241 Questions
Who is the little creature and where does she appear?
The little creature appears late one afternoon on an old carousel in the village of Perchance.
Who created the little creature and what is her condition?
The little creature has a maker, a boy with nimble fingers and a tender heart. She seems to be in fine condition, propped, dazed and damp as a newborn, on the saddle of a wooden unicorn.
What significant qualities does the girl who is the friend of the creature possess?
The girl has sharp eyes and a stubborn soul. She understands things that others do not.
What is the setting and tone of the story?
The setting is a village called Perchance, and the tone of the story seems to be one of mystery and magic, as indicated by the mention of gentle magic and plentiful magic.
What is the name of the village that relies on tourism, particularly during the Autumn Faire?
Perchance
What event causes the protagonist to start keeping detailed notes and sketches of the natural world, including the screechers?
A fire
Why are the screechers being hunted by the village councillors?
A bounty has been placed on them
How does the protagonist demonstrate a deep understanding of the screechers?
By naming and differentiating between them
What is the current status of the screecher population, as mentioned in the text?
Decreasing from 87 to potentially just one
What is the name of the screecher with whom the protagonist forms a bond?
Duuzuu
Who is the lone old screecher that the protagonist is particularly concerned about?
Sir Zurt
What is the protagonist worried about regarding the potential for fires in the dry season?
The impact on the screechers and the ecosystem
What is a source of distress and concern for the protagonist in the text?
The disappearance of the screechers
What do the protagonist's observations and interactions with the screechers illustrate?
Their deep connection to and understanding of nature
What does the narrative highlight the impact of?
Human actions, such as hunting and potential fire hazards, on the local ecosystem and wildlife
What does the text convey about the protagonist's emotional state?
Growing sense of isolation and concern for the natural world
Who took in the protagonist after the devastating fire?
Birdie and Mae
What kind of book did Birdie and Mae give to the protagonist?
a book about dragons
What is the name of the protagonist's pet hummingbear?
Duuzuu
What attracts the hummingbears to the protagonist's village?
blue willow trees where they nest
What event does the village hold to celebrate the arrival of the hummingbears?
Autumn Faire
What are the hummingbears known for?
shimmering wings, sweet faces, and nests made of glistening bubbles that glow at night
What natural challenges did the village face?
mudslides, fires, and declining numbers of migrating hummingbears
Why were other hummingbears not accepting of Duuzuu?
he could not fly due to his singed wings
Where was the village located?
in a valley surrounded by wooded hills, with the River Essex running through it
What was the village's claim to fame?
the annual arrival of the hummingbears
What did the protagonist find comfort in?
solitude and nature
How did the protagonist and Duuzuu feel after the fire?
different and solitary, forever changed by the fire, and found comfort in each other's company
What kind of creatures were the screechers?
Small, grumpy creatures with sharp teeth, dreadful claws, wild eyes, and a strong stench.
Where did Willodeen first encounter screechers?
While hunting for sunberries with her father at the age of six.
How were screechers perceived by people?
They were often persecuted by people who claimed they were harmful, although they mainly fed on insects and did not pose a threat to livestock.
What did Willodeen feel a connection to the screechers?
She knew what it felt like to be unlovable.
How did Willodeen and her father observe the screecher and her babies?
They observed them from a distance, appreciating the mother's gentleness.
Why did Willodeen's mother burn their clothes?
After failing to remove the stench from the encounter with the screechers.
What did Willodeen wish about people's attitude towards screechers?
She wished people didn't hate screechers, as they were there before humans.
How did Willodeen's family approach life?
They had a lighthearted approach to life, as seen when her brother humorously used porridge as a hat.
What was Willodeen's mother's outlook on life?
She had a wild laugh and a humorous outlook on life, despite her occasional frustration.
What did Willodeen's father compare the screechers' care for their young to?
Similar to how parents care for their children.
What was one of Willodeen's mother's views on the screechers?
She saw them as useless and cursed creatures.
What does the text capture about Willodeen's early experiences?
The text captures Willodeen's early experiences and her deep connection to unlovable creatures, specifically the screechers.
Who is the protagonist of the story?
The protagonist is a girl who encounters the screecher, Sir Zurt, in the forest.
What is the name of the old and injured creature the protagonist encounters in the forest?
The old and injured creature is Sir Zurt, a screecher.
What do the hunters do when they approach the screecher?
The hunters shoot arrows at the screecher, causing the protagonist to protect Sir Zurt and flee.
Who are the two hunters that dismiss the screechers and attempt to retrieve the arrow used in the attack?
The hunters are Gray Beard and a shorter man.
Why does the protagonist refuse to hand over the arrow to the hunters?
The protagonist feels empathy for the screechers and refuses to hand over the arrow to the hunters.
Who does the protagonist encounter after escaping the hunters?
The protagonist encounters a boy named Connor.
What does the protagonist confide in Connor about?
The protagonist confides in Connor about the hunters killing the old screecher and expresses her concern about the potential extinction of the screechers.
What does the protagonist realize about the next day?
The protagonist realizes that the next day is her birthday, which she had forgotten.
What themes does the narrative explore?
The narrative explores themes of empathy, compassion, and the impact of human actions on the natural world.
What triggers a sense of empathy and concern in the protagonist for the screechers?
The encounter with Sir Zurt and the hunters triggers a sense of empathy and concern in the protagonist for the screechers.
What does the encounter with the screecher and the hunters set the stage for?
The encounter with the screecher and the hunters sets the stage for the protagonist's journey to protect and understand the screechers, as well as her own personal growth and self-discovery.
What does the text highlight about the protagonist's relationships and connections?
The text highlights the protagonist's isolation and lack of friends, as well as her deep connection to the forest and the screechers.
What does Mae tell Willodeen about her anger and perspective on the world?
Mae tells Willodeen not to stop being angry, as it is part of who she is and that she sees the world differently and cares, which is a gift.
According to Mae, why is everything so complicated?
Mae explains that everything is complicated because humans are notoriously difficult, including themselves.
What does Birdie say about grown-ups?
Birdie says that grown-ups are just boring former children.
What does Mae threaten to do if Willodeen doesn't make a wish?
Mae threatens to make a wish for Willodeen if she doesn't make one herself.
What does Willodeen speak out about at the meeting?
Willodeen speaks out about the absence of screechers and the importance of nature.
Who attempts to maintain order during the meeting?
Thaddeus attempts to maintain order during the meeting.
What does Willodeen express concern about regarding nature?
Willodeen expresses concern about the disappearance of hummingbears and the impact of human interference on nature.
What does Willodeen do after being silenced by Thaddeus?
She continues to speak her mind.
Where does Willodeen seek solace, feeling disconnected from the world she once knew?
On the carousel.
What does Willodeen find untouched upon returning to the carousel?
Her coat and screecher.
Who does Connor exchange a smile with after exiting the meeting?
Willodeen.
What does the text transition to in Part Three?
The screecher's perspective and sensing someone's presence.
Who are the main attendees of the village council meeting?
Connor, Mr. Burke, Miss Rossit
What is the main concern discussed at the council meeting?
The disappearance of hummingbears
Who expresses concern over the dire situation at the meeting?
Thaddeus Vilner
What are the worries expressed by the villagers at the meeting?
Lack of rain, fires, disrupted fishing, impact of the railway on the forest
What does Otwel Borwan propose during the meeting?
Raising the bounty on pests to provide income for the villagers
Who interrupts the meeting and causes a stir among the crowd?
The protagonist, a child
What shocks both the protagonist and the crowd during the meeting?
The protagonist speaking out as a mere child in a gathering of adults
Who argues that screechers are not the main problem at the meeting?
The protagonist, a child
What does Otwel Borwan propose as a potential solution for the villagers' income?
Raising the bounty on pests
What do villagers suggest using the money for during the meeting?
Various village repairs and aid for families with failed crops
What is the protagonist's relationship to Mr. Burke at the meeting?
Protagonist's father
What does the protagonist's outburst at the meeting reveal about her?
Courage and willingness to speak out
What is the name of the creature who falls asleep on Willodeen's pillow after eating too much cake?
Duuzuu
Who surprises Willodeen by appearing at her home and discussing a gift he made for her?
Connor
What does Connor suggest doing with Willodeen, to which she reluctantly agrees?
exploring a blue willow grove
Who suggests that Willodeen attend a council meeting with Connor to speak about the bounty on screechers?
Birdie
What does Willodeen feel uncomfortable and reluctant about doing in public?
speaking
What does the text emphasize about Willodeen's discomfort and reluctance to speak publicly?
dynamics and tensions between the characters
Who does Mae welcome and engage in conversation with, despite Willodeen's discomfort?
Connor
What does Connor reveal his interest in, along with his uncertainty about his future?
storytelling and sketching
What does the exchange between the characters reveal about their personalities and relationships?
emphasizes Willodeen's discomfort and reluctance to speak publicly
What does Willodeen feel hesitant and self-conscious about, perceiving her voice as insignificant?
speaking in public
What does the text portray about the dynamics and tensions between the characters?
Willodeen's discomfort and reluctance to speak publicly
Who is unable to think of a wish, but is clearly hungry and blows out a candle to eat cake?
Willodeen
Why is Willodeen frustrated with council meetings?
She is frustrated with the slow pace of change and questions the value of speaking up at council meetings.
What reasons do Mae and Birdie give for not attending council meetings?
They admit they don't attend council meetings due to feeling old, tired, and lazy.
Why is Willodeen reluctant to attend the meeting?
She feels reluctant despite being urged by Mae and Birdie.
What excuse does Willodeen initially try to use to avoid attending the meeting?
She tries to use her birthday as an excuse to avoid attending.
Who does Willodeen leave for the meeting with?
She leaves for the meeting with Connor.
What is the atmosphere like as Willodeen and Connor walk to the town center?
They discuss their differences and the perception of being odd or different.
What do Willodeen and Connor find when they arrive at the village hall for the meeting?
The interior of the hall is described as stuffy and crowded, with people sitting on benches and smoke filling the air.
How many men and women are seated at a long, low table in the front of the room?
Five men and one woman are seated at a long, low table in the front of the room.
Who encourages Willodeen to join him inside the meeting?
Connor encourages Willodeen to join him inside, despite her apprehension.
How does Willodeen enter the meeting?
Feeling anxious, she rushes up the stairs and into the meeting, leaving Connor behind.
What is the protagonist's emotional state as she enters the meeting?
She is feeling anxious and reluctant.
What do Mae and Birdie urge Willodeen to do despite her reluctance?
They urge her to attend the meeting.
Who placed a saucer of water in front of the baby screecher and why?
Birdie placed a saucer of water in front of the baby screecher to quench its thirst and make it feel comfortable in their home.
What did the protagonist hesitated about before sharing the whole story with Mae and Birdie, and why?
The protagonist hesitated before sharing the whole story with Mae and Birdie because they were probably the only people in the world they could tell without being laughed at or locked away.
What did the protagonist recount to Mae and Birdie, and why?
The protagonist recounted what had happened, with some help from Connor, to share the whole story with Mae and Birdie, knowing they were the only people they could trust and that the baby screecher would be safe in their home.
What did Duuzuu do when the baby screecher arrived, and why?
Duuzuu seemed fascinated by the new addition and hopped over to Connor, fluttered up to his shoulder, and gazed down at the baby, cooing questions, showing curiosity and interest in the baby screecher.
What was the process of getting Quinby into the harness like?
The process of getting Quinby into the harness was a tall order. Her claws were already longer and sharper. It required multiple people working at once to slip the harness over Quinby’s head and ease her two front paws through the holes, with Connor eventually tying a rope to the harness.
How did Quinby react to wearing the harness for the first time?
Quinby roamed around the cottage like a tin soldier, with stiff legs, trying in vain to grab the rope with her harness on.
Who were the individuals involved in getting Quinby into the harness and what were their roles?
Gingerly, the narrator picked Quinby up by the scruff of her neck, the way a mother dog would hold a puppy. With Connor, Mae, and Birdie all working at once, they managed to slip the harness over Quinby’s head and ease her two front paws through the holes. Connor then tied a rope to the harness.
Who does Willodeen seek advice from regarding Quinby's refusal to eat?
Mae and Birdie
What does Willodeen name the baby screecher?
Quinby
What does Quinby finally find comfort in?
a cozy nest made by Willodeen
What is the name of Connor's father?
Mr. Burke
How does the chapter end?
With Willodeen's encounter with Mr. Burke, leaving the story at a turning point
What kind of weather does Willodeen encounter while searching for food for Quinby?
warm and windy
What does Quinby refuse to eat despite various attempts by Willodeen and Connor?
a concoction of mealworm, fern, sunberries, salt, and sugar
What does Willodeen miss Connor's help in?
foraging for Quinby's food
What is Willodeen worried about regarding Quinby?
Quinby's refusal to eat
What is the name of the baby screecher?
Quinby
What does Willodeen recall to understand Quinby's behavior?
past experiences with screechers
What does Willodeen decide to do despite the approaching twilight?
go out looking for food for Quinby
What does the protagonist worry about regarding Quinby's future?
The protagonist worries about Quinby's future and if she is real.
Who does the protagonist express gratitude towards for letting her stay?
The protagonist expresses gratitude towards Birdie and Mae for letting her stay.
What does the screecher's survival depend on?
The screecher's survival depends on the animals caring for her and providing the right food.
What is introduced in chapter twenty-eight involving the protagonist and Connor?
Chapter twenty-eight involves the protagonist and Connor's struggle to find peacock snails.
What do the protagonist and Connor devise to help with the snail search?
The protagonist and Connor devise a harness for Quinby to help with the snail search.
How does chapter twenty-eight end?
The chapter ends with the introduction of a harness for Quinby and the hope it brings.
What proposal does Mr. Burke mention regarding the expansion of the rail route?
Mr. Burke mentions the proposal to cut through Sutton’s Ridge to bring the railroad closer to the river and the mill.
What natural phenomenon do they observe the impact of during the encounter?
They observe the impact of the Dragon Sighs, which are fierce that year.
What did Mr. Burke mention about Connor's mother?
Mr. Burke mentions that Connor's mother used to keep a notebook and studied birds before she died of the red fever.
What does Connor express concern for and offer to help with?
Connor expresses concern for Quinby and offers to help find food for her.
What does the protagonist successfully feed Quinby?
The protagonist successfully feeds Quinby peacock snails, which she eagerly devours.
What did Mr. Williams mention at a previous meeting?
Mr. Williams had mentioned the railroad and the fires at a previous meeting.
What did the railroad do near the tracks and what was the impact?
The railroad has cleared brush near the tracks but owns the land. They discuss the planting of blue willows near the tracks and its impact on the environment.
What concept does Mr. Burke emphasize?
Mr. Burke emphasizes the concept of progress and its consequences.
What encouragement does Mr. Burke give to the protagonist?
Mr. Burke encourages the protagonist's interest in nature and change.
Who does the protagonist encounter at Perchance?
The protagonist encounters Mr. Burke and Connor in Perchance.
What do Mr. Burke and Connor discuss regarding the potential expansion of the rail route?
They discuss the potential expansion of the rail route.
What does the protagonist observe the impact of during the encounter at Perchance?
The protagonist observes the impact of the Dragon Sighs.
Who found the baby screecher and under what circumstances?
Willodeen found the baby screecher after an emotional outburst, and the group believes that her 'angry tears' may have had some magical effect in attracting the screecher.
What are some of the food options brainstormed for the baby screecher?
The group discusses various food options for the baby screecher, including worms, grubs, dilly bugs, and berries.
What insight does Connor share about the screechers' potential food sources?
Connor shares that he has seen screechers digging through trash bins in the village and offers insights into their potential food sources.
How does the baby screecher surprise the group?
The baby screecher surprises the group by displaying unexpected fierceness and biting Willodeen's finger.
What is the group's plan for the baby screecher's bed and comfort?
The group plans to use a wooden crate in the kitchen as a bed for the baby screecher and prepares it with an old quilt for comfort.
What does Connor express and how is he reassured by Mae?
Connor expresses his need to leave, but Mae assures him that they will take good care of the baby screecher.
What does the group discuss in relation to the baby screecher's food?
The group discusses creating a recipe for the screecher's food, drawing from their past experiences with caring for other abandoned animals.
What magical effect does the group believe attracted the screecher?
The group believes that Willodeen's 'angry tears' may have had some magical effect in attracting the screecher.
What does the group plan to use as a bed for the baby screecher?
The group plans to use a wooden crate in the kitchen as a bed for the baby screecher.
What surprising behavior does the baby screecher display?
The baby screecher surprises the group by displaying unexpected fierceness and biting Willodeen's finger.
What does the group brainstorm in relation to the baby screecher's food?
The group brainstorm various food options for the baby screecher, including worms, grubs, dilly bugs, and berries.
What does Connor offer insights into regarding the screechers?
Connor offers insights into the screechers' potential food sources, based on his observations of them digging through trash bins in the village.
What are some characteristics of the protagonist and Connor while walking in the forest?
The protagonist and Connor are calm, watchful, and searching for different things during their walk in the forest.
What does Duuzuu do when the protagonist and Connor discover the hummingbears?
Duuzuu makes a noise when the hummingbears are discovered.
How does the protagonist describe the silences in their conversations with Connor?
The protagonist describes the silences in their conversations with Connor as comfortable as an old sweater.
What are the protagonist and Connor searching for during their walk in the forest?
The protagonist is searching for screechers, while Connor is searching for petals and stones, reeds, and cattails.
What does Willodeen contemplate regarding Quinby coming to life as a sculpture of a screecher?
Willodeen contemplates the possibility of Quinby coming to life as a sculpture of a screecher.
How does Willodeen struggle in transporting Quinby to the hidden grove?
Willodeen struggles to transport Quinby to the hidden grove and ties her to a blue willow tree.
What does Willodeen discover within the grove?
Willodeen discovers seven hummingbears in bubble nests within the grove.
What does Willodeen observe Duuzuu and Quinby doing within the grove?
Willodeen observes Duuzuu creating bubbles and Quinby digging for peacock snails.
What does Willodeen ponder regarding the differences in freedom and purpose between Duuzuu and Quinby?
Willodeen ponders the differences in freedom and purpose between Duuzuu and Quinby.
What does the text mention about Willodeen's activities while contemplating the mysteries of nature?
Willodeen spends time counting, sorting, and sketching while contemplating the mysteries of nature.
What does the text mention about the wind while Quinby focuses her digging near the trees where the hummingbears are nesting?
The wind picks up while Quinby focuses her digging near the trees where the hummingbears are nesting.
What does Willodeen speculate regarding the reasons for the hummingbears choosing specific trees for nesting?
Willodeen speculates on the reasons for the hummingbears choosing specific trees for nesting, considering the soil's porousness and proximity to water.
Who does Willodeen encounter and share her discovery with before a fire breaks out?
Willodeen encounters Miss Rossit and Mr. Burke before a fire breaks out.
What do the villagers display while battling the flames despite impending danger?
The villagers display calm determination while battling the flames.
Who is missing and prompts Willodeen to resolve to find them?
Quinby is missing and prompts Willodeen to resolve to find them.
Who does Willodeen reunite with and express concern for her safety?
Willodeen reunites with Mae and Birdie, who express concern for her safety.
Where does Willodeen search for Connor and assist with the fire?
Willodeen sets out to search for Connor and assist with the fire.
What makes breathing difficult as the village is engulfed in smoke?
The smoke engulfs the village, making breathing difficult.
Where does Willodeen search for Connor but doesn't find him?
Willodeen searches for Connor at the riverfront and village hall but doesn't find him.
What forms near the carousel to combat the approaching fire?
A bucket brigade forms near the carousel to combat the approaching fire.
What is palpable as Willodeen searches for her loved ones and aids in fighting the fire?
The urgency and tension of the situation are palpable as Willodeen searches for her loved ones and aids in fighting the fire.
What does the protagonist do after gathering leaf samples from the trees and taking them to the cottage, and how does she feel?
She tends to chores and then heads to the village, feeling a sense of disappointment.
What does the protagonist discover when she digs for snails near the willow trees, and what does she do with the leaves she collects?
She discovers an abundance of snails and collects leaves from various trees, including the new grove of blue willows. She later lays out the collected leaves on the kitchen table at the cottage.
What does the protagonist attempt to do with a bubble from Duuzuu, and what does she find out about the bubble's attachment?
She attempts to attach the bubble to the leaves and finds that it only sticks to leaves from a specific tree, the same type where hummingbear nests are located.
How does the protagonist feel after her discovery with the bubble and what action does she take?
Excited by her discovery, she starts writing in her notebook, feeling a sense of purpose.
What does the protagonist do after finishing her notes about the discovery, and who does she rush back to the village to tell?
After finishing her notes, she rushes back to the village to tell Connor about her findings.
What does the protagonist reflect on in relation to the pickiness of hummingbears and other creatures' habits?
She draws parallels to her brother's childhood pickiness.
What does the protagonist observe Connor doing during her time in the village?
She observes Connor sketching.
What type of tree do the bubbles only stick to, and what does this reveal about their connection to hummingbear nests?
The bubbles only stick to leaves from a specific tree, the same type where hummingbear nests are located. This reveals a connection between the tree type and hummingbear nests.
What does the protagonist do after discovering the abundance of snails near the willow trees?
She collects leaves from various trees, including the new grove of blue willows that appear stunted and dry.
What does the protagonist do after observing Connor sketching in the village?
She decides to dig for snails near the willow trees, discovering an abundance of them.
What does the protagonist do after laying out the collected leaves on the kitchen table at the cottage?
She borrows a bubble from Duuzuu and attempts to attach it to the leaves.
What is the protagonist's initial reaction after gathering leaf samples from the trees and taking them to the cottage?
She feels a sense of disappointment.
What recurring nightmare does Willodeen experience and why does she question her survival?
Willodeen experiences a recurring nightmare about a fire and questions why she survived when her family did not.
Who comforts Willodeen and acknowledges the lack of answers to her painful questions?
Mae and Birdie, her caretakers, comfort Willodeen and acknowledge the lack of answers to her painful questions.
What does Willodeen seek understanding and reassurance for from the adults around her?
Willodeen seeks understanding and reassurance from the adults around her, wishing for a sense of security and certainty.
How does the story end, providing a sense of warmth and stability?
The story ends with a comforting image of embers glowing in the hearth, providing a sense of warmth and stability.
What emotions and challenges are portrayed in the text, and what support does Willodeen receive?
The text portrays the complex emotions and challenges faced by Willodeen, as well as the support she receives from those around her.
What layer of tension and danger does the encounter with Otwel Borwan add to the narrative?
The encounter with Otwel Borwan adds a layer of tension and danger to the narrative, highlighting the risks Willodeen and her companions face.
What does Willodeen request Connor to delay sharing news about, and why does she feel the need to figure something out?
Willodeen requests Connor to delay sharing news about the hummingbears, feeling a need to figure something out.
What do Willodeen and Connor narrowly escape, and what do they reflect on afterwards?
Willodeen and Connor narrowly escape the confrontation with Otwel Borwan and reflect on the risks they face.
What do Willodeen and Connor observe and marvel at?
Willodeen and Connor observe hummingbears nesting, marveling at their behavior and the strength of their bubble nests.
What do Willodeen and Connor wonder and speculate about regarding the hummingbears?
They wonder why the hummingbears have chosen this particular spot and speculate about possible reasons.
Who confronts Willodeen, Connor, and Quinby, creating a tense and potentially dangerous situation?
Otwel Borwan and his companions confront Willodeen, Connor, and Quinby, creating a tense and potentially dangerous situation.
What does Willodeen find solace in, and what potential does she find?
Despite the unanswered questions, Willodeen finds solace in the honesty of the adults and the potential for her own search for answers.
What is the atmosphere like in the village, and what are the villagers doing to combat the fire's spread?
The atmosphere in the village is tense and filled with smoke. The villagers are working hard to combat the fire's spread by forming a bucket brigade, digging trenches, and clearing brush.
How does Connor react when he sees Willodeen, and what news does she share with him?
Connor reacts with relief and joy when he sees Willodeen. She shares the news of Quinby's disappearance with him, causing his initial joy to turn into concern.
What is Willodeen's emotional state and actions as she joins her neighbors in the fight against the fire?
Willodeen is choking and coughing like everyone else, but she joins her neighbors in the fight against the fire by taking her buckets to the fountain and then heading to the end of the line to join in the battle.
What is the significance of Connor's reaction to Willodeen's arrival, and how does Willodeen handle the news of Quinby's disappearance?
Connor's reaction signifies his initial relief at seeing Willodeen but turns into concern when he learns about Quinby's disappearance. Willodeen handles the news by confirming the disappearance and choosing not to say more at that moment.
Who gifts the protagonist two books on zoology and botany?
Miss Rossit
What does the group buy from Nedwit Poole's stand during the riverwalk?
Pastries
Who credits the protagonist for the Faire's success?
Birdie and Mae
Where does the protagonist express interest in reading Connor's story about Quinby?
At the Faire
What does the story emphasize about the nature of life and the earth?
The fleeting nature of life and the magic of the earth
Who finds solace in nature after losing a loved one?
The protagonist
What does the screecher find comfort in?
The familiar scents and sounds of the forest
What does the screecher experience under the stars?
A moment of freedom
Who defends Connor's creations when others sneer at them?
Mr. Burke
What do the protagonist and Connor bond over at the Faire?
Connor's puzzlers
Where do the protagonist and Connor walk to with a lantern?
The hidden grove
Whose perspective does the story shift to at a certain point?
A screecher returning to familiar surroundings
What theory does Willodeen share with Connor about the hummingbears' nesting behavior?
Willodeen shares her theory with Connor that the hummingbears are nesting near trees where Quinby has been eating snails, suggesting a connection between the two.
What experiment did Willodeen conduct to support her theory about the hummingbears' nesting behavior?
To support her theory, Willodeen conducted an experiment with tree leaves and Duuzuu's bubbles, finding that bubbles only stuck to leaves from specific trees.
What does Willodeen conclude about the presence of snails and the trees in relation to the hummingbears' nesting behavior?
Willodeen concludes that the presence of too many snails may have altered the trees, making them attractive to the hummingbears.
What does Willodeen propose to potentially fix the situation with the hummingbears' nesting behavior?
Willodeen proposes luring screechers back to Perchance to control the snail population and potentially fix the situation.
What do Willodeen and Connor find upon returning to town, and what event is scheduled as a result?
Upon returning to town, they find that the community is blaming the railroad for the fire, and a council meeting is scheduled to discuss the damage and future plans.
Where do Willodeen and Connor visit, and what do they reflect on during their visit?
Willodeen and Connor visit the carousel, which is covered in ash, and reflect on the possibility of seeing Quinby again.
How does the chapter end, and what does Connor ask Willodeen at the end of the chapter?
The chapter ends with Connor asking Willodeen if she wants an honest answer about seeing Quinby again.
What does Willodeen decide to give to Connor, creating a connection between them?
Duuzuu, a hummingbear
What decision is made regarding the Autumn Faire in order to protect the hummingbears?
The decision is made not to hold a Faire that year
What role does Willodeen take on in the committee tasked with making decisions about the village's ecology?
Junior member
What compromise is reached with the hunters to control the snail population?
Safely trap and bring screechers to Perchance
What happens to a quarter of the riverside blue willows by the next autumn?
They have hummingbear nests
Despite fewer hummingbears, what continues in the village?
The Faire continues and the village thrives with performers, full inns, and music
Who supports Willodeen's attendance at school?
Miss Rossit and Connor
What activity does Willodeen still take time to do, despite attending school?
Wander in the woods
What message does Birdie and Willodeen share at the meeting?
A message of interconnectedness and the importance of nature's wisdom
What natural phenomenon does the committee consider various options for dealing with?
Peacock snails harming the willows
What is the main focus of the committee's decision-making regarding the village's ecology?
Making complex decisions about the village's ecology
What do the hunters resettle easily after being brought to Perchance?
The screechers
Who attempts to dismiss Willodeen from speaking at the council meeting?
Thaddeus Vilner
What prompts applause and celebration from the crowd during Willodeen's speech?
The revelation about the hummingbear nests
Who challenges Willodeen's comparison of creatures, sparking dissent among the villagers?
James McLachlan
Who quotes Shakespeare to support Willodeen's perspective, as tensions rise at the meeting?
Mae
What does the meeting showcase regarding the relationship of the villagers with the natural world?
Different viewpoints and challenges faced by the villagers as they navigate their relationship with the natural world
What does Willodeen emphasize about the creatures in her speech, likening them to a community?
The interdependence of screechers, hummingbears, and blue willows
What does the scene at the meeting reflect about the village?
The division and conflict within the village regarding the treatment of the creatures in the forest
What does Willodeen's speech and the ensuing reactions set the stage for within the community?
Potential shifts in attitudes and actions within the community
Who insists that Thaddeus should hear Willodeen out, supported by others including Miss Rossit?
Connor
Who is the owner of the nearby mill that challenges Willodeen's comparison?
James McLachlan
What does Willodeen address in her speech, sharing her observations about?
The hidden grove, screechers, and hummingbear nests
What does Thaddeus Vilner reflect on during the council meeting, as he opens it?
The village's unity during a recent crisis
Study Notes
Encounter with a Screecher
- The protagonist encounters a screecher, Sir Zurt, in the forest, an old and injured creature.
- Hunters approach and shoot arrows at the screecher, causing the protagonist to protect Sir Zurt and flee.
- The hunters, Gray Beard and a shorter man, dismiss the screechers and attempt to retrieve the arrow used in the attack.
- The protagonist, feeling empathy for the screechers, refuses to hand over the arrow to the hunters.
- She escapes the hunters and encounters a boy named Connor, who shows interest in the screechers and offers to accompany her back to the forest.
- The protagonist confides in Connor about the hunters killing the old screecher and expresses her concern about the potential extinction of the screechers.
- The protagonist decides to return to the forest to check on Sir Zurt, with Connor offering to come along.
- She realizes that the next day is her birthday, which she had forgotten.
- The encounter with Sir Zurt and the hunters triggers a sense of empathy and concern in the protagonist for the screechers.
- The text highlights the protagonist's isolation and lack of friends, as well as her deep connection to the forest and the screechers.
- The narrative also explores themes of empathy, compassion, and the impact of human actions on the natural world.
- The encounter with the screecher and the hunters sets the stage for the protagonist's journey to protect and understand the screechers, as well as her own personal growth and self-discovery.
Reluctant Participation in Town Meeting
- Willodeen is frustrated with the slow pace of change and questions the value of speaking up at council meetings
- Mae and Birdie, older villagers, admit they don't attend council meetings due to feeling old, tired, and lazy
- Willodeen is urged by Mae and Birdie to attend the meeting but feels reluctant
- She tries to use her birthday as an excuse to avoid attending, but Mae and Birdie insist she goes
- Willodeen reluctantly leaves for the meeting with Connor
- Despite feeling awkward, Willodeen and Connor walk to the town center together
- They discuss their differences and the perception of being odd or different
- Willodeen and Connor arrive at the village hall for the meeting
- Connor encourages Willodeen to join him inside, despite her apprehension
- Willodeen, feeling anxious, rushes up the stairs and into the meeting, leaving Connor behind
- The interior of the hall is described as stuffy and crowded, with people sitting on benches and smoke filling the air
- Five men and one woman are seated at a long, low table in the front of the room
Unexpected Arrival of a Baby Screecher
- Willodeen found a baby screecher after an emotional outburst, and the group believes that her "angry tears" may have had some magical effect in attracting the screecher.
- The group discusses the possibility of the screecher needing mother's milk and brainstorm various food options for the baby screecher, including worms, grubs, dilly bugs, and berries.
- Connor shares that he has seen screechers digging through trash bins in the village and offers insights into their potential food sources.
- The baby screecher bites Willodeen's finger, displaying some unexpected fierceness, which surprises the group.
- The group discusses creating a recipe for the screecher's food, drawing from their past experiences with caring for other abandoned animals.
- Connor expresses his need to leave, but Mae assures him that they will take good care of the baby screecher.
- The group plans to use a wooden crate in the kitchen as a bed for the baby screecher and prepares it with an old quilt for comfort.
The Mysterious Hummingbears and a Frightening Encounter
- Willodeen and Connor observe hummingbears nesting, marveling at their behavior and the strength of their bubble nests
- They wonder why the hummingbears have chosen this particular spot and speculate about possible reasons
- Otwel Borwan and his companions confront Willodeen, Connor, and Quinby, creating a tense and potentially dangerous situation
- Willodeen and Connor narrowly escape the confrontation and reflect on the risks they face
- Willodeen requests Connor to delay sharing news about the hummingbears, feeling a need to figure something out
- Willodeen experiences a recurring nightmare about a fire and questions why she survived when her family did not
- Mae and Birdie, her caretakers, comfort Willodeen and acknowledge the lack of answers to her painful questions
- Willodeen seeks understanding and reassurance from the adults around her, wishing for a sense of security and certainty
- Despite the unanswered questions, Willodeen finds solace in the honesty of the adults and the potential for her own search for answers
- The story ends with a comforting image of embers glowing in the hearth, providing a sense of warmth and stability
- The text portrays the complex emotions and challenges faced by Willodeen, as well as the support she receives from those around her
- The encounter with Otwel Borwan adds a layer of tension and danger to the narrative, highlighting the risks Willodeen and her companions face
Village Council Meeting and Willodeen's Speech
- Thaddeus Vilner opens the packed council meeting, reflecting on the village's unity during a recent crisis
- The meeting is marked by a different mood, with villagers patiently discussing various concerns and ideas for improvement
- Willodeen waits to speak, but Thaddeus attempts to dismiss her due to the exhaustion of the attendees
- Connor insists that Thaddeus should hear Willodeen out, supported by others including Miss Rossit
- Willodeen addresses the audience, sharing her observations about the hidden grove, screechers, and hummingbear nests
- The revelation about the hummingbear nests prompts applause and celebration from the crowd
- Willodeen emphasizes the interdependence of screechers, hummingbears, and blue willows, likening them to a community
- James McLachlan, owner of the nearby mill, challenges Willodeen's comparison, sparking dissent among the villagers
- As tensions rise, Mae, with her theatrical flair, quotes Shakespeare to support Willodeen's perspective
- The scene reflects the division and conflict within the village regarding the treatment of the creatures in the forest
- The meeting showcases the different viewpoints and challenges faced by the villagers as they navigate their relationship with the natural world
- Willodeen's speech and the ensuing reactions set the stage for potential shifts in attitudes and actions within the community
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