Tag Archives: Novel

Comprehension Questions – Call it Courage

Call it Courage

by Armstrong Sperry

Grades 5-7; Genre - Fiction; GRL X; AR pts. 3.0

A legendary adventure story of how Mafatu, the son of the Great Chief of Hikueru, a Polynesian race who worships courage, conquers his fear of the sea and proves he isn't a coward.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. How did the author begin this story? Giving the history and background of where this story came from p.1
  2. Do you think it was reasonable for Mafatu to be afraid of the sea? Why? Listen to your child’s answer p.3
  3. How were Mafatu and Kivi similar? They were both rejected by their peers and family p.8
  4. Why did Mafatu feel like he needed to leave the island? His people had rejected him; he wanted to learn how to have courage; the boys his age were going out to hunt sharks and swordfish the next day and he was the only one not going p.14

Chapter 2

  1. List 2 similes or metaphors in this chapter. “A monster livid and hungry p.24; empty as a shell p.25; as hard as the cut edge of a stone p.28 
  2. Summarize this chapter. Mafatu was out at sea; a storm came and broke up his canoe and stole away his paddle and food; he saw land and reached it but his canoe broke into splinters; he and his dog drug themselves onto the beach to a fresh water p.17

Chapter 3

  1. What examples of personification does the author use in this chapter? The chuckle of the cascade p.36; coconuts and pandanus trooped in shining legions to the very edge of the sea p.38; it’s voice warm and soft and reassuring in his ear p.47; trees reached for him as he fled p.53
  2. How did Mafatu know he was not alone on the island? He saw that fruit has been cut from the trees recently; he saw a path only humans could make; he saw terraces built by men; p.48
  3. How did Mafatu know which island he was on? he saw bones that had recently been burned for sacrifice; he was on a eaters-of-men island p.50
  4. How did Mafatu show courage in this chapter? He took the spear from the altar and touched a bone p.54
  5. Why does Mafatu think about the things that would please his father? His father is ashamed of him; he’s thinking of ways he can show his father he has courage p.59

Chapter 4

  1. How did Mafatu prepare for this adventure before arriving on the island? His previous life was making the same tools he needs on this island p.64
  2. What motivated Mafatu to dive into the water and kill the hammerhead shark? His dog fell off the raft and the shark swam after him p.74
  3. Why was Mafatu so elated and proud of himself for killing a wild boar? He did it with a spear which takes a lot of courage; he had courage to face the boar; his grandfather had killed one and was respected; he wants to be respected too p.78
  4. Why was Mafatu feeling more comfortable in the ocean? He had lived near it and in it for weeks and grew confident in his ability p.85
  5. Why does Mafatu attribute his successes to Maui? Maui is his God, and he believes Maui is helping him p.93
  6. Why was Mafatu so excited to return home? He had found his courage and could now prove he wasn’t afraid any longer p.95

Chapter 5

  1. Summarize this chapter. Mafatu was being chased by the eaters-of-men into the ocean, but after a long chase gave up; Mafatu grew discouraged when he sat on the ocean for days, but finally made it to his home island; his father was proud to call him his son p.97
  2. How did the author conclude this story? He restated the first few lines that are at the very beginning of the book p.116
  3. Explain if you agree with this style of writing. Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer

Comprehension Questions – A Nest for Celeste

A Nest for Celeste

by Henry Cole

Grades 3-5; Genre - Fiction; GRL Q; AR pts. 4.0

Celeste, a mouse longing for a real home, becomes a source of inspiration to teenaged Joseph, assistant to the artist and naturalist John James Audubon, at a nearby Louisiana plantation in 1821.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe Celeste. She’s a mouse; lives in a house below the floorboards; she weaves baskets p.11

Chapter 2

  1. How did the rats treat Celeste? They’re mean and bully her; they boss her around and eat her food and take what they want from her home p.18

Chapter 3

  1. Describe the family in the house. Wealthy, live on a plantation; mother, father, and daughter; daughter is named Eliza and is old enough to be courted and is going to learn to dance; the family has hired a dance instructor who has brought along his assistant p.24

Chapter 4

  1. Summarize this chapter. The rats came to the main floor impatient as they waited for Celeste; the rats went ahead to find the crumbs under the table and didn’t see the cat; the cat caught and killed one of the rats named Trixie p.30

Chapter 5

  1. What is preventing Celeste from going to her home? The cat; it knows where she lives now p.55

Chapter 6

  1. Why hadn’t Celeste realized the beautiful place she lived? She always stayed on the ground and near the dining room; now she has ventured on the stair railing and to the upper floor of the housep.58
  2. Where did Celeste sleep that night? In the boot of the assistant p.64

Chapter 7 

  1. Why did Celeste think the snoring was strange? It wasn’t there the night before; the guest was back from his hunting trip p.75

Chapter 8

  1. How did Joseph respond when he found Celeste in his boot? He was happy and kind; he put her in a tiny cage for company p.80

Chapter 9

  1. Why is Celeste confused with Joseph’s behavior toward her? She thinks he’s going to eat or hurt her, but he is kind and sees her as a friend p.87

Chapter 10

  1. Why did Celeste miss having a home? She couldn’t run, escape, and hide p.101

Chapter 11

  1. Is Joseph a good friend to Celeste? Why or why not? Yes, he’s gentle with her, feeds her, puts her in his pocket and includes her p.108

Chapter 12

  1. Summarize this chapter. Joseph took Celeste outside to sketch; hunters came and killed a large number of birds with guns p.118
  2. Why was Joseph upset by this? the hunters killed so many birds it didn’t feel like hunting, it felt like a slaughter p.119

Chapter 13

  1. How did Celeste’s life differ now than from the beginning of this story? She had someone who cared about her; she left the house and went on adventures; she didn’t need to worry about food; she saw things that made her sad p.124

Chapter 14

  1. Why is Mr. Audubon shooting birds? He uses them as a model p.131
  2. What terrified Celeste in this chapter? Joseph got shot in the head and she thought he was dead p.138

Chapter 15

  1. Do you agree with Audubon’s or Joseph’s philosophy? Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer p.144

Chapter 16

  1. Share Celeste‘s history. She lived in a field with her family; she left the nest and a tractor came and killed her family and ruined her home; a groundhog helped her p.159

Chapter 17

  1. Why was there so much chaos when Celeste went outside? A storm was coming p.170

Chapter 18

  1. Why was the storm so scary for Celeste? She was so small; raindrops were as large as her ears; the wind blew her into what felt like a raging river p.178

Chapter 19

  1. How did Celeste feel in this chapter? Exhausted; sore and stiff; tired p.186

Chapter 20

  1. Describe Lafayette. He’s an osprey; kind; helpful; talkative; wants to help Celeste p.191

Chapter 21

  1. What’s a gondola? A small, long, narrow boat with a high prow and stern, propelled with a single oar, especially in Venice. A hanging platform or car for transporting people or cargo.
  2. Which definition matches what Celeste is making? A hanging car for transporting people p.200

Chapter 22

  1. How did Lafayette react when he saw the gondola? He was impressed and thought it was clever p.206

Chapter 23

  1. Describe Celeste’s experience flying with Lafayette. It was a wonderful adventure; she loved it; she soared high above the trees and saw gators and rivers p.213

Chapter 24

  1. What was Celeste’s plan for the thrush in this chapter? She has asked him to stand on the dogwood and sing for Joseph; she knew Joseph would be in inspired by the bird’s song p.224

Chapter 25

  1. What’s the definition of instinct? an innate, typically fixed pattern of behavior in animals in response to certain stimuli 
  2. What was Cornelius’s instinct telling him? To fly south p.238

Chapter 26

  1. Describe Celeste’s predicament in this chapter? The cat found her, so she ran and escaped p.241

Chapter 27

  1. What’s Celeste’s plan to help Lafayette? To pose and look more alive p.263

Chapter 28

  1. Describe the outcome of Celeste’s plan? Audubon was happy; he never got frustrated p.272

Chapter 29

  1. In what two ways did Celeste help Lafayette? She saved his life and she freed him from the leather cord p.275

Chapter 30

  1. What did Celeste find and who do you think it belonged to? A dollhouse; Eliza p.282

Chapter 31

  1. What emotions did Celeste feel in this chapter? Why? Happy to have a new home; sad because she was alone p.291

Chapter 32

  1. How do you think Celeste felt to see Trixie in her new home? Sad; Trixie wasn’t a good friend p.299

Chapter 33

  1. Why didn’t Celeste feel like she could ask Lafayette to give Trixie a ride in the gondola? She didn’t know if he’d want to take her p.305

Chapter 34

  1. How has Trixie stolen Celeste’s home? she’s eaten her food and makes herself at home p.309

Chapter 35

  1. Whose fault is it that Trixie isn’t coming back? Her own; she shouldn’t have yanked the cord so hard as to break it p.314

Chapter 36

  1. Do you think Celeste should have gone back to her little house while Joseph was gone to dinner? Listen to your child’s answer; she was followed by the cat and couldn’t get back to Joseph p.322
  2. Predict what you think will happen. Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 37

  1. What helped Celeste’s nest feel like a home? Friends p.336

Comprehension Questions – Anne of Green Gables

Anne of Green Gables

By Lucy Maud Montgomery

Grades 4-8; Genre - Fiction; GRL V; AR pts. 17.0

Anne, an eleven-year-old orphan, is sent by mistake to live with a lonely, middle-aged brother and sister on a Prince Edward Island farm, and proceeds to make an indelible impression on everyone around her.

Vocabulary/Phrases

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe Mrs. Rachel Lynde. A busy body; notable housewife; her work was always well done; ran the Sewing Circle, Sunday School, strong in the Church Aid Society and Foreign Missions Auxiliary; always sat in front window knitting “cotton warp” quilts (an impressive amount) p.3
  2. Why was Rachel Lynde against Matthew and Marilla adopting a boy? She’s heard horrific stories of couples who adopt p.8
  3. Describe Marilla’s and Rachel’s friendship. They’re very different; Marilla knows Rachel and is patient with her nosiness and is a good neighbor to her p.8

Chapter 2

  1. Describe Anne. Skinny, freckles, red hair, 10-11yrs old, imaginative, talks a lot, can express herself very well, loves beautiful things, is excited to have a real home and be adopted, kind, personifies objects in nature p.11
  2. Did Matthew make the right decision to take Anne home with him? Why? Listen to your child’s answer. If yes, he couldn’t have let her sleep out in a tree alone all-night p.12
  3. Explain why Matthew was uneasy as they arrived at Green Gables? He knew the disappointment Anne would feel when Marilla told her she wasn’t what they wanted and would need to go back to the asylum p.19

Chapter 3

  1. Describe the emotional ups and downs Anne has been through in this chapter? She was so thrilled to be at Green Gables to start with, but was severely disappointed when Marilla saw she was a girl and didn’t want her p.20

Chapter 4

  1. How does Anne deal with hard situations and disappointment in her life? She uses her imagination p.26

Chapter 5

  1. Why didn’t Anne want to go explore outside in the morning? She knew she was going to be sent back to the asylum, so she didn’t want to fall in love with the beautiful things outside p.29
  2. Describe Anne’s background. Her parents died of the fever when she was a baby and went to an orphanage; Mrs. Thomas took her in and she baby sat for her; after her husband died Mrs. Thomas moved in with Mr. Thomas’ mother, so Mrs. Hammond took her in; Mrs. Hammond had 8 children, 3 sets of twins that Anne took care of; when Mr. Hammond died Mrs. Hammond split her children up and went to the United States; Anne went to another orphanage; she was there for 4 months when Mrs. Spencer came to request a girl for Matthew and Marilla p.32

Chapter 6

  1. Describe Mrs. Blewett. Would she be good to Anne? She’s shrewd; demanding; mean; no she wouldn’t be good to Anne p.37

Chapter 7

  1. Why didn’t Anne care anything for God’s love? She has never had it translated to her through the medium of human love p.41

Chapter 8

  1. How did Marilla feel about Anne’s day dreams? Impatient and frustrated p.47

Chapter 9

  1. Why did Anne get so angry at Mrs.Lynde? Mrs. Lynde said that Anne was skinny, red-haired as carrots, covered in freckles, homely p.51
  2. What consequence did Marilla give to Anne for being defiant to Mrs. Lynde? She needed to apologize p.54

Chapter 10

  1. What finally convinced Anne to apologize to Mrs. Lynde? Matthew snuck into her room and asked her to p.55

Chapter 11

  1. Why did Marilla accuse Anne of being vain? Anne worries a lot about her looks and what people think of her p.61
  2. What was Marilla’s reaction to Anne’s thoughts about Mr. Bell’s prayers and sermons? She realized she felt the same way, but never expressed it p.65

Chapter 12

  1. Describe Diana. Black hair and eyes, 11 years old, excited to have a friend in Anne, plump p.67

Chapter 13

  1. Why was Anne so excited about the picnic? She’d never been to one and there was going to be ice-cream which she has never eaten p.71

Chapter 14

  1. Why did Marilla blame herself for pushing Anne to confess about the brooch? Anne didn’t take it but because Marilla thought she had; she couldn’t go to the picnic until she confessed p.80

Chapter 15

  1. What word would describe Anne in her response to Gilbert? Why? Listen to your child’s answers. 

Chapter 16

  1. What mistake did Anne make in this chapter and what was the consequence? She accidentally gave Diana wine instead of raspberry cordial; Diana’s mother wouldn’t let Diana see Anne anymore p.100

Chapter 17

  1. What initiated Anne’s desire to go back to school? Not being able to see or talk to Diana and at least at school she could look at her p.105

Chapter 18

  1. How did Anne think quickly in this chapter? Diana’s younger sister had the croup, but her parents weren’t home; Anne rushed up to help while Matthew rode for a doctor; Due to her experience with the Hammond twins, Anne knew what to do and saved Minnie May p.112

Chapter 19

  1. Define courage and explain how Anne had courage in this chapter. Doing something scary when you’re scared; she faced Diana’s aunt and told her jumping on the bed was her fault p.123

Chapter 20

  1. Who wouldn’t Anne accept Mayflowers from? Gilbert p.126
  2. Why is it such a problem that Anne imagined a haunted wood with Diana? Now she is scared beyond reason to go through the area to Diana’s at night p.130

Chapter 21

  1. What mistake did Anne make in this chapter and how was she comforted? She used anodyne liniment instead of vanilla, for a special cake she baked for Mrs. Allen, the minister’s wife, but the minister’s wife came to comfort her and told her it was a funny mistake then distracted Anne by asking her to show her the garden p.137

Chapter 22

  1. How did Anne’s visit to the manse go? It went well; she was invited to sing in the Sunday School choir; Anne shared her personal history with Mrs. Allen p.141
  2. What news did Mrs. Lynde share? A new female teacher named Miss Muriel Stacy was going to be teaching at the school p.141

Chapter 23

  1. How did Anne bring on the trial she faced in this chapter? She dared Josie Pye to walk the board fence and diminished the accomplishment when Josie did it; In defiance Josie dared Anne to walk the ridgepole on Diana’s roof; Anne accepted the dare but fell off the roof and broke her ankle; She missed the first day of school and was sad to miss the new teacher p.143

Chapter 24

  1. Why is Anne so excited in this chapter and how does Marilla feel about it? She’s excited to go back to school and really loves the new teacher; the class will be putting on a concert to help pay for a school flag; Marilla thinks it’s foolishness p.148

Chapter 25

  1. What was Matthew’s Christmas gift to Anne and what effort did he go through to get it? A dress with puffed sleeves; her tried to shop for it, but was shy around the girl at the store then he asked Rachel Lynde to take care of it p.152

Chapter 26 

  1. What did the girls create in this chapter and why? A story club to cultivate their imaginations and get better at writing stories p.163
  2. Why is Marilla always telling Anne her ideas are foolishness? Marilla wants Anne to be a respectable, practical, and responsible person, so tries to discourage the things that take away from that p.164

Chapter 27

  1. Why did Marilla cut off Anne’s hair? She bought hair dye from a peddler and her hair turned green when she used it p.169

Chapter 28

  1. Do you think Anne should have forgiven Gilbert Blythe? Why or why not? Listen to your child’s answers p.176

Chapter 29

  1. List three things Anne and Diana did while visiting Miss Barry. They went to the Exhibition, saw the horse races, went to a concert in the Academy of Music, had ice cream at 11pm p.182

Chapter 30

  1. Why doesn’t Marilla soften and show Anne more sympathy? Marilla has higher expectations for Anne and doesn’t feel like she can let her see her soft side or Anne won’t meet them p.186

Chapter 31

  1. Why did the Spencervale doctor prescribe that Anne have open air and no books during the summer? She was worn out from working so hard during the school year p.194
  2. Name two ways Anne is growing up. She doesn’t talk as much and doesn’t use big words p.198

Chapter 32

  1. How did the Entrance exam go? Anne and Gilbert tied for first p.204

Chapter 33

  1. What helped Anne come to her senses and be able to perform? She saw Gilbert Blythe in the back of the performance hall and was determined to be successful p.212

Chapter 34

  1. Who was in Anne’s class that ended up being a comfort to her at Queen’s? Gilbert Blythe p.216

Chapter 35

  1. What’s Anne’s attitude toward Gilbert now? She’s not bitter anymore and she sees him as a worthy foeman that drives her determination p.222

Chapter 36

  1. Why was Anne happy after exams? She won the Avery Scholarship p.224
  2. Why is it important that Anne took memory of Matthew’s smile at the end of this chapter? Matthew is getting old and may not be around much longer p.227

Chapter 37

  1. Summarize what happened in this chapter? Matthew died; Marilla spoke of being good friends with Gilbert’s father but got angry at him and couldn’t forgive him p.228
  2. Do you think Marilla’s experience of not forgiving influenced Anne to help her forgive? Listen to your child’s answer.

Chapter 38

  1. How did Anne make amends with Gilbert? He gave up his school so Anne could teach close to home and when she ran into him, she told him thank you and that she had forgiven him; he was thrilled and wanted to be friends p.238

Comprehension Questions – Holes

by Louis Sachar

Grades 6-8; Genre - Fiction; GRL V; AR 7.0

Stanley Yelnats is under a curse. A curse that began with his no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing great-great-grandfather and has since followed generations of Yelnats. Now Stanley has been unjustly sent to a boys' detention center, Camp Green Lake, where the boys build character by spending all day, every day, digging holes exactly five feet wide and five feet deep. There is no lake at Camp Green Lake. But there are an awful lot of holes. It doesn't take long for Stanley to realize there's more than character improvement going on at Camp Green Lake. The boys are digging holes because the warden is looking for something. But what could be buried under a dried-up lake? Stanley tries to dig up the truth in this inventive and darkly humorous tale of crime and punishment - and redemption.

Vocabulary

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. How does the author begin this story? Describing Camp Green Lake and the living conditions; the harm in being bit by scorpions, rattlesnakes, and yellow-spotted lizards p.3

Chapter 2

  1. Describe the setting of this story. Camp Green Lake is in Texas where a lake once was. It’s a camp for bad boys p.5

Chapter 3

  1. Describe the main character. Stanley Yelnats the IV; poor family; no friends; overweight; not a bad kid, but was convicted of a crime that took him to Camp Green Lake p.6

Chapter 4

  1. Describe Stanley’s life for the next 18 months. Stanley will need to dig a hole 5ft deep and 5 ft wide each day; he’ll have two sets of clothes; it’s hot and nowhere to go besides desert p.11

Chapter 5

  1. Describe Mr. Pendanski. He seems kind; wants to help the boys; the boys call him Mom p.16

Chapter 6

  1. How does the judge think Camp Green Lake will improve Stanley’s character? Being away from home and digging holes will give Stanley an appreciation for the things he has at home and will help him grow tough mentally and physically p.25

Chapter 7

  1. How was Stanley’s situation similar to his great-great grandfather’s situation with the pig? His grandfather developed character when he carried the pig up the mountain each day and sang to it. Stanley was building character as he dug his first hole p.28
  2. Why did Elya think he was cursed? His friend Zeroni said he would be if he didn’t carry her up the mountain and sing to her; his life was filled with bad luck p.38

Chapter 8

  1. Why do you think the author is describing the yellow-spotted lizard in this chapter? To help the reader understand that getting bit is very dangerous. Possibly foreshadowing someone getting bit p.41

Chapter 9

  1. Why was Stanley scared of the Caveman? He didn’t realize that was his new nickname; he thought the Lump was the Caveman and was going to beat him up p.44

Chapter 10

  1. Why did Stanley think the fossilized rock would give him the day off? It was interesting to him; finding a cool fossil doesn’t happen very often p.50

Chapter 11

  1. Explain why Stanley was accepted at Camp Green Lake, but struggled with bullies at home? There was mutual respect between the boys since they were all there for the same reason p.53

Chapter 12

  1. What’s something you’re interested in and what you’d like to do when you grow up? Listen to your child’s answer.
  2. What does Mr Pendanski say you’ll need to do to achieve your dream? It won’t be easy; you’ll be surprised what you can accomplish if you set your mind to it; you only have one life, so you should try to make the most of it p.57

Chapter 13

  1. How did Stanley earn one place in line? X-ray gave him permission since Stanley gave him something he found while digging p.63

Chapter 14

  1. Describe the Warden. Bossy and stern; red hair and red fingernails; freckles; intimidating; doesn’t want anyone to question her authority p.66

Chapter 15

  1. Why didn’t Stanley tell the Warden they were digging in the wrong place? Didn’t want to get X-ray in trouble; he didn’t want the Warden to know where he’d found barrel p.71

Chapter 16

  1. What did you learn about Zero in this chapter? He’s never heard nursery rhymes p.76

Chapter 17

  1. How successful were the boys at uncovering anything else “interesting”? They weren’t p.77

Chapter 18

  1. What did the author mean, Stanley’s heart hardened over the last several weeks? He wasn’t as compassionate and kind p.82

Chapter 19

  1. When Stanley was riding in the truck, why was he surprised it felt good? Because he was on the way to being punished by the Warden, but it felt good to be out of the sun and sit down p.87

Chapter 20

  1. What caused Mr. Sir to be in horrific pain when the Warden slapped him? She intentionally scraped him, so the venom from her fingernails went into open wounds on his face p.91

Chapter 21

  1. Why was Stanley scared of Mr. Sir? Mr. Sir would be angry at Stanley for taking the sunflower seeds and for being slapped and scraped with the venom p.92

Chapter 22

  1. Why did Stanley agree to teach Zero how to read? Zero dug part of his hole and he wasn’t as tired; Zero showed Stanley a great kindness, so he wanted to be kind back p.96

Chapter 23

  1. Describe Katherine Barlow. She was from the town by Green Lake and was kind and pretty; made delicious, spiced peaches, and always received a prize for them; she taught school p.101

Chapter 24

  1. How did Mr. Sir punish Stanley in this chapter? Instead of filling his canteen with water, Mr. Sir just let the water run on the ground p.106

Chapter 25

  1. What happened to Katherine and Onion Sam in this chapter? They fell in love p.111

Chapter 26

  1. How did Katherine become an outlaw? Sam and his donkey were killed for kissing her due to the color of Sam’s skin; Katherine was full of vengeance p.115

Chapter 27

  1. Where did Zero get his nickname from? His last name Zeroni p.119
  2. What’s significant about Zero’s last name? It’s the same last name as the woman who gave Stanley’s great-great grandfather the pig and who cursed him p.31

Chapter 28

  1. Summarize this chapter. Katherine came back after 20yrs to Green Lake and lived in the cabin between the two oak trees. Trout and his wife Linda caught Kate, but she wouldn’t show them where her loot was buried and was bit by a yellow-spotted lizard and died p.120

Chapter 29

  1. How is Stanley connected to Katherine Barlow? When Kate was an outlaw, she robbed his great grandfather and left him for dead p.128
  2. What connection does Stanley see with his great grandfather and the fist that looked like a rock? His great grandfather said he was saved by the thumb of God; the rock juts up like a thumb sticking up p.128

Chapter 30

  1. Why did Zero run away from the camp? Mr. Pendanski called Zero stupid and that he couldn’t learn, so he hit him p.138

Chapter 31

  1. Why does the Warden want to destroy all of Zero’s records? She thinks he’s going to die in the desert, and she doesn’t want anyone coming to look for him p.144

Chapter 32

  1. What did Stanley do in this chapter? He stole and wrecked Mr. Sir’s truck to go find Zero p.148

Chapter 33

  1. Why was Stanley scared when he saw the family of yellow-spotted lizards in the hole? He would be dead if one bit him p.150

Chapter 34

  1. Who was taking shelter under the boat? Zero p.154
  2. Whose boat was named the Mary Lou? Onion Sam’s p.107

Chapter 35

  1. What is the sploosh Zero found and why are there 16 bottles? The spiced peaches Kate gave to Onion Sam to pay him for fixing up the school house p.109

Chapter 36

  1. Why was Zero’s stomach hurting him? From drinking the old sploosh and not eating other food p.161

Chapter 37

  1. How did Stanley know they were getting close to water? The mountain had bugs and weeds p.169

Chapter 38

  1. What did Stanley find when he slipped? A hole with water and an onion p.171

Chapter 39

  1. Whose fault is it that Stanley is at Camp Green Lake? Zero’s p.175
  2. Why did Stanley sing his family’s song to Zero? To comfort Zero p.175

Chapter 40

  1. Why was Stanley so amazed when he finally found the shovel and jars? He hiked a long way up the mountain carrying Zero with no food and water p.181

Chapter 41

  1. Why did Zero get sent to Camp Green Lake? Stealing a new pair of shoes p.184

Chapter 42

  1. Why did Stanley want to dig another hole? He wanted to go back to where he found the lipstick tube and see if there really was buried treasure p.188

Chapter 43

  1. How did Stanley feel as he and Zero got closer to camp? Why? Terror; he was traumatized from what had happened at the camp p.197

Chapter 44

  1. What did Stanley and Zero find in this chapter and why couldn’t they keep it? A suitcase; the Warden found them digging and wanted it p.202

Chapter 45

  1. What did the Warden mean when she said, “it won’t be long “? It won’t be long before the lizards bite Zero and Stanley and they’re dead p.206

Chapter 46

  1. Why had the lawyer come looking for Stanley? Stanley was innocent and she was going to take him home p.209

Chapter 47

  1. Why do you think the suitcase had Stanley’s name on it? Kate stole it from his great-grandfather, whose name was also Stanley Yelnats p.216

Chapter 48

  1. How did Stanley lawyer protect Stanley and Zero? She wouldn’t let Stanley open the suitcase and tried to get him out of there as quickly as possible; she was taking Zero with her as well p.222

Chapter 49

  1. Why didn’t Stanley and Zero get bit by the yellow lizards? They had onions in their bloodstream and the lizards don’t like onion blood p.224
  2. Why did Ms. Morengo leave the windows rolled down on the way home? The boys stank of onions p.224

Chapter 50

  1. Why did Hector (Zero) hire private investigators?  To find his mom p.230
  2. Summarize the end of this story. Stanley and Zero received just under $1 million each for the contents in the suitcase; Stanley bought his family a home to live in and Hector hired private investigators; Stanley’s dad invented Sploosh, it neutralizes odor in shoes; Zero finds his mom p.231

Comprehension Questions – The Family Under the Bridge

by Natalie Savage Carlson

Grades 3-5; Genre - Fiction; GRL R; AR pts: 3.0

Armand, an old man living on the streets of Paris, relishes his solitary life in the beautiful city. Then one day just before Christmas, Armand returns to his favorite spot beneath the bridge to find three cold and hungry children. Although he has no interest in children, Armand soon finds himself caring for the small family. It does not take Armand very long to realize that he must do whatever it takes to get them a real home. 

Vocabulary

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What is the setting of this book? Paris, France in December p.1
  2. Describe the main character.  An older man named Armand who chooses to live on the street and desires no riches p.1
  3. What does Armand compare the children to? Starlings p.4

Chapter 2

  1. Why is Armand worried that the children will steal his heart? He doesn’t want to have feelings of love for them p.15
  2. Why was the children’s mother upset when she saw Armand sharing space with her children? She was surprised to see him living in the same space as her children p.13
  3. Why was Armand set on taking the children to see Father Christmas? Their mother wouldn’t approve of it p.18

Chapter 3

  1. Why was Armand describing the food the children saw with disgusting attributes? He didn’t want them to desire it p.24
  2. How did Father Christmas respond when the children told him they wanted a house to live in for Christmas? He was shocked and said his donkey couldn’t carry it p.27
  3. Why didn’t the children and Armand belong in that store? It was a fancy store and only with people with money could buy something in it p.28

Chapter 4

  1. Find a simile on page 31. They sang like three little birds on a branch in the springtime.
  2. How did Armand purchase food for the children to eat? He told them to sing then asked for alms and people gave him money p.31
  3. On page 33, the author states that the man at the pancake stand waited until Armand showed him his money before he poured the batter, why? To make sure Armand could pay for the pancakes
  4. How did the children’s mom react when she found out the children sang for money? She was very upset and told the children they couldn’t see Armand anymore p.37

Chapter 5

  1. Why did Armand take the children away from the bridge? Two women saw the children and were going to take them away and put their mama in jail p.43
  2. Where did Armand take the children? To his gypsy friend, Mireli p.49
  3. What persuaded the children to ask Father Christmas for a house on wheels? The children saw their new friend’s home and realized Father Christmas could pull it with his donkey p.51

Chapter 6

  1. Describe the children’s mama’s reaction to staying in the gypsy camp. She didn’t like it at first since she doesn’t like gypsies, but then learned to appreciate it p.57
  2. What did Tinka teach Suzy? Symbols that gypsies read and use p.59
  3. Why did Suzy want Armand to go see Father Christmas? To tell Father Christmas where they live now and what they want for Christmas p.62

Chapter 7

  1. How did the Calcets spend Christmas Eve? At a holiday party on the quay by their bridge and going to midnight mass p.65
  2. Why did Armand lie to the children about their home? Because he didn’t want to see them disappointed p.68
  3. How can you tell that Armand hasn’t prayed for a long time? He’d forgotten how p.70

Chapter 8

  1. Why did the gypsies pack up their camp and prepare to leave? A police officer was looking for Nikki, one of the gypsies p.77
  2. Why was the police officer looking for Nikki? He was bringing Nikki’s lost wallet to him p.83
  3. How did Paul inspire Armand? Paul tried to get a job to help the family but couldn’t, and Armand realized he should be the one getting the job p. 84

Chapter 9

  1. Describe the ending.  Do you agree or disagree with it? Why? Listen to your child’s answers
  2. How did Armand change during the book? He went from not wanting to work or be responsible for anything to wanting to work so he could be responsible for his new family p.97

Comprehension Questions – Mr. Popper’s Penguins

Mr. Popper's Penguins

by Richard and Florence Atwater

Grades 3-5; Genre - Fiction; GRL Q; AR pts: 3.0

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Why was Mr. Popper so absent-minded? He was day-dreaming of far-away places p.5
  2. What far-away place did Mr. Popper want to see most of all? The north and south poles p.7
  3. Why is Mrs. Popper worried that Mr. Popper doesn’t work in the winter? They won’t have as much money p.8

Chapter 2

  1. How does Mrs. Popper feel about the South Pole? That its dull and cold p.10
  2. Why does Mr. Popper want a penguin for a pet? They’re intelligent p.12
  3. Why is Mr. Popper mentioned over the radio? He sent a letter to Admiral Drake about the penguins p.14

Chapter 3

  1. What surprise did Admiral Drake send Mr. Popper? A penguin p.18
  2. Why did Mr. Popper fill up the bathtub? He thought the penguin was thirsty p.19
  3. Why did Mr. Popper call the penguin Captain Cook? The penguin made noises that sounded like Cook p.21

Chapter 4

  1. Why was the Popper family upset with Captain Cook? He ate their goldfish p.28
  2. Where did Captain Cook go to sleep? In the refrigerator p.29
  3. How did Mrs. Popper feel about Captain Cook? That he would make an all right pet p.30

Chapter 5

  1. What did the serviceman do to the ice box? Put holes in it and put a handle on the inside p.32
  2. How much money did Mr. Popper give to the serviceman? $10 p.33
  3. How did the serviceman react when Mr. Popper asked him to do these things? He thought Mr. Popper was crazy p.33

Chapter 6

  1. What did the policeman want when he came to the back door? The serviceman reported the penguin p.39
  2. Why did Mr. Popper get frustrated when he called the city building? They were confused on what he was calling about and didn’t know what a penguin was p.42

Chapter 7

  1. Why did Captain Cook gather odds and ends and put them in the fridge? He was putting together a nest p.48
  2. Why did Mr. Popper look like a penguin in this chapter? He shaved, slicked back his hair and put on his evening tailcoat p.49
  3. Why did Mr. Popper ask his wife for clothesline? He wanted it to take Captain Cook on a stroll p.49

Chapter 8

  1. How did the men with the camera know that Mr. Popper owned a penguin? They heard it from the police officer p.54
  2. What were the men doing with the camera? They were writing an article for the newspaper p.54

Chapter 9

  1. Why did the barber yell, “Good night!” when Captain Cook jumped onto the mirror ledge? He was surprised; this was an expression of surprise at the time this book was written p.57
  2. Why did Captain Cook want the shaving cream on the man’s face at the barber? It looked like snow p.58
  3. Why did Captain Cook want to climb the stairs? So, he could toboggan down them p.60

Chapter 10

  1. Why did Mrs. Popper call the doctor in this chapter? Captain Cook was ill and had a 104 degree temperature p.63
  2. What did the curator think was wrong with Captain Cook? He thought the penguin was lonely p.67
  3. What was the curator’s cure to help Captain Cook? He’s sending him Greta, the aquarium’s penguin who is also ill p.67

Chapter 11

  1. What does Mrs. Popper compare the two penguins to at the beginning of the chapter? Two peas p.68
  2. How could they tell the birds apart? Mr. Popper painted their names on their backs p.69
  3. How did Mr. Popper make a bigger, more comfortable home for the penguins? He left the windows open in his home and snow came into the house p.71

Chapter 12

  1. How did the Popper’s take care of the penguins for the rest of the winter? Mr. Popper had the furnace moved upstairs and an ice making machine installed In the cellar p.74
  2. How many eggs did Greta lay in all? 10 p.75
  3. Who did Mr. Popper name the penguin chicks after? Explorers and their assistants p.77

Chapter 13

  1. Why was Mrs. Popper considering eating the penguins? They were almost out of money p.82
  2. What idea did Mr. Popper come up with to earn money? Train the penguins to perform p.83
  3. How many songs did Mrs. Popper remember and what did she play the piano for? Three songs for three different acts the penguins would perform p.84

Chapter 14

  1. What made the passengers on the bus complain? Mr. Popper opened all of the windows to keep the penguins cool p.89
  2. What was Mr. Greenbaum’s reaction to meeting Mr. Popper and his penguins? He wanted to see the act p.91

Chapter 15

  1. Where did the penguins get to perform their act for Mr. Greenbaum?  On the stage in front of an audience p.93
  2. How do you know the audience enjoyed the penguins’ act? They stood up and cheered p.99  
  3. What did the theater owner offer Mr. Popper? A ten-week contract with $5,000 a week p.99

Chapter 16

  1. Why was a traffic officer involved when the Popper’s and penguins were on the way to the train station? The two taxis driving them were racing and got in an accident p.102
  2. Why was Mrs. Popper worried about the children missing school? she didn’t want them to get behind p.104
  3. How did the penguins disrupt the rest of the acts during their first performance? They would go on stage and make the audience laugh and distract the performer p.106

Chapter 17

  1. How would other performers feel when they heard the penguins were performing in the same show? They didn’t like it p.108
  2. Why weren’t the Poppers rich when receiving $5,000 a week? They ate at expensive restaurants and slept in expensive hotels p.112
  3. Predict if Mr. Popper will sign another contract with Mr. Greenbaum.  Listen to your child’s answer p.114

Chapter 18

  1. What did the Popper’s find at the theater? A seal performing act p.117
  2. Why were the Popper’s worried to have the penguins join the seals? They thought the seals would eat the penguins p.118
  3. What mistake did Mr. Popper make during this chapter? He told the taxi driver the wrong theater p.122

Chapter 19

  1. Who bailed Mr. Popper and the penguins out of jail? Admiral Drake p.127
  2. What did Admiral Drake offer Mr. Popper? To take the penguins to the North Pole and name the new penguin race after him p.129
  3. What did Mr. Greenbaum offer him? A deal with a movie producer that will put the penguins in films p.130

Chapter 20

  1. Why did Mr. Popper decide to give the birds to Admiral Drake? Because they had done so much for him that he needed to do what was best for them p.133
  2. What surprised Mr. Popper in this chapter? That he was invited to go with the expedition p.138
  3. Explain what you liked about this book.  Listen to your child’s response

Comprehension Questions – Where the Red Fern Grows

Where the Red Fern Grows

by Wilson Rawls

Grade 6; Genre - Fiction; GRL X; AR pts: 11.0

Vocabulary and Themes in the Story (by Steve)

Comprehension Questions (by Steve)

Chapter 1

  1. Describe the dog fight. The pack was attacking an old redbone hound. Pg. 2.
  2. What did the old hound look like? He was starving. Pg. 3.
  3. What could you tell from the paws? He had come a long way. Pg. 3.
  4. What was his name? Buddie. Pg. 3.
  5. Why did he let the hound go? It would break his heart to stay; break his will to live. Pg. 5.

Chapter 2

  1. Where does Billy live? Ozark Mountains on Cherokee land. Pg. 9.
  2. What happened because of his dog-wanting? He lost weight and didn’t sleep. Pg. 11.
  3. What did Billy’s dad buy him for hunting? Three small steel traps. Pg. 12.
  4. What did Billy trap? Samie the Cat over and over until he left. Pg. 14.
  5.  What did Billy’s father allow him to do in the summer? Work in the fields. Pg. 18

Chapter 3

  1. What does Billy find in the Fishermen’s camp? A magazine selling dogs for $25. Pg. 20.
  2. What does Billy save his money in? An old K.C. Baking Powder Can. Pg. 22.
  3. How does Billy save the money? He saves the $50 by selling berries, hides, vegetables. Pg. 24.
  4. Why is his grandfather surprised about the money? Billy worked and saved for 2 years. Pg. 25.
  5. What does his grandfather do? Gives him candy and says don’t tell about the dogs. Pg. 26.

Chapter 4

  1. Where does Billie have to go for the dogs? Tahlequah. Pg. 28.
  2. How does Billie get to Tahlequah? He walks 20 miles. Pg. 31.
  3. What and why does he buy things for family? Overalls and cloth because he snuck out. Pg. 34.
  4. How do the kids treat Billie? They call him a hillbilly. Pg. 37.

Chapter 5

  1. Who was in charge at the depot? The stationmaster. Pg. 39.
  2. How did Billy carry the pups home? In the gunny sack with holes for their heads. Pg. 42.
  3. Why did Billy fight the freckle face boy? He pulled his pups ear and it cried. Pg. 44.
  4. What did the Marshall give Billy? Strawberry pop. Pg. 47.
  5. Why’d Billy think the lion wouldn’t hurt them? His father said it was afraid of fire. Pg. 51.

Chapter 6

  1. How did Billy pick the pups’ names? They were carved in the tree. Pg.54.
  2. How did Billy’s father know where he was? His grandpa told him. Pg. 56.
  3. What did Mama fix for the pups? Warm milk. Pg. 57.
  4. What was the cave called where Billy spent the night? Robber’s Cave. Pg. 57.
  5. What was the black pipe at the school in town? A fire escape. Pg. 60.

Chapter 7

  1. What did Billy think of his Grandpa’s trapping idea? He thought he was kidding. Pg. 65.
  2. What did Grandpa’s pet coon catch his hand in? The butter churn. Pg. 66.
  3. What did Mama think when Billy yelled about the coon? A snake bit him. Pg. 71.
  4. Why can’t you sell coon skins in summer? They have yellow hair. Pg. 74.
  5. What did Billy think about the pups when they had talks? They understood him. Pg. 77.

Chapter 8

  1. Why was Mama worried about Billy hunting? He hadn’t been in the woods all night. Pg. 81.
  2. What was the first trick the coon pulled on the hounds? Swam through water. Pg. 84.
  3. Which tree did the coon run up? “The big tree”. Pg. 89.
  4. Why did Billy tell Papa it was important to chop the tree down? To keep his bargain. Pg.92.

Chapter 9

  1. How did Grandpa keep the coon up the tree all night? With a scarecrow. Pg. 99.
  2. What traits did Grandpa say make a man? Determination and will power. Pg.101.
  3. What did Mama learn about coon? That they were smart. Pg. 103.
  4. Where did the dogs spend the night? They slept by the tree together. Pg. 106.
  5. Why did Billy think the wind blew the tree down? He prayed to God. Pg.108.
  6. Did Papa have another explanation? It blew the tree only because it was the tallest. Pg. 112.

Chapter 10

  1. Why did Billy go to the store on Saturdays? It was “Coon Hunter” day. Pg. 115.
  2. Why did the hunters make fun of Billy’s hounds? They were small. Pg. 116.
  3. Who did Mama use to catch the chickens? Little Ann; Old Dan was too rough. Pg. 118.
  4. Why did Billy think Old Dan had drowned? He was in a muskrat den in the slough. Pg. 122.
  5. How did Old Dan get up in the tree? He went through the hollow trunk. Pg. 125.

Chapter 11

  1. Why was it dangerous after the snow storm? It was slick and no moon. Pg. 128.
  2. What happened when the dogs jumped the river? Old Dan was strong and made it; Little Ann slipped and fell in. Pg. 132.
  3. What did Billy do when he couldn’t save Little Ann? He prayed for a miracle. Pg. 134.
  4. What did Billy learn from the lantern clanging? Use the handle for a hook. Pg. 135.
  5. Why didn’t Billy tell Mama? Because she’d worry and stop him from hunting. Pg. 139.

Chapter 12

  1. Why did Grandpa accept the bet with Rubin? He called him crooked and spat. Pg. 144.
  2. What and how much was the bet for? To catch the ghost coon for $2. Pg. 145
  3. What happened when the coon went up a tree? It disappeared. Pg. 155.

Chapter 13

  1. How did Little Ann know the coon was in the gate post? A breeze carried the scent. Pg. 159.
  2. Where was the ghost coon? In the hallow gate post. Pg. 160.
  3. How did Billy feel about the ghost coon? He wouldn’t kill him. Pg. 161.
  4. Why couldn’t Old Blue beat Old Dan? Little Ann helped fight him. Pg. 165.
  5. How did Rainie react to his brother’s death? He couldn’t get over the shock. Pg. 171.

Chapter 14

  1. What kind of dogs could enter in the coon hunt? Registered. Pg. 179
  2. Was Billy happy with his life? Luckiest boy in the world. Pg. 184.
  3. What did his little sister want from the hunt? The gold cup. Pg. 186.
  4. What was the only thing wrong with Little Ann? Gun-shy, Pg. 189.
  5. What did Grandpa keep secret from Grandma? The corn liquor. Pg. 191.

Chapter 15

  1. Why wouldn’t Old Dan eat his food? He was waiting for Little Ann. Pg. 194.
  2. What did Billy think 2 screech owls meant? Bad luck. Pg. 196.
  3. What kind of dogs were at the hunt? Redbones, blue ticks, walkers, and blood hounds. Pg. 200.
  4.  Why did Billy pick Little Ann for the beauty contest? Old Dan’s face was all scared. Pg. 201.

Chapter 16

  1. Where did the hounds run the coon? Back to the camp. Pg. 211.
  2. Why did Grandpa look funny drying by the fire? His long underwear was steaming. Pg. 212.
  3. Why was the judge worried with the coon in the river? He might drown the dogs. Pg. 221.
  4. What surprised the judge? The dogs cleaned each other’s cuts after the fight. Pg. 222.

Chapter 17

  1. Why did the judge want to quit? Because of the storm. Pg. 226.
  2. How did they get Little Ann to come to them? They fired the gun. Pg. 228.
  3. Who led them to Grandpa? Little Ann. Pg. 231.
  4. What happened when they cut down the tree? 3 coons came out. Pg. 234.

Chapter 18

  1. What did the hunter say happened to the hounds? Frozen solid. Pg. 240.
  2. Why did the dogs keep circling the tree? They’d freeze if they stopped. Pg. 242.
  3. What did Mr. Kyle call dog loyalty? The deepest kind of love. Pg. 243.
  4. What did Mama do that night? Took food to the dogs and prayed. Pg. 250.

Chapter 19

  1. How did Billy try to stop Old Dan’s bleeding? Mud caked onto the wounds. Pg. 260.
  2. How did Billy feel when his dogs died? He didn’t believe in prayer anymore Pg. 270.
  3. What was the miracle from the dogs? The money to move to the city. Pg. 272.

Chapter 20

  1. What did Billy see when he said good-bye to the dogs? The red fern Pg. 278.
  2. What did Papa think the red fern did? It was God’s way of helping Billy understand why his dogs died. Pg.279.

Comprehension Questions – The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

by Barbara Robinson

Grades 4-6; Genre - Fiction; GRL M; AR pts: 2.0

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. How does the author describe the Herdmans? the worst kids in the history of the world p.2
  2. How did the Herdmans burn down the toolshed? Leroy Herdman stole a chemistry set and they were trying it out p.3
  3. Why did Imogene write down everyone’s weight? So she could blackmail them p.14
  4. Why is Gladys the meanest Herdman? Each Herdman child taught the one younger than them everything they knew and Gladys was the youngest p.19

Chapter 2

  1. How does the author’s family feel about the Christmas Pageant? They don’t like it; it’s the same every year p.20
  2. Why did the author’s mother get put in charge of the Christmas Pageant? The woman who usually did it, Mrs. Armstrong, broke her leg p.23
  3. What did Charlie say that made the Herdmans want to attend Sunday School? That he can get all the dessert he wants there p.29
  4. How did Imogene act when told the pageant was about Jesus Christ? Uninterested p.33

Chapter 3

  1. Who volunteered to act in all the important roles of the pageant? All the Herdman kids p.41
  2. How was everyone feeling about the Herdmans taking over the pageant? They didn’t like it p.47
  3. Who motivated Mother to make this the best Christmas Pageant ever? Mrs. Armstrong p.51
  4. What did the minister say to those who complained to him? That Jesus said “suffer the little children to come unto me” and Jesus meant all the little children including the Herdmans p.51

Chapter 4

  1. Why hadn’t the Herdmans heard of the Christmas story before? They hadn’t ever been to church and their parents hadn’t taught them p.55
  2. How did the Herdmans react when Mother was telling them the story? They were interested and shocked p.57
  3. How did the kids feel about King Herod? They were really interested in him p.66

Chapter 5

  1. How did the Herdmans learn about King Herod? They went to the library p.71
  2. Name two things the Herdmans have done that have made Alice upset? Drank the communion wine, stole crayons from the Sunday School cupboards, stole pennies out of the Happy Birthday bank, and smoked cigars in the bathroom p.74
  3. Why was it difficult to get a baby for the pageant? No one wanted Imogene, who was playing Mary, to touch their babies p.79

Chapter 6

  1. Who pierced Imogene’s ears? Gladys p.85
  2. Why was the fire department called? Someone saw smoke in the bathroom when Imogene was smoking p.89
  3. Why was Reverend Hopkins worried no one would come see the pageant? Because of the Herdmans were in it and they always caused trouble p.93

Chapter 7

  1. What did the Herdmans bring for their gift to the baby Jesus? Their ham p.100
  2. Why did Imogene cry during the song Silent Night? She felt the spirit of birth of the Savior p.104
  3. What made this pageant the best one? The Herdmans p.104
  4. Why didn’t the Herdmans take back the ham? It was their true sacrifice to the baby Jesus p.106

Comprehension Questions – Number the Stars

Number the Stars

by Lois Lowry

Grades 5-6; Genre - Fiction; GRL U; AR pts: 4.0

As German troops begin their campaign to "relocate" all the Jews of Denmark, 10-year-old Annemarie Johansen's family takes in Annemarie's best friend, Ellen Rosen, and conceals her by pretending she's part of the family. Then, through Annemarie's eyes, readers watch as the Danish Resistance smuggles almost the entire Jewish population of Denmark — nearly 7,000 people — across the sea to Sweden.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What’s the setting of this story? Copenhagen, Denmark during WWII p.1
  2. How long has Denmark been occupied by the Germans? 3 years p.3
  3. Why did the encounter with the soldiers scare Annemarie and Ellen? The soldiers had guns and spoke harshly p.5

Chapter 2

  1. Who are the king’s bodyguards? All of Denmark p.14
  2. Why didn’t King Christian want to fight the Nazis? He knew his army would have been crushed p.15
  3. Who is Peter and what’s his relation to Annemarie? Her sister’s fiancé before she passed away; he had been like a brother to her, but is always in a hurry now and only talks to her mama and papa p.17

Chapter 3

  1. Why were the girls puzzled when they saw the Hirsch’s button shop closed?  The store was usually open and they had seen Mrs. Hirsch recently p.20
  2. What did Peter bring the two girls? seashells p.23
  3. Why was Annemarie worried about Ellen’s family? They were Jewish and the soldiers p.24

Chapter 4

  1. Why are Kirsti’s new shoes made out of fish skin? With the Germans occupying their country, they can’t get leather p.28
  2. Why do the Rosens need to go into hiding? The Nazis were arresting all the Jews p.36
  3. How were the Johansen’s going to hide Ellen? They will pretend that Ellen is Annemarie’s sister p.37

Chapter 5

  1. What was Ellen wearing that would have given her away to the soldier? a Star of David necklace p.45
  2. Why did the officer suspect Ellen? She had dark hair and Annemarie and her sister have blond p.47
  3. How did Papa prove to the soldiers that Ellen was a part of their family? Lise had dark hair as a baby and he showed them her photograph p.47

Chapter 6

  1. Why did Mrs. Johansen want to take the girls to her brothers by herself? It would look suspicious if they left the apartment together p.51
  2. Why were Annemarie and her mother nervous when Kirsti spoke to the soldier on the train? They thought she would give them all away p.55
  3. How did the soldier try and trick them? He asked if they were celebrating the New Year p.55

Chapter 7

  1. Why didn’t Annemarie’s mom want the girls talking to anyone? It would be hard to explain who Ellen is p.63
  2. Why did Annemarie take Ellen to the ocean? Ellen had never seen it before p.63
  3. When listening to her mother and uncle, what did Annemarie notice was different? There was no laughter p.66

Chapter 8

  1. Why did Annemarie’s mom say her Uncle Henrik needed a wife? He needed someone to take care of him and clean his house p.70
  2. Who had died? Great-aunt Birte p.72
  3. Why was her death puzzling to Annemarie? She didn’t have a Great-aunt Birte p.72

Chapter 9

  1. Why did Annemarie’s mother and uncle lie to her? To help her be brave by not telling her everything p.76
  2. Why did Annemarie decide not to tell Ellen? So Ellen could be brave by not knowing everything p.78
  3. Who did Peter bring with him to Uncle Henrik’s for the funeral? Ellen’s parents p.81

Chapter 10

  1. Who came during the funeral? Soldiers p.83
  2. Why didn’t the soldiers want Mama to open the casket? Annemarie’s mama said their aunt died of Typhus p.85
  3. Where does the title of this book come from and what does it mean? The Book of Psalms; God numbers each of his children as the stars in the sky and knows them all p.87

Chapter 11

  1. What was inside the casket? Blankets and clothes p.88
  2. Why did the people need clothes and blankets? to keep warm while they traveled across the sea to Sweden p.89
  3. Why did Peter give the baby medicine? To make her sleepy to she wouldn’t cry p.90

Chapter 12

  1. How long did Annemarie think her mother would be gone? 1 hour p.97
  2. Why was Annemarie worried when she woke up? Her mother hadn’t returned and it was getting light outside p.98
  3. What did Annemarie see on the trail outside? Her mother in a heap p.100

Chapter 13

  1. What happened to Annemarie’s mother on the way back from the harbor? She broke her ankle p.102
  2. What had fallen out of Mr. Rosen’s pocket? The packet Peter had given him to give to Uncle Henrik p.104
  3. Why did Annemarie hide the packet under food in a basket? In case she ran into soldiers, and it would be hidden p.105

Chapter 14

  1. Why did Annemarie need to hurry to the harbor? She needed to get the packet to her uncle before he left p.106
  2. What story did Annemarie think of while she was running to the boat? Little Red Riding-Hood p.107
  3. What was in front of Annemarie at the end of this chapter? Four armed soldiers and two large dogs p.112

Chapter 15

  1. Who did Annemarie mimic when she was conversing with the soldiers? Kirsti p.113
  2. What was in the package? A handkerchief p.117
  3. Why did Henrik reassure Annemarie when she looked in the cabin of the boat? She couldn’t see any of the people that were trying to escape p.119

Chapter 16

  1. What’s Uncle Henrik’s definition of brave? Not thinking about the dangers, but what you must do p.123
  2. What’s the resistance? A group of people who are fighting against the Germans (in this situation) p.123
  3. Why was the handkerchief important? It made the dogs lose their sense of smell so they couldn’t find the people hiding on the boat p.125

Chapter 17

  1. How did Peter die? The Germans caught him and he was executed p.129
  2. How did Lise die? She was run over by the Nazis p.130
  3. Where did Annemarie hide Ellen’s necklace? In her sister’s trunk p.131

Comprehension Questions – Bud, Not Buddy

Bud, Not Buddy

by Christopher Paul Curtis

Grades 3-7; Genre - Fiction; GRL U; AR pts: 8.0

It's 1936, in Flint, Michigan. Ten-year-old Bud may be a motherless boy on the run, but he's on a mission. His momma never told him who his father was, but she left a clue: posters of Herman E. Calloway and his famous band, the Dusky Devastators of the Depression! Bud's got an idea that those posters will lead to his father. Once he decides to hit the road and find this mystery man, nothing can stop him.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What’s the setting at the beginning of this story? In an orphanage during the depression in Flint, Michigan
  2. Describe Bud. 10 years old, living in an orphanage because his mom died, been to foster homes, but always comes back, can’t cry anymore, thinks his dad is a musician
  3. How was Bud a good friend to Jerry? He comforted him and helped him feel better about going to his foster home

Chapter 2

  1. What provoked Bud to punch Todd? Todd had woken him up in the night sticking a pencil up his nose
  2. Why is Todd’s mother calling Bud ungrateful and sending him back to the Home? It looked like he was picking on Todd
  3. What’s the name of the book Bud’s writing? Bud Caldwell’s Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself

Chapter 3

  1. How did Bugs get his nickname? He’d gotten a bug stuck in his ear
  2. What was the “vampire bat” hanging on the ceiling of the shed? A hornet’s nest
  3. Why was Bud angry after he got out of the shed? He was angry at the Amos’s for treating him the way they had; and himself for believing Todd when he said there was a vampire bat in the shed and for getting into a situation where there wasn’t anyone who cared what happened to him

Chapter 4

  1. Why didn’t Bud want to use the gun as revenge? Guns are too dangerous
  2. Where did Bud put the gun? Out on the porch
  3. How did Bud get his revenge with Todd? Made him wet the bed

Chapter 5

  1. After seeing he couldn’t sleep in the library basement, where did Bud find shelter? Under the Christmas trees by the library
  2. Why did his mom name him Bud and not Buddy? Buddy is a dog’s name; Bud is a flower-to-be, a flower-in-waiting, waiting for just the right warmth and care to open it up
  3. What does the phrase mean, “when one door closes in life, another door opens”? When one opportunity ends, another one is offered to you

Chapter 6

  1. Why was Bud late for breakfast? He slept in
  2. Why was Bud able to eat? A man pretended Bud was his son
  3. Why did Bud’s pretend mom and dad keep hitting him on the head? To help others think he really was their child; to keep him in line

Chapter 7

  1. Find an example at the beginning of this chapter that tells you Bud loves the library. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath to smell the unique library smell
  2. What bad news did the librarian tell Bud? Miss Hill got married and moved away
  3. Why couldn’t Bud go back to the Home? It was getting crowded

Chapter 8

  1. Describe Bud’s experience in Hooverville. He got fed, kissed a girl and had a place to sleep with hope of going west
  2. Explain what happened when Bud and the others tried to catch the train. The police were there trying to stop them, but Bud and the rest ran. Bugs made it on, but Bud slowed down to catch his blue flyer and missed the train. Bugs threw his suitcase off
  3. What did Bud and the others find when they went back to Hooverville? The police had gone in and were breaking it up by burning the buildings and ruining the pots and pans

Chapter 9

  1. What was the special something the librarian had for Bud? A large history book about the Civil War
  2. What does the main character compare the idea of his dad to? A seed growing into a maple tree
  3. Why did Bud think the things in his suitcase were his momma’s treasures? Why else would she keep them

Chapter 10

  1. Why was the man nervous when talking to Bud on the side of the road? The city they were outside of wasn’t very kind to people with darker skin
  2. What convinced Bud to go with the man? He had food and would take him to Grand Rapids
  3. Why did Bud think the man was a vampire? Bud saw a box with the label, “Urgent, contains human blood”

Chapter 11

  1. How did Bud end up back in Flint? Mr. Lewis drove him there to drop off the blood
  2. Name three words that describe the Sleet family. Kind, generous, fun, warm, loving, accepting, giving, sharing
  3. Why did Bud have a hard time eating and talking with the Sleet’s during the breakfast? At the Home he had to be silent during meals and at the Sleet home they were asking him questions and expecting him to respond

Chapter 12

  1. Why was Bud worried when the policeman pulled them over? he thought the police were after him
  2. How is Lefty involved with the labor organizers? He’s helping deliver fliers to the railroad workers in Grand Rapids
  3. Why didn’t Bud want Lefty to into the Log Cabin with him? Herman Calloway didn’t know who Bud was and Lefty would have found out the truth

Chapter 13

  1. What deal did Mr. Jimmy make to get Bud to tell him the truth? He promised him dinner at a restaurant
  2. Choose a word to describe Thug and explain why? Mean, untrustworthy; giving him advice that would get him in trouble
  3. Why did Bud like Steady Eddie? He watched out for him; was good to him

Chapter 14

  1. What did Bud compare Miss Thomas’s humming to?  Walking on a railway and feeling the train getting closer and closer under your feet
  2. Why did Bud start crying after dinner? He was so happy and felt like he was home
  3. Find a word that describes Miss Thomas. Kind, warm, friendly, loving, accepting

Chapter 15

  1. Why did Mr. Calloway lock the closets in the room Bud was sleeping in? to keep Bud from stealing anything and getting into it
  2. What gave Bud the thought to steal from Mr. Calloway? Calloway threatened him
  3. What helped Bud go to sleep? A blanket around his head, imaging his mom telling him stories

Chapter 16

  1. What was Miss Thomas’ plan for Bud? If they got permission from the people in Flint, they were going to keep him
  2. Why did Steady Eddie give Bud a saxophone case? to carry his mother’s things in; his suitcase is too old and ratty to travel with the band
  3. What was Bud’s new name and how did he feel about it? Sleepy LaBone; he loved it

Chapter 17

  1. What was Bud pretending his mop and bucket were? Captain Nemo and the sea
  2. What did Miss Thomas’s singing and Steady Eddie’s saxophone sound like together? Like a conversation they were having with one another

Chapter 18

  1. How long has Bud been with the band at this point in the book? 7 days
  2. What was in Herman’s glovebox? Rocks with writing on them, just like Bud’s
  3. When Bud told Herman his mother’s name, why did Herman run into the house? Because it was his daughter’s name

Chapter 19

  1. How did Buddy prove his mother was Herman’s daughter? He had a picture from when she was a young girl
  2. Why did Bud’s mother run away from home? Her father was really hard on her and wanted her to become a teacher, but she didn’t want to
  3. Why was Herman so upset? He had just found out his daughter died
  4. What gift did the band give Bud? An alto saxophone