The Secret Zoo Comprehension Questions

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What did Megan hope to find in the tree fort?

Her glasses

What did Megan hear that made her stop and listen?

A faint crackling sound like a piece of dry wood splintering

Where did the noise seem to be coming from?

Two or three houses down, maybe

What did Megan do to try to see what was causing the noise?

She whistled and called her next-door neighbor’s dog

What did Megan find and use to try to see what was happening in the neighbors' lawns?

Binoculars

What did Megan balance on her nose to get a better view?

The lenses of the binoculars

Who does Noah wait for to find his sister, but no one comes?

Help

What does Noah discover outside his window?

A small bird

What does the bird drop on Noah's pillow?

A wrinkled piece of paper

What zoo animal is depicted in the picture on the paper?

Mr. Tall Tail from the Clarksville City Zoo

What does Noah notice about some words in the message on the paper?

Tiny holes in some words

What hidden message does Noah discover in the paper?

Come see Mr. Tall Tail

What did Noah do when he reached the zoo entrance?

He flashed his membership card to a startled attendant and crashed through the turnstile.

How did Noah know the shortest path to the langur house?

He had been to the zoo so many times that he knew the shortest path without thinking about it.

What kept the langurs inside the exhibit?

An enormous dome-shaped net.

How did Mr. Tall Tail's tail look like?

His tail dangled below his rear end like a furry snake.

Why was the zoo nearly empty that day?

Because the day was so cold.

What did Noah wonder about the langurs' tails?

He wondered how the animals managed to keep them from becoming knotted in the branches.

Who uses binoculars to look at her neighborhood and the zoo next to it?

Megan

What does Megan see escaping from the zoo and climbing over houses?

monkeys

Who does Megan get to look through the binoculars?

Noah

What animals escape from their exhibit at the zoo?

red-eyed leaf frogs

What does Megan do after seeing the monkeys and writing about it in her diary?

goes to bed

What is hinted to alter the course of the world in the text?

the girl's diary entries

Who is Megan Nowicki and what has happened to her?

Megan Nowicki is a girl who has been missing for three weeks after she spotted monkeys escaping from the zoo.

Who is Noah and what is he determined to do?

Noah is Megan's brother who is determined to find her.

What is the Action Scouts and who are its members?

The Action Scouts is a club created by Noah, Ella, and Richie based on their unique friendship.

What distress signal does Noah find and what does he hope for?

Noah finds a distress flag belonging to the Action Scouts and hopes Ella or Richie will see it and come running.

What strange thoughts does Noah have regarding Megan's disappearance?

Noah has thoughts that the zoo might be connected to her disappearance, especially after Megan claimed to have spotted animals escaping from the zoo.

What gives the kids hope in finding Megan and how has her disappearance affected the community?

The kids' strong friendship gives them hope in finding Megan, and her disappearance has affected the entire community with extensive search efforts and her picture posted everywhere.

What did Megan find in the tree fort, and why was she looking for it?

Megan found her glasses in the tree fort. She was looking for them so she could see better in the dark landscape and use the binoculars to investigate the mysterious noise.

What noise did Megan hear, and what did she do to try to identify its source?

Megan heard a faint crackling sound like dry wood splintering. She used binoculars to try to see what was causing the noise.

Describe the atmosphere of the dark landscape and how it affected Megan.

The dark landscape was described as creepy, and it made Megan feel uneasy and on edge as she tried to investigate the mysterious noise.

What did Megan hear that made her stop and listen, and what did she do in response?

Megan heard a faint crackling sound like dry wood splintering, followed by a grunt as if someone had been hurt. She ran to the wall of the fort and looked up and down the neighbors’ lawns to try to locate the source of the noise.

What did Megan do after finding her glasses, and why did she take this action?

After finding her glasses, Megan used the binoculars to try to see what was was causing the mysterious noise nearby in the dark landscape.

What did Megan find in the tree fort, and what did she use it for?

Megan found her glasses in the tree fort. She used them to see better in the dark landscape and then used the binoculars to investigate the mysterious noise.

What does Noah initially do when he hears tapping on his window?

Noah discovers a small bird outside and the bird flies into his room and drops a wrinkled piece of paper on his pillow.

What does Noah do despite his family's distress and his parents' preoccupation with the search for his missing sister?

Noah disregards school rules to investigate the message, sneaking out early.

What does Noah realize about the message on the paper dropped by the bird?

He notices tiny holes in some words of the message and realizes the holes form a hidden message: 'Come see Mr. Tall Tail'.

What is Noah determined to do amidst his family's distress?

Noah is determined to understand the mysterious communication and feels a sense of urgency to solve the mystery.

What does the bird's message hold, according to Noah's wonderings?

Noah wonders if the bird's message holds any significance.

What does the paper dropped by the bird contain, and what does Noah do with it?

The paper contains a picture of Mr. Tall Tail from the Clarksville City Zoo, and Noah dismisses the message at first.

Who are the main characters in the story and what do they witness in their neighborhood and the zoo?

The main characters are Megan and Noah. They witness monkeys escaping from the zoo and climbing over houses, and later, fourteen red-eyed leaf frogs escaping from their exhibit.

What happens to the girl who sneaked into the zoo earlier in the story?

The text indicates that the girl who snuck into the zoo earlier is gone when the frogs find the exhibit empty.

What does Megan do after witnessing the monkey sighting in her neighborhood?

Megan writes about the monkey sighting in her new diary and goes to bed.

What is the significance of the girl's diary entries, according to the text?

The text hints that the girl's diary entries will eventually alter the course of the world.

What animals escape from their exhibit at the zoo, and what do they find when they escape?

Fourteen red-eyed leaf frogs escape from their exhibit and find the exhibit empty.

What do the monkeys and the red-eyed leaf frogs escaping from their exhibits suggest about the events in the story?

The escape of the monkeys and the red-eyed leaf frogs suggests unusual and potentially significant events occurring in the neighborhood and the zoo.

Describe the impact of Megan's disappearance on Noah and the community, and how it affects the overall tone of the story.

Megan's disappearance has left Noah feeling stressed and thinking of crazy ideas. The entire community is affected, with her picture posted everywhere and extensive search efforts, signaling a somber and tense tone in the story.

Explain the significance of the distress flag found by Noah and its connection to the friendship of the Action Scouts.

Noah finds a distress flag belonging to the Action Scouts and hopes Ella or Richie will see it and come running, highlighting the strong bond of friendship among the members of the Action Scouts.

Discuss the role of the zoo in Megan's disappearance and how it contributes to the mystery of the story.

Noah begins to suspect a connection between the zoo and Megan's disappearance, especially after recalling Megan's behavior change following her claim of spotting animals escaping from the zoo, adding an element of mystery surrounding the zoo's involvement in the disappearance.

Examine the symbolism of the torn and crinkled diary pages being picked up by leaf frogs as the beginning of the story.

The torn and crinkled diary pages being picked up by leaf frogs symbolize the start of the mystery and the beginning of the kids' adventure to find Megan, setting the stage for the unfolding tale of friendship and mystery.

Elaborate on the significance of Fort Scout and Richie's high-tech spy equipment in the context of the story.

Fort Scout, the kids' tree fort, serves as a central location for their activities, while Richie's high-tech spy equipment adds an element of adventure and resourcefulness to their efforts to find Megan.

Discuss the role of the tree fort, Fort Scout, in representing the strength of the kids' friendship and its potential impact on the outcome of the story.

The kids' tree fort, Fort Scout, symbolizes the strength of their friendship and serves as a source of hope, as they believe that their strong bond will ultimately bring Megan home, highlighting the theme of friendship and unity in the story.

Who is Mr. Tall Tail and what is unique about him?

Mr. Tall Tail is a monkey with the longest tail among the langurs in the zoo.

What path did Noah take to reach the langur house and why was he able to navigate it easily?

Noah took the shortest path to the langur house and was able to navigate it easily because he had been to the zoo so many times.

Describe the exhibit where the langurs are kept and what caught Noah's attention about the langurs?

The langurs are kept inside an enormous dome-shaped net without traditional bars or concrete walls. Noah was caught by the langurs' long tails and how they managed to keep them from becoming knotted in the branches.

What did Noah observe about the zoo on the day he visited and how did it affect his experience?

Noah observed that the zoo was nearly empty due to the cold day, which allowed him to storm across the pavement and weave in and out of the exhibits without much interference from other visitors.

What action did Noah take upon reaching the zoo entrance and how did he gain access?

Noah bolted for the entrance, flashed his membership card to a startled attendant, and crashed through the turnstile to gain access to the zoo.

Describe Noah's determination and behavior upon reaching the langur house.

Noah stormed across the pavement, weaving in and out of the exhibits, and reached the langur house without thinking about it, showcasing his determination and familiarity with the zoo's layout.

What kind of building is the Forest of Flight exhibit housed in, and what does it remind Noah of?

The Forest of Flight exhibit is housed in a building with an enormous dome roof, which reminds Noah of a giant igloo.

Describe the sensory experiences Noah encounters when he enters the Forest of Flight exhibit.

When Noah enters the Forest of Flight exhibit, he is surrounded by the earthy smell of soil and tree bark, the fragrance of trees and flowery plants, and the sound of waterfalls, children laughing, streams rumbling, and birds chirping and squawking.

What does Noah see on a chart near the entrance of the Forest of Flight exhibit, and why does it surprise him?

Noah sees a chart displaying pictures of fifty different birds, and he recognizes one of the birds, a malachite kingfisher named Marlo, which surprises him as it was the tiny bird that had flown into his room.

What action does Noah take upon recognizing the malachite kingfisher named Marlo on the chart, and what does he say?

Noah stops to search the chart, and upon recognizing Marlo, he gasps and says 'Marlo.'

Describe the surroundings and Noah's actions as he heads down a misty path in the Forest of Flight exhibit.

As Noah heads down a misty path, he is surrounded by enormous umbrella leaves that drape above him like a live green ceiling, and he calls out, 'Marlo, are you in here?'

What is the Forest of Flight exhibit described to look and feel like, and how does Noah react to it?

The Forest of Flight exhibit is described to look and feel like a miniature jungle, with birds soaring overhead and a variety of sounds echoing off the walls. Noah is captivated by the immersive experience and the presence of the bird he recognized as Marlo.

What joke does Richie tell the other children, and what is their reaction to it?

Richie tells a joke about a 'molar bear,' but Noah and Ella do not find it funny and dismiss it as childish.

What does Noah see in the pool, and how does it relate to Megan's description?

Noah sees a beam of light inside the pool, similar to the light that Megan described, hinting at a possible connection to the mystery.

Describe the setting and atmosphere when the children are standing by the pool. How does the author create tension in this scene?

The setting is tense and suspenseful as the children stand by the pool, with silence in the air and the mention of a joke adding to the tension.

How do the characters' interactions and dialogue contribute to the development of the scene?

The characters' interactions and dialogue, such as Richie's attempt to tell a joke and the others' reactions, build the atmosphere and contribute to the development of the scene.

What does Richie's joke and the subsequent reaction from Noah and Ella reveal about the characters' personalities and dynamic?

Richie's joke and the reactions from Noah and Ella reveal their differing personalities and the dynamics among the three children, reflecting their maturity and sense of humor.

How does the sudden sighting of light in the pool intensify the suspense and mystery in the story?

The sudden sighting of light in the pool intensifies the suspense and mystery, adding an element of surprise and intrigue to the unfolding events.

What significant event does Noah witness in the Forest of Flight at the zoo, and how does it leave him feeling?

Noah witnesses the birds flying out of the holes in the wall, creating a chaotic and overwhelming experience for him. He feels like he is in a dream, unsure whether to be terrified or delighted.

What interrupts Noah's search for Marlo in the Forest of Flight?

Noah is interrupted by a zoo employee who warns him about the zoo closing and escorts him out.

What does Noah do after being escorted out of the zoo by the employee?

Noah is left wondering about the extraordinary event he witnessed and pockets Megan's note about the birds. He is concerned about Marlo's whereabouts.

What potential mystery or secret is hinted at by the zoo employee noticing the hole in the wall?

The zoo employee noticing the hole in the wall hints at a potential mystery or secret.

What does the zoo employee notice, and what does it suggest about the situation in the Forest of Flight?

The zoo employee notices the hole in the wall, hinting at a potential mystery or secret. It suggests that there may be more to the situation in the Forest of Flight than meets the eye.

What does Noah witness in the Forest of Flight that leaves him wondering and concerned?

Noah witnesses the birds flying out of the holes in the wall and feels like he is in a dream. This leaves him wondering about the extraordinary event he witnessed and concerned about Marlo's whereabouts.

What leads Noah to seek help from the Action Scouts and how does this demonstrate his determination to uncover the mystery?

Noah finding a note from his sister in his jacket pocket leads him to seek help from the Action Scouts. This demonstrates his determination to uncover the mystery by taking proactive steps to find his sister and solve the unfolding mystery.

How does the interaction at school and the subsequent meeting at the zoo reflect the bond and trust between Noah, Ella, and Richie?

The interaction at school and the subsequent meeting at the zoo reflects the bond and trust between Noah, Ella, and Richie as they notice Noah's unusual behavior, inquire about it, and finally confide in each other about their suspicions and plan to meet at the zoo entrance to discuss further.

What atmospheric elements enhance the unfolding mystery in the story, and how do they contribute to the overall tone?

The setting of the zoo and the unusually cold weather conditions for October add an atmospheric touch to the unfolding mystery. These elements contribute to the overall tone by creating a sense of unease and mystery surrounding the events.

How does Noah's encounter with the zoo and his friends reveal his growing concern and the beginning of a plan to uncover the mystery?

Noah's encounter with the zoo and his friends reveals his growing concern as he confides in his friends about his suspicions regarding the zoo animals and his sister's disappearance. This marks the beginning of a plan to uncover the mystery.

What does the story set the stage for the Action Scouts to embark on, and how does it contribute to the development of the plot?

The story sets the stage for the Action Scouts to embark on a new mission to uncover the truth about Megan's disappearance. This contributes to the development of the plot by introducing a new mission and adding layers to the unfolding mystery.

Discuss how the details about Noah's behavior and the revelation about the zoo animals indicate the beginning of a thrilling adventure in the story.

The details about Noah's behavior and the revelation about the zoo animals indicate the beginning of a thrilling adventure in the story as they set the stage for an exciting and mysterious journey to uncover the truth about Megan's disappearance.

What are some of the suspicious activities and occurrences mentioned in Megan's note about the zoo?

Megan's note mentions the presence of more polar bears than officially claimed, strange behavior from the zoo's birds, and unusual behavior observed at the Polar Pool in Arctic Town.

Describe the setting of the zoo's Arctic Town and its significance in the story.

The zoo's Arctic Town is designed to resemble a cold Arctic landscape, despite being in the summer. It features themed architecture, fake ice, and attractions like the underwater tunnel, creating a setting for the unfolding mystery.

What do the children witness at the Polar Pool area in the zoo's Arctic Town?

The children witness the polar bears, Frosty and Blizzard, interacting in the exhibit's underwater tunnel.

What do the children hope to uncover and validate during their visit to the zoo's Arctic Town and the Polar Pool area?

The children hope to unravel the mystery behind Megan's note and the strange occurrences at the zoo, seeking to validate Megan's claims and uncover the truth about the zoo's peculiar activities.

How do the children's persistence and determination drive the plot of the story?

The children's persistence and determination to uncover the truth about the zoo's peculiar activities drive the plot, as they seek to validate Megan's claims and unravel the mysteries of the zoo.

What are some of the elements that create a vivid picture of the zoo's Arctic Town in the story?

The text paints a vivid picture of the zoo's Arctic Town with its themed architecture, fake ice, and attractions like the underwater tunnel, creating a setting for the unfolding mystery.

What joke does Richie tell, and how do the other children react?

Richie tells the joke 'What's white and furry and shaped like a tooth? A molar bear.' Noah and Ella do not find it funny and do not laugh.

What does Noah see in the pool, and how does it relate to Megan's description?

Noah sees a beam of light inside the pool, which is similar to the light that Megan described in her account.

What do the children observe when Noah mentions seeing light in the pool?

Noah mentions seeing light in the pool, and the other children become curious and ask where the light was seen.

What is the significance of the beam of light seen by Noah in the pool?

The beam of light seen by Noah is significant as it aligns with Megan's description, adding to the mystery and intrigue surrounding the story.

How do the children react to Richie's joke, and what does this reveal about their current state of mind?

The children do not find Richie's joke funny, showing that they are preoccupied and not in the mood for humor.

What does the presence of light in the pool lead the children to do?

The presence of light in the pool leads the children to become alert and curious, with Noah and Richie actively seeking to identify the source of the light.

What are the names of the three children who find a note from their missing friend Megan at the zoo?

Noah, Ella, and Richie

Where did Megan observe unusual behavior from the zoo's staff and polar bears?

Underwater tunnel at the Polar Pool in Arctic Town

What do the children witness in the exhibit's underwater tunnel at the Polar Pool area?

Polar bears, Frosty and Blizzard, interacting

What do the children hope to uncover and validate during their visit to the zoo's Arctic Town and the Polar Pool area?

The truth about the zoo's peculiar activities and Megan's claims

What is the setting for the unfolding mystery in the story?

Zoo's Arctic Town with its themed architecture and attractions like the underwater tunnel

What drives the plot of the story as the children seek to unravel the mysteries of the zoo?

Children's persistence and determination

Describe Noah's emotional state and experience when the birds start flying out of the holes in the wall in the Forest of Flight exhibit at the zoo.

Noah feels overwhelmed and unsure whether to be terrified or delighted when the birds create a chaotic experience in the exhibit.

What does the zoo employee warn Noah about and what action does the employee take?

The employee warns Noah about the zoo closing and escorts him out of the zoo.

What does Noah do after being escorted out of the zoo by the employee and what is his concern?

Noah pockets Megan's note about the birds and is concerned about Marlo's whereabouts.

What event leaves Noah wondering about the extraordinary occurrence he witnessed at the zoo?

Noah is left wondering after witnessing the birds flying out of the holes in the wall and the zoo employee noticing the hole in the wall, hinting at a potential mystery or secret.

What does the zoo employee notice, and what does it hint at?

The zoo employee notices the hole in the wall in the Forest of Flight exhibit, hinting at a potential mystery or secret.

What is Noah's main focus and concern at the end of the excerpt?

Noah is concerned about Marlo's whereabouts and wonders about the extraordinary event he witnessed at the zoo.

Describe Noah's emotional state and actions at school and during the meeting with his friends at the zoo entrance.

Noah is distant and troubled at school, but he confides in his friends Ella and Richie about his suspicions regarding the zoo animals and his sister's disappearance. The trio decides to meet at the zoo entrance to discuss further.

How does the setting of the zoo and the weather conditions contribute to the atmosphere of the story?

The setting of the zoo and the unusually cold weather for October add an atmospheric touch to the unfolding mystery, intensifying the suspense and setting the stage for a thrilling adventure.

What does Noah's encounter with the zoo and his friends reveal about his growing concern and the beginning of a plan to uncover the mystery?

Noah's encounter with the zoo and his friends reveals his growing concern about the zoo animals and his sister's disappearance, marking the beginning of a plan to uncover the mystery.

How does the interaction at school and the subsequent meeting at the zoo reflect the bond and trust between Noah, Ella, and Richie?

The interaction at school and the subsequent meeting at the zoo show the bond and trust between Noah, Ella, and Richie as they come together to discuss Noah's suspicions and plan to uncover the mystery.

What is the significance of the story setting the stage for the Action Scouts to embark on a new mission to uncover the truth about Megan's disappearance?

Setting the stage for the Action Scouts to embark on a new mission adds to the development of the plot and hints at the thrilling adventure awaiting as they seek to uncover the truth about Megan's disappearance.

How do the details about Noah's behavior and the revelation about the zoo animals indicate the beginning of a thrilling adventure in the story?

The details about Noah's behavior and his suspicions about the zoo animals, along with the bond and trust between the friends, indicate the beginning of a thrilling adventure as they plan to uncover the mystery and search for Noah's missing sister.

What does the Forest of Flight exhibit remind Noah of, and what is its atmosphere described to be like?

The Forest of Flight exhibit reminds Noah of a giant igloo, and its atmosphere is described as filled with the earthy smell of soil and tree bark, fragrance and rich oxygen from trees and flowery plants, small waterfalls, and the sounds of freely flying birds and nature.

What does Noah recognize on the chart near the entrance of the exhibit, and what is his reaction?

Noah recognizes a malachite kingfisher named Marlo on the chart near the entrance of the exhibit, and he gasps in recognition.

What does Noah do upon recognizing Marlo on the chart, and what does he say?

Upon recognizing Marlo on the chart, Noah says aloud, 'Marlo, are you in here?' and he heads down a misty path in search of the bird.

What is the setting of the Forest of Flight exhibit described to be like, and what are some of the sensory experiences Noah has in the exhibit?

The Forest of Flight exhibit is described to look and feel like a miniature jungle, with birds soaring overhead, and a variety of sounds echoing off the walls including water splashing, children laughing, streams rumbling, and birds chirping and squawking. The exhibit is filled with trees, flowery plants, mist, and the earthy smell of soil and tree bark.

What does Noah find on the chart near the entrance of the exhibit, and what is his reaction upon recognizing it?

Noah finds a picture of a malachite kingfisher named Marlo on the chart near the entrance of the exhibit, and he gasps in recognition upon realizing that it is the same bird that had flown into his room.

What does Noah think the building housing the Forest of Flight exhibit looks like, and what are some of the sensory experiences he has upon entering the exhibit?

Noah thinks the building housing the Forest of Flight exhibit looks like a giant igloo due to its enormous dome roof, and upon entering the exhibit, he experiences the earthy smell of soil and tree bark, trees and flowery plants filling the dome with fragrance and rich oxygen, and the sounds of freely flying birds and nature.

What is the name of the location mentioned in the note, where Noah is expected to meet Tank?

City of Species

What does Noah do after receiving the note from Tank, despite the note's mention of the City of Species?

He disregards the note and reaches for the urgent bundle of warm, dry clothes.

Who does Noah ask not to mind his actions while he dries off?

Blizzard, the bear

What does Noah use to dry himself off after picking up a fresh towel?

He works the towel over his body, rubbing vehemently.

What does Noah do after drying himself off with a towel?

He pulls two heavy blankets from the pile, drops down on the rug, and dived between the folds of the covers.

What does Noah say to Blizzard after drying himself off and getting under the covers?

“I’m so c-c-cooo-ld-d,” he moaned.

Who did Ella encounter while exploring the tunnels, and what interaction did they have with her?

Ella encountered a prairie dog while exploring the tunnels. The prairie dog pressed its snout against the plastic bubble and yipped once, as if to say hello. Ella yipped once in return.

What did Richie and Ella experience when a large prairie dog charged into the tunnel, and what conclusion did Richie draw from the encounter?

A large prairie dog charged into the tunnel, brushed past them, and headed for another tunnel. At the entrance, he turned around, stood on his hind legs, looked straight at Ella, and yipped repeatedly. Then he ran back, passed them, and fled outside. Richie concluded that the prairie dog was pointing them to another tunnel.

What did Ella observe at the end of the passageway, and how did she react when she looked through the plastic bubble?

Ella observed a group of prairie dogs charging at the bubble and crowding the plastic, blocking almost all the light of the moon. She lowered her head and stared at Richie, expressing her uncertainty about what to do.

What did Richie suggest to Ella when the prairie dogs surrounded the bubble, and what did Ella do in response?

Richie suggested that Ella should look again. In response, Ella stood up and poked her head into the little plastic dome, indicating that she followed Richie's suggestion.

How did the prairie dogs react when Ella stood up and poked her head into the plastic dome, and what did she do next?

A group of prairie dogs on the sandy ground charged at the bubble, crowding the plastic and blocking almost all the light of the moon. Ella lowered her head and stared at Richie.

What dilemma did Ella face when the prairie dogs surrounded the bubble, and how did she express her uncertainty?

Ella faced the dilemma of not knowing what to do when the prairie dogs surrounded the bubble. She lowered her head and stared at Richie, shrugging her shoulders to express her uncertainty.

What do Noah and the penguin Podgy discover at the bottom of the tank?

They find a hidden cave.

What do Ella and Richie find at the end of the dirt tunnel?

A red velvet curtain.

What do the scouts encounter at the end of the central tunnel?

A velvet curtain and prairie dogs.

Where do Noah and Podgy emerge after traveling through a secret tunnel inside a block of ice?

They emerge into sunlight.

What surprises Ella and Richie about the sunlight inside the cave?

It is the middle of the night.

What happens to Noah after he and Podgy slide to a stop on the sheet of ice?

Noah is stunned and lies still for several seconds.

Where does Noah find himself in the story and who does he encounter there?

Arctic Town, surrounded by snow-peaked mountains and penguins. He encounters another penguin named Blizzard.

What does Blizzard do for Noah and how does Noah react?

Blizzard lets Noah climb on his back like a horse and runs across the ice with him. Noah reacts by feeling grateful and amazed by the experience.

What do the penguins in Arctic Town do and what happens next?

The penguins divide into two groups and create a narrow aisle, then one small penguin starts to fly. The penguins attempt to fly, but only the small penguin manages to stay in the air for a while.

Where does Blizzard take Noah and what does Noah find there?

Blizzard takes Noah to a warm igloo with dry clothing and blankets. Noah finds a note pinned to the blanket on top.

Describe the igloo that Noah and Blizzard enter.

The igloo is warm, with a colorful Oriental rug on the floor. It provides a cozy and comfortable environment for Noah.

What does Noah do when Blizzard pads to the igloo and how do they both fit through the archway?

Noah hunches down so they both can fit through the archway, showing his adaptability and willingness to accommodate Blizzard's presence.

How do the penguins rescue Noah, and what do they do to ensure his safety?

The penguins rescue Noah by swimming closely around him and eventually carrying him through a submerged tunnel to safety.

What causes panic and fear among the characters, and how is it created?

The bubble spinning and flinging prairie dogs into the air causes panic and fear among the characters. It is created by the prairie dogs creating a ladder to cover a plastic bubble, leading to the floor dropping and the bubble spinning.

What gives Noah the courage to face the situation, and how does it impact his actions?

Noah imagines Megan's face and smile, finding courage to face the situation. This impacts his actions by giving him the determination to swim around the icy island to find a spot with a more gradual incline to get out of the water.

What significant action does Podgy, a penguin, take to help Noah, and where does it lead them?

Podgy, a penguin, swims closely around Noah, and suddenly speeds through the water with Noah on his back, entering a dark tunnel. This action helps Noah and leads them through a submerged tunnel to safety.

How do the prairie dogs create chaos and alarm, and what are the consequences of their action?

The prairie dogs make a ladder by climbing over each other to cover the plastic bubble, creating a chaotic and alarming situation. The consequence of this action is the bubble spinning and flinging prairie dogs into the air, causing panic and fear among the characters.

How does Noah's struggle to tread water impact the situation, and what role do the penguins play during this time?

Noah struggles to tread water, feeling the weight of his drenched running shoes, while being surrounded by the penguins. The penguins continue to swim around him, providing support and assistance during his struggle.

Who does Mr. Darby believe might be trapped in the Dark Lands and what creatures are said to inhabit that area?

Mr. Darby believes Megan might be trapped in the Dark Lands, which are said to be inhabited by creatures called sasquatches.

What does Mr. Darby reveal about the potential rescue mission in the Dark Lands and how does Noah react to this revelation?

Mr. Darby reveals that the rescue mission in the Dark Lands would be the greatest trial the Secret Zoo has ever attempted. Noah's warmth drains from his cheeks and he expresses concern.

What does Mr. Darby share about the sasquatches and what are they described as?

Mr. Darby shares that the sasquatches are creatures trapped between humankind and animal-kind, and they are described as wretched things.

What uncertainty does Mr. Darby express about Megan's location, and what does he offer to show the group?

Mr. Darby expresses uncertainty about Megan's location and offers to show the group something while telling them what they know.

What does Ella ask Mr. Darby about the sasquatches as they walk down the street?

Ella asks Mr. Darby about the sasquatches and what they are.

What does Mr. Darby reveal about the sasquatches and how do the characters react to this information?

Mr. Darby reveals that the sasquatches are creatures trapped between humankind and animal-kind. Noah and Ella react with interest and concern.

What time did Richie report when Noah asked him for the time?

just past four in the morning

How long had passed since Noah's adventure first began with a cheetah arriving at his mailbox?

barely four hours

What did the elephants raise in the air with ease?

the boulders

What did the two lions step forward and pull back?

the curtains

What could be dropped instantly in an emergency?

the boulders and curtains

What were the steel cables dropped over?

the strongest available branches

What is the name of the operation announced by Mr. Darby without council discussion?

Operation Wrecking Crew and Rescue

Who stands up to the council, demanding respect for herself and her friend?

Ella from the Action Scouts

What animals prepare for the operation by clearing the area in front of the Dark Lands entrance?

A group of elephants, polar bears, and rhinos

What is the setting for a risky and uncertain mission into the Dark Lands to find Noah's missing sister?

The stage is set for a risky and uncertain mission into the Dark Lands to find Noah's missing sister.

What does the chapter end with, as the operation is about to commence?

The chapter ends with anticipation and tension as the operation is about to commence.

Who warns the Action Scouts that rescuing Noah's sister is not guaranteed, and there's a risk to their own lives?

Mr. Darby

Who are the 'Gifteds' and what role do they play in their society?

The 'Gifteds' are animals with higher intelligence who serve as natural leaders in their society.

What is the significance of the 'Dark Lands' and why do the Scouts need to find out if Megan is there?

The 'Dark Lands' is a place where Megan might be, and the Scouts need to find out for sure because of the potential dangers and the need to rescue her.

Describe the attire of the Secret Council members and their interaction with the animals.

The Secret Council members wear trench coats, with Mr. Darby being the only member with a velvet coat. They affectionately interact with the animals and seem unfazed by their presence.

What does Mr. Darby discuss with the crowd and the Council, and how does the meeting end?

Mr. Darby addresses the crowd and the Council, discussing the 'Megan Situation' and the potential dangers of attempting a rescue. The meeting ends with Mr. Darby asking if anyone wishes to ask questions or make statements.

What does a man from the crowd question Noah about, and what does he demand proof of?

A man from the crowd questions Noah about the danger of his presence and the division caused by his sister. He demands proof that Megan is in the Dark Lands.

What groups are called to the emergency meeting, and how are they expected to contribute?

The 'Action Scouts' and their animal friends, known as the 'Gifteds', are called to the meeting. The 'Action Scouts' are expected to contribute to finding out if Megan is in the Dark Lands.

What is the purpose of the velvet curtains in the Dark Lands?

The velvet curtains hold back the sasquatches and bind the bricks to seal off the area.

Why did the Secret Society not inform the family about the Dark Lands and the Chamber of Lights?

The Secret Society did not inform the family due to the danger of exposing their secrets.

Who is the man walking in the shadows and what threat does he pose?

The man walking in the shadows is a chilling subject posing a significant threat near the source of the Secret Zoo's power and magic.

Why is the Secret Society uncertain about entering the Dark Lands to search for Megan?

The Secret Society is uncertain if Megan is inside the Dark Lands, which is why they have not gone in after her.

What is the Chamber of Lights, and how is it related to Megan's disappearance?

The Chamber of Lights is a gateway under construction, and it is believed that Megan crossed into the Dark Lands through it.

What mysteries and dangers are associated with the Dark Lands?

The Dark Lands hold many dangers and mysteries, including the potential presence of the man who walks in the shadows and the sasquatches driven into that sector.

Who launched an expedition to locate and bring nearly three dozen sasquatches to guard them from extinction?

The Secret Society

What sector were the sasquatches eventually driven into after they attacked the City of Species?

The Dark Lands

What is the Chamber of Lights, and how is it related to Megan's disappearance?

A gateway under construction that leads into the Dark Lands, and Megan is believed to have crossed into the Dark Lands through it.

Why did the Secret Society not inform the family about the Dark Lands and the Chamber of Lights?

Due to the danger of exposing their secrets.

Who is the man who walks in the shadows, and what is his significance in the story?

A mysterious figure trying to get near the source of the Secret Zoo's power and magic, posing a significant threat.

Why is the Secret Society uncertain if Megan is inside the Dark Lands?

They have not gone in after her, so they are uncertain about her whereabouts.

Who were the sasquatches chasing, and what were their actions as they were being pursued?

Podgy and Noah. They were grunting, panting, and kicking mud everywhere as they ran through the trees.

What did Podgy do as the sasquatches closed in on them, and how did Noah react?

Podgy flapped his flippers to prepare to fly. Noah yelled, 'We gotta do this.'

How did Podgy rise into the air, and what did Noah do as they ascended?

Podgy's strides grew longer and stronger, and he eventually jumped into his strides and rose into the air. Noah leaped on his back, clung to his neck, and felt his shoes leave the ground.

What was the height at which Noah estimated they were flying, and what did Noah observe from that height?

Noah guessed they were sixty feet off the ground. From that height, he had a good view of everything in the Dark Lands.

What happened to the sasquatches as Podgy flew higher, and how did Noah react to it?

The sasquatches crashed into one another, stumbled, and fell. Noah yelled, 'Yes! Keep going.'

How did Podgy navigate above the trees, and what did Noah notice about their surroundings?

Podgy skirted the top branches as if he'd been flying his whole life. Noah had a good view of everything in the Dark Lands from their height.

What creatures come to rescue Megan, Noah, and Podgy from the sasquatches?

prairie dogs

Who reveals a plan to hide the reason for Megan's disappearance and keep the zoo's secrets safe?

Tank

What do the scouts agree to but express uncertainty about pulling off?

Tank's plan

What group's arrival is mentioned, but their identity is not revealed in the text?

the Descenders

What do the scouts wait to hear more about at the end of the text?

Tank's plan

What does Tank hint at having a plan to address at the end of the text?

Megan's absence

Explain the emotions and reactions of the characters when Megan returns home. How does Noah perceive the situation and what does it reveal about his understanding of emotions and human connections?

The characters display a range of emotions, from silent relief to cheering and crying. Mrs. Sanders falls to her knees and prays, while Megan's mother bursts into tears and embraces her daughter. Noah perceives the complex emotions as originating from 'the heart,' demonstrating his deep understanding of human connections and the depth of emotions.

Describe the atmosphere in the neighborhood as Noah and Megan return home. How does the author convey the sense of joy, relief, and love in the scene?

The neighborhood erupts with joy and relief as neighbors kick through leaves, cheer, and clutch their hearts. The streets are described as being filled with joy, relief, and love, creating a powerful and emotional atmosphere.

What does the scene of Megan's return home symbolize for the characters and the neighborhood? How does it reflect the theme of family and connection in the story?

Megan's return home symbolizes a moment of reunion, miracle, and love for the characters and the neighborhood. It reflects the theme of family and connection by showcasing the deep emotional bonds and the sense of belonging within the community.

Discuss Noah's understanding of the depth of emotions and human connections as depicted in the scene of Megan's return. How does this understanding contribute to his character development?

Noah's understanding of the depth of emotions and human connections is depicted through his perception of the complex emotions as originating from 'the heart.' This understanding contributes to his character development by showcasing his empathy, emotional maturity, and ability to comprehend the complexities of human relationships.

Explain the significance of the neighborhood's reaction to Megan's return in the context of the overall narrative. How does it contribute to the themes of hope, love, and community in the story?

The neighborhood's reaction to Megan's return symbolizes a moment of hope, love, and community, highlighting the themes of resilience, unity, and the power of human connections amidst adversity. It reinforces the idea that love and support can triumph over challenges.

Describe the emotional impact of Megan's return on her family and the neighborhood. How does this moment serve as a culmination of the emotional journey in the story?

Megan's return has a profound emotional impact, leading to tears, prayers, and embraces from her family and neighbors. This moment serves as a culmination of the emotional journey by bringing closure, reunion, and a sense of unity, portraying the strength of human emotions and connections.

What proposition does Mr. Darby make to the scouts, and what emotions does their departure from the Secret Zoo evoke in them?

Mr. Darby invites the kids to join the Action Scouts as Crossers and bids farewell to the animals, creating mixed emotions as they leave the City of Species.

What do Noah and Megan encounter upon returning home, and how do their neighbors react?

Noah and Megan find their house surrounded by police cars and curious neighbors. The neighbors react with surprise and disbelief at their return.

How long did the adventure in the Secret Zoo last, and what was its nature?

The adventure in the Secret Zoo lasted less than nine hours and was filled with action and events.

What causes a commotion in the neighborhood upon the scouts' return home, and how do their neighbors react?

Mr. Peters's astonishment to see Megan causes a commotion in the neighborhood, attracting the attention of their neighbors from their homes.

What emotions do the scouts experience as they leave the City of Species, and what do they reflect on as they bid goodbye to the animals and friends?

The scouts leave with mixed emotions, feeling the magic and beauty of the Secret Zoo. Noah hugs Blizzard and reflects on their achievements.

What does Mr. Darby inform the group about, and what does he urge the scouts to consider?

Mr. Darby informs the group about the sasquatches and the need for unity in the Secret Society. He urges the scouts to consider joining the Secret Society.

What does Noah and Podgy find in the dark cave, and what do they plan to do?

Noah and Podgy find Megan in the cave, and they plan to escape.

How does Podgy distract the sasquatch, and what does it allow Noah and Megan to do?

Podgy distracts the sasquatch, allowing Noah and Megan to escape through its legs and head for the cave's opening.

What action does Podgy take to rescue Megan from the sasquatch's grasp?

Podgy hits the sasquatch's head with his flipper, causing the sasquatch to flounder on the cliff.

What does the sasquatch do to Megan as they attempt to flee, and how is Megan rescued?

The sasquatch grabs Megan by the ankle and dangles her over the cliff. Podgy hits the sasquatch's head with his flipper, causing the sasquatch to flounder on the cliff.

What do Noah and Podgy find the sasquatch holding in the dark cave, and what action does the sasquatch take when they encounter it?

Noah and Podgy find a sasquatch holding Megan's distress flag in the dark cave. The sasquatch, with infected-looking claws, chases them deeper into the cave.

What does Podgy attempt to do to rescue Megan from the sasquatch's grasp?

Podgy flies in a wide arc, attempting to rescue Megan from the sasquatch's grasp.

Study Notes

The Missing Sister: A Tale of Friendship and Mystery

  • Megan Nowicki, a girl who spotted monkeys escaping from the zoo, has been missing for three weeks
  • Noah, Megan's brother, is determined to find her and enlists the help of his two best friends, Ella and Richie
  • The three kids are members of the Action Scouts, a club they created based on their unique friendship
  • Noah finds a distress flag belonging to the Action Scouts and hopes Ella or Richie will see it and come running
  • Megan's disappearance has left Noah with strange thoughts, including the idea that the zoo might be connected to her disappearance
  • Noah remembers the night Megan claimed to have spotted animals escaping from the zoo and her subsequent change in behavior
  • Noah feels stressed and realizes that his stress is making him think of crazy ideas
  • The kids have a tree fort called Fort Scout, where Richie has a pile of high-tech spy equipment
  • Noah climbs into Fort Scout and looks out at the empty zoo, which makes him think about Megan's strange behavior before she disappeared
  • The kids' strong friendship gives them hope that it will bring Megan home
  • Megan's disappearance has affected the entire community, with her picture posted everywhere and extensive search efforts
  • The diary pages of Megan, torn and crinkled, have been picked up by leaf frogs, signaling the beginning of the story

The Missing Sister: A Tale of Friendship and Mystery

  • Megan Nowicki, a girl who spotted monkeys escaping from the zoo, has been missing for three weeks
  • Noah, Megan's brother, is determined to find her and enlists the help of his two best friends, Ella and Richie
  • The three kids are members of the Action Scouts, a club they created based on their unique friendship
  • Noah finds a distress flag belonging to the Action Scouts and hopes Ella or Richie will see it and come running
  • Megan's disappearance has left Noah with strange thoughts, including the idea that the zoo might be connected to her disappearance
  • Noah remembers the night Megan claimed to have spotted animals escaping from the zoo and her subsequent change in behavior
  • Noah feels stressed and realizes that his stress is making him think of crazy ideas
  • The kids have a tree fort called Fort Scout, where Richie has a pile of high-tech spy equipment
  • Noah climbs into Fort Scout and looks out at the empty zoo, which makes him think about Megan's strange behavior before she disappeared
  • The kids' strong friendship gives them hope that it will bring Megan home
  • Megan's disappearance has affected the entire community, with her picture posted everywhere and extensive search efforts
  • The diary pages of Megan, torn and crinkled, have been picked up by leaf frogs, signaling the beginning of the story

Mysterious Happenings at the Zoo

  • The three children, Noah, Ella, and Richie, find a note from their missing friend Megan, hinting at strange occurrences at the zoo.
  • The note mentions Megan's investigation of an underwater tunnel at the Polar Pool in Arctic Town, where she observed unusual behavior from the zoo's staff and polar bears.
  • Megan's note raises suspicions about the zoo's activities, including the presence of more polar bears than officially claimed and strange behavior from the zoo's birds.
  • The children, determined to uncover the truth, head to the zoo's Arctic Town, designed to resemble a cold Arctic landscape, despite being in the summer.
  • They enter the Polar Pool area, where they witness the polar bears, Frosty and Blizzard, interacting in the exhibit's underwater tunnel.
  • Despite their anticipation, the children do not observe anything unusual during their initial visit to the tunnel and decide to take a break at one of the igloo concession stands in Arctic Town.
  • Upon returning to the tunnel and waiting for something unusual to occur, the children are the only ones left in the tunnel as the zoo prepares to close for the day.
  • The children, recalling Megan's note about unusual occurrences happening late in the day, eagerly observe the polar bears, hoping to witness something out of the ordinary.
  • However, as the zoo's closing time approaches, they do not witness anything unusual and begin to question whether the events described in Megan's note are real.
  • The children's visit to the zoo's Arctic Town and the Polar Pool area is filled with anticipation and curiosity, as they try to unravel the mystery behind Megan's note and the strange occurrences at the zoo.
  • The text paints a vivid picture of the zoo's Arctic Town, with its themed architecture, fake ice, and attractions like the underwater tunnel, creating a setting for the unfolding mystery.
  • The children's persistence and determination to uncover the truth about the zoo's peculiar activities drive the plot, as they seek to validate Megan's claims and unravel the mysteries of the zoo.

Noah's Encounter with the Zoo and His Friends

  • Noah rushes out of the zoo feeling confused and sick after a series of events
  • He finds a note from his sister in his jacket pocket, leading him to seek help from the Action Scouts
  • At school, Noah is distant and troubled, but he meets his friends Ella and Richie at lunch
  • Ella and Richie notice Noah's unusual behavior and inquire about it
  • Noah finally confides in Ella and Richie about his suspicions regarding the zoo animals and his sister's disappearance
  • The trio decides to meet at the zoo entrance to discuss further
  • The weather is unusually cold for October during their meeting
  • Noah's encounter with the zoo and his friends reveals his growing concern and the beginning of a plan to uncover the mystery
  • The interaction at school and the subsequent meeting at the zoo show the bond and trust between Noah, Ella, and Richie
  • The details about Noah's behavior and the revelation about the zoo animals indicate the beginning of a thrilling adventure
  • The setting of the zoo and the weather conditions add an atmospheric touch to the unfolding mystery
  • The story sets the stage for the Action Scouts to embark on a new mission to uncover the truth about Megan's disappearance

Penguin Rescue and Prairie Dog Adventure

  • Prairie dogs create a ladder to cover a plastic bubble, leading to the floor dropping and the bubble spinning, flinging them into the air
  • Noah, struggling in the water, is rescued by penguins who drag him to the surface and swim around him
  • Noah decides to swim around the icy island to find a spot with a more gradual incline to get out of the water
  • He swims alongside the penguins and into a fully submerged tunnel that connects two sides of the aquarium
  • Noah struggles to tread water, feeling the weight of his drenched running shoes, and the penguins continue to swim around him
  • Podgy, a penguin, swims closely around Noah, and suddenly speeds through the water with Noah on his back, entering a dark tunnel
  • They burst out on the other side, and Podgy covers the length of the wall, rounding the corner and emerging on the fourth and final side of the aquarium
  • Noah imagines Megan's face and smile, finding courage to face the situation
  • The prairie dogs make a ladder by climbing over each other to cover the plastic bubble, creating a chaotic and alarming situation
  • The bubble spinning and flinging prairie dogs into the air causes panic and fear among the characters
  • Noah struggles to stay afloat and fight the cold while being surrounded by the penguins
  • The penguins rescue Noah by swimming closely around him and eventually carrying him through a submerged tunnel to safety

The Dark Lands and the Secret Zoo

  • Sasquatches, also known as Bigfoot, once existed in small numbers in different parts of the earth, adapting easily to various climates.
  • The Secret Society launched a two-year expedition 87 years ago to locate and bring nearly three dozen sasquatches to guard them from extinction.
  • The sasquatches became unruly and escaped into isolated parts of random sectors, preferring isolation and staying hidden.
  • The sasquatches were eventually driven into a single sector, the Dark Lands, after they attacked the City of Species, resulting in many casualties and destruction.
  • The Dark Lands are barricaded with velvet curtains that hold back the sasquatches, and the magic of the curtains binds the bricks and seals the area.
  • The Sector used to open at the elephant exhibit, but it was closed off, making it difficult for humans to travel between the City Zoo and the Secret Zoo.
  • Megan, the sister of one of the characters, disappeared into the Secret Zoo and is believed to have crossed into the Dark Lands through the Chamber of Lights, a gateway under construction.
  • The Secret Society did not inform the family about the Dark Lands and the Chamber of Lights due to the danger of exposing their secrets.
  • There is a man who walks in the shadows and is trying to get near the source of the Secret Zoo's power and magic, posing a significant threat.
  • The Secret Society is uncertain if Megan is inside the Dark Lands, which is why they have not gone in after her.
  • The man who walks in the shadows is a chilling subject best left for another time, according to Mr. Darby.
  • The Dark Lands hold many dangers and mysteries, including the potential presence of the man who draws breath from the shadows.

The Cave: A Dangerous Encounter

  • Noah and Podgy head towards a mountain and enter a dark cave where they find a sasquatch holding Megan's distress flag.
  • The sasquatch, with infected-looking claws, chases them deeper into the cave.
  • Noah and Podgy find Megan in the cave, and they plan to escape.
  • Podgy distracts the sasquatch, allowing Noah and Megan to escape through its legs and head for the cave's opening.
  • As they attempt to flee, the sasquatch grabs Megan by the ankle and dangles her over the cliff.
  • Podgy hits the sasquatch's head with his flipper, causing the sasquatch to flounder on the cliff.
  • Podgy flies in a wide arc, attempting to rescue Megan from the sasquatch's grasp.

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