees; used for animals to graze on p.21
  2. Summarize this chapter. Mary and Mrs. Medlock travel in the carriage for the last leg of their journey to her uncle’s house p.19

Chapter 4

  1. Describe Martha. Pleasant, good attitude, talkative, hard worker, has 11 siblings, strong p.24
  2. What does the following phrase mean, “give you some stomach for your meat”? Help her be hungry so she’ll eat p.29
  3. What did Mary learn about herself in this chapter? She’s lonely; she’s not pretty and has a nasty temper p.35

Chapter 5

  1. Summarize why Mary’s uncle hates the garden. He and his wife used to tend the garden and spend time together in it; one day she sat on a branch which broke and she died p.40
  2. List two good things that have happened to Mary since arriving at Misselthwaite Manor? She understood the robin; she’s run in the wind until her blood ran warm, she was hungry for the first time in her life; she felt sorry for someone p.41

Chapter 6

  1. How did Mary amuse herself in the chapter? Wandered the house and explored p.45
  2. Why did Mrs. Medlock get angry with her? Mary heard crying and left her rooms p.48

Chapter 7

  1. How did Mary acquire the old key? The robin landed in a hole that had been dug by a dog p.53

Chapter 8

  1. What did Mary say for the first time in her life and why? Thank you; Martha’s mother had purchased her a skipping rope p.56
  2. How did Mary find the secret garden door? She was skipping rope and the robin landed on a vine that blew in the breeze and uncovered it p.59

Chapter 9

  1. Summarize this chapter. Mary goes into the Secret Garden and explores; she finds bulbs growing and digs around them to give them room to grow; she wrote to Dickon and sent him some shillings to purchase garden tools and seeds; Mary heard the crying sound again p.62

Chapter 10

  1. Describe Dickon. 12 years old; Martha’s brother; purchased seeds and tools for Mary and brought them to her; he has a way with animals; he’s kind; round blue eyes; wears clothes with patches; is trustworthy p.76

Chapter 11

  1. Summarize what Dickon and Mary did in this chapter. Explore the Secret Garden and look for plants that were alive p.82

Chapter 12

  1. Describe Mr. Craven. Mary’s uncle; kind and handsome; worried and distracted; miserable; tall with crooked shoulders; black hair with white streaks 91

Chapter 13

  1. Describe Colin. Mr. Craven’s son; sickly; said he’s going to die young; 10 years old; black hair; big eyes; delicate face the color of ivory; doesn’t like people talking about him p.97
  2. How did Colin feel about the Secret Garden and how did Mary stop him from telling others about it? He was curious and wouldn’t stop asking about it; Mary described it, pretending she hadn’t been there and said it was important to keep a secret p.102

Chapter 14

  1. Why does everyone want Colon to remember he’s sick? So he doesn’t get better p.115

Chapter 15

  1. How are Colin and Mary similar? Colin’s father doesn’t want him and Mary’s mother didn’t want her; they both have lived without love in their lives; they are spoiled, both have been given everything they want, p.124

Chapter 16

  1. Why was it good for Mary to stand up to Colin? He’s never had anyone stand up to him p.130

Chapter 17

  1. How did Mary stop Colin’s tantrum? She didn’t have sympathy and wasn’t scared of him; she told him to stop and that he didn’t have a lump on his back and that he wouldn’t die p.134

Chapter 18

  1. Choose a word that describes how Mary feels about Colin. Explain. Compassionate; trusting; love; friendship. Listen to your child’s answer p.139

Chapter 19

  1. Summarize Colin’s reaction to meeting Dickon and his animal friends. He was speechless and in awe p.151

Chapter 20

  1. Why did Colin feel stronger and healthier? He has something to look forward to, a reason to live; he was distracted from his illness p.158
  2. Why did he feel like he will live forever? He felt good and had hope p.160

Chapter 21

  1. Why were the children so joyous to see spring? Mary and Colin had never seen it blossom before p.161
  2. Why didn’t Mary and Dickon want to talk about the old tree with the broken branch? They thought it would be too sad for Collin to know that his mother died from the broken branch p.163
  3. Why did Ben Weatherstaff cry when he saw Colin stand? He was so happy p.169

Chapter 22

  1. Summarize this chapter. Ben Weatherstaff came into the garden and asked Colin what he could do for him; Collin told him to keep the garden a secret; Ben had been the one coming in to the garden; Colin planted a rose as a king in his new place p.170
  2. Why was this chapter so special? Colin is learning he is strong and will be healthy; Colin has people who love and support him p.174

Chapter 23

  1. Why does Colon talk of Magic? What is it to him? The Magic in the garden is what’s going to make him stronger like the sun and the flowers p.176

Chapter 24

  1. Explain Colin and Mary’s predicament and how it’s solved. They were eating so much food it was going to ruin Colin’s secret that he was getting strong; Colin wanted to show his father that he’s strong and walking; Dickon’s mother made buns for them and told Dickon to take a bucket of fresh milk for them; Dickon baked potatoes and carrots in a little oven he concocted in the woods near the manor; they didn’t need to request more food from the cook in the manor p.188

Chapter 25

  1. How did the children entertain themselves on rainy days? Exploring the house and using the empty rooms to do their exercises and run about p.198
  2. Why is Colin going to keep the curtain pulled back? So he can see his mother laughing and being happy for him p.201

Chapter 26

  1. List two names used to describe God in this chapter. Magic; the Big Good Thing; the Good Thing; the Joy Maker p.207
  2. How did Susan Sowerby respond when Colin said he wanted her for a mother. She gave him a hug and said his mother is in the garden p.208

Chapter 27

  1. Summarize the conclusion of this story. Mr. Craven started to awake out of his despair and went home; he went to the Secret Garden; Colin ran into him and told him everything; Mr. Craven was joyous to see his son p.209

Comprehension Questions – Tuck Everlasting

Tuck Everlasting

by Natalie Babbitt

Grades 4-8; Genre - Fantasy; GRL W; AR pts. 4.0

Winnie Foster is faced with difficult decisions after she is kidnapped by the Tuck family, who have discovered a spring that gives eternal life. Text contains mild violence.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe the setting of this story. A cottage and forest owned by the Fosters; takes place in August p.5

Chapter 2

  1. What did you learn in this chapter? Mae and Tuck’s sons are coming home after 10 years and their appearances haven’t changed in 87 years, they needed to be careful and not let anyone see them p.9

Chapter 3

  1. Describe what you know about Winnie. Her name is Winifred; she’s an only child; wants to run away because her family’s demanding p.14

Chapter 4

  1. Predict what the man in the yellow suit wants with the family. Listen to your child’s answer
  2. What’s the music coming from? The music box p.20

Chapter 5

  1. Do you think Jesse was serious when he said he was 104 years old? Listen to your child’s answer p.28
  2. Why do you think Jesse didn’t want Winnie to drink from the spring? Listen to your child’s answer p.29

Chapter 6

  1. Describe what you know about the Tuck Family. Mother and father, two sons, Jesse and Miles; Miles is the oldest; Jesse is 17 years old; nice family p.31

Chapter 7

  1. Summarize the Tuck’s story and why they kidnapped Winnie. 100 years ago, they were wandering to find land and came upon the spring, they and their horse drank from it; nothing could hurt them and they never grew older; the cat who never drank the water died 10 years before; they knew no one else could ever find the spring p.37

Chapter 8

  1. Why did the Tuck’s want to take Winnie home with them? To make sure she understood how serious their secret was p.43
  2. Why do you think the man in the yellow suit was happy after overhearing the Tuck’s story? He was looking for the spring p.45

Chapter 9

  1. How did Tuck respond to Winnie and why? He was happy she knew about their secret and that she was at their home; he was happy to see and interact with a child p.48

Chapter 10

  1. What did Winnie think about the Tuck’s home? Messy but comfortable p.52
  2. Describe how the Tuck’s live their lives? The parents live in the home all the time and make things to sell, going to the different towns around them so they don’t bring attention to themselves; the boys stay away finding jobs to work for a while, but don’t stay in any one place too long; they come home when they want and every ten years p.53

Chapter 11

  1. Why was Tuck adamant to take Winnie for a ride in the row boat? So he could convince her to keep their secret p.58

Chapter 12

  1. What did Tuck compare their lives to in this chapter? A boat that is stuck and can never flow in the current of life; a rock on the side of the road p.63

Chapter 13

  1. Summarize this chapter. The man in the yellow suit has stolen the Tuck’s horse and tied it to the Foster’s fence; he knocked on the door and told them he knew where Winnie was p.66

Chapter 14

  1. What proposal did Jesse give to Winnie? She should drink the spring water when she turns 17 years old, they would get married, and travel the world and do what they want p.71

Chapter 15

  1. What deal did the man in the yellow suit offer the Fosters? He’d show the constable where Winnie is and in return they’d sell him the woods p.74

Chapter 16

  1. Predict what the man in the yellow suit’s plan is. Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 17

  1. What resolve did Winnie come to in this chapter? She would keep the Tuck’s secret p.86

Chapter 18

  1. Why did Winnie feel like the Tuck’s belonged to her? They were kind and treated her like family; she’d grown fond of them p.91

Chapter 19

  1. What did the man in the yellow suit intend to do with the woods? Sell the spring water p.97

Chapter 20

  1. Why don’t the Tuck’s want the man in the yellow suit to die? If he does, Mae will be hung p.104

Chapter 21

  1. What’s the conflict Winnie faces in this chapter? How is it resolved? Mae hung at the gallows if the man in the yellow suit dies; the contract is void if he dies p.108
  2. Predict what Winnie plans to do. Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 22

  1. How did Winnie’s family treat her differently? They respected what she wanted to do instead of bossing her around and controlling her p.111
  2. How will Winnie make a difference? When Mae crawls out of the windows of the jail, Winnie will climb in and wrap herself in a blanket to look like Mae; this will give the Tuck’s time to escape p.114

Chapter 23

  1. Why did the day seem to last so long? Winnie was anxious for midnight to roll around so she could free Mae p.116

Chapter 24

  1. Describe Mae’s break out. Jesse met Winnie and they ran to the back of the jail and met Miles and Tuck; Miles poured oil over the nails so they wouldn’t squeak; lightning flashed and thunder crashed which covered up the noise; the constable only checked in on Mae once and they all ducked; with a clap of thunder Miles pulled out the bars; Mae squeezed through and after hugs and kisses, Winnie slid into the jail through the window p.121

Chapter 25

  1. What helped Winnie’s family understand and support her for what she had done? She told them she loved the Tuck’s and they were her friends p.130
  2. Why did Winnie use Jesse’s water on the toad? She wanted to keep it safe and if the spring was truly a magic spring she could drink straight from it p.132

Epilogue 

  1. What did Tuck find? How? Winnie didn’t drink the water and died two years previous; he saw her gravestone in the cemetery p.137

Comprehension Questions – The Chocolate Touch

The Chocolate Touch

by Patrick Skene Catling

Grades 1-6; Genre - Fantasy; GRL N; AR pts. 2.0

If he could, John Midas would eat nothing but chocolate all the time, and he'd never share it with anyone. Then one day, John finds a strange coin on the sidewalk and uses it to buy a box of chocolate at a mysterious new candy store.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe John. A boy who loves candy more han any other food and loves chocolate more than any candy p.13
  2. How did John’s candy habits affect his mother? Because he ate so much candy, he doesn’t eat the food she makes; she worries about his health p.20

Chapter 2

  1. What did John do to show he was excited to eat his chocolate? Got ready for bed quickly, drank his tonic without complaint, went to bed early p.31

Chapter 3

  1. Describe what happened to John in this chapter. Why? Whatever he put into his mouth turned into chocolate; the chocolate he ate was magic p.36

Chapter 4

  1. How did John make Susan sad? He bit into her silver dollar and the part he bit turned chocolate p.54

Chapter 5

  1. Why did John think the magic was getting stronger? The entire pencil John held turned to chocolate after just one bite; entire objects are turning to chocolate p.60

Chapter 6

  1. Why is Susan ignoring John? She’s mad at him for eating her silver dollar p.67

Chapter 7

  1. Why is John craving healthy food? He’s tired of only tasting chocolate p.76

Chapter 8

  1. Summarize this chapter. John had a solo in the orchestra, but when he played his trumpet it turned to chocolate p.87

Chapter 9

  1. What made John change his mind and go to the party? Mrs. Buttercup came to pick him up p.94

chapter 10

  1. What did John find when he looked for the candy store? It wasn’t there p.103

Chapter 11

  1. Who gave John the chocolate touch? Why? the store owner; to help him be selfless instead of selfish p.118

Chapter 12

  1. Did John learn his lesson? Why or why not? Yes; he cared more for others than himself at the end of the story p.122

Comprehension Questions – James and the Giant Peach

James and the Giant Peach

by Roald Dahl

Grades 4-5; Genre - Fantasy; GRL S; AR pts. 4.0

James Henry Trotter loses his parents and is forced to live with his evil aunts. Luckily, he is given magic crystals, which he accidentally spills on his aunts' decrepit peach tree. One of the peaches begins to grow, and grow, and grow. Finally, James climbs into the peach and it rolls away from his aunts' yard and his miserably lonely life. With the giant peach, he begins a new life, making friends along the way with hilarious characters like the Grasshopper and the Earthworm.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe James’s situation. He lived near the ocean with his parents until he was 4 years old; his parents were killed by a rhinoceros in London one day and he went to live with his two horrible aunts who wouldn’t allow him to leave the garden where they lived; a peach tree was in the garden, but it never bore fruit p.1

Chapter 2

  • Describe the main character’s aunts. Selfish, lazy, thought they were beautiful, mean to James; Aunt Sponge was fat and short with piggy shaped eyes and sunken mouth; Aunt Spiker was tall and lean, would spit when she talked p.5

Chapter 3

  1. Who approached James and what did he give him? An old man; magic crystals p.10

Chapter 4

  1. What instructions did the man give James and what did he promise him? Put the crystals in a large jug of water with ten hairs from his head and drink; wonderful things will happen to him p.12

Chapter 5

  1. Where did the crystals disappear to? Why? James tripped and the crystals all disappeared into the ground near the peach tree p.13

Chapter 6

  1. What was peculiar about the peach tree? A peach was growing on it p.16

Chapter 7

  1. What did Aunt Spiker want to do with the peach? Make money by charging people to see it p.24

Chapter 8

  1. Think of a party that you have held at your home and your role during and compare it to James's role during their event. James was locked in his room and had to clean up the garbage after everyone left. Listen to your child's answer about what role they play during an event at your home p.26

Chapter 9

  1. What did James feel in the moonlight? Something more peculiar was going to happen to him p.28

Chapter 10

  1. Summarize this chapter. James found a hole in the peach and climbed into it, crawling down a tunnel to the middle of the peach, through a doorway into the peach pit p.30

Chapter 11

  1. Why was James terrified in this chapter? He thought the human sized insects were going to eat him p.34

Chapter 12

  1. How did the insects get to be so large and human like? The magic crystals p.38

Chapter 13

  1. Describe how James felt about his new friends? He liked them, they were kind and helpful p.43

Chapter 14

  1. Where were the creatures and James going? They didn’t know, they just wanted to go somewhere to get away from James’s aunts and the hill they were on p.45

Chapter 15

  1. What happened to James’s aunts? The peach rolled over them and they were smashed p.48

Chapter 16

  1. What book, also written by Roald Dahl, was referenced in this chapter? Charlie and the Chocolate Factory p.50

Chapter 17

  1. Describe the journey James and the creatures had to the ocean? They were tossed around, hitting into each other until they landed on the water p.53

Chapter 18

  1. What good news did James have for the creatures in this chapter? They wouldn’t starve because they had the peach to eat p.60

Chapter 19

  1. What attacked the peach and why were the creatures worried? Sharks; with each bite from the sharks, the peach will be eaten away p.66

Chapter 20

  1. What was James’s plan to save them from the sharks? Take string from the spider and silk worm and tie it from the peach stem to seagulls to lift the peach out of the water p.70

Chapter 21

  1. Why did James become the captain of the peach ship? He took charge p.75

Chapter 22

  1. What word would you use to describe James in this chapter? Listen to your child’s answer; determined, hard worker, clever, smart p.75

Chapter 23

  1. Why do you think the peach wasn’t damaged by the sharks? Listen to your child’s answer; magic, the sharks couldn’t get their teeth into it p.83

Chapter 24

  1. List one thing James learned in this chapter? How grasshoppers play music; where their ears are; where crickets and katydids ears are p.87

Chapter 25

  1. Summarize what James learned in this chapter? How each of his insect friends helped the world p.89

Chapter 26

  1. How did James help Centipede in this chapter? He saved him; the centipede fell over the edge of the peach into the water and James asked Silkworm to spin rope and went in after him p.95

Chapter 27

  1. Should Centipede call people names? Why, or why not? Listen to your child's answer
  2. What was the consequence of him calling the Cloud-Men names? they threw hail stones to hit the peach p.104

Chapter 28

  1. What danger were the friends in this chapter? The Cloud-Men saw them and threw whatever they could at them p.112

Chapter 29

  1. Why is Centipede upset in this chapter? The Cloud-Men hit him with paint and he was stuck p.113

Chapter 30

  1. What freed Centipede? The Cloud-Men dumped water on them and it washed the paint off p.118

Chapter 31

  1. What did the author say the weather is a result of? The Cloud-Men working their sinister magic upon the world below p.120

Chapter 32

  1. What’s James’s plan to get the peach down to the earth? Cut a few of the strings holding the peach p.122

Chapter 33

  1. What did the people in America think the peach was? A bomb p.123

Chapter 34

  1. Why did the friends think they were going to die? An airplane came through the air and sliced through every string holding the peach p.126

Chapter 35

  1. Summarize this chapter. People in the city thought they were going to die along with those in the peach p.127

Chapter 36

  1. What saved the peach? It fell onto the Empire State Building p.128

Chapter 37

  1. What helped the fire fighters and police officers not be afraid of the creatures in the peach? James spoke up for them p.134

Chapter 38

  1. Why was James so happy in this chapter? 10,000 Children asked if they could try the peach; he’d never seen so many children in his life p.141

Chapter 39

  1. Summarize the conclusion of this story. It describes what happens to each of the creatures and James; James was so happy to have so many children who wanted to meet him and hear his story p.145
  2. What is a theme of this story? Explain. Courage and friendship; James and the insects become friends that take care of each other and help each other