96 Miles by J L Esplin Comprehension Questions

The protagonist's father advises that it's okay to drink the water in the toilet bowl if things get desperate.

The protagonist never thought they would resort to drinking water from the toilet bowl and initially thought they'd sooner die than let one drop of toilet water touch their lips.

Stewart is making gagging noises and expressing reluctance, stating that he's going to throw up and questioning the necessity of drinking water from the toilet.

The protagonist reveals that their brother, Stewart, often says he will do things but doesn't follow through, such as running away, killing himself, or killing the protagonist. Additionally, Stewart questions the necessity of actions, such as drinking water from the toilet, despite the urgency of their situation.

The narrator doubts Stew's willingness to do difficult tasks for survival despite being raised with a strong sense of self-reliance by their father.

The characters resort to collecting toilet water as a last resort for hydration, despite their reluctance.

Stew is hesitant and disgusted by the task, showcasing his reluctance to take difficult measures for survival.

Stew unexpectedly pours the collected toilet water back into the toilet, refusing to use it and suggesting they may find water elsewhere. This reveals his reluctance and hope for finding water elsewhere.

The narrator is opposed due to limited supplies and the urgency of their journey.

Stew questions the point of surviving, expressing a sense of hopelessness, which worries the narrator.

The narrator reassures Stew and tries to maintain his trust, despite feeling doubtful of Stew's faith in their survival.

The tense situation and Stew's attitude cause the narrator to feel a familiar sense of dread and unease.

The narrator pretends to believe Stew's reassurance, despite their doubts, in an attempt to maintain a sense of hope and determination.

The text conveys a sense of desperation and tension as the characters grapple with the harsh reality of their situation and the challenges of survival.

The internal conflict the protagonist faces is whether to help two strangers or focus on getting his brother to safety.

Stew's behavior contributes to the protagonist's frustration by provoking him and questioning his decisions.

The protagonist hesitates to disclose the truth about their dad's absence and the lack of resources to the strangers.

The girl accuses the protagonist of lying about Jim Lockwood being their dad.

Stew's sudden departure leaves the protagonist to deal with the situation alone.

The flashback reveals that the protagonist's dad seemed concerned about the state flag in the protagonist's room and instructed him to take it down.

The text sets the stage by highlighting the protagonist's internal struggle and the moral dilemma he faces in a challenging environment.

The excerpt reflects on the protagonist's relationship with his dad and brother.

The limited resources mentioned in the desert include water and food.

According to the conversation, the strangers are heading to Jim Lockwood's place, who is the protagonist's dad.

The protagonist feels responsible for ensuring their survival.

The protagonist's dad seems concerned about the flag and instructs the protagonist to take it down.

The girl becomes defensive and points a steak knife at them, refusing to believe that they live there.

The little boy confronts them, stating that they do live there and that they are taking water from the place where they pee.

The protagonist notices the worn-out state of the girl and the boy, indicating that they have been on the move for a while.

The protagonist warns the girl that the shelter won't help them without food and water and realizes that they are in need themselves.

The girl and the boy are planning to move on to Jim Lockwood's house.

The protagonist learns that the girl and the boy are resting before moving on to Jim Lockwood's house and that her grandparents know Jim Lockwood and have said he would take them in for a while.

The encounter leaves the protagonist feeling conflicted and uncomfortable.

The sunlight filtering through window curtains creates a tense atmosphere in the room.

The protagonist experiences conflicting feelings and tries to offer help despite feeling uncomfortable.

The girl breaks down in tears when asked about her grandparents because they know Jim Lockwood and have said he would take them in for a while.

Stew dismisses the situation and prepares to leave despite the tension.

The protagonist tries to break the tension by making a joke about borrowing water from the toilet.

The main conflict faced by the characters is the scarcity of resources, particularly clean water, during the power outage.

Stewart refuses the clean water, feeling emasculated. This reveals his pride and unwillingness to accept help or show vulnerability.

The intruders are a young boy named Will and a girl with a steak knife, both clearly desperate and on edge.

The girl initially sees the narrator and Stewart as a threat.

A strange moment of connection occurs between the narrator and the girl, leading to a brief understanding and empathy.

The narrator hides his weapon and attempts to show that they mean no harm.

The interaction reveals the complexity of human emotions and the struggle for survival in a dire situation.

The scene highlights the fragility of human connections and the challenges of trust and understanding in a crisis.

The text emphasizes the characters' heightened sense of paranoia and vulnerability during the power outage.

The characters' desperate situation emphasizes the struggle for survival and the harsh realities of the power outage.

The uncertain and tense encounter demonstrates the fragility of human connections in dire circumstances.

The narrator's empathy and actions reveal his capacity for understanding and compassion, even in a tense and uncertain situation.

Mrs. Yardley is talking to Davis, questioning why he is eating popcorn right before dinner.

The ice cream maker is described as a giant wooden bucket with a stainless steel cylinder inside, and a motor on top that churns the ice cream. Rock salt is sprinkled on the ice to make it melt, lowering the freezing temperature.

The protagonist notices that Mrs. Yardley has been craving homemade ice cream for weeks and that she looks about ready to pop open with the second baby.

While the protagonist goes to see the ice cream maker, Mr. Yardley sets up the Blu-ray player for a marathon, and Stew stacks wooden blocks for Freddy to knock over.

Mr. Ramsey

a three-month supply of food and water

impact on transportation

a questionnaire

the broader impact of the power grid blackout

uncertainty and concern

consider their options and prepare for the worst

disruptions in food production and shipping

in a library

the duration of the blackout and the availability of essential supplies

even if the power returns, there are disruptions in food production and shipping

a three-month supply of food and water

Mr. Yardley

Move a porch swing to the lawn to stargaze and eat homemade ice cream under the stars

When the power will be restored

Stew, because he is preoccupied with the protagonist's father's return

A sense of unease and anticipation about the blackout's cause and duration

Normal means of communication and travel

Updates from the community meeting about the blackout to share with their father

Longing for a return to normalcy

The protagonist's father's return

Irritation and annoyance

For Mr. Yardley to take them to a community meeting about the blackout

Move a porch swing to the lawn, stargaze, and eat homemade ice cream under the stars

Mr. Ramsey

Mrs. Clarke, the school counselor

Mr. Yardley and the protagonist, Davis

A fluttering

Water, nonperishable food, and a generator

Concern about Mr. Ramsey's ability to command the room

Anxiety and a pounding in his chest

The mention of Davis' father's name

The power outage disrupts their daily life, leading to challenges and adaptations.

Mr. Yardley, a neighbor, informs the family about the extended power outage.

They engage in activities to pass the time during the blackout.

Stew jokingly mentioning zombies prompts a response from Mrs. Rudman.

The narrative reveals details about the Yardleys' background and their move to Lund.

The text provides insights into the challenges and adaptations made by the characters during the blackout.

Mr. Yardley and the boys are asked to fill out a household inventory form.

The narrative highlights the impact of the power outage on communication, community activities, and daily routines.

The family attends a meeting at the school library.

Mrs. Rudman mentions their father's absence during the meeting at the school library.

Mr. Yardley refrains from using the AC to conserve gas during the blackout.

The power outage leads to a community response and coordination in Lund.

The protagonist's longer hair signifies a change in their usual appearance, causing discomfort in the windstorm. Cleverly's action of standing in front of the protagonist to shield them from the wind reflects a strong bond and her protective nature towards the protagonist.

The protagonist's decision to stop for Stew's bathroom break shows their understanding of Stew's needs and their willingness to accommodate him. It indicates a caring and considerate relationship between the protagonist and Stew.

The protagonist's observation about the sagebrush shows their awareness of the surroundings and their concern for Stew's well-being. Their warning to Stew reflects their sense of responsibility for ensuring his safety and well-being in the desert environment.

The protagonist's physical reaction to the windstorm and their interaction with Cleverly demonstrate their resilience and the theme of mutual support. Cleverly's protective stance and the protagonist's efforts to shield each other from the wind highlight their unity and determination to overcome challenges together.

The group faced challenges due to harsh conditions, including wind and hard ground, making it difficult to drive the stakes into the ground. Cleverly stepped in to assist the narrator, showing determination and strength. With the help of Cleverly and Will, the group managed to secure the tarp and improvised using their backpacks to further secure the shelter, showcasing resourcefulness.

The narrator comforts Will and encourages him not to worry about the lost ChapStick.

The text highlights the group's resilience and determination in the face of challenging circumstances, showcasing their ability to overcome difficulties.

The narrator's reliance on the supplies from the disaster pack underscores the importance of preparation and foresight in survival situations.

The narrator, John, and his friends

Typical hiker's food

High-protein food

He feels a tightness in his chest

Cleverly and Will

Sarcastic remarks

Food and sunscreen

Fragile

John

Composure

They enjoy their snacks with enthusiasm

His fruit leather

John did not boil the water before leaving, leaving them with contaminated water.

John's brother, Stew, mocks him for the decision and belittles his contributions to their survival.

Cleverly, another companion, defends John and emphasizes the importance of his strength in their situation.

John's refusal to drink even a small amount of water worries Cleverly and Stew, who are concerned about their dwindling water supply.

Stew reveals that they have less than two gallons of water to reach Brighton Ranch.

The text highlights the physical and emotional toll of surviving in a desert with limited resources.

The potential danger hinted at in the conversation is the risk of encountering dangerous or malicious individuals while stranded on the highway.

The protagonist's description of Brighton Ranch as a self-reliant place with food storage reveals that it is a place of refuge and sustenance, reflecting the girl's desire for safety and stability after being promised a similar place before and finding herself in a difficult situation.

Stew's reckless consumption of water from his canteen potentially depletes their water ration, causing concern for the limited resources and the protagonist's worries about their survival in the harsh desert environment.

Stew's behavior suggests a deliberate attempt to gain attention from the protagonist, potentially indicating a desire for control or influence over the group dynamics.

The text conveys the challenging and unpredictable nature of the journey through the unexpected events, potential dangers, and the characters' struggle to navigate the harsh and isolated desert environment without resources or support.

The potential risks and challenges include exposure to the sun, dehydration, encountering dangerous individuals, limited access to resources such as water and food, and the overall uncertainty of their situation in the isolated desert environment.

The discussion about food and Brighton Ranch reflects the characters' desires for sustenance, safety, and stability, highlighting their struggles and hopes for finding refuge and resources in their challenging circumstances.

The encounter with Stew reveals the characters' vulnerability to external influences and conflicts, as well as the potential for friction and tension within the group due to differing behaviors and attitudes towards resource management.

The deserted highway serves as a symbol of isolation, danger, and the characters' struggle for survival, emphasizing the harsh and unforgiving nature of their journey and the unpredictable challenges they face in the desolate environment.

The protagonist's concern for Stew's actions reflects the theme of resource management and survival by highlighting the importance of conserving limited resources, making responsible decisions, and navigating the challenges of survival in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

The exchange about hiding from passing cars foreshadows potential danger and conflict, as well as the characters' need to remain vigilant and cautious in their vulnerable and isolated situation on the deserted highway.

The mention of Brighton Ranch connects to the girl's past experiences and current predicament by highlighting her previous hopes for safety and stability, as well as her current struggle to find refuge and resources in a challenging and uncertain situation.

Stew suggests to Will to let the water sit on his tongue for a minute before swallowing. The others try Stew's method and admit it helps a little bit, but the constant thirst at the back of their throats remains.

The protagonist responds with a simple 'Right' to Cleverly's suggestion. This response reveals their agreement and understanding of the plan, but also their reserved nature and lack of explanation.

Will complains that the water tastes like old bathtub water. Cleverly tells him not to complain and questions how he knows what old bathtub water tastes like.

Stew demonstrates holding the water in his mouth, cheeks puffed out like a chipmunk, for a minute before swallowing. He then smacks his lips and says 'Ah, so refreshing.' The others try Stew's method and admit it helps a little bit, but the constant thirst at the back of their throats remains.

112 miles

To spare the others from an extra 16 miles

Traumatic experience involving a gun

By intertwining the group's struggle in the desert with the narrator's past traumatic event involving a gun

It would add 16 miles, making the total journey 112 miles

Due to a previous traumatic experience involving a gun

A silver pickup truck

Secretly unsure if he can handle it but doesn't want to think about it

Generator and a box fan

Struggle with traumatic experiences and harsh desert conditions

Not planning to stop at a reservoir for water

Take a nap

tarp and canteen

fear and tension

driving erratically; feel uneasy and suspicious

dad's pistol; fearing for their safety as Clayton Presley doesn't return

survive and protect his brother

navigating a perilous situation and protecting their limited supplies

Clayton Presley

uneasy and suspicious

a cold drink

the grip of his dad's gun

get dressed and prepare for a potential threat

with a sense of impending danger and tension

deep sense of unease and suspicion

sets the stage for heightened vigilance and preparedness

the narrator and Stewart

the pickup truck and the generator

sending Stewart to get him a drink

shaken and anticipating sleepless nights

The protagonist is sprinting towards a truck on a highway, waving an empty canteen and calling for help.

The truck has a stolen gas can from the protagonist's family, making the protagonist suspicious and angry.

The driver, a bodybuilder, and a pregnant woman are inside the truck.

The protagonist pleads for water.

The driver has a parking permit from the protagonist's dad's company, making the protagonist suspicious.

The driver insists that the protagonist's chosen path is a bad idea and advises him to turn back.

The protagonist lies about heading to family in Alamo.

The driver sees through the protagonist's lie about heading to family in Alamo.

The driver's knowledge of the area indicates that he questions the protagonist's destination and advises him to turn around, showing knowledge of the area.

The encounter makes the protagonist suspicious, angry, and pleading for help.

The driver is annoyed and refuses to help, showing a dismissive attitude towards the protagonist.

The theme of suspicion, desperation, and conflicting advice is evident in the encounter between the protagonist and the truck occupants.

The protagonist believes that Ryan Ericson, despite being wimpy, is not a coward and is really smart, and could outsmart zombies. They also mention that Maddie, Ryan's little sister, displayed bravery by sleeping out on their trampoline all night despite hearing scary sounds.

Will considers Izzy Rodriguez to be the bravest kid in his class because she stood up to the biggest bully at his school, showing her bravery and ability to confront difficult situations.

Stew believes that their dad could handle an entire zombie horde because he is strong and capable of figuring a way out of difficult situations.

Cleverly believes that her friends would do well against zombies because they would stick together, emphasizing the importance of unity and teamwork in challenging situations.

The narrator plans to go to the reservoir alone, despite telling Will they are heading there together. This impacts their interaction with Will as the narrator feels guilty for lying to him.

At every mile marker, the protagonist stops to check the water with Will, despite knowing they are going to the reservoir alone. This reflects their internal conflict between their deception and their guilt.

The protagonist's dishonesty creates tension in their interactions with Will and contributes to the development of the narrative by highlighting the internal conflict and moral dilemma they face.

decontamination purposes

due to potential damage to the canteens

Battle Born; it is also the state motto and connects to the character's personal history and family

using up all the kindling

engaging in light-hearted banter

the fire, boiling water, and the conversation

to prevent sickness and dehydration

forming a humorous club with a name related to drinking toilet water

the water starting to boil

the character's personal history and family

Battle Born; it is also the state motto

forming a humorous club with a name related to drinking toilet water

It symbolizes their ability to overcome challenges and keep going.

By boiling water for drinking.

Their ability to walk 18 more miles.

To borrow horses at Brighton Ranch to travel to Las Vegas.

They are feeling tired and drained.

Optimism and determination.

The warmth of the water.

Their ability to overcome challenges and keep going.

Boiling water without accidents and taking care of the sleeping group.

The possibility of borrowing horses.

Their fatigue and physical discomfort.

To borrow horses at Brighton Ranch to travel to Las Vegas.

Jess Brighton and Nate

The Narrows

A narrow gorge, a thousand feet high, with water trudging and wading through

How much farther they have to walk

Water and firewood

Cleverly

Physical and emotional exhaustion

Rest and build a fire

Gather resources for survival

Summer camp and a hike through the Narrows in southern Utah

At Brighton Ranch

Their plans

The group faces challenges such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, limited food supplies, tensions among members, and uncertainties about their journey. The text highlights the physical and emotional toll of being stranded in the harsh desert environment.

The group attempts to address dehydration and limited water supply by consuming their food supplies and planning to aerate their water at the next mile marker.

Tensions arise within the group, particularly between John and Stew, as John becomes increasingly concerned about Stew's well-being and insists on rearranging Stew's heavy pack, which Stew is resistant to accepting help with.

The group considers riding horses home as an alternative mode of transportation. Will expresses interest in finding edible plants or animals in the desert for food.

John teases Will about the desert dung beetle being a nutritious food source, causing a lighthearted exchange. This reveals John's attempt to break the tension and maintain a lighthearted atmosphere despite the challenging situation.

The text reflects the importance of resource management and survival in the desert as the group consumes their food supplies and faces challenges in navigating the limited resources available.

The group demonstrates their survival instincts and sense of responsibility by attempting to address dehydration and limited water supply, consuming their food supplies, and trying to maintain a lighthearted atmosphere despite the challenging situation.

The group's journey through the desert reflects the fragility of human connections as tensions arise within the group, particularly between John and Stew, demonstrating the impact of the difficult situation on their relationships.

Stew's resistance to accepting help from John reveals tension in their relationship and individual attitudes, as Stew is resistant to accepting help despite John's concern for his well-being.

The group's consideration of riding horses home indicates their determination and willingness to find alternative solutions in a challenging situation, reflecting their resilience and adaptability.

The characters' actions and interactions provide insights into their emotions and coping mechanisms as they attempt to address dehydration and limited water supply, consume their food supplies, and navigate the challenges and uncertainties of the desert environment.

The deserted highway serves as a setting that contributes to the overall atmosphere and challenges faced by the group, reflecting the harsh and unforgiving nature of the desert environment and the difficulties of their journey.

The protagonist observes that Stewart's mood has changed to dull and emotionless, and the protagonist tries to ignore it.

Will explains the tepee structure of the fire and the platform they made, but Cleverly questions how Will knew about it, to which Will responds that Stew showed him.

The protagonist considers whether Cleverly might sabotage the plan, but also thinks that Cleverly's 'thinking about it' might be a good thing as deep down she must know that going to the reservoir is the best option.

The protagonist perceives Stewart's behavior as changing again to dull and emotionless, and the protagonist is trying to ignore it and get through the night as quickly as possible.

The narrator describes the campsite as having tall grass, cottonwood trees, fire pits, picnic tables, and five sites with shade enclosures. However, there are no bathrooms, only pit toilets.

The narrator finds a box of matches in their pants pocket, which leads to the revelation of the campsite near the reservoir and the facilities available there. It also demonstrates the narrator's preparedness for outdoor activities.

The other character responds with curiosity about the presence of bathrooms at the campsite and asks if there are any. This shows their practical concern for essential facilities during outdoor activities.

Brighton Ranch

Cleverly

She made up the story about her grandparents sending her there

Due to their grandparents' struggles with food scarcity

Using mile marker 98

She learned about it from Stewart

A note

Conversation

Brighton Ranch

Unexpected revelations and a growing bond

Their grandparents had not planned for their presence

Various topics

Stew, Will, and Cleverly

Need to retrieve water from a reservoir

Cleverly

Their previous discussion on riding horses to Las Vegas, revealing Cleverly's humorous misunderstanding of a tortoise ranch

It highlights physical discomfort and exhaustion

Logical arguments emphasizing the importance of securing enough water for the group

Potentially waking the others

Maintain a quiet demeanor as they move away from the camp

The protagonist's internal struggle and decision-making process are depicted as they weigh the risks and benefits of their nighttime excursion

The protagonist carries necessary supplies, and Cleverly holds the flashlight

Initial hesitation, but eventually agrees to let Cleverly accompany them

They share a lighthearted moment amidst the seriousness of their mission

They discuss the proper way to start a fire, indicating their knowledge of wilderness skills.

The group eats beef jerky for dinner, highlighting their limited food resources.

Stew offers to share his protein bars, showing his willingness to compromise on food rationing.

The characters debate how to stay comfortable and experiment with a 'human pillow chain' for extra padding, showcasing their concern for rest and safety and their creativity in addressing comfort issues.

Cleverly expresses reluctance to sleep on the end due to fear of snakes, revealing her anxiety about the environment.

The protagonist's relief indicates a sense of validation and unity within the group.

past robbery

Cleverly

recent activity in the area

Spike and his pregnant wife, Killer

continue their journey

cell phone

cold

Will and Stew

cell phone

a note

exhaustion

to communicate with someone

Desert camp

Gravel road makes too much noise

Knives

Clayton Presley

Two dirt bikes and a four-wheeler

Fear of being caught intensifies

Split up to slash the tires of different vehicles

Hides behind a tree, holding a knife

Escalates their fear of being caught

Terrified but determined

Slash the farthest truck first and then move on to the others

Noticing Clayton Presley sitting by the campfire

The characters decide to split up, with one working on the truck while the other slashes the tires on the other trucks. They choose to split up in order to minimize the chance of getting caught and to expedite their escape. However, they ultimately reconsider and decide to stay together for safety and support.

The characters plan to reach the trucks by crossing a length of white gravel in direct moonlight. They are concerned about whether to creep across slowly to avoid making noise or to quickly run across before being seen. They also consider the cover provided by the shadow cast by the nearby cottonwood trees.

The protagonist experiences internal conflict between the promise made to Cleverly not to leave her in the dark again and the practicality of splitting up to minimize the risk of getting caught. This conflict is resolved when the protagonist ultimately decides to stay together with Cleverly for safety and support.

The characters' decision to stay together is influenced by the protagonist's reconsideration of the situation and the desire for mutual support and safety. This decision reflects their mindset of prioritizing each other's well-being and acknowledging the importance of unity in facing challenges.

The protagonist struggles to disable the steering wheel lock and access the panel. He finds a screwdriver and uses it to force open the panel. He eventually manages to break the panel, injuring himself in the process.

The protagonist feels overwhelmed by time pressure and potential consequences while trying to hot-wire the truck. He injures himself in the process, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of the situation.

Cleverly suddenly runs into the passenger-side door, interrupting the protagonist's actions.

The protagonist spots slashed tires on one of the trucks, indicating potential sabotage or danger in the environment.

Spike's mention adds to the sense of desperation and urgency in the situation, hinting at the scarcity of essential resources and the characters' need to secure them by any means necessary.

The protagonist and Presley discuss a game involving a campfire and a previous injury, adding a layer of tension and uncertainty to their interactions and the overall situation.

drinking water and MREs

deliberate sabotage

self-reliance and survival skills

Clayton Presley; a conversation with another person named Spike

a small steak knife

their partner, Cleverly

childhood memories and self-reliance

relief

reunite with Cleverly

dehydration

Clayton Presley

leave the area

The protagonist feels guilty for taking water that also belongs to their brother.

The urgency of the situation emphasized by the voice on the radio.

The protagonist's actions reflect their determination to survive and help their loved ones during the crisis.

The voice on the radio emphasizes the severity of the crisis and criticizes people waiting for government assistance, highlighting the absence of FEMA assistance and stressing the need for self-rescue.

The text highlights the protagonist's internal struggle as they balance their survival instincts with their sense of responsibility towards others.

The protagonist feels guilty for taking water that also belongs to their brother.

The voice on the radio discusses a national emergency and the need for self-reliance, emphasizing the severity of the crisis and criticizing people waiting for government assistance.

The protagonist feels compelled to share the water by filling canteens for their brother and friend.

The protagonist's body craves the water after days of deprivation.

The urgency of the situation emphasized by the voice on the radio jolts the protagonist into action.

The protagonist observes Clayton Presley, who appears lost and purposeless, reminding them of their brother, affecting them emotionally.

The voice on the radio highlights the absence of FEMA assistance and stresses the need for self-rescue.

The protagonist asks Cleverly to glue the wound shut, and Cleverly obliges by applying glue and holding the wound closed.

Will mentions finding a gas can with the letter L spray-painted on the front. The protagonist recognizes it as one of theirs and assumes it to be bone dry.

The protagonist realizes that they don't actually know if the gas can is bone dry or not, despite confidently stating it to Cleverly.

After Cleverly treats their wound, the protagonist wipes some of the drying blood from their arm and elbow. Cleverly hands them a piece of gauze for this purpose and then proceeds to dab at the fresh blood on the protagonist's hand while holding the wound closed.

The name of the protagonist and his siblings is John, Cleverly, Will, and Stew.

Stew is unwell, possibly due to dehydration, and unable to walk.

John feels responsible for Stew and believes he knows what's best for him.

Cleverly and Will express concern for Stew's condition and advocate for him to rest.

John's anger and frustration lead him to walk away from the group.

The situation highlights the stress and strain of the siblings' predicament and their conflicting views on how to handle Stew's illness.

Cleverly eventually agrees to back John up in his decision.

The text captures the complex dynamics and inner turmoil of the characters as they navigate their difficult circumstances.

John feels responsible for Stew and believes he knows what's best for him.

John's frustration leads to tensions within the group as he becomes increasingly insistent on getting Stew to walk.

John's insistence on getting Stew to walk despite his obvious illness reveals his determination and strong sense of responsibility.

Cleverly and Will's expressions of concern for Stew reveal their empathy and care for their brother's well-being.

The narrator is determined to get their brother to safety and focuses on this goal.

The narrator's main concern is ensuring their brother's well-being and getting him to Brighton Ranch.

The story is filled with a sense of desperation as the narrator is driven by the need to reach safety and protect their brother.

The narrator discovers an ad with a handwritten address and directions to their place, indicating a plan to rob them.

The brother confesses to drinking a half gallon of water, causing concern for his well-being.

The brother suddenly vomits up the water, indicating a serious issue.

Brighton Ranch is located 23 miles away from the narrator's place.

The narrator plans to walk the 23 miles to Brighton Ranch with their brother in seven hours, despite the challenging circumstances.

The brother is in a weakened state, being comforted by Cleverly on the shoulder of the road.

The narrator takes on the responsibility of carrying the necessary supplies in their backpack.

The narrator changes into clean clothes and prepares to embark on a desperate journey to Brighton Ranch, located 23 miles away.

The narrator feels anger and betrayal after realizing that their home was robbed while their father was away on a work trip.

Stew finds a piece of junk mail advertising UFO sightings on the Extraterrestrial Highway.

The group is stranded in the desert, approximately 23 miles from their destination, Brighton Ranch.

The setting is described as a desolate desert landscape with mountains in the distance and a nearby highway.

The narrator suffers from physical discomfort after their previous night's ordeal.

The group reflects on their journey so far and the challenges they have faced, including running out of gas.

The text conveys a sense of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity as the group continues their journey.

The group is trying to stay optimistic despite their predicament and the uncertainty of their future.

Will manages to find a gas can, and it's half full, bringing relief to the group.

Stew, one of the companions, is in a more subdued mood compared to the previous night.

The group discusses their limited resources and the need to conserve them, highlighting the precariousness of their situation.

The narrator and Will attempt to refuel the truck, but the engine dies, adding to their troubles.

The group is trying to stay optimistic despite their predicament and the uncertainty of their future.

The protagonist tries to replace negative thoughts with positive ones and control his breathing.

The protagonist's brother, who has type 1 diabetes, has been out of insulin for almost two days.

Cleverly suggests finding insulin at Brighton Ranch.

The narrative shifts to a flashback of the protagonist and his brother dealing with the absence of the generator and the insulin it was keeping cool.

The text portrays the protagonist's resilience and determination to protect and support his brother in a dire situation.

The emotional and physical toll of the protagonist's efforts to save his brother is highlighted, adding depth to the character and the narrative.

The memories of his father's departure and his brother's illness intensify the protagonist's distress.

The Battle Born flag symbolizes the emotional bond with the protagonist's brother.

The protagonist manages to calm himself by replacing negative thoughts with positive ones and controlling his breathing.

Cleverly informs the protagonist that his brother is sick and needs help.

The text emphasizes the protagonist's vigilance and care for his brother as he tries to keep him safe and comfort him.

The Battle Born flag holds significance as it symbolizes the emotional bond with the protagonist's brother.

Nate refuses to give insulin to John's brother, Stewart, and claims that John wants to steal from them.

When Jess arrives, John makes a break for it and escapes into the darkness.

A struggle ensues as John attempts to climb over a fence, and he falls and gets injured while Nate catches up to him.

John is held at gunpoint by Nate at the Brighton's.

John pleads with Nate for insulin for his brother, Stewart, because his brother needs it.

Nate insists on protecting his family while John tries to reason with him.

To find Nate Brighton and inquire about his father

Suspenseful and tense

Description of setting and characters

Aiming a rifle at the protagonist

Unusually dark and quiet

Desperate and guilty

Questions and a sense of suspense

Sammie

1.8 miles ahead

Disorientation and physical pain

Keep moving

Stopping and aiming the rifle

The protagonist alternates between walking and running to push themselves physically and emotionally, releasing pent-up anger and frustration. This reflects their internal conflict and determination to keep moving forward despite the pain and challenges they face.

The protagonist initially employed a strategy of walking the first mile, jogging the second, and running the third, alternating between walking and running for fourteen miles straight. This reveals their deliberate approach and determination to cover the distance while managing their physical exertion.

The protagonist starts feeling a pain in their chest, indicating physical strain and potential injury from the continuous walking and running. This discomfort hinders their journey and raises concerns about their well-being.

The protagonist's action of wiping the sweat from their scalp and body with their shirt signifies their determination to address discomfort and annoyance, reflecting their resilient mindset and focus on overcoming obstacles during the journey.

Nate

flashlight

physical weakness and Nate's strength

survival, moral choices, impact of extreme circumstances on human behavior

the importance of mental preparedness for survival in the current societal change

intense struggle for survival and moral dilemmas faced by the characters in a dystopian world

Stewart

their differing characters

the consequences they must live with afterward

attacking Nate and overpowering him

claiming they are not so different and that John is an easy target due to lack of mental preparedness

overpower Nate

The protagonist experiences severe dehydration, signs of sunburn, and a painful, bleeding heel caused by a worn-out shoe.

The protagonist discards their empty canteen and continues walking, despite lacking water.

The protagonist struggles with weakness, muscle pain, hallucinations, and delirium as they collapse in the desert.

The text effectively conveys the protagonist's desperation and physical deterioration during the walk, as well as their struggle to make progress.

The narrative hints at the protagonist's relationship with someone named Stewart and their struggle for survival.

The text conveys a sense of desperation and physical deterioration during the walk.

The protagonist pushes themselves to keep moving by setting small goals to reach.

The protagonist experiences weakness and muscle pain before collapsing in the desert.

The protagonist rests, eats, and sets small goals to keep moving despite their physical distress.

The protagonist wakes up in darkness, disoriented and surrounded by insect noises.

The protagonist experiences hallucinations and delirium as they collapse in the desert.

The protagonist demonstrates their determination by pushing themselves to keep moving and setting small goals to reach.