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Comprehension Questions – The Sign of the Beaver

The Sign of the Beaver

By Elizabeth George Speare

Grades 3-5; Genre – Historical Fiction; GRL T; AR pts: 5.0

Until the day his father returns to their cabin in the Maine wilderness, 12-year-old Matt must try to survive on his own. During an attack by swarming bees, Matt is rescued by an Indian chief and his grandson. A Newbery Honor Book.

Vocabulary

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe the setting of this story? In Maine during summer of 1768 at brand new township; Matt and his father had built the first cabin p.2
  2. Why did Matthew’s father leave him alone at the cabin? He went back to their home in Quincy, MA to get Matthew’s mom, sister and new baby and bring them to the new cabin p.2
  3. What two things did Matthew’s father give him before he left and how will that help Matthew while he’s away? A watch- it will keep him company while he’s gone; a rifle- for protection p.4
  4. How old is Matt when his father leaves him? 12 years old p.6

Chapter 2

  1. How was Matthew feeling about living alone in the wilderness? He liked it; could do the chores and other tasks as he pleased and when he pleased; he filled his days up quickly p.7
  2. How did Matthew feed himself? He shot rabbits and ducks; caught fish; had flour to make cakes p.8
  3. What’s the advice Matt’s dad gave him about the Indians? Be polite if you should ever meet one p.9
  4. Why was Matt uneasy about the Indians? He could feel one was watching and around, but never got to see him p.10

Chapter 3

  1. Describe Ben and what happened in the town he left? Heavyset, stomach bulging, wearing a ragged blue army coat, tangled reddish whiskers, said the town was after him and he decided to go get some beaver pelts and live with the Indians p.11
  2. Why was Matt uneasy with Ben? He didn’t know how long he’d stay at the cabin, he didn’t know if he could trust him, didn’t’ know if he was dangerous p.17
  3. What was the consequence of Ben seeing the gun and Matt falling asleep? Ben stole the gun p.18

Chapter 4

  1. How had Matt been careless in this chapter? He didn’t bar the door well enough and a bear got in and scattered the flour and ate the molasses p.20
  2. How was Matt going to have to survive without flour, salt and molasses? On fish as long as he had a fishing line p.21

Chapter 5

  1. Why was Matt so anxious to get some honey from the bees? He was tired of plain fish and wanted something tasty p.22
  2. What’s Matt’s consequence for disturbing the bees? He got stung all over p.23
  3. Who saved him and how? Two Indians; they got him out of the water and pulled out the poisonous needles from the stings; carried him home and gave him medicine p.26

Chapter 6

  1. How did Saknis help Matt when he saw he was awake? Checked his ankle to see if it was broken, left delicious food for him; gave him a crutch and moccasins to wear since Matt lost one of his boots p.27
  2. How did Attean respond to Matt? He looked like he despised him and the cabin along with everything in it; seemed to inwardly laugh at Matt p.28
  3. What did Matt give to repay Saknis for the kindness his gave him? A book; Robinson Crusoe p.29
  4. What are the signs Saknis is talking about? The writing in the book p.30
  5. Why did Saknis want Matt to teach Attean to read? So he could understand what the white man writes; the white man has fooled the Indians because the Indians haven’t understood their writing p.31

Chapter 7

  1. Why did Matt call Attean a savage? Indians were considered savages when the colonists first came to America; the colonists didn’t realize how intellectual and kind the Indians were p.32
  2. Find a simile on page 33. As rigid as a cedar post p.33
  3. Describe how the first reading lesson went. Attean could pick out the letter “a”, but got impatient and left p.35

Chapter 8

  1. What did Matt decide to do for the next reading lesson? He wanted to get Attean interested in learning to read, so he read a portion of Robinson Crusoe p.37
  2. How did Attean respond? He didn’t look at all interested but ended up making comments about the story p.37

Chapter 9

  1. What did Attean teach Matt to do? Make a snare to catch a rabbit p.40
  2. Give some examples of the offerings Attean would bring Matt. Meat, nuts, cakes p.41
  3. How did Attean feel about the passage Matt read to him? He said it wasn’t right; the Indian would never say he was a slave to a white man p.43

Chapter 10

  1. Explain how Attean taught Matt how to fish. Made a spear, got in the water and threw it at a fish p.46
  2. Why did Matt decide to fish his usual way? He made a fool of himself and thought Attean was mocking him p.47
  3. What else did Attean teach him after Matt lost his hook? How to make a hook out of a twig, how to make fire with a rock and how to cook the fish they caught p.48

Chapter 11

  1. What did Attean say when he saw Matt pulling weeds and what does it mean? “Squaw work”, the women do that work p.52
  2. Describe Attean’s dog. Mangy tail, thin, coat of coarse brown hair, whitish patches on his face that made him look like a clown, pointed nose with bumps and bristles, ears were beat up like they’d won lots of battles p.52
  3. Where did Attean take Matt? To a part of the woods he’d never been to; to a beaver dam p.55
  4. What will help Matt find his way to where he wants to go and not get lost? Making signs like the Indians p.57

Chapter 12

  1. Why did Matt want to make a bow? He was tired of eating fish and wanted something to shoot birds and other animals p.59
  2. Describe how Attean and Matt made a bow. Got a thick branch, took off the bark, used a stone to smooth it and shape it; used roots to make the string p.60

Chapter 13

  1. Why couldn’t Attean and Matt have the fox or let it go? It was on the Turtle Clan territory and the Beaver clan don’t take animals on the Turtle Clan territory p.64
  2. Why was Matt so confused and angry about leaving the fox? He couldn’t understand the Indian code that makes an animal suffer just because of a mark on a tree p.65
  3. What had Attean learned from Matt in the time they spent together? He could speak English more easily and picked up some slang words and phrases p.67

Chapter 14

  1. Why is Attean disappointed that Matt’s finished reading Robinson Crusoe to him? He likes to tell the adventures he hears to his brothers p.68
  2. What did Matt read from to share more stories with Attean? The Bible p.68
  3. What story did Attean tell Matt? A similar one to Noah building the ark and the rain flooding the earth p.69
  4. Who’s Gluskabe? A mighty hunter that came from the north who was very strong. He made the wind blow and made thunder. He made all animals and Indians p.70

Chapter 15

  1. What did Matt and Attean run into on the way to the beaver dam? A bear and her cub p.72
  2. Describe what happened between the boys and the bear. The bear looked angry, Matt threw a rabbit he had just shot at the bear and hit her in the nose. Attean then had time to shoot the bear two times and stab her with a knife. Matt stabbed too, but she was already dead p.72
  3. What did Attean say to the bear? That he was sorry he had to kill her, he didn’t want to p.74
  4. What will Matt have to show his father that he helped kill a bear? Attean’s praise that he moved fast like an Indian p.75

Chapter 16

  1. Where did Attean take Matt the evening they killed the bear? To his home to participate in the bear feast p.77
  2. How did Matt feel around the children and other tribe members after being alone so long at his cabin? Confused from all the noise; overwhelmed p.79
  3. How did Matt feel as he danced with the Indians? Happy, excited, relaxed, like he was one of them p.81
  4. Attean said he wouldn’t eat this dinner since he had killed it. Why? It’s their tradition to not eat what you kill; there was a pride there; he might not get another bear p.82

Chapter 17

  1. Where had all the men gone and why hadn’t Attean gone with them? Hunting; He couldn’t go because he didn’t have a gun p.86
  2. Why didn’t Attean’s grandmother want Matt to come to the feast? She doesn’t like white man; they shot Attean’s mother. Then Attean’s father went to find the man who killed his mother and never came back p.87
  3. What was Attean’s response when Matt said that Indians did the same thing to white settlers and that the white women were afraid to come out of their cabins? Attean asked why the white settlers built their cabins on the Indians’ hunting grounds p.88
  4. Why had Saknis invited Matt to the feast when his wife was opposed to it? Out of kindness or fairness since Matt had helped to kill the bear p.89

Chapter 18

  1. What did Matt find in a trap on the Turtle clan territory? Attean’s dog p.92
  2. How did Matt get into to see Attean’s grandmother? He spoke with authority to the girls who came out of the stockade p.94
  3. What did Attean’s grandmother do for Matt’s hand? She washed it and put a salve with a bandage on it p.96
  4. How did Matt get the dog out of the trap? He had gone for help at Attean’s home; Attean’s sister Marie came with Matt; she put a blanket over the dog’s head and Matt was able to get the trap open p.97

Chapter 19

  1. Why was Matt so curious and interested while watching the squaws work? He was interested to see how they did things since he had to do the same work at his cabin p.100
  2. What activities did the Indian boys let Matt participate in? A gambling game of sticks, a game of hitting the ball with sticks and putting it in the goal, swimming p.100
  3. How did Matt lose his shirt? By losing at the gambling game p.101
  4. Why didn’t Matt feel alone in the forest anymore? He had made a positive bond with the tribe p.105

Chapter 20

  1. What’s a manitou? A spirit that comes in a dream; all Indian boys need to have one p.107
  2. How was Attean supposed find his manitou? He had to make special preparations: bath himself carefully, take special medicine to make him clean inside and out, go far into the forest and build himself a wigwam of branches, he would stay alone for many days and wouldn’t eat anything, he could drink a little bit of water from the brook at night, sing sacred songs, repeat the ancient prayers of his people, and wait faithfully, then when he received it he could go back to his people p.108
  3. Why was it so important for Attean to find his manitou? He couldn’t hunt with the men until he received it p.109

Chapter 21

  1. Why did Saknis come with Attean to visit Matt? To ask him to come with the Indians up north on the hunt so he wouldn’t be alone during the winter p.111
  2. Why couldn’t Matt go with them on the hunt? He had to wait in case his father and family came; he was entrusted with taking care of the cabin p.112
  3. Why do you suppose Attean didn’t say good-bye? He was too proud; he would come back to see Matt before leaving p.114

Chapter 22

  1. What did Matt do to finally earn Attean’s respect? Stay at the cabin and wait for his father instead of going with Attean and Saknis p.115
  2. What gifts to Saknis and Attean give to Matt before leaving? Snowshoes, a small basket of maple sugar and the dog p.116
  3. What gift did Matt give to Attean? The watch his father left with him p.118

Chapter 23

  1. What did Matt do with one of the blankets from his bed and why? He made pants because it was cold outside p.122
  2. How did Matt make his fur hat? He made a deadfall trap, caught an animal, scraped the skin clean, washed it, rubbed and stretched it smooth, then sewed it p.124
  3. What did Matt make for his family as he waited for them? new dishes for his mom, a cradle for the baby, a cornhusk doll with silk hair for Sarah p.125

Chapter 24

  1. How did Matt know it was going to snow? The clouds were dark gray, feeling in the air p.127
  2. What helped Matt feel free and happy with the winter ahead and why? The snowshoes; they gave him a freedom to move about the snow p.129

Chapter 25

  1. Who showed up at the cabin? Matt’s family p.130
  2. What had taken them so long to get there? They all got sick with typhus and were all too weak and sick to travelp.131
  3. Why was the baby with Matt’s family? It only lived five days and then died p.132
  4. Was Saknis right about more white men coming? Explain. Yes.  Matt’s mother heard from another couple that they were settling 5 miles from their cabin and three other families were coming and were going to set up a mill; they would have a town and maybe a school p.135

Comprehension Questions – Magic Tree House #32 To the Future, Ben Franklin!

To the Future, Ben Franklin!

By Mary Pope Osborne

Grades 1-4; Genre – Historical Fiction with Fantastical Elements; AR pts: 1.0

Jack and Annie know all about Ben Franklin. He was a Founding Father, a journalist, and a famous inventor! When the magic tree house whisks them back to meet the man himself, they're not sure what their mission is. But Ben Franklin has a mission of his own. Intrigued by Jack and Annie, he's curious to learn more about where they came from. And very curious about their tree house…

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What did Annie see that gave her a clue the tree house might be there? A flash of lightning p.4
  2. Who do you think Dr. Ben is? Benjamin Franklin p.6
  3. Where were Jack and Annie supposed to travel this time? Old Philadelphia in 1787 p.9

Chapter 2

  1. In what way did Jack and Annie serve the gardener so they could meet Dr. Ben? They offered to take his lunch to him p.13
  2. How did the gardener describe Dr. Ben? He stole lightning bolts out of the clouds; an inventor and scientist; a diplomat and writer; a scholar and businessman p.15
  3. Why wasn’t Jack impressed with Old Philadelphia? Blue flies buzzing around his head; it was stinky from crowded horse stables; garbage on the ground p.18

Chapter 3

  1. Who answered the door to the state house? a soldier p.20
  2. Why was it a soldier? To keep people out; Dr. Ben was in a meeting with others and they needed it guarded to protect them and what they were saying p.21
  3. What was the meeting about? The men all gathered were writing the Constitution for the United States of America p. 26
  4. What’s the Constitution of the United States of America? A very important document that contains basic laws that define how the American government works p.26

Chapter 4

  1. Describe what George Washington did in the meeting? He was in charge p.29
  2. Did George Washington recognize them? Yes, but he didn’t’ think it was them. He said the kids he met would have been older since that was 11 years ago p.32
  3. What was Dr. Ben’s reaction when Jack and Annie said they were from the press and with the Gazette? He was panicked and hurried them out of the back of the state house to talk p.33

Chapter 5

  1. What newspaper did Annie say they were from to help Dr. Ben feel better? The Frog Creek News p.38
  2. What’s a lightning rod and who invented it? a rod with a wire attached that lightning hits and goes through the wire to the earth; Benjamin Franklin p.41
  3. How are lightning rods useful? They direct the lightning to the ground to prevent it from hitting the house and causing a fire p.42

Chapter 6

  1. Why did Benjamin Franklin only go to school for two years? He was one of fifteen children and they were very poor, so he had to go to work to help his family p.44
  2. List two inventions Benjamin Franklin invented. Your child should list two of the following: Lightning rods, bifocals, new kind of ship’s anchor, candle that makes a bright white light and lasts longer than other candles p.45
  3. How does Benjamin Franklin feel about the document he’s working on with the other delegates? He doesn’t know if it will ever be ready; they can’t agree on what to put in it; he doesn’t know if he wants to sign it p.47

Chapter 7

  1. What’s Ben Franklin’s biggest concern for America? He knows they need to end slavery p.50
  2. What’s the big secret Annie told Ben? She told him about the magic tree house p.53
  3. Why did Annie tell him about the tree house? so she and Jack could take him to their own time in Frog Creek woods; he needs to see a hope for America so that he signs the Constitution p.52
  4. What did Ben first think about the magic tree house? that Jack and Annie were pretending and that it was a game p.57

Chapter 8

  1. How did Ben react to traveling to the future? Confused and perplexed at first, but accepted it and became excited to see how things were p.59
  2. Name two things Ben thought were amazing in Frog Creek. Smooth black paved road, a car, sprinkler system, power lines and telephone lines, an airplane p.61

Chapter 9

  1. After seeing the airplane, what did Ben Franklin want to do and why? He wanted to go home; he was overwhelmed by the technology p.68
  2. What did Annie want to show Ben before he went back home and why did Jack say that it was a brilliant idea? The public library; Ben respects books and opened the first library in Philadelphia p.70
  3. How did Ben Franklin respond when Jack and Annie told him America has free schooling that goes for 12 years and is for all boys and girls? He got teary eyed p.74

Chapter 10

  1. What did Jack look up on the computer to show Ben Franklin? Information on the United States of America p.77
  2. Ben Franklin said it is so important for the people of America to come together as one. Why? We’re all different, but we need to learn to work together, be kind to each other and listen to each other p.78
  3. What did Ben realize about the Constitution and why he needed to sign it? That it’s only the first step to this country and that even though he doesn’t agree with everything in it, the delegates first need to come together to be one country p.80
  4. What did Jack and Annie promise Ben Franklin? That they would never take the wondrous things of their world for granted p.83

Comprehension Questions – Brian’s Hunt

Brian’s Hunt

By Gary Paulsen

(This book contains graphic scenes of animal violence and gore)

Grades 6-8; Genre – Fiction; GRL S; AR pts: 3.0

This story takes place two years after Brian had been stranded in the Canadian wilderness. When Brian finds a dog one night, a dog that is wounded and whimpering, he senses danger. The dog is badly hurt, and as Brian cares for it, he worries about his Cree friends who live north of his camp. His instincts tell him to head north, quickly. With his new companion at his side, and with a terrible, growing sense of unease, he sets out to learn what happened. He sets out on the hunt.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe Brian’s dreams right after the accident of crashing in the lake and how they’re different now. They were more tarrying and traumatizing then and now they’re more fond memories and comical p.2
  2. How old is Brian now? 16 yrs old p.2
  3. Why did Brian decide against shooting the moose? It was a lot of meat to deal with and he didn’t want to waste any of it p.5
  4. Why did Brian think about Susan Smallhorn? She sounded interesting; pretty; brave; had a scar under her eye he thought of as a beauty mark; he’d never met her p.6

Chapter 2

  1. Why had school and studying become different after his airplane crash? He started to realize the things you could learn and know from books. Being in his life and death situation changed his perspective p.10
  2. Why did the world Brian’s parents live in look ugly to him? He didn’t like the sights, sounds and smells anymore. They focused on “things”, money, the right car, the right girls and the right clothes p.11
  3. Why did Brian take so long to move the canoe after studying the pike? He didn’t want to scare it p.14
  4. What lesson did Brian learn from the Inuit hunting seal? To be patient and not get frustrated p.16

Chapter 3

  1. Why did Brian check his equipment every day? To make sure it was in good shape; make sure it was all there p.21
  2. Why did Brian like to sleep in the canoe in the middle of the lake? Less mosquitoes, like a cradle rocking him to sleep p.24

Chapter 4

  1. How did Brian wake up in the middle of the night? He heard an odd sound and he’s very in tune with odd sounds out in the wilderness/bush p.27
  2. What was making the sound? A dog that was in his cooking spot p.30
  3. How did Brian know the dog he could approach the dog? It was wounded, it was female and a type of dog he had seen in Cree camps, whimpering and not growling p.30

Chapter 5

  1. Describe the dog’s condition. Its side was ripped open about 1.5 feet long, there was a torn back flap of skin on the shoulder that exposed muscle p.33
  2. How did the dog respond to Brian sewing up it’s shoulder? Moaned, looked him in the eyes, seemed to trust him p.36
  3. What Brian know about the dog? She was a female, she was a human dog, couldn’t hunt for herself, away from her people and wondered why so far away from them p.38
  4. What kind of thinking skills is Brian using to figure out what happened to the dog and what conclusion did he come to? Critical thinking, process of elimination; a bear attacked the dog p.42

Chapter 6

  1. What were the two reasons Brian gives of why the rabbit screamed when he shot it? It warned other animals there was a predator and other predators came to the area out of curiosity p.46
  2. What were the ingredients to Brian’s stew? Rice, rabbit meat, fish meat p.48
  3. How does the author describe how Brian felt about the dog? She was a friend in need p.50
  4. Explain why you think Brian felt a push to move and go north? He felt a pressing need to know where the dog came from and why it was injured p.50

Chapter 7

  1. How did Brian get over the beaver dams as he was traveling? He had to unload his canoe, lower it by hand, then repack it in the stream below p.54
  2. What does the phrase mean, “he saw inside things” relating to hunting? He saw a line of where the arrow should hit p.56
  3. Why did Brian say “thank you” to each animal after he had killed it? Because it cost the animals their lives to feed him and he was grateful to them p.49

Chapter 8

  1. What did Brian realize about having a dog? That he would never go without a dog again, there was a loneliness that was always there, until now p.61
  2. Why did Brian think the dog left his people? Something hurt them or the camp p.62
  3. How did Brian know he was in the woods where man lived? The animals were quiet and out of sight p.66
  4. How did the dog feel about drawing nearer to the island? She was up and whining and growling p.67

Chapter 9

  1. Who did Brian find and what condition was this person in? David Smallhorn; he was ripped up and dead p.72
  2. Why didn’t Brian grab the gun? He wasn’t as familiar with it and knew his broadhead could do good damage p.74
  3. Where did he find Anne’s body? Dragged off into the brush p.76
  4. What had happened to Susan? She was berry picking along the shore and saw what had happened as she came back and ran back to the canoe and was able to get away from the bear p.79
  5. Where did Brian find Susan and what condition was she in? down the lake 4 miles from the island; she was crazed and exhausted p.82

Chapter 10

  1. What was Susan’s reaction to finding out both of her parents are dead? Sobbed for hours p.86
  2. Where were the two small children? In Winnipeg with relatives p.86
  3. Why did Brian want to stay on the island and not fly out with the rescuers? He wanted to hunt the bear p.87

THE HUNT

  1. Why was Brian able to trust the dog? She could smell out the bear’s tracks even if Brian couldn’t see them; the dog would warn him if there was danger p.91
  2. How was Brian able to discern between the bear he was hunting to the other bears he saw? The other bears didn’t chase him or go after him; their claw prints were different since the big bear had a missing claw and broken claw p.93
  3. How did Brian feel when he first realized the bear was hunting him? Scared; coldness on his neck, no breath, everything stopped 94
  4. How did Brian fight the bear once his bow was knocked out of his hands and the bear attacked him? Picked up arrows that had been flung to the ground around him p.96
  5. Was Brian satisfied now that he’d killed the bear? Explain. No, he just felt sorrow for his friends that had died p.98

Comprehension Questions – #2 Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business

Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business

By Barbara Park

Grades 1-4; Genre – Fiction; GRL M; AR pts: 1.0

Junie B.'s mom is about to have a baby. Junie B. isn't excited about the new baby until her grandma says he's a little monkey.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Why does Junie B. know how to spell baby? Her mom is going to have a baby p.1
  2. How does Junie B. feel about having a little brother or sister? Not very excited p.4
  3. Why was Junie B. upset at the news? She was expecting a present after her parents said they had a surprise; babies stink p.5

Chapter 2

  1. What’s Junie B.’s favorite jungle animal? A monkey p.9
  2. Why did Junie B. think Teeny would be a good name for their baby? Because babies are small p.12
  3. What were Junie B.’s parents pasting on the wall? Jungle decorated wallpaper p.14

Chapter 3

  1. What did Junie B. have for dinner when her parents went to the hospital? Lemon pie p.18
  2. Why was Junie B. afraid while sleeping in her grandpa’s guest bedroom? It was a dark and big room p.19
  3. What did Grandma Miller really mean when she said, “Your new brother is the cutest little monkey I’ve ever seen!”? That her brother was such a little darling and not really a monkey p.21

Chapter 4

  1. Why was Grace made at Junie B.? because Junie B. didn’t ride the bus and save her a seat, so she had to sit next to someone she didn’t want to p.25
  2. Why did Grace and Lucille begin fighting? Grace was jealous of Lucille finding out Junie B.’s secret p.26
  3. What did William bring for show and tell? Two dead crickets in a jar p.30

Chapter 5

  1. What did Junie B. share about her brother during show and tell? That’s he’s a monkey p.33
  2. Why does Junie B. think her brother’s a monkey? Her grandma said so; she also told Junie B. he has long fingers and toes, lots of black fur all over himself; the crib looks like a cage and her parents put jungle wallpaper on the walls of his room p.35
  3. How does Mrs. feel about Junie B.’s news? She’s suspicious and called it monkey business p.37

Chapter 6

  1. What were Grace and Lucille doing in this chapter? Fighting over who would see Junie B.’s baby brother first p.39
  2. How did Junie B. respond to their fighting over this privilege? She got gifts from them p.44

Chapter 7

  1. Who helped Grace and Lucille get their things back from Junie B.? Mrs. p.48
  2. How did Grace and Lucille feel about giving their things to Junie B.? sad p.49
  3. Where did Mrs. take Junie B. after finding out what happened on the playground? To the office to see the principal p.52

Chapter 8

  1. Why did Junie B. go to the principal’s office and have to tell him what happened? Because she was in trouble p.55
  2. How did the principal help Junie B.? he understood what her grandma meant and called her grandma to explain it to Junie B. p.58
  3. How did Junie B. respond to learning her baby brother was a real little baby and not a monkey? Sad p.60

Chapter 9

  1. What did the principal explain about the way adults talk sometimes? He gave examples of metaphors/figurative language since adults use that to show expression p.63
  2. Who met Junie B. after school and what did they bring with them? Junie B.’s parents and her baby brother p.65
  3. How does Junie B. feel about her baby brother now that she’s met him? She thought he was the cutest little monkey she’d ever seen p.68

Comprehension Questions – Magic Tree House #31 Warriors in Winter

Warriors in Winter

By Mary Pope Osborne

Grades 1-4; Genre - Historical Fiction with Fantastical Elements; Lexile 410L; AR pts: 1.0

We are warriors! Jack and Annie have met knights, pirates, ninjas, and Vikings, but they have never met the most fearsome warriors of all: Roman soldiers. When the magic tree house whisks them back to the early 100s AD, Jack and Annie find themselves in a Roman camp. Their mission: Be like a warrior.

Vocabulary

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What animal appeared on the lamppost in Jack and Annie’s yard? An eagle p.3
  2. Where are Jack and Annie traveling to? By the Danube, a river that ran along the border of the Roman Empire p.7
  3. What were Jack and Annie supposed to do on this mission? Write in journals, do what warriors do, give a silver coin to a hero p.9

Chapter 2

  1. What’s a journal? Something you keep your notes, memories and important ideas in p.14
  2. Describe the rider on the black horse. Friendly, a warrior, helpful p.17
  3. How did Jack and Annie enter the camp so easily? The rider told them the password and said to explain they were visiting scholars under the command of the Imperial Guard p.21

Chapter 3

  1. Where did Jack and Annie find the warriors? On the field training p.25
  2. Describe a centurion. A super-strict commander that carries a big stick to hit their own men p.20
  3. Describe the life of a warrior in the legion. They have to train every day, they have heavy packs to carry including 60 pounds of weapons, have to march 20 miles with full armor and packs three times a month, if they get out of step they die, when they’re not training they work at other things p.29

Chapter 4

  1. List two items the cook make for his squad. Cheese, beans, salted fish, bread, olives, barley p.36
  2. What’s the symbol that stands for the legion? An eagle p.38
  3. What was so heavy Annie fell over when trying to hold it and Jack couldn’t lift it higher than his knees? A hammer in the forge p.39

Chapter 5

  1. Why did Jack and Annie try on the armor? Morgan told them to do what warriors do, and warriors put on armor p.42
  2. How did Jack and Annie feel as they put on the armor? That it was very heavy and hard to see; they had a lot of respect for warriors p.44
  3. Why did warriors pour into the armory, making Jack and Annie hide in the shadows? They were getting ready for the Emperor’s parade at noon p.46

Chapter 6

  1. Why did a warrior call Jack and Annie deserters? The warrior thought they were getting out of their armor to sneak away from the army p.50
  2. Who did the centurion think the rider on the black horse was? An enemy spy p.55
  3. Why were Jack and Annie taken captive? The centurion was suspicious of them and was worried about the black rider telling them the secret password p.56

Chapter 7

  1. Where did the centurion take Jack and Annie? To see the emperor p.59
  2. Who did the emperor turn out to be? The rider on the black horse p.62

Chapter 8

  1. How did the emperor treat Jack and Annie? With kindness; he trusted them p.65
  2. What does the emperor do when he’s scared? He looks deep inside and finds an inner strength p.67
  3. Why was the emperor so startled by the coin? Its engravened with him and his warriors on a frozen river and it has a later date p.70

Chapter 9

  1. What were Jack and Annie’s feelings when the emperor first ordered them to march in the parade? Scared; intimidated; they didn’t want to p.73
  2. What were Jack and Annie assigned to do for the parade? Carry the eagle standard and flag and lead the rest of the army around the field p.73
  3. How did Jack and Annie leave the camp? On a white horse with the emperor on his black horse p.77

Chapter 10

  1. What does Marcus have written down in his journal? Poetry and a list of things he feels have a special beauty p.79
  2. Why was it strange for the Roman Emperor to write down things of beauty in his journal? You wouldn’t expect a leader to do that 85
  3. What did Jack and Annie learn from Marcus? To write down and appreciate the beautiful things in life p.85

Comprehension Questions – Little Women (Unabridged Version)

For the abridged version click here.

Little Women

By Louisa May Alcott

Grades 4-9; Genre – Fiction; GRL Z; AR pts: 33.0

Growing up in New England during the Civil War, the March sisters share everything — their joys and troubles, their loves and secrets. But the four girls couldn't be more different. Meg, the oldest, is the sensible writer. Jo is funny and mischievous. Beth is the shy, dreamy one, and Amy is pretty and artistic. From dances to despairs, through weddings and funerals, the March girls stand as sisters. This is one family you will never forget.

Vocabulary

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Part I

Chapter 1

  1. What is the setting, the characters’ situation and explain what they’re doing at the beginning of the story? New England during the Civil War in a home in front of the fire and it’s almost Christmas; they’re all sitting around talking and complaining about not being rich and how their father is away to war p.3
  2. Describe each character. Meg: 16 years old, the oldest of all four sisters, good big sister who lectures them; Josephine or Jo: 15 years old, Tom-boy, bookworm, loves to write, jokester, loud; Elizabeth or Beth: peace maker, the “Mouse” or pet of the family, loves music, shy & quiet, gentle, her father calls her “Little Tranquility”; Amy: the youngest, around 12 years old, carries herself like a prim and proper young lady, artistic, feels she’s the most important out of the sisters
  3. How do the girls feel about their mother and what do they call her? They adore her; Marmee p.7
  4. What motivated the girls to become and do better? A letter from their father p.11

Chapter 2

  1. What did the girls all receive from their mother on Christmas morning? Books (possibly the Bible) p.14
  2. What good deed did the March family do on Christmas morning? Give breakfast to a very poor family with a sick mother; gave them wood and started a fire to warm their freezing home; Hannah the house servant stuffed the cracks of the house with old hats and her own shawl; gave them clothes p.17
  3. How did the March family spend Christmas day? After serving the family down the lane, they got out their costumes and props and put on a play about Roderigo and his love Zara. Then they had a lovely dinner p.23
  4. Who brought the March family such a lovely dinner and why? Old Mr. Lawrence because he heard of the girls helping the family that morning and wanted to send them a treat p.23

Chapter 3

  1. What happened to Meg’s hair as Jo curled it? The curling iron was too hot and burned her hair off p.27
  2. Why was Jo destined to not enjoy the party? She had to hide and not dance because of her clothes and she’s not prim and proper like the other girls and instead would rather go talk to the boys, but isn’t able to p.28
  3. Why did Joe and Laurie get along so well? Jo was comfortable to be with and Laurie had interesting things to talk about p.30
  4. What happened to Meg the party? She twisted her ankle p.33
  5. How did the girls get home from the party? In Laurie’s carriage p.34

Chapter 4

  1. Why did the girls work and have jobs? Because their father lost his property by trying to help a friend and the girls wanted to help their parents bring in income p.39
  2. Describe why Meg struggles with being poor. She remembers when her family had wealth and knows what she’s missing out on and the family she works for is wealthy and has sisters that are her age and doing the things she wants to be doing p.39
  3. Why didn’t the March’s let their Aunt March adopt the girls? They didn’t care about money, worldliness or the fortune they would have gained and know that staying all together rich or poor was more important p.39
  4. List two things that are important to Beth. Taking care of the dolls; music p.41
  5. Summarize Marmee’s experience she’d had that day that she shared with the girls. She was at work thinking about her husband at war, when a man came in and said two of his sons died, one was a prisoner of war and he was going to the one son he could go to. She felt rich and happy, thinking of her blessings and made him a nice bundle, gave him some money and thanked him for the lesson he had taught her p.46

Chapter 5

  1. Why did Jo visit Laurie? He invited her; he was sick and wanted to read to him so he wouldn’t be lonely p.50
  2. Describe what happened when Mr. Laurence overheard Jo making comments to herself while looking at his picture? He liked what she said, he knew her grandfather and invited her to tea p.55
  3. What medicine did Jo’s mom send to help Laurie get better? Jo p.57

Chapter 6

  1. What influence did the March girls have on Laurie? Good; made him want to be better p.61
  2. How did Mr. Laurence mend his relationship with Beth? Spoke kindly to her; invited girls to play his piano p.62
  3. What did Mr. Laurence give to Beth as a thank you for the slippers she made him? A piano p.64
  4. What did Beth do in response to receiving the piano? Walked into Mr. Laurence’s study, kissed and hugged him p.66

Chapter 7

  1. What do the limes represent at the beginning of this chapter? Friendship, popularity and they were debts of honor p.69
  2. Describe Mr. Davis. Amy’s teacher; didn’t like limes or any other fad the girls go through; very intelligent; fine teacher p.70
  3. Explain how Amy became humiliated. Getting slapped by the ruler on the hand for bringing limes to school p.72
  4. How did Mrs. March respond to Amy’s punishment? She didn’t like it and took her out of the school, but still felt Amy shouldn’t have disobeyed the rules p.73

Chapter 8

  1. Where did Meg and Jo get to go that made Amy jealous and whine like a spoilt child? The theatre with Laurie p.77
  2. What did Amy do to get revenge on Jo? Burned her manuscript p.79
  3. What was Jo’s reaction to Amy burning her book? She said she’d never forgive her and stopped talking to her p.80
  4. What helped Jo repent of her anger towards Amy? Jo didn’t stop her from ice skating to the middle of the river and Amy fell in p.82

Chapter 9

  1. Where was Meg going for a fortnight and why was her mother hesitant to give permission? To be with a girl named Sallie who has a fashionable life; her mother was worried since Meg would probably come back feeling more discontented then she already was p.89
  2. What did Laurie send Meg that helped cheer her up? Flowers p.91
  3. Describe the interaction between Laurie and Meg at the party? She was embarrassed to be all dressed up; Laurie disapproved of her dress and behavior; they danced and Meg asked him not to tell her mother p.97
  4. How did MIrs. March respond to Meg’s confessions? She felt sorry that she allowed her daughter to have to deal with her experiences of overhearing the Moffat’s gossip p.101
  5. What ambitions does Mrs. March have for her daughter? To marry for love; to be respected, happy, contended, beloved rather than to be rich and not respected; She’d rather them be old maids then to marry for the wrong reasons p.103

Chapter 10

  1. Why would the sisters call their private club the “Pickwick Club” if they liked Charles Dickens? It was the name of his first novel p.105
  2. What was included on the “Pickwick Portfolio”? poems; stories; letters to Pickwick; news; dedications; advertisements; announcements; helps p.105
  3. Why didn’t the girls want to allow Laurie into their club? They were worried he’d laugh and make fun of their paper; they’re not proper p.111
  4. What did Laurie bring as a gift of joining the P.C.? a mailbox/post office to put between their homes p.112

Chapter 11

  1. What’s the experiment the girl’s mom said they could try? To have all play and no work the entire week p.115
  2. What happened when the girls woke up and found Hannah wasn’t working in the morning? They were a bit dismayed, but got to work and put together breakfast and tea p.118
  3. What happened to Meg’s canary a result of her not doing her jobs and taking care of him? He died p.119
  4. What was the lesson the girls learned that week of idleness? Comfort depends on each doing their part; burdens are good for us and work is wholesome; it keeps everyone out of mischief; 124

Chapter 12

  1. What did Laurie invite the girls to? A picnic at his house the next day p.128
  2. Describe Jo’s experience playing croquet. She was highly competitive with Fred, who rolled his ball with his foot. Jo was angry and called him a cheater. Her ball got knocked away and she came back cool and quiet. She was patient and won her team the game p.132
  3. What was going to happen to Mr. Brooke after Laurie headed off to college? He’s to become a soldier p.142
  4. What language did Miss Kate encourage Meg to continue learning? German p.142

Chapter 13

  1. Why did Laurie follow the girls as they left their yard? He was anxious since he was having a bad day and wanted to spend time with them p.147
  2. What’s the Celestial City spoken of? Heaven p.150
  3. What plan did Jo make while spending the afternoon on Delectable Mountain? That in ten years they would all meet and see how close they were to making their castle (or dream) p.152
  4. What was the result of Meg’s reprimand and motherly kindness toward Laurie? He resolved to do his duty and stay with his grandfather while he needs him p.155

Chapter 14

  1. What’s a billiard saloon and why didn’t Jo want Laurie to go in one? A bar with a pool table; she’s worried he would get in bad habits of spending money, wasting time and becoming unrespectable p.159
  2. What secrets did Laurie and Jo exchange? Jo had turned in two stories to the newspaper; Laurie knew where Meg’s missing glove is p.161
  3. Why was Jo emotional and thrilled at her stories being published? It meant a lot to her to be independent and earn the praise of those she loved p.165

Chapter 15

  1. What did the telegram say that came to the March’s home? Their father is ill and beckoned Mrs. March to come at once p.168
  2. What did Jo do to contribute to Mrs. March’s travels to go help her husband? Earned $25 by cutting off her hair p.171
  3. Who went from bed to bed looking at each girl and kissing each face? Mrs. March p.174

Chapter 16

  1. What motto did the girls come up with to say while Mrs. March was away? “Hope and keep busy” p.177
  2. Who wrote letters to Mrs. March? Meg, Jo, Beth, Amy, Laurie, Hannah, Mr. Laurence p.178
  3. What did the letters express? Their love for Mrs. and Mr. March; what they’re doing at home; how others are treating them p.178

Chapter 17

  1. Why did Beth want the other girls or Hannah to go to the Hummels? The baby was sick and she didn’t know what to do p.186
  2. Describe Beth’s experience at the Hummels when no one else would go? The baby died in her arms and now she has Scarlet Fever as the rest of the family p.188
  3. Why was Amy upset she was being sent to Aunt March’s? she didn’t want to be gotten rid of; it’s dull at Aunt March’s and she’s cross p.189

Chapter 18

  1. Why did the doctor send for Beth’s mom? Because Beth was getting near death p.195
  2. In what ways did Laurie comfort Jo? Got her wine, held her hand, spoke encouragingly, stroking her head, telegrammed her mother about the sickness so she’d be there tonight p.196
  3. What did it mean for Jo to “fly” at Laurie and how did he respond? She wrapped her arms around him and he kissed her; He liked it p.198
  4. What turn did Beth take in the night as the doctor predicted? She turned for better; her fever went away p.200

Chapter 19

  1. Describe Amy’s experience at Aunt March’s home. Difficult; the dog and bird made things difficult; Aunt March desires to bring her up properly; Esther is kind and helpful to her and lets her look through the jewelry in the Indian cabinet p.203
  2. What legal document did Amy write and why was it so important to her? A will; to make sure her treasures were handed out and that no ill will was caused in case she died p.208
  3. What was Amy’s last and greatest sacrifice that she wanted to add to her will? Her locks cut off and given to her friends p.210

Chapter 20

  1. What did Aunt March give to Amy? The turquoise ring and guard p.213
  2. What was Amy’s biggest trial? Being selfish p.214
  3. How does Mrs. March feel about John Brooke and why? She likes him; he spoke to her and Meg’s father about loving Meg; he’s respectable and has a good heart p.216
  4. How does Meg feel about John Brooke? She doesn’t love him yet, but will learn to p.217

Chapter 21

  1. What was the mischief Laurie got into and why? Jo wouldn’t tell him her secret and he figured it was about Mr. Brooke and Meg, so he wrote love letters from Mr. Brooke to Meg p.220
  2. Why was Laurie so upset when Jo went to go apologize to him? His grandfather wanted to know why Jo’s mother wanted to talk with him and he wouldn’t say since he’d promised Mrs. March, so his grandfather got angry and shook him for not telling p.224
  3. How did Jo make peace with Mr. Laurence? Told him that Laurie had already gone through the process and really wasn’t able to tell on account of someone else involved and that Mr. Laurence should write a letter apologizing to Laurie p.228
  4. How did the prank from Laurie affect Meg? It made her think more about Mr. Brooke in a romantic way p.230

Chapter 22

  1. What was the grandest gift on Christmas Day? Mr. March returning home p.234
  2. What did the March girls’ father say about each of them? How proud he is of them; complimented and noticed how each of them is maturing and growing in the areas they’ve been working on p.236

Chapter 23

  1. What was Meg’s original plan to tell Mr. Brooke if he asked her to marry him? That she’s too young and that they should continue to be friends p.241
  2. How did Meg respond when Mr. Brooke professed his love to her? She acted strangely and said she’d choose not to learn to love him, to please go away and let her be p.243
  3. What did Aunt March say to switch Meg over from acting strangely toward Mr. Brooke to defending him? If Meg married Mr. Brooke, she wouldn’t receive any money from Aunt March’s inheritance p.244
  4. Why was Jo so upset with Meg’s engagement? She felt she had lost her best friend p.249

Part II

Chapter 24

  1. What’s Mr. March’s line of work? He’s a minister at a parish p.253
  2. Describe Meg and John’s first home. The name of it is Dovecote; small and brown with a little garden behind it and a tiny lawn p.256
  3. How did Laurie come by the nickname “Mr. Toodles”? Jo named him that because every week he was bringing an “ingenious article” for Meg to help her get her home ready p.258
  4. Why does Laurie spend so much money? He loans it to people p.262

Chapter 25

  1. What is the metaphor on page 266 that describes Mrs. March’s feelings and what does it mean? “there was a secret sorrow hidden in the motherly heart, at the flight of the first bird from the nest”; it means her mother was sorrowing for her first daughter leaving home p.266
  2. Describe Meg on her wedding day. She wore a dress she made herself; didn’t want to be made up to be a show, but wanted to be herself; kind and loving; thoughtful; didn’t care if people saw her in her wedding dress before the wedding p.267
  3. What promise did Meg press Laurie into making? That he would never accept wine from a young lady p.169
  4. What did Mr. Laurence mean when he said, “Laurie, my lad, if you ever want to indulge in this sort of thing, get one of those little girls to help you, and I shall be perfectly satisfied.” If Laurie ever wanted to get married, have one of the March girls help him plan it and put it together p.271

Chapter 26

  1. Why does being an attractive and accomplished woman come easily to Amy? She was a happy person who could please others without effort, she could make friends everywhere, and take life so gracefully and easily p.274
  2. How did Amy want to show appreciation to her friends at the art school? Having them over for a lunch and art day p.275
  3. Who all came to Amy’s gathering? One young woman, Miss Eliott p.281
  4. What did Amy gain from this experience? That she had been a fool p.282

Chapter 27

  1. What did Jo decide to try after talking with the boy at the lecture? Writing a story that wasn’t her style for a prize p.285
  2. What did Jo’s prize money pay for? Time away for Mrs. March and Beth to go to the sea-side p.287
  3. How much money did Jo get for her novel? $300 p.289

Chapter 28

  1. Who is the Martha the author is referring to at the beginning of this chapter? Martha the sister of Mary in the Bible who Jesus told was “careful and troubled about many things” as she was cumbered about much serving p.291
  2. Why was Meg crying in the kitchen as John arrived home with a friend for dinner? She had tried all day to make the jelly become thick and wasn’t able to and the house was a mess and she was exhausted p.295
  3. What was the consequence of Meg buying the silk for the dress? She felt terrible and it haunted her since it was so expensive; made John feel bad that he didn’t make very much money p.302
  4. How did this chapter end? John and Meg had twins named Margaret and John Laurence p.305

Chapter 29

  1. How did Jo feel about making calls with Amy? She didn’t like it at all; she didn’t like dressing up or acting agreeable p.308
  2. How did Jo act around rich people? She didn’t put on airs and felt like she could tell stories since the people knew they were poor p.311
  3. What’s Jo’s reaction to boys? She’s very comfortable; casual; doesn’t care about her dress so gets it dirty; loves to share stories p.313
  4. Describe the contrast between Amy’s attitude and Jo’s attitude by the time the girls called at Aunt March’s? Amy was angelic, kind and grateful; Jo was harsh, independent and negative p.317

Chapter 30

  1. Why did Amy get angry at the Chester’s? May was jealous of Amy and found out about the things Jo had said about her, so told her mother and they made Amy leave the table she had been given p.322
  2. What quote did Amy read that helped her love the Chesters? “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” p.322
  3. Who came and helped Amy out during the fair? her family; Laurie and his friends; Hayes by bringing lots of flowers p.324
  4. What did Aunt March and Aunt Carrol invite Amy to do? Go abroad and travel p.328

Chapter 31

  1. Who came to visit Amy while in London? Laurie’s friends Fred and Frank that Amy met at Camp Laurence p.335
  2. Who joined Amy’s touring group in France and why was Amy grateful? Fred; he spoke French; he’s very agreeable and polite p.337
  3. What does Amy assume Fred is going to ask her? To marry him p.340

Chapter 32

  1. What did Jo think the matter was with Beth upon her first observation? That she was in love with Laurie p.343
  2. What do you predict is wrong with Beth? Could be she’s sad to not marry; she’s in love with Lauri; she’s still very weak and sick p.349
  3. Where does Jo want to go and why? New York to a boarding-house; she fears Laurie is growing too fond of her p.350
  4. What did Laurie tell Jo as they said good-bye? That his eye was on her and to mind what she does, or he’ll come and bring her home p.352

Chapter 33

  1. Who does Jo find interesting at Mrs. Kirke’s home? Professor Bhaer p.356
  2. Who follows around the Professor? Tina p.357
  3. What agreement did Jo and Mr. Bhaer come to? She would mend his things; he would teach her German p.362
  4. How did Jo and the boarding-house celebrate the New Year? They had a masquerade p.364

Chapter 34

  1. Why was Jo nervous to write another novel? Because of the public opinions she received the first time around p.367
  2. What effect did Jo feel from writing sensational stories? She was beginning to desecrate some of the womanliest attributes of a woman’s character p.371
  3. What did Jo realize about the celebrities she saw at the symposium? That they were just like everyday people p.373
  4. What did Mr. Bhaer say that troubled Jo? The sensational stories in the newspapers are trash p.376

Chapter 35

  1. What did Laurie finally tell Jo? That he loved her p.384
  2. What made Laurie so upset about the Professor? He felt that Jo loved him or would learn to love him p.385
  3. Why didn’t Laurie want to go abroad anymore? He wanted to stay home to call on Jo still; he never planned to go abroad alone p.390
  4. What did Mr. Laurence plan to help Laurie get through his heartache? Traveling abroad with him p.391

Chapter 36

  1. What’s Beth secret? That she’s dying p.395
  2. What did Beth compare her health to? The tide of the ocean p.396
  3. What did Jo’s parents know about Beth upon their arriving home from the beach? That Beth was going to die p.398

Chapter 37

  1. Who came to spend Christmas with Amy in Nice? Laurie p.400
  2. What did Amy notice as she first spent time with Laurie? That he had changed and seemed dispirited and indifferent p.402
  3. What did Laurie notice as he spent time with Amy? That she was mature, carried herself well and was interested in and like what he saw as he looked at her p.403
  4. How did the two like the new impressions they were giving and receiving? They found them agreeable p.410

Chapter 38

  1. Why did John go to the neighbors in the evening? Because Meg was always busy with the babies and he felt uncomfortable and even lonely p.412
  2. What’s the advice Meg’s mother gave her about John? Children should draw you nearer to each other than separate you; let John help her in the nursery with the babies; Let John take care of Demi and let Hannah come and help her p.414
  3. How did Meg’s mother’s advice help? John was pleased; he helped with Demi and Meg was glad for it; he read to her what he was interested in and he asked in return about the bonnet she was sewing p.421
  4. Why did Sallie Moffat like to be at Meg’s home? There’s a charm there with the love between Meg and John as well as the joy that comes from children p.423

Chapter 39

  1. Why did Amy get easily frustrated with Laurie? Because he was lazy and indifferent p.428
  2. Why doesn’t Amy want to be an artist anymore? She realized how insignificant she was after going to Rome and seeing the wonders there p.429
  3. What did Amy figure out after seeing the old ring Jo gave Laurie? That Laurie loved Jo and she rejected him p.433
  4. What was Amy’s advice to Laurie and how did she show him who he used to be? Find another task that will make him happy; by showing him a picture of the past when he was taming a horse p.435

Chapter 40

  1. How did Beth’s family show their love to her as she came closer to death? Gave her the most pleasant room in the house; surrounded her with the things she loved; all put their work things in there to be with her consistently p.439
  2. How was Beth preparing for death? Praying, reading the Bible and singing songs p.441
  3. Why did Jo’s poem comfort Beth? She realized she had done good and helped someone p.444
  4. What’s the “valley of the shadow”? death p.444

Chapter 41

  1. Why did Laurie begin to wish he had to work for his daily bread? He needed something purposeful to do and it wasn’t easy to do this being rich p.448
  2. How was Mozart an example to Laurie? When he couldn’t have one sister, he married the other p.450
  3. What did Laurie do once Jo had responded and left him no hope of her loving him? He took of the ring, put it in the box with Jo’s letters and locked them all up. Then he started writing Amy p.451
  4. How did Laurie propose to Amy? During the day when they were on the lake and were sitting side by side rowing together. Laurie said that he wished they might always pull in the same boat, then asked, “will you, Amy?” p.457

Chapter 42

  1. What was Jo trying so hard to do? Her duty; devote her life to her parents as she promised Beth and cheerfully live for others p.461
  2. Explain why Jo’s heartfelt stories were now accepted and paid for? Jo put her heart into it and didn’t write for fame or money, so it was good and true p.462
  3. Why didn’t Marmee tell Jo her suspicions about Amy and Laurie? Jo might be jealous; she might congratulate them before things were finalized; since Jo was so lonely, she might have said yes if Laurie came back and asked again p.463
  4. Who did Jo wish would come to her? The professor p.465

Chapter 43

  1. Who did Jo see as she woke up from her nap? Laurie p.468
  2. Why were Amy and Laurie married before coming home? The Carrol’s were staying another winter and Mr. Laurence wanted to come home and Laurie was to join him, but the Carrol’s wouldn’t let Amy go without a chaperone p.470
  3. What kind of relationship will Laurie and Jo continue to have? A brother, sister relationship p.471
  4. Who arrived after Amy and Laurie and how did Jo feel about it? Mr. Bhaer; she was thrilled and so happy p.476

Chapter 44

  1. What are Laurie’s plans now that he’s married and back at home? He wants to start his own business p.483
  2. How does Laurie feel about Jo marrying Mr. Bhaer? He’s happy for her though he does wish he was younger and richer p.485
  3. What’s Amy’s dream come true now that she’s married to Laurie? She has the power to give freely p.485
  4. What bargain did Amy and Laurie make with each other at the end of the chapter? They would help other people in need p.487

Chapter 45

  1. Describe Daisy. Rosy, chubby, sunshiny, everyone was a friend and she offered kisses to them p.489
  2. Describe Demi. Very inquisitive, philosopher, wanted to know everything p.490
  3. Who did Mr. Bhaer call on when he visited? Mr. March p.492
  4. Why did Jo squeeze Demi in the china closet and give him a slice of bread with jelly instead of punishing him? She was happy to learn Mr. Bhaer was referring to her in his answer to Demi asking about great boys liking great girls p.494

Chapter 46

  1. How did Jo feel about Mr. Bhaer not visiting for three days in a row? Cross; agitated p.496
  2. How did the shopping go with Mr. Bhaer? Her shopping didn’t go well, but when she shopped for things he needed it went really well p.500
  3. What happened under the umbrella? Friedrich asked Jo to marry him p.502
  4. What did Jo call the Professor and how did he respond? Friedrich; he was grateful p.503

Chapter 47

  1. What did Jo decide to do with Plumfield that was left to her by Aunt March? She wants to open a boys’ school p.511
  2. Why did she want to open a boys’ school? She loves boys and wants to help them p.513
  3. How many children did Jo and Fritz have? Two boys p.515
  4. Describe Amy and Laurie’s daughter and how she is similar to Amy’s sister Beth. She’s frail and sickly p.519

Comprehension Questions – Ready, Freddy! Halloween Fraidy-Cat

Halloween Fraidy-Cat

By Abby Klein

Grades PreK-3; Genre – Fiction; GRL N; AR pts: 1.0

Join Freddy and his friends for another 1st grade adventure! The eighth in the popular series by an elementary school teacher who's seen it all.

Since Freddy is in the first grade, he should be old enough to go to a Halloween party without his parents. When a ghostly howl terrifies Freddy and all of his friends at the party, can Freddy find the courage to save the day?

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

What did Chloe invite everyone in the class to? A Halloween party p.9 

What does Freddy like to dress up as for Halloween? Different kinds of sharks p.14

How does Freddy feel about scary stuff? He doesn’t like it; he’s worried he’ll get nightmares for months if he sees something scary p.19

Chapter 2

What does it mean to be a “fraidy-cat”? someone who is easily scared p.22

Where does Freddy’s shark costume come from every year? His mom makes it p.29

How did Freddy behave so his family would support him going to the party? Pretended to not be scared p.30

Chapter 3

What did Suzie want to be for Halloween? Frankenstein’s bride p.34

What was on the wall that scared Freddy? Scary masks p.36

What did Freddy decide to be after going to the costume store? A shark p.40

Chapter 4

What type of figurative language is “scare the pants off you” and what does it really mean? Idiom; you frightened me very badly p.43

What game did Max love? Bobbing for apples p.46

Why did Max threaten Freddy? Freddy made a comment about Max’s mouth being big, so Max told Freddy he’d be sorry for saying that and to wait until the party p.48

Chapter 5

What always helped Freddy feel better? Rubbing his lucky shark tooth p.50

How was Suzie a good sister in this chapter? She helped Freddy find his lucky shark tooth p.52

How did Freddy whisper to himself when looking at himself in the mirror with the costume on? That he was a big, tough shark p.57

Chapter 6

What characteristic did Freddy have as he went to the party even though he was scared? Courage p.59

Who did he hold hands with and why? Jesse because she wasn’t scared of anything p.61

Describe the Halloween party. Dracula and Frankenstein were there; Dracula let the children into a room with skeletons and ghosts floating around; another room full of coffins with zombies coming out and screaming; a room full of jars the children had to put their hands in that felt that eyeballs, brains and worms; a room with bats flying around; games p.62

Chapter 7

What game did Max challenge Freddy at? Bobbing for apples p.70

What helped Freddy not be afraid during the contest? Max calling him a fraidy-cat; pretending he was a shark p.75

Who won the contest? Freddy p.76

Chapter 8

What noise did the children hear coming from the basement? An eerie noise p.80

Who went downstairs to check it out? Max and Freddy p.81

Summarize what happened when Max and Freddy went downstairs? Max was so scared he couldn’t move and Freddy went to go check out what the noise was and found a kitten p.84

What was Freddy’s response to Max being a fraidy-cat? Freddy was very kind and didn’t tell any of the other kids and in fact told them that Max and he saved the cat together p.86

Comprehension Questions – Bridge to Terabithia

Bridge to Terabithia

By Katherine Paterson

Grades 4-8; Genre – Fiction; GRL T; AR pts: 5.0

There's only one thing Jess Aarons is looking forward to in fifth grade, and that's being the fastest kid in school. He's been practicing all summer. He hasn't had much else to do, since his mom spends all her time with his four sisters and his dad is always working. But when Jess arrives at the school playground to show off his speed, his new neighbor, Leslie Burke, beats him to it. She's way faster than Jess. But instead of being jealous, Jess admires Leslie's skill, confidence, and wild imagination. The two become instant friends, spending hours in the woods by their houses creating a magical kingdom. Then tragedy strikes, and Jess is left alone. How can he ever go on?

Vocabulary

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe the main character. His name is Jesse, loves to draw, love to run and wants to win at school, straw colored hair, long legs, 10 years old, in 5th grade determined p.4
  2. Find an example of figurative language and what type it is on page 5.  like a country music star – simile;  Pop her buttons - simile; something to chew their cuds on - idiom 
  3. Describe the main character’s family situation. He had three sisters, two younger with May Belle who adored him, and two older sisters; they all seemed to whine and complain about him to their mother; his mother didn’t have much patience for him and doted on his sisters; Jesse’s dad drove a truck and was tired all of the time p.6
  4. On page 7, what does “Miss Bessie’s bag is probably dragging ground by now” mean? Her udder is so full of milk it’s dragging on the ground p.7

Chapter 2

  1. Who did Jess love and adore? Miss Edmunds the music teacher Why? She had a soft voice, played the guitar well, was gorgeous and kind to him about his art p.14
  2. What word would you use to describe how Jess felt when his father paid attention to the little girls? Jealous; sad p.19
  3. Who did Jess meet in this chapter? His neighbor, Leslie Burke p.22

Chapter 3

  1. Why was everyone shocked to see the new student Leslie Burke, when she came into class? She was dressed in faded blue jeans and a t-shirt, wearing shoes without socks when the rest of the students were wearing their Sunday best p.24
  2. Where did the students each their lunch? In their classrooms p.29
  3. Why didn’t Jess want to look at Leslie during the races? Maybe she would go away; he didn’t want her there p.32
  4. Who had run the race and how did Jesse react? Leslie; Jess still wanted nothing to do with her p.35

Chapter 4

  1. Explain the change that happened to Jess during music time. He wanted to become Leslie’s friend p.40
  2. How did students respond to Leslie stating she didn’t have a television? Shocked; made fun of her p.44
  3. How did Leslie get May Belle to go home when she and Jess wanted to run in the woods? Gave her paper dolls p.48
  4. What is Terabithia? A pretend country where Leslie and Jess would build their fortress p.51
  5. How did Jess feel about Leslie? She was more than a friend; she was his other, more exciting self p.59

Chapter 5

  1. Why was May Belle so upset with Janice Avery? Janice stole her twinkies p.62
  2. How did Leslie and Jess get back at Janice for stealing the twinkies? Writing a love note from a boy everyone has a crush on; humiliating her p.65
  3. How did Leslie distract the teacher Mrs. Pierce from going into the classroom where Jess was hiding the note for Janice? To go look at a nest and identify what built it p.68
  4. Why were May Belle’s eyes shining at the end of this chapter? She was so happy and excited Jess and Leslie got Janice back for stealing her twinkies p.71

Chapter 6

  1. Why did Jess want to give Leslie a Christmas present? She was a good friend; he cared for her p.73
  2. Who is Prince Terrien? The puppy Jess gave Leslie for Christmas p.77
  3. Describe two examples of how Jess’s family reacted on Christmas morning? Jealousy for not getting hose, frustration cars wouldn’t work on racetrack, crying since doll stopped talking, showing off and rubbing in present, patience with May Belle p.80
  4. What did Leslie do to help it feel like Christmas again? She came and visited with Jess while he milked the cow that morning p.82

Chapter 7

  1. Why did Jess have a hard time liking Leslie’s dad? He was jealous of him taking all of Leslie’s time p.86
  2. How was Jess helpful to Leslie and her dad? He knew how to do things around the house p.87
  3. Why was Janice Avery crying in the bathroom? She’s embarrassed because she told her friends about her father beating her and they told the entire seventh grade p.95
  4. Why was it so important to Jess that May Belle keep Terabithia a secret? It’s a special place that he and Leslie go, and he doesn’t want that to get ruined p.98

Chapter 8

  1. was Leslie interested in going to church on Easter? She’d never been to church before and she’d like to experience it p.103
  2. How did Leslie feel about the church service? She thought it was beautiful p.107
  3. What did May Belle, Jess debate about after church? That Leslie needed to believe in the Bible or she’d be damned to hell p.109

Chapter 9

  1. What was the result of Jess and Leslie’s adventures to Terabithia as rain was pouring? Wet; had to cross the creek bed as it rose higher and higher; water beginning to leak into their fortress p.115
  2. Why did Jess want to go to Terabithia when it was raining? It scared him p.119

Chapter 10

  1. When thinking about crossing the creek come summertime, what solution did Jess come up with to help him get over his fear? Leslie could teach him to swim p.122
  2. Why had Miss Edmunds invited Jess to go to the Smithsonian in Washington D.C.? so he could go to an art gallery p.126
  3. How was the display of the Indians and buffalo like Jess’s drawings? He had animals falling off cliffs p.128
  4. Why was Jess’s family so worried about him when he came home from Washington D.C.? Leslie had died and they thought he was with her and died too p.130

Chapter 11

  1. What word could describe Jess as he learned how Leslie had died? Sad, in denial, shocked p.131
  2. Why was Jess eating pancakes like nothing had happened? He thought it was all a bad dream and didn’t really happen p.137
  3. Why was it important for Jess and his parents to go see the neighbors about Leslie’s death? To show them they care and were sorry for their daughter’s death p.139

Chapter 12

  1. Why did Jess feel important when he realized his best friend was dead? People would treat him with respect and be nice to him p.143
  2. When Jess found out Leslie was being cremated, why was he so angry? He wouldn’t be able to see her again, even dead p.145
  3. Why did Jess throw his painting supplies and paper into the creek? He was angry at Leslie for leaving him p.147

Chapter 13

  1. What important thing did Jess do in the stronghold? Make a funeral wreath for Leslie p.152
  2. Where had Jess gotten the words he said aloud in the sacred grove? The Bible; Jesus Christ said them as he died on the cross p.153
  3. Why did May Belle try to cross the creek? She didn’t want Jess to be lonesome p.156
  4. What did Jess learn from his conversation with Ms. Myers? That he would never forget Leslie p.160
  5. How did Jess turn Terabithia over to May Belle? Put flowers in her hair and helped her see the magic of Terabithia and making her queen p.163

Comprehension Questions – My Father’s Dragon

My Father’s Dragon

By Ruth Stiles Gannett

Grades 3-5; Genre – Fantasy; GRL N; AR pts: 1.0

When Elmer Elevator hears about the plight of an overworked and under-appreciated flying baby dragon, he packs his knapsack with supplies and stows away on a ship headed for Wild Island. Nothing will stop Elmer from rescuing the dragon!

Vocabulary

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What point of view is this story being told in? third person p.9
  2. Who is narrating and who is this story about? A son telling a story about his father, Elmer Elevator p.9
  3. How did Elmer’s mother feel about feeding the stray cat and why? She didn’t like it because if she fed it more stray cats would come around p.11
  4. Describe the alley cat. Old, female, can talk, traveler, good companionship for Elmer, kind p.9

Chapter 2

  1. What example of figurative language describes the cat speaking like a human? Alliteration p.15
  2. Why did the animals on the island want to catch the dragon? So they could use him as transportation instead of walking all the way around to the other side of the island p.17
  3. How did the animals treat the baby dragon if he complains? Beat him and twist his wing p.17

Chapter 3

  1. How did the author’s father get off the ship without getting caught? Hid inside a grain bag and used a rubber band to tie it on the inside p.22
  2. Why wasn’t the author’s father bothered when the fisherman shook with fear talking about Wild Island? He knew the dragon wasn’t scary p.24
  3. Why was it important for the author’s father to travel to the island at night? He was hopping over rocks and the animals on the island would have seen him in the day and he didn’t want them to see him p.25

Chapter 4

  1. How did the animals know something strange was on the island? Saw tangerine peels laying around, the “rock” had moved from its place p.32
  2. How was the main character able to stay hidden? Traveled at night and held onto his peels p.32

Chapter 5

  1. Why couldn’t the main character continue to follow the river and instead ventured further into the jungle? The river was so muddy he got stuck in the ooze and decided to travel in the jungle next to the river using his compass, but the river had a bend he didn’t know about that took him away from it p.35
  2. How many tigers crept up on Elmer? 7 p.37
  3. What knowledge did the cat give to the main character that helped him stop the tigers from eating him? The tigers love chewing gum p.38

Chapter 6

  1. Who was the main character careful to hide from at the beginning of this chapter? Two wild boars p.44
  2. Explain why the rhinoceros was weeping as well as how Elmer helped him. His tusk used to be white, but with age has turned yellow-gray and Elmer brushed his tusk with a toothbrush and toothpaste p.48

Chapter 7

  1. Why was the lion so upset? He had blackberry twigs stuck in his mane and was worried for his mom see him such a mess that she would stop his allowance p.52
  2. What did Elder do to help the lion? Give him a comb, brush and ribbons and showed him how to make his mane pretty p.54

Chapter 8

  1. What animal threatened to twist the main character’s arms like he does the dragon’s wings? A gorilla p.60
  2. What did Elmer give the monkeys to help them get the fleas off the gorilla and how did that help? Magnifying glasses so they could see the tiny fleas p.62
  3. Explain how the main character was freed from the gorilla. More monkeys came out of the trees and surrounded the gorilla as they were wanting to try the magnifying glasses p.64

Chapter 9

  1. Why didn’t the main character pull on the rope to have the dragon fly over to him? Elmer was worried about the gorilla twisting the dragon’s wings and stopping him from freeing him p.65
  2. Why was Elmer not interested in swimming in the river with the crocodiles? He knew he’d be eaten p.66
  3. What did Elmer do to get to the other side of the river? Used lollipops to make the crocodiles line up so he could walk across them. He put the first lollipop in the sand on the beach, then walked across the crocodile and used a robber band to tie a lollipop onto his tail for the next crocodile and so on p.68

Chapter 10

  1. Explain how the crocodiles helped Elmer have the time he needed to free the dragon? The first crocodile finished his sucker and began floating down the river with all the other crocodiles following as they wanted to finish their suckers. The animals had been crossing the river and were stuck on the crocodiles p.76
  2. Who called to the main character and the dragon from the island as they were heading to Tangerine island? The mouse p.76

Comprehension Questions – The Dark is Rising Sequence #1 Over Sea, Under Stone

Over Sea, Under Stone

By Susan Cooper

Grades 6-8; Genre – Fantasy; GRL X; AR pts: 12.0

Barney, Simon and Jane find themselves beset by deadly dangers as they embark on a great quest. Having found a crumbling parchment map, they begin their search for ancient treasure linked to King Arthur. More precious than life itself, the treasure, found by the right people, would help keep at bay the ancient forces of evil that were once again powerful in the world. They turn for help to their Great-Uncle Merry, who draws on his vast knowledge of ancient lore to protect them.

Vocabulary

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. List the characters and describe the setting of this story. Barney, Jane, Mother, Father, Great-Uncle Merry, Simon, Rufus the dog; setting: train station, then a city called Cornwall p.1
  2. Describe Great-Uncle Merry. Not really their mother’s uncle, but an old friend her father’s, tall and straight, thick wild white hair; deep set eyes, brown nose curved like a bow, no one knew how old he was, there was something ancient about him p.3
  3. List Barney’s passion and Simon’s passion. King Arthur; boats p.4;5
  4. What is so mysterious about the yacht? Great-Uncle Merry seemed upset by it; Young Bill wouldn’t talk about the supplies he had gathered for it and was really upset after running into Jane; the old fisherman called Young Bill evil; the yacht appeared and disappeared silently and strangely p.6

Chapter 2

  1. What did the children do for entertainment while stuck inside during the rain? Pretended they were explorers and explored the house p.14
  2. Describe the adventure the children pretended they went on. They were explorers in a jungle and made sure to take food for a picnic. They worked their way through each area of the house, then pretended they heard the natives coming after them.
  3. What did they find that was curious while on their adventure? A door behind the wardrobe p.19

Chapter 3

  1. Sketch a picture of the scroll Barney found when searching for his thrown apple core. Brownish parchment springy as steel, cracks through it, another sheet stuck down in it that was darker and older, covered with small writing in strange squashed-looking dark brown letters. Below the writing was singed p.23
  2. Why did Jane and Barney expect Simon to understand the manuscript? They thought it was written in Latin and Simon has been taking Latin at school. 25
  3. Who did Barney think the scroll was written about? King Arthur and his King Mark p.26
  4. Why didn’t the children want to tell their parents about the manuscript? They feared their parents would make them put it back where they found it p.26
  5. Who came to visit the Drew’s during their supper and why? People from the yacht at sea; they invited to spend the day on the yacht out at sea p.29

Chapter 4

  1. On page 36, the author used a word to describe how Jane felt about the Withers. What is it and what does it mean? Sinister- evil or productive of evil p.36
  2. What did Jane find when coming down the stairs for lunch? A small book in the treasure chest p.38
  3. What was her discovery of the book? It had the name King Mark Head which was similar to the name on the map on the manuscript p.39
  4. Describe what a vicarage is and what this one looked like. Home of the vicar or clergy of a village; Scruffy house with neglected overgrown plants; grass as high as hay; weeds in the gravel of the drive; inside was not taken care of and worn p.41

Chapter 5

  1. What did Simon find the morning after Jane visited the vicar? Their house had been broken into and books from all of the main floor had been gone through and thrown on the floor p.48
  2. What do the children think the burglars were after? The manuscript with the map p.53
  3. Who do you think broke into the house? the Withers or Mr. Hastings the vicar p.54
  4. Who do the children feel they can tell about the manuscript? Great-Uncle Merry p.55

Chapter 6

  1. What was Great-Uncle Merry’s response after seeing the manuscript? Happy and Relieved p.58
  2. Explain the battle the children put themselves in the middle of by finding the manuscript. Between King Arthur and the evil ones from the world long ago; people who are trying to remember the world at the time of King Arthur; good and evil that still lives on and is seeking the grail p.60
  3. What do you think over sea and under stone mean?  Listen to your child’s ideas p.62
  4. What was Great-Uncle Merry doing while the children were in the house finding the manuscript? Leading the enemies on a detour and distracting them p.65
  5. Why can’t the children or their great-uncle go tell the police about the Withers? They wouldn’t believe them p.69

Chapter 7

  1. Why would the white yacht, named the Lady Mary, be following the children’s dad and uncle out to sea? The Withers were on it and they were following Great-Uncle Merry to see if he’s lead them to something about the manuscript p.72
  2. Who did the children see as they were sitting on the grass halfway up the Kemare Head? Mrs. Withers and Bill p.74
  3. Where was the clue the children were looking for as the sun was setting? On a large rock on the opposite headland on Kemare Head p.79
  4. Who was the man Bill saw and spoke to while trying to find Simon? Mr. Hastings p.84
  5. How did Simon get away from Bill and the man? Great-Uncle Merry came driving up, Simon got in the car and drove away p.86

Chapter 8

  1. What type of figurative language did the author use on page 89 in the phrase, “He would have given his ears to be the hero of the chase.”? An idiom p.89
  2. What did Jane realize the blodge mark was on the map? The moon p.92
  3. When the children’s parents left for the night, what did that mean the children could do? To go wander out at night to see if the clue worked with the moon p.95
  4. What did Simon and Jane find using the moon as a guide? That the rocks on the end of the headland is where the grail is buried p.100
  5. What was the threat on the hill that night? There were people there trying to get to Jane and Simon p.103

Chapter 9

  1. What is your conclusion about Mrs. Palk sneaking around Barney’s room? That she was looking for the map p.107
  2. Why didn’t Barney want to talk about the grail or map around Mrs. Palk? He was suspicious of her being a part of the evil p.108
  3. Where did Mrs. Palk tell Gumerry where the children went? To St. Austell    Why? To get rid of Gumerry so the evil ones could get to the children p.112

Chapter 10

  1. Why were the rocks at the end of the headland called the Gravestones? The children figured the Knight Bedwin was buried there as well as the grail p.115
  2. What did Rufus find? An area to dig in the ground next to a rock; the children found a large hole in the ground under that area p.119
  3. What could Jane hear in the gaping hole? The sea p.122
  4. What was Simon’s conclusion as he realized the Withers hadn’t seen a cave while scoping out the area? The cave might be under water p.124

Chapter 11

  1. Explain the connection between Bill and Mrs. Palk. She is Bill’s auntie p.130
  2. How had the children missed seeing Barney as he came down the hill? The procession was in the way and the other children were on a stone wall at the corner of the front quay instead of being in inner quay p.131

Chapter 12

  1. What happened to Barney when he couldn’t find Simon and Jane? He was kidnapped p.136
  2. Who had kidnapped Barney and where did they take him? The Withers; to a big deserted looking house p.138
  3. Describe the interaction between Barney and Mr. Hastings. Mr. Hastings asked Barney where the grail was hiding and Barney said he didn’t know what he was talking about. Mr. Hastings was shocked when Barney asked for another sandwich and excused Mr. Withers.  Mr. Hastings tried to convince Barney that he wasn’t bad, but that Gumerry was bad instead and hoping to get information about the grail p.142
  4. What did Barney say in his conversation with Mr. Hastings? He questioned him and said that Gumerry was doing it in the name of King Arthur and the old world before the dark came p.147

Chapter 13

  1. Why did Barney relax and heed his new master, Mr. Hastings? Mr. Hastings hypnotized him p.150
  2. What snapped him out of his trance? Rufus’ howl p.151
  3. How did the children get away from the men chasing them? They hid in a field p.154
  4. Why were the children nervous when they heard the owl hooting? Jane realized it was the enemy and not an owl and they feared the enemy had seen them p.160
  5. What did the children do to take extra precautions at the cave? Tie fishing line around Barney; had matches to light; figured out signals to communicate to each other p.165

Chapter 14

  1. Choose a word that describes Barney as he’s finding his way through the cave. Brave, courageous, determined, P.168
  2. What did Barney find in the cavern with the natural cupboard? The grail p.173
  3. Sketch the grail and describe it. P.173
  4. Summarize what Jane experienced while waiting outside for her brothers while they were in the cave. She felt a significant amount of responsibility holding the manuscript; anxious and worried as she let the string out; worried about the enemies; worried about the tide p.176
  5. What did the boys find with the grail? Another manuscript p. 178
  6. Summarize the battle in the last chapter. The children were starting to head back to the beach and saw the yacht. As they hurried, they saw another dinghy at the shore blocking them off. They were intercepted by the two enemy groups. Mr. Hastings and Mr. Withers were on the rocks with the children and Barney threatened to throw both artifacts into the water. Gumerry came to their rescue in a speed boat with Mr. Penhallow driving. Simon grabbed the artifacts and tried to throw them to Gumerry. Gumerry caught the Grail, but an oar intercepted the telescope case and broke it, sending its contents into the sea. The children all got into the boat and the enemies retreated and left the bay p.179

Epilogue

  1. Who do the children think Great-Uncle Merry is? Merlin p.193