Tracker, by Gary Paulsen Comprehension Questions

The doctors said there was nothing more to do and that they couldn't stop the cancer.

John thought of his grandfather as life, not death, and believed that his grandfather would always be there for him.

She made no sound but sagged, and a part of her went out at the words.

<p>Clay Borne told her gently that it will be all right.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John Borne struggles with accepting the impending death of his grandfather and the changes it brings to their family dynamic and daily routine. He is forced to confront the reality of mortality and the emotional turmoil it brings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The grandfather's decision not to go deer hunting for the first time signifies a significant change in their traditional routine, as hunting deer together has been a longstanding activity that is now disrupted due to the grandfather's declining health.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's realization that he may have to hunt deer alone signifies a shift in his family dynamic and traditions, as he has always hunted with his grandfather. It forces him to confront the possibility of carrying on traditions without his grandfather's presence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text portrays the emotional turmoil and struggle of a young boy as he grapples with the impending loss of his beloved grandfather. It delves into the complex emotions and challenges he faces in accepting the reality of his grandfather's condition and the changes it brings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text captures the challenges of coming to terms with change and mortality within a rural, family setting by illustrating the emotional and psychological struggles faced by John as he confronts the impending loss of his beloved grandfather and the disruption of their traditional family activities and routines.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Milking, cleaning the barn, feeding the animals, cleaning the gutters, feeding hay and silage, and milking the cows.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Emil</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>His grandfather's appreciation for the Japanese culture's ability to find beauty in small things</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A series of small beauties, which inspire him to create small poems in his mind while working.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Thirteen</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The idea of things changing when one looks away and back</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>His worries about his grandfather's deteriorating health</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>His preoccupation with his grandfather's health</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>He considers it hard work</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Their ability to find beauty in small things</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A series of small beauties, which inspire him to create small poems in his mind while working</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The idea of going back to school and the upcoming deer hunting season</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John confides in Emil about his grandfather's terminal cancer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John feels sad and then experiences a hard, almost exciting feeling when reflecting on killing deer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Thinking about his grandfather causes John to start crying while milking the cow.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John finds solace in school, as it distracts him from his personal struggles and allows him to engage with something outside of his own life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John handles the farm work after school, fixing equipment and tending to the animals, as the work feeds on itself, creating more tasks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John reflects on the cyclical nature of farm work, where one task leads to another, creating an unending cycle of labor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's immersion in farm work serves as a distraction and a way to cope with his emotions, allowing him to find purpose and focus during a challenging time.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The narrative portrays John's complex emotions, from sorrow and reflection to the relentless pursuit of farm chores, as he grapples with the impending loss of his grandfather.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text captures the contrast between John's internal turmoil and the external demands of farm life, highlighting his struggle to find balance and purpose amidst grief.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John forces himself to act as if everything will continue as usual, discussing farm chores with his grandfather without dwelling on the inevitable.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Despite the impending loss, life at home continues with John's grandmother occasionally crying and his grandfather's solemn moments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John is introverted, except for his friend Emil, and confides in Emil about his grandfather's terminal cancer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John appreciates their gentle courtesy and immense strength.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John finds the work to be a distraction from his thoughts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Encountering a doe that stands and stares at him.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The encounter with the doe inspires John to compose a poem about the beauty he witnessed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John struggles to understand what the doe was waiting for.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John shares his experience with his grandfather.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>His grandfather encourages him to embrace the unplanned beauty and not overanalyze it.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text introduces the concept of deer season and the purpose of hunting for meat to sustain through the winter.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>His grandfather emphasizes that hunting is simply a means of obtaining meat and not a measure of manhood or skill.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text highlights the contrast between the respectful approach to hunting for sustenance and the perception of hunting as a display of masculinity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The story emphasizes the beauty of nature and the ethical approach to hunting, as opposed to the glorification of hunting for sport or display of skill.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The narrative reflects on the deep connection between humans and nature, highlighting the respect for animals and the appreciation of the beauty in everyday encounters.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Clay's wife's newfound cheerfulness and actions contribute to a more positive atmosphere in the household, lifting the depression from the previous night. This change enhances John's breakfast experience, making it more enjoyable and comforting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John discovers that syrup enhances the taste of meat and potatoes, particularly on a cold morning. This knowledge reflects his close relationship with Emil, as he learned about this unconventional combination from him.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John realizes the importance of hunting with a slight hunger, a concept imparted by his grandfather. This insight demonstrates the valuable wisdom his grandfather imparts, emphasizing the necessity of being mentally and physically prepared for hunting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John typically overeats, but this time he stops when feeling full, showing his commitment to hunting with a slight edge on his belly. His motivation for this change lies in his desire to be adequately prepared and focused for the hunt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John struggles to comprehend why he cannot pull the trigger, realizing that the doe recognizes him from previous encounters.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John feels compelled to follow the doe's tracks into the snowy woods because he recognizes that he cannot hunt another deer after failing to kill this one.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The internal conflict and moral dilemma faced by John are central themes in the text, exploring the complex emotions and ethical considerations associated with hunting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text implies that John is searching for a deeper meaning beyond the hunt by reflecting on the importance of speed for deer in evading mortal danger and covering the same distance as the doe, taking significantly longer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The narrative explores the complex emotions and ethical considerations associated with hunting, as well as the importance of understanding the fear driving the hunted animals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's encounter with the deer in the swamp serves as a moment of beauty and inspiration for him, despite the challenges of hunting. It ignites a sense of awe and appreciation for nature, highlighting the complex emotions and determination he experiences in his pursuit.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The swamp and forest setting creates a sense of natural beauty and tranquility, while also presenting physical challenges for John. It adds depth to the atmosphere of the hunting experience, showcasing the harmony and obstacles within the environment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John struggles with the conflicting emotions of needing to hunt for practical purposes while also appreciating the beauty and grace of the deer and nature. This internal conflict reflects the complexity of his relationship with the environment and the responsibilities placed upon him.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's determination to track the deer illustrates his commitment to providing for the farm and his family. It showcases his sense of responsibility and work ethic, as he aims to secure an early kill to support the farm work.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's reflection on concentration in hunting and the saying about focusing on a single task illuminates the intense level of attention and skill required for successful hunting. It underscores the demand for complete dedication and mindfulness in the hunting process.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's encounter with the deer enhances his appreciation for the natural world, deepening his connection to the beauty found within the swamp. It serves as a poignant moment that enriches his understanding of nature's wonder and allure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John encounters physical challenges such as the difficulty of walking through the snow-covered swamp grass, as well as the emotional challenge of maintaining focus and determination in tracking the deer. These obstacles test his endurance and resolve during the hunting expedition.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's encounter with the deer leaves a lasting impression on his mindset, fueling his determination and resolve in the hunting endeavor. It strengthens his focus and commitment as he continues to pursue the deer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The presence of the deer in the swamp adds emotional depth to the narrative, amplifying the intensity of John's hunting experience. It evokes a sense of wonder and reverence, shaping the emotional landscape of the story.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The doe's sudden disappearance leaves a profound emotional impact on John, emphasizing the fleeting nature of beauty and the unpredictability of the hunting journey. It adds a layer of poignancy and reflection to the narrative, deepening the emotional resonance of the experience.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's encounter with the deer showcases his deep connection to the natural world, revealing the emotional depth and spiritual significance of his hunting expedition. It underscores the profound impact of nature on his mindset and emotions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's determination and focus in tracking the deer symbolize his unwavering commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities and providing for the farm. It exemplifies the themes of perseverance and dedication amidst the challenges he faces in the swamp.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John employs a combination of hunting methods learned from his grandfather to track and hunt deer. He works on the western edge of the swamp.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The challenging peat swamp-bog is home to various wildlife including moose, wolves, and deer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The presence of wolves in the swamp leads deer to move away, making deer hunting favorable around the swamp's edges.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The bog becomes passable in the fall and provides ideal conditions for deer hunting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John reflects on the wolves' hunting behavior and its impact on the deer population.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's great grandfather settled near the swamp, benefiting from the good deer hunting conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The swamp provides perfect cover for raising deer and hiding fawns from wolves.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John understands and accepts the wolves' way of hunting, despite his initial discomfort.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The snow muffles sound in the woods and creates ideal conditions for deer hunting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John takes sandwiches and an apple from his grandmother before heading out into the cold.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John loads his rifle with five cartridges before heading out into the woods.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John leaves his grandfather behind when he heads out into the cold to hunt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's internal struggle between appreciating the beauty of nature and the necessity of hunting is portrayed through his conflicted thoughts, detailed account of the hunt, and vivid descriptions of his surroundings and mindset during the hunt, showcasing the recurring theme of balancing nature's beauty with the practicality of hunting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's connection to nature and the woods plays a significant role in the narrative as it influences his thoughts, actions, and internal struggle. It is emphasized through the protagonist's understanding of deer habits, detailed account of his surroundings, and reflections on the skills and knowledge acquired from his grandfather.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's mindset and preparation for the hunt involve visualizing the kill, acknowledging the unpredictability of hunting, being conscious of weather conditions, and reflecting on the skills and knowledge acquired from his grandfather. He also plans and visualizes the kill while acknowledging the need for caution and perseverance in tracking the doe.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text provides a detailed account of the protagonist's thoughts and actions during the hunt by describing his encounter with the doe, his need for caution and perseverance, and his conscious awareness of the unpredictability of hunting. It reveals his thoughtful and strategic approach to hunting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist reflects on his skills and knowledge acquired from his grandfather, which influences his approach to the hunt by instilling caution, perseverance, and an understanding of deer habits. This reflection shapes his mindset and preparation for the hunt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's unexpected encounter with the doe and his position to take the shot highlight the unpredictability of hunting, emphasizing the challenges and uncertainties he faces during the hunt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The narrative emphasizes the protagonist's need for caution and perseverance in tracking the doe, revealing his patient and strategic approach to hunting, as well as his understanding of the unpredictability of the hunt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's acknowledgment of the beauty of nature and the practicality of hunting is a recurring theme portrayed through his conflicted thoughts, vivid descriptions of his surroundings, and the detailed account of his thoughts and actions during the hunt. The conflict is exemplified in his internal struggle and the juxtaposition of nature's beauty with the necessity of hunting for survival.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's understanding of deer habits and his conscious awareness of weather conditions contribute to the narrative by shaping his approach to hunting. It showcases his knowledge and respect for nature, as well as his strategic and thoughtful mindset during the hunt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text provides vivid descriptions of the protagonist's surroundings and his mindset during the hunt to immerse the reader in the protagonist's experience, evoke a sense of connection to nature, and emphasize the internal struggle and conflicts he faces during the hunt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's conflict between the beauty of nature and the practicality of hunting is a central theme manifested in his conflicted thoughts, detailed account of his surroundings, and his internal struggle during the hunt. It is exemplified in his appreciation of nature's beauty juxtaposed with the necessity of hunting for survival.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John experiences an internal conflict about wanting to touch the deer without having to kill it, which reflects a shift in his mindset from seeing the deer as solely prey to recognizing a deeper connection with it.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The full moon provides good light all night, giving John purpose and an aim in continuing to track the deer despite his fatigue.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's determination reflects an evolving understanding that hunting does not have to result in death and that he can form a connection with nature without causing harm.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John's decision reveals a complex emotional state and a growing connection to the deer, as he seeks to form a bond without resorting to killing it.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Realization that death is inevitable and a natural part of life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It shows his gesture of support for his grandfather.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Seeking a new perspective and a sense of freedom.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Working with workhorse teams and pretending to be cowboy heroes while riding workhorses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A contemplative and reflective tone.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Childhood memories of working with workhorse teams.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A desire to escape a sense of stagnation and limitation due to health issues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The massive and gentle nature of the animals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A nostalgic and lighthearted contrast to the heavier themes of the initial conversation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A metaphor for seeking a new perspective and a sense of freedom.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A profound experience after following it for two days.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A touch of pride and a sense of something significant.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist believes that owning, loving, and touching the doe will save his dying grandfather.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist becomes delirious and unable to distinguish between reality and illusion as he tracks the doe for days.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>He sees a strange light around the doe's head and feels as though everything is a mirror and that the doe is behind him.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist becomes obsessed with the doe, pushing himself to the point of exhaustion and sickness, as the doe struggles to stay ahead of him.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist touches her before she disappears.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>His grandmother expresses concern and relief at his return, while his grandfather remains silent, smoking his pipe.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist reflects on the profound lessons the doe taught him about life and the inability to share this experience with others.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist is physically and emotionally drained as he struggles to convey the events of his hunt to his family.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist feels a mix of awe and horror when he touches the doe before she disappears.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>He is unable to fully explain what happened to his grandparents after his long, arduous journey.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist becomes delirious and unable to distinguish between reality and illusion as he tracks the doe for days.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist struggles to convey the events of his hunt to his family after returning home.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>crude, wood-carved six-guns and battered straw garden hats</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>wood-framed small buildings, a church, a saloon, and a makeshift movie theater</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>jumping from a hayloft opening onto a horse's back, resulting in a painful and comical mishap</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>the narrator made a bow and arrows to hunt 'buffalo,' but the attempt went wrong, causing chaos and laughter</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>the narrator had a mishap with Old Jim while attempting to shoot an arrow, leading to a catastrophic outcome and a fear of using sticks around the horse</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>the narrator reflects on their experiences with rodeo, particularly bareback bronc riding, in Montana</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>the narrator acknowledges learning little about horses from the experience</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>the narrator describes the Penrose Trail leading to Penrose Park, an old cabin on a lake, and the Solitude Trail</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>older people in the town of Story shared stories about the beauty of the high country, drawing the narrator to explore the mountains further</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>the narrator expresses admiration for the beauty of the Bighorn Mountains, describing the allure and pull they felt towards the area</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>the narrator's experiences with horses and the Bighorn Mountains shaped their understanding of nature and adventure</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John Borne experiences a transformation from a hunter to a figure consumed by obsession and delusion as he becomes increasingly connected to the doe. This transformation is linked to his emotional and psychological struggle, as he feels a deep connection to the doe and becomes obsessed with possessing her.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text depicts John experiencing conflicting emotions of love and self-hatred as he drives the doe to exhaustion. He feels both love and self-hatred for pushing her to collapse from exhaustion, reflecting his internal struggle and the impact of his actions on the doe.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John becomes increasingly delirious and feels a strong connection to his grandfather and the doe. This connection contributes to his delusional behavior, as he believes that touching the doe will allow him to touch his grandfather's spirit and death, driving his obsession and delusion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John becomes obsessed with the doe, believing that he must possess her and wanting to touch her. This obsession symbolizes his transformation and the impact on his identity, as he becomes consumed by the idea of touching the doe and experiences a deep connection to her.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text portrays John becoming increasingly crazed and obsessed with the doe, relentlessly pursuing her and becoming consumed by the idea of touching her. This illustrates his descent into obsession and delusion as he becomes consumed by his pursuit of the doe.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text portrays John experiencing internal struggle and emotional turmoil as he tracks the doe, feeling a connection to her and experiencing conflicting emotions of love and self-hatred. This struggle is depicted through his relentless pursuit of the doe and the impact of his actions on her.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text symbolizes John's transition through his increasing delirium and obsession with the doe, as he becomes consumed by the idea of touching her and feels a deep connection to her. This transition reflects his transformation from a hunter to a figure consumed by obsession and delusion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>John becomes increasingly fatigued, even falling asleep while walking, and experiences delirium as he relentlessly pursues the doe. This impacts his pursuit by driving his obsession and delusion, leading to his relentless pursuit of the doe despite his physical and mental fatigue.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The significance of the doe's collapse from exhaustion lies in John's conflicting emotions of love and self-hatred for pushing her to this point. It reflects his emotional response and the impact of his actions on the doe, further illustrating his internal struggle and obsession with possessing her.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text portrays John feeling an inexplicable connection to the deer, as though a part of him is being transferred to her and vice versa. This depicts his sense of connection and the transfer of identity, reflecting his increasing obsession and delusion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The thematic significance lies in John's transformation reflecting the destructive nature of obsession and delusion. It portrays the impact of his emotional and psychological struggle, as he becomes increasingly consumed by his pursuit of the doe, symbolizing the destructive consequences of obsession and delusion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The text illustrates the impact by portraying John's transformation from a hunter to a figure consumed by obsession and delusion. His connection to the doe drives his delusional behavior and obsession, leading to his descent into madness and the destructive consequences of his emotional and psychological struggle.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming hold special significance to the narrator as a place of beauty and allure. It becomes a driving force for him, drawing him in with its scenic quality and size. The mountains serve as a backdrop for the narrator's emotional and psychological transformation, becoming a symbol of freedom, adventure, and a connection to nature.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The Bighorn Mountains evoke a sense of ethereal joy and beauty for the narrator. They represent a place of immense natural beauty, with a quality of bigness that captivates him. The mountains become a source of inspiration and a symbol of beauty, influencing his emotional state and connection to the natural world.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The Solitude Trail, nestled within the Bighorn Mountains, holds a special allure for the narrator. It represents a path through staggering beauty and serves as a means of immersion in the natural world. The trail becomes a metaphor for solitude, self-discovery, and a connection to the untamed wilderness, shaping the narrator's experience and emotional journey.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The Penrose Trail, leading up to Penrose Park in the Bighorn Mountains, becomes a pivotal location for the narrator. It serves as a gateway to the lower peaks and a huge hay meadow, symbolizing a connection to nature and adventure. The trail and park contribute to the narrator's immersion in the beauty of the mountains, shaping his emotional and psychological journey.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist initially had a negative impression of the horses and the broker's lack of knowledge about trailering them. However, he experienced a surprising change in perception when he felt compelled to approach and pet the horses, despite his limited knowledge and cautious attitude towards them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Josh's behavior, particularly his nonchalant trot through the mare's legs and the black cow pony's legs, conveyed a message to the protagonist. This interaction served as a form of communication or revelation, indicating something positive and reassuring about the horses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The interaction between Josh and the horses had a profound impact on the protagonist, leading to a shift in his perception and attitude. It conveyed a message of trust and safety, prompting the protagonist to reconsider his initial apprehension and skepticism towards the horses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's past experiences, particularly the tragic incidents involving his friends being killed or permanently injured while riding horses, contribute to his initial caution and fear towards the horses. These experiences shape his perception of horses as potentially dangerous animals, heightening his apprehension.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's internal struggle and conflicting emotions highlight the complexity of his experience. Despite his rational understanding of the horses' potential danger, he experienced a compelling urge to approach and touch them, reflecting a profound and unexplained connection or attraction towards the horses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The witnessed interaction between Josh and the horses holds symbolic significance in the protagonist's decision-making process. It serves as a pivotal moment that influences the protagonist's perception and decision regarding the horses, prompting him to reconsider his initial reservations and contemplate a different approach based on the positive message conveyed through the interaction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The protagonist's evolving perception, influenced by the witnessed interaction and Josh's behavior, challenges his preconceived notions and fears about horses. It prompts him to confront and reassess his initial apprehension, leading to a shift in his understanding and openness towards the horses, despite the underlying risks and his limited knowledge about them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The witnessed interaction between Josh and the horses significantly influences the protagonist's decision-making process and his ultimate attitude towards the horses. It plays a pivotal role in shaping his perception and fostering a sense of trust and connection, ultimately influencing his decision to approach and interact with the horses in a manner that defies his initial caution and fear.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The author faced the challenge of having little knowledge about acquiring and riding horses for mountain trails, as well as the skepticism of the horse broker. The author's past experiences, including physical injuries from learning new skills, influenced their approach to this endeavor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The author had read Westerns and won awards for Western novels, which led to the belief that riding packhorses would be relatively simple.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The horse broker arrived in a gaudy pickup truck and flashy two-horse trailer adorned with flamboyant decorations, and his attire matched the eccentricity of his vehicle. The arrival of the horses caught the author unprepared, showcasing a contrast with the author's initial innocence and lack of knowledge about owning and keeping horses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The description of the horse broker's outfit and vehicle showcased a flamboyant and extravagant style, providing insight into the character and appearance of the horse broker.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The author's eagerness, coupled with the eccentric arrival of the horses and the horse broker, set the stage for an intriguing and potentially challenging expedition.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The author turned to the yellow pages to find horse brokers in Sheridan, Wyoming, before the widespread use of the internet.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The author desired to explore the high country in summer, similar to experiences in Alaska with dog teams, but found hiking impractical due to the heat and long distances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>With little knowledge of acquiring and riding horses for potentially dangerous mountain trails, the author sought to learn, drawing parallels to previous endeavors such as learning to run dogs for the Iditarod.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The author's past experiences in learning new skills often led to physical injuries, including broken limbs, teeth knocked out, and other injuries.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The horse broker initially seemed skeptical when the author explained the need for two horses - one to ride and one to carry a pack for an expedition into the Bighorn Mountains.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The horse broker offered to bring the horses directly to the author's property, reflecting the horse broker's willingness to accommodate the author.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The author's property had a small pasture with abundant grass and a three-sided shed, but the arrival of the horses caught the author unprepared as they were brought to the property sooner than expected.</p> Signup and view all the answers