Paperboy by Vince Vawter Multiple Choice Questions

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Questions and Answers

What technique is the lady teaching the narrator to use when getting stuck on a word?

Gentle Air - letting out a little breath before getting stuck on a word (correct)

Whispering the word before saying it out loud

Closing the eyes and visualizing the word

Counting to three before saying the word

What does the narrator do if they've gotten stuck on a bunch of words at school?

Ask the teacher for extra help after class

Practice speaking in front of a mirror

Listen to recordings of their own voice to identify areas of improvement

Come home and type out the words that gave the most trouble (correct)

What is the reason the narrator prefers typing over speaking?

To ensure everything happened the way their brain remembers it (correct)

To fulfill a promise made to their mother

To practice their typing skills

To avoid stuttering

What does the lady hired to help the narrator with their speech call the technique of letting out a little breath before getting stuck on a word?

Gentle Air Signup and view all the answers

What is Mam's real name?

Miss Nellie Avent Signup and view all the answers

Why does the narrator feel guilty?

For causing Rat's busted lip Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator excel at?

Throwing Signup and view all the answers

Why is the narrator anxious about collecting money for the paper route?

Due to his stutter Signup and view all the answers

Why does the narrator refuse Mam's offer to accompany him on the paper route?

To show he's growing up Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam share a story about?

An old man who predicted her brother's tragic fate Signup and view all the answers

Who is understanding of the narrator's stutter?

Rat Signup and view all the answers

What is the central theme in the text?

The narrator's deep bond with Mam Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator hope writing about his experiences will provide?

Clarity Signup and view all the answers

What does the text explore?

The narrator's internal struggles Signup and view all the answers

What causes people to misjudge the narrator?

His stutter Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator find solace in?

Talking to Mam Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Worthington accuse the substitute paperboy of?

Calling her a derogatory term Signup and view all the answers

How does the paperboy attempt to resolve the misunderstanding with Mrs. Worthington?

By writing her an apologetic note Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Worthington do after reading the paperboy's note?

Compliments the paperboy and mentions a potential connection between their fathers Signup and view all the answers

Why does the paperboy decline Mrs. Worthington's invitation for lemonade?

Due to his stutter Signup and view all the answers

How does Mrs. Worthington decide to pay the paperboy?

Weekly Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Worthington do to show kindness towards the paperboy?

Pays him weekly Signup and view all the answers

What does the paperboy do after Mrs. Worthington arranges for him to visit again the next day?

Delivers the newspaper Signup and view all the answers

How does the paperboy feel about his interaction with Mrs. Worthington?

Embarrassed Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Worthington do after the paperboy throws the newspaper?

Scolds the paperboy and demands he places it in front of the door Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Worthington observe from her porch?

The paperboy delivering the newspaper Signup and view all the answers

How does the paperboy communicate with Mrs. Worthington?

Struggles to articulate his words Signup and view all the answers

What does Mrs. Worthington do after engaging the paperboy in conversation?

She compliments the paperboy's note and mentions a potential connection between their fathers Signup and view all the answers

What is the narrator's favorite place to read?

Wicked Furniture Signup and view all the answers

What is Ara T known for?

Sharpening knives and pushing a cart Signup and view all the answers

Where does the narrator get money from for saving?

Father's pocket change and payments from Rat's father Signup and view all the answers

What skill does Ara T demonstrate with the narrator's knife?

Sharpening the knife with expertise Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's mother warn him about Ara T?

Sometimes 'got the fits' Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator prefer to call the furniture he reads on?

Wicked Furniture Signup and view all the answers

What does Ara T ask for in advance when the narrator gives him the knife?

Money to buy oil for whetting the knife Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator admire about Ara T?

His ability to cut a tin can into a ribbon Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator save money for?

Starting a paper route Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator struggle with in terms of pronunciation?

The correct pronunciation of 'Wicked Furniture' Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator enjoy doing with Rat?

Watching Ara T push his cart and collect junk Signup and view all the answers

What does the passage highlight about the narrator's attitude towards Ara T?

Determination and willingness to help despite warnings Signup and view all the answers

What is the protagonist's main struggle while delivering newspapers?

Overcoming speech difficulties Signup and view all the answers

Why does the protagonist carry a route book?

To learn the streets and practice mentally Signup and view all the answers

What causes the protagonist to offend a customer while delivering newspapers?

Stuttering while trying to explain himself Signup and view all the answers

What time do the regular carriers start arriving at the newspaper drop on the first Monday of the route?

3 o'clock Signup and view all the answers

How does the protagonist try to address his speech difficulties while delivering newspapers?

By practicing speech exercises given by his teacher Signup and view all the answers

What role does the protagonist's father play in his decision to take on a paper route?

He is supportive and expresses confidence in the protagonist's ability Signup and view all the answers

What is the age range of the carriers at the newspaper drop?

Both kids and adults Signup and view all the answers

How does the protagonist use the streets as a form of mental practice?

By visualizing the routes while at home Signup and view all the answers

What specific speech difficulties does the protagonist face?

Struggles with words starting with B and P sounds Signup and view all the answers

Why does the protagonist encounter an awkward situation with a customer?

He stutters while trying to explain himself Signup and view all the answers

How does the protagonist handle the heavy cords around the newspapers?

He struggles with a dull knife, slowing him down Signup and view all the answers

Who inquires about the absence of another carrier at the newspaper drop?

An older boy Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist use to try to cut the heavy bundle cords?

A tin can with a jagged top Signup and view all the answers

Why does the protagonist hesitate to tell Mam about Ara T having the knife?

The protagonist doesn't want to involve Mam in their problems Signup and view all the answers

What day of the week is it when the protagonist is delivering newspapers?

Saturday Signup and view all the answers

Why does the protagonist feel less hurried while wearing the yellow raincoat?

It's a weekend Signup and view all the answers

What does Ara T use to open a hidden door in the fence?

An old car antenna Signup and view all the answers

Where does the narrator hide the raincoat and newspaper bags?

Near Mrs. Worthington's porch Signup and view all the answers

What does Ara T collect in whiskey bottles?

Leftover whiskey Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator observe Ara T doing with garbage cans?

Neatly putting back lids on the cans Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator hear while following Ara T?

Mrs. Worthington crying on the porch Signup and view all the answers

Where does Ara T store his collected items?

In an old coal shed behind a hidden door Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator do when the lights in the neighborhood start coming on?

Waits near Mrs. Worthington's porch Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator feel unable to do for Mrs. Worthington?

Help Signup and view all the answers

What is the blue Ford presumed to belong to?

Mrs. Worthington Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator observe about Ara T's junk collection routine?

Ara T follows a routine of collecting junk from various garbage cans in the neighborhood Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator do when Ara T stops at the big three-story house?

Follows Ara T, being cautious not to be seen or heard Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator observe about Ara T's behavior with the garbage cans?

Ara T is meticulous in his collection, neatly putting back lids on the cans Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Spiro encourage the child to continue with?

Speech therapy Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason for the child's nonfluent speech, according to Mr. Spiro?

Improperly learned motor skills Signup and view all the answers

What technique helps the child to speak more smoothly?

Swinging Signup and view all the answers

What is the child advised to do by the speech pathologist?

Listen to the speech teacher and practice what is taught Signup and view all the answers

What is the child's main feeling after the conversation with Mr. Spiro?

Hopeful Signup and view all the answers

What does the child feel towards Mr. Spiro's understanding and support?

Gratitude Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Spiro have some knowledge of?

Speech pathology Signup and view all the answers

What is the child's reaction to Mr. Spiro's approach to his stuttering?

Empowerment Signup and view all the answers

What does the child feel about other adults' understanding of his stuttering?

Ignored and misunderstood Signup and view all the answers

What is the child's reaction to Mr. Spiro's words about his stuttering?

Hope and encouragement Signup and view all the answers

What does the child feel about the conversation with Mr. Spiro?

Significant Signup and view all the answers

What does the child feel about Mr. Spiro's approach to his stuttering?

Respected and valued Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator do after encountering TV Boy?

Reflects on his own experiences with television Signup and view all the answers

What does the encounter with the man at Mrs. Worthington's house lead the narrator to consider?

The name 'Faye' as a 'Half-and-Half Word' Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator write a note to Mr. Spiro for?

To thank him for helping with a lip injury Signup and view all the answers

What does the man encountered at Mrs. Worthington's house claim to be?

Faye's cousin Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator struggle with, especially in certain spots?

Stuttering and difficulty speaking Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator plan to do at Mrs. Worthington's house, but encounters a man claiming to be her cousin?

Collect payment Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator consider the name 'Faye' to be?

A 'Half-and-Half Word' Signup and view all the answers

What does the encounter with the man claiming to be Mrs. Worthington's cousin lead the narrator to question?

The man's identity Signup and view all the answers

What does the encounter with TV Boy prompt the narrator to recall?

His own experiences with television Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator reflect on in relation to his speech difficulties?

His stuttering and difficulty speaking Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator consider 'Faye' to be?

A 'Half-and-Half Word' Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator hope to achieve by writing a note to Mr. Spiro?

To express gratitude for help with a lip injury Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator compare his thoughts and feelings to?

A pinball machine Signup and view all the answers

What boosts the boy's confidence during a baseball practice?

The coach values his pitching skills Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy collect from a neighbor named TV Boy?

Payments Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy struggle with when he visits Mr. Spiro's house?

Discussing a piece of a dollar bill given by Mr. Spiro Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy long for when encountering Mrs. Worthington?

Interaction with her Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy contemplate the complexities of?

His thoughts and feelings Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy do after picking up broken glass and newspaper bags while observing Mrs. Worthington's distress?

Runs home feeling uneasy Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy reflect on while interacting with a new catcher, nicknamed Racer?

His previous catcher, Rat Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy encounter with Ara T, leading to uncertainty and avoidance?

A missing knife Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy feel when he runs home after encountering Mrs. Worthington?

Uneasy Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy do while observing Mrs. Worthington's distress?

Picks up broken glass and newspaper bags Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy find his parents doing when he runs home feeling uneasy?

His mother on the phone and his father in his office, both preoccupied Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator hope the spaghetti might do for them?

Calm them down Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator feel about the spaghetti when they put it in their mouth?

It didn't taste good Signup and view all the answers

What did the narrator start doing to get rid of the bad spaghetti taste?

Eating more bread sticks and drinking sour lemonade Signup and view all the answers

What happened to the spaghetti and everything else inside the narrator?

It was set free with a forceful air Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist find in her parents' closet?

A hatbox with special papers and pictures Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel about her parents' conversation regarding her stuttering?

Frustrated and misunderstood Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's father keep in his off-limits closet?

His hunting shotguns Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel when she avoids discussing her stutter the next morning?

She pretends to be fine Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist notice about her mother's behavior regarding smoking?

Her mother's inconsistency Signup and view all the answers

What does the chapter set the stage for?

The protagonist's journey of self-discovery and family secrets Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist find in her parents' closet?

A hatbox with special papers and pictures Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel about her parents' conversation regarding her stuttering?

Frustrated and misunderstood Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's father keep in his off-limits closet?

His hunting shotguns Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel when she avoids discussing her stutter the next morning?

She pretends to be fine Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist notice about her mother's behavior regarding smoking?

Her mother's inconsistency Signup and view all the answers

What does the chapter set the stage for?

The protagonist's journey of self-discovery and family secrets Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist use as a coping mechanism for stuttering?

Thumbtack Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist find on a birth certificate regarding their father?

Named as 'Unknown' Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist compare their stutter to?

Rat's scar from a bike accident Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel closer to their father despite?

Father accepting their stutter Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's father surprise them with?

Plans for lunch and a movie Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist use to cope with stuttering but eventually stops due to pain?

Thumbtack Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist wonder about their parentage?

Physical similarities with their father Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist grapple with?

Conflicting feelings about parents and identity Signup and view all the answers

What drives the emotional depth of the narrative?

Internal struggles and family dynamics Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel disconnected from while delivering newspapers?

Their surroundings Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's father emphasize with plans for hunting and playing catch?

Their strong bond Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's father's gesture contrast with?

The emotional turmoil caused by the discovery of the unknown father Signup and view all the answers

Why did the boy refuse the pimento cheese sandwich?

He didn't want it due to the pimentos resembling glass specks Signup and view all the answers

What made the boy feel lonely during his day out?

His own confusion about the movie's storyline Signup and view all the answers

What did the boy ask his father on the way to deliver newspapers?

If boys always look like their fathers Signup and view all the answers

What did the boy prepare questions for Mr. Spiro about?

Adult treatment, growing up, and becoming smart Signup and view all the answers

What did the boy notice about Big Sack and Ara T?

Big Sack watching him from a parked truck and Ara T behaving suspiciously Signup and view all the answers

What did Mr. Spiro refer to the boy as when they met?

A messenger Signup and view all the answers

What did the boy whisper to his father at the movie?

About the plot, showing his ability to predict movie endings Signup and view all the answers

What did the boy do after encountering TV Boy?

Wrote a note to Mr. Spiro Signup and view all the answers

What did the boy observe about Ara T's behavior with the garbage cans?

Ara T behaving suspiciously Signup and view all the answers

What did the boy struggle with when he visited Mr. Spiro's house?

His speech difficulties Signup and view all the answers

What did the boy feel about his interaction with Mrs. Worthington?

Unsettled Signup and view all the answers

What did the boy feel unable to do for Mrs. Worthington?

Understand her distress Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Spiro emphasize during the conversation?

The importance of two-way communication Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Spiro's statement 'I’ll have to think about that' actually mean?

What you asked about is not going to happen Signup and view all the answers

How does Mr. Spiro engage the child in conversation?

By serving lemonade and asking simple 'Yes' or 'No' questions Signup and view all the answers

What leaves a lasting impression on the child at Mr. Spiro's house?

The unique living space Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Spiro invite the child to do after their conversation?

Visit his house Signup and view all the answers

What does the child find inside Mr. Spiro's house?

Hundreds and thousands of books stored in wooden crates Signup and view all the answers

What does the child feel about Mr. Spiro's house?

Excited and curious Signup and view all the answers

What does the living room in Mr. Spiro's house contain?

A big stuffed chair, a floor lamp, and glass-paned doors Signup and view all the answers

What is the child's reaction to the books in Mr. Spiro's house?

Surprise and curiosity Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Spiro highlight as a difficulty in communicating with children?

Discomfort and a 'code' that young people don't understand Signup and view all the answers

What does the child ponder after Mr. Spiro shares a thought with him?

The rarity of individuals doing what they are truly meant for Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Spiro serve to the child during their conversation?

Lemonade Signup and view all the answers

What items were found under Ara T's small bed?

New-looking camera in a leather case, two black handbags, men's billfolds with school pictures, shiny table knives and forks Signup and view all the answers

What did Mam call Vienna sausages?

Trash Food Signup and view all the answers

What did the pile of coats look like in Ara T's room?

They looked like they didn't belong in July Signup and view all the answers

What items were found in the cardboard boxes under Ara T's bed?

Bottle openers, broken ice picks, old light switches, empty Bugler tobacco cans Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy value more than money?

His friendship with Mr. Spiro Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy contemplate while helping with breakfast?

The complexity of language Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy seek guidance for?

His father's absence Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy try to distract himself with?

Reading and childhood memories Signup and view all the answers

What does the mother suspect Ara T of?

Stealing the newspaper bags Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy feel uneasy about?

The missing newspaper bags Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy panic about?

The missing newspaper bags Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy plan to borrow from Rat's mother?

Newspaper bags Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy contemplate the word 'unknown' in relation to?

His father Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy whisper to a spider about?

His father Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy feel disconnected from while delivering newspapers?

His father Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy contemplate the complexities of?

Language Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator manipulate the photographer into doing?

Taking a picture with Mam Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam work on, related to a story about Noah and the ark?

A needle story Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam express fear of, emphasizing her faith in God?

Words Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator feel after Mam leaves abruptly?

Remorse for upsetting Mam Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam seem to have been deeply affected by?

An 'Accident' Signup and view all the answers

What does the kid insult Mam with?

A derogatory word and the word 'old' Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator ask Mam if she's afraid of?

Lions Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam emphasize her faith in?

God Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator recall a time when Mam saved them from?

A storm drain Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam laugh for the first time since?

Her 'Accident' Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator and Mam wear for the picture with the photographer?

Hats and the narrator wears a cowboy hat and fake six-shooters Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam stand her ground against when at the zoo?

A kid trying to feed a giraffe with a wadded-up paper cup Signup and view all the answers

What prompts the protagonist to feel unwell and leave Ara T's shed?

The heat and stench in the room Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist recognize in Ara T's room that leads him to believe it's from his old Schwinn bicycle?

A chrome headlight Signup and view all the answers

What makes the protagonist feel trapped and eager to leave Ara T's shed?

A large rat with a red onion Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist hide from in the shed?

Dogs barking and a cart approaching Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist struggle with after leaving Ara T's shed?

Disturbing thoughts about Ara T and his shed Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist do to avoid his mother's questions about his frequent baths and Ara T's presence?

Sneaks into the house Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's mother engage in a conversation about with a broken nose?

Words and their connections Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist reflect on after waking up early?

The loss of his knife and money to Ara T Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist engage in a conversation with his mother about after waking up early?

Words and their connections Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist struggle with disturbing thoughts about?

Ara T and his shed Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel unable to shake off?

The feeling of dirtiness Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist reflect on after waking up early?

The loss of his knife and money to Ara T Signup and view all the answers

What does the young boy struggle with the most in the text?

Dealing with discrimination and segregation Signup and view all the answers

What does the mother's resilience and consistency in character emphasize?

Her strength despite mistreatment and discrimination Signup and view all the answers

What does the mother's visit to the zoo wearing a uniform highlight?

The restrictions placed on her Signup and view all the answers

What does the mother's intervention to protect a child from a bully at the zoo demonstrate?

Her protective nature and strength Signup and view all the answers

What do the mother's acquaintances at the zoo, who avoid discussing her injury, indicate?

A culture of silence or acceptance of mistreatment Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary emotion the boy experiences towards the mistreatment of his mother and the unfair rules imposed on her?

Anger and vengeance Signup and view all the answers

What does the mother's avoidance of discussing certain difficult topics indicate?

Her reluctance to address her own trauma and pain Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy's strong sense of responsibility towards his mother primarily stem from?

His mother's sacrifices for his upbringing Signup and view all the answers

What does the mother's attendance at a choir practice despite being hurt earlier in the week signify?

Her need for solace and happiness Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy's questioning of the fairness of the rules primarily reflect?

His desire for justice and equality Signup and view all the answers

What does the mother's limited access to the zoo and specific uniform requirement highlight?

The restrictions placed on her leisure activities Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy's struggle with his feelings of anger and vengeance primarily reveal?

His emotional turmoil and internal conflict Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel anxious about regarding collecting money for the paper route?

Encountering other paperboys who don't follow the rules Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist use as a coping mechanism for stuttering?

Spreading his feet a little and being ready to face any situation Signup and view all the answers

What does the driver do when the protagonist claims his newspaper bundle at the newspaper drop?

Looked at the protagonist and nodded Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist struggle with disturbing thoughts about?

Missing the opportunity to throw the paper route on his own Signup and view all the answers

What prompts the protagonist to consider throwing rocks at streetlamps?

His frustration and emotional turmoil Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist find on a birth certificate regarding their father?

A different name than he thought Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel unable to shake off?

His emotional turmoil Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist contemplate the word 'unknown' in relation to?

His parentage Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel when she avoids discussing her stutter the next morning?

Embarrassment Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist wonder about their parentage?

If his father is who he thought Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist use as a coping mechanism for stuttering?

Talking to Mr. Spiro Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator ask Mam if she's afraid of?

The Man in the Moon Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's father emphasize with plans for hunting and playing catch?

Bonding with the protagonist Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy feel uneasy about?

His responsibilities on the paper route Signup and view all the answers

What does the chapter set the stage for?

The protagonist's continued struggles Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist grapple with?

His personal life in turmoil Signup and view all the answers

What technique does the protagonist use to help with his speech impediment?

Gentle Air Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy's mother suspect Ara T of when she smells a rotten odor?

Theft Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy witness his mother doing when he secretly follows her?

Confronting Ara T about the theft Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam forcibly open when investigating Ara T's shed?

A locked shed door Signup and view all the answers

What is the protagonist's emotional state after discovering the theft?

Distraught Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy feel about Mr. Spiro leaving on a trip?

Worried Signup and view all the answers

What does the text end with a sense of?

Tension and suspense Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam take charge to do immediately after discovering the theft?

Investigate Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy feel stuck in the city with?

Only Rat for company Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy struggle with when speaking?

A speech impediment Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist do to secretly follow Mam?

Decides to follow her Signup and view all the answers

What does the boy's mother do when Mam goes to confront Ara T?

Tells the boy to go to Mr. Rat's house Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator feel towards Mrs. Worthington?

Sympathy and a desire to connect Signup and view all the answers

What prompts the narrator's emotional growth and determination on his last day of delivering newspapers?

Encountering TV Boy who communicates using sign language Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator feel as he completes his paper route for the last time?

A bittersweet feeling evoked by the street names and surroundings Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator observe about Mr. Spiro's attire and bag?

They suggest he might be leaving, causing the narrator to feel emotional Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator recall his father's lesson on?

Interacting with a deaf mute Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator consider before sharing his experiences with his friend Rat?

Understanding them first Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator feel towards the end of his paper route?

Emotional and reflective Signup and view all the answers

What is the narrator's initial reaction to Mrs. Worthington's closed-off behavior?

He seeks to understand and connect with her Signup and view all the answers

What does the encounter with TV Boy prompt the narrator to do?

Feel remorse for his previous impatience Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator decide to do after encountering TV Boy?

Befriend TV Boy Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator feel as he prepares to collect payments and potentially see Mrs. Worthington?

Anxious and hopeful Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator excel at on his last day of delivering newspapers?

Showing growth and determination Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Mam taking snuff in front of the protagonist for the first time?

It marks a change in Mam's behavior, revealing a new side of her Signup and view all the answers

What does the lively neighborhood they enter signify?

A contrast to their usual environment, hinting at a shift in the story Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam warning the protagonist to stay close and follow her instructions suggest?

Impending danger in the unfamiliar streets they are exploring Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam and the protagonist's encounter with a significant discovery in the alley signify?

It adds to the anticipation and mystery of the story Signup and view all the answers

What does the story leave the reader with?

A sense of anticipation and mystery Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam's reassurance to the protagonist about getting his possessions back indicate?

Mam's determination to support the protagonist's cause Signup and view all the answers

What does the deviation from their usual route signify?

A shift in their journey, leading to unexpected discoveries Signup and view all the answers

What is the protagonist's response to Mam's request for his money?

He hands over his money, showing his determination to stay with Mam Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam's plan to retrieve the protagonist's belongings from Ara T's shed reveal?

Her protective nature towards the protagonist Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam's faith in God emphasize?

Her reliance on divine intervention in difficult situations Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's determination to stay with Mam reveal?

His strong bond and loyalty towards Mam Signup and view all the answers

What does Mam's warning to the protagonist about staying close and following her instructions reveal?

Her concern for the protagonist's safety in an unfamiliar environment Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's mother explain about the soul?

It is the part of yourself that nobody can see, controlled by God Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's mother claim about finding the yellow-handle knife in Ara T's coat pocket?

She felt the Lord move her to the knife with a sure hand Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator see in her mind about the confrontation with Ara T?

Ara T's hands around Mam’s neck and the yellow-handle knife slashing his arm Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's mother reveal about the current location of the knife?

Buried so deep the Hounds of Hell can’t dig it up Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's mother talk about building, but the protagonist prefers something else?

A new house with air conditioning and a swimming pool in East Memphis Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's father ask about upon arrival?

The bank being open on Saturdays Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist hope will help him pay back his father for being good to him?

Four words: Student, Servant, Seller, Seeker Signup and view all the answers

What did the protagonist's speech teacher tell him about stuttering?

Stuttering occurs when a person tries extra hard not to stutter Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist feel indebted to his father for?

His care and support despite his stutter Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist wish he could get over for his father's sake?

His stutter Signup and view all the answers

What is a central theme in the text?

The protagonist's internal struggle with his stutter and his father's role in his life Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist pretend to be interested in, feeling empty after crying?

Playing pitch and catch Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist reflect on in relation to the missed opportunity to help Ara T?

The missed opportunity to help Ara T with the money Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist's father give him as a bonus for his hard work and upcoming birthday?

A $20 bill Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist reflect on in relation to his father's role in his life?

Feeling grateful for his care and support despite his stutter Signup and view all the answers

What does the protagonist throw to his father, each time calling out one of Mr. Spiro's four words?

Four good pitches Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator do with Mr. Spiro's special dollar?

He tapes together the pieces and stores it in a secret compartment of his billfold Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Spiro leave for the narrator?

A note encouraging him to continue writing poetry and hinting at the 'quartering of the soul' Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator feel about Mrs. Worthington?

He finds her both beautiful and sad Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator do when his parents return?

He pretends to be reading the Press-Scimitar about a baseball game Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator refrain from doing with Rat?

Sharing the details of his experiences Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator reveal to Rat about Mr. Spiro's newspaper delivery?

It is to be stopped until the autumnal equinox Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator struggle to focus on while Rat shares stories?

Rat's stories Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator liken his act of throwing a bottle to?

David's slingshot Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator store in a secret compartment of his billfold?

Mr. Spiro's special dollar Signup and view all the answers

What does the summer heat in Memphis break with?

A puny drizzle Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator struggle to tell Rat?

The details of his experiences Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator do with his earnings from the paper route?

Reflects on them Signup and view all the answers

What does the story primarily emphasize?

The impact of supportive relationships and the power of words Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's family consider doing in relation to the school?

Moving to a rural area for a school with only white students Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator plan to do with his written reflections?

Bury them, acknowledging the permanence of words on paper Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's grandmother, Mam, emphasize?

The significance of words and their lasting impact Signup and view all the answers

What is the narrator's primary source of empowerment in the story?

Expressing himself confidently despite his stutter Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator carry as a meaningful object?

A special dollar bill Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's stutter not define him as?

A person of limited intelligence Signup and view all the answers

Who is the narrator's friend known for nonverbal communication due to special needs?

TV Boy Signup and view all the answers

What themes are emphasized in the story?

Acceptance, understanding, and the power of words Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's mother suggest as a potential career for the narrator?

Writing Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator reflect on after overcoming nervousness?

The significance of everyone attending the same school Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator struggle with, showing his determination and attachment to meaningful objects?

A stutter Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's grandmother emphasize about the importance of what he says?

It has a lasting impact Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator reminisce about, showing his attachment to familiar places and routines?

A secret shed Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator imagine confidently doing in the classroom?

Addressing the class and expressing thoughts and feelings Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator observe about Mrs. Worthington, indicating shifts in his understanding of the adult world around him?

Changes in appearance and behavior Signup and view all the answers

What does the story discuss in relation to schools in Arkansas?

The integration of schools despite previous troubles Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's parents discuss plans for, hinting at their aspirations and lifestyle changes?

A new house Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's journey primarily highlight?

The importance of supportive relationships and the enduring power of words Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's friend Rat's mother visit the narrator's house for, leading to the narrator's internal conflict about eavesdropping on adult conversations?

First time visit Signup and view all the answers

What does the text capture about the narrator's experiences?

Coming-of-age experiences Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's reflections and interactions with others illustrate?

The complexities of adolescence Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator's seventh-grade status signify?

His age and school year Signup and view all the answers

What challenges does the narrator face at school?

Social pressure and ridicule Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Paper Route - Chapter Two

The protagonist's father is supportive of his decision to take on a paper route, expressing confidence in his ability to throw newspapers.
The protagonist's mother is depicted in her nightly routine, and their relationship is briefly described.
On the first Monday of the route, the regular carriers start arriving at the newspaper drop around 3 o'clock.
The carriers include both kids and adults, with some of the older carriers having routes that keep the kids in line.
The protagonist struggles with stuttering, carefully choosing words to avoid getting stuck when speaking.
He encounters an older boy at the drop who inquires about the absence of another carrier, prompting the protagonist to carefully navigate his speech.
The protagonist struggles with a dull knife while cutting the heavy cords around the newspapers, slowing him down.
He carries a route book for guidance and is extra cautious about learning the streets, using them as a form of mental practice.
The protagonist's speech difficulties are explained, focusing on trouble with words starting with B and P sounds.
He tries to practice the speech exercises given to him by his teacher while delivering the newspapers.
While attempting to say "pitch" when tossing a paper, the protagonist unintentionally offends a customer, leading to an awkward encounter.
The encounter highlights the protagonist's struggle with speech, as he stutters when trying to explain himself.

Observations and Interactions in a Neighborhood

The narrator, a young boy, encounters Mrs. Worthington, who is intoxicated, injured, and unresponsive on a swing.
The boy picks up broken glass and newspaper bags, while observing Mrs. Worthington's distress.
He longs for Mrs. Worthington to interact with him and is troubled by her state.
The boy runs home, feeling uneasy and fixated on Mrs. Worthington's situation.
At home, he finds his mother on the phone and his father in his office, both preoccupied.
The boy struggles with communication and feels misunderstood by his parents.
He contemplates the complexities of his thoughts and feelings, likening them to a pinball machine.
During a baseball practice, the coach values the boy's pitching skills, boosting his confidence.
The boy interacts with a new catcher, nicknamed Racer, and reminisces about his previous catcher, Rat.
He faces challenges with a missing knife and encounters Ara T, leading to uncertainty and avoidance.
The boy collects payments from a neighbor, TV Boy, and reflects on his own aversion to game shows.
He visits Mr. Spiro's house, eager to discuss a piece of a dollar bill Mr. Spiro had given him.

A Conversation with Mr. Spiro

Mr. Spiro engages in a dialogue, emphasizing the importance of two-way communication.
Mr. Spiro highlights the difficulty adults face in communicating with children due to discomfort and a "code" that young people don't understand.
He provides examples of how adults' statements can be decoded, such as "I’ll have to think about that" actually meaning "What you asked about is not going to happen."
Mr. Spiro serves lemonade and asks the child questions, focusing on simple "Yes" or "No" answers.
He shares a thought about the rarity of individuals doing what they are truly meant for, leaving the child to ponder it.
The child asks Mr. Spiro how to be smart like him, and Mr. Spiro invites the child inside his house.
Inside, the child is surprised to find hundreds and thousands of books stored in wooden crates, covering the walls and floors.
The scene is described vividly, with crates bearing stickers from fruit shipments and foreign language inscriptions.
The living room contains a big stuffed chair, a floor lamp, and glass-paned doors leading to another room filled with more book crates.
A small bed with books scattered on the floor sits in the middle of the room.
The child's excitement and curiosity about Mr. Spiro's house are evident, as it is different from the child's own home, and the sight of so many books is unexpected.
The detailed description of the books in crates and the unique living space in Mr. Spiro's house leaves a lasting impression on the child.

Challenges of a young boy and his mother in the segregated South

The young boy and his mother attend a choir practice where the mother finds solace and happiness despite being hurt earlier in the week.
The boy feels a strong sense of responsibility towards his mother, who sacrifices her own desires for his upbringing and household chores.
The mother's face is "busted up," indicating she might have been physically assaulted.
The boy is troubled by the discrimination and segregation his mother faces, such as being forced to sit in the back of the bus.
The boy struggles with feelings of anger and vengeance due to the mistreatment of his mother and the unfair rules imposed on her.
Despite the challenges, the mother and son share a close and loving bond, and the mother makes efforts to engage in enjoyable activities, like visiting the zoo with her son.
The mother can only visit the zoo on specific days and has to wear a uniform, highlighting the restrictions placed on her.
The son questions the fairness of these rules and expresses frustration at the discrimination his mother faces.
The mother avoids discussing certain difficult topics, indicating the pain and trauma she might be trying to suppress.
The mother's resilience and consistency in her character are highlighted, despite the mistreatment and discrimination she faces.
The mother's acquaintances at the zoo, who also work in similar roles, show signs of knowing about her injury but avoid discussing it, indicating a culture of silence or acceptance of mistreatment.
The mother intervenes to protect a child from an older bully at the zoo, showing her protective nature and strength despite her own struggles.

Mother and Son's Journey for Justice

Mam confronts the protagonist for disobeying her
The protagonist is determined to stay with Mam and hands over his money
They head to Ara T's shed, where Mam plans to retrieve the protagonist's belongings
They take a bus and encounter a new side of Mam
Mam takes snuff in front of the protagonist for the first time
Mam reassures the protagonist that he will get his possessions back
They deviate from their usual route, exploring unfamiliar streets
The neighborhood they enter is lively, with people outside having a good time
Mam warns the protagonist to stay close and follow her instructions
They reach the back of a red building where Mam identifies something important
Mam and the protagonist encounter a significant discovery in the alley
The story leaves the reader with a sense of anticipation and mystery

Coming of Age in "OceanofPDF.com Chapter Twenty"

The narrator, a seventh-grader, feels overwhelmed by the unknowns in his life, including school and personal challenges.
The narrator faces social pressure and ridicule at school, particularly regarding his struggle with a speech impediment.
The narrator reminisces about a secret shed and the changes in his neighborhood, showing his attachment to familiar places and routines.
The narrator's friend Rat is dating Freda, and the narrator reflects on the changes in their lives and relationships.
The narrator spends time with a friend named TV Boy, who is skilled at nonverbal communication due to his special needs.
The narrator observes changes in Mrs. Worthington's appearance and behavior, indicating shifts in his understanding of the adult world around him.
The narrator's mother expresses concern about his future and suggests a career in writing due to his skill with words.
The narrator carries a special dollar bill and struggles with a stutter, showing his determination and attachment to meaningful objects.
The narrator's parents discuss plans for a new house, including features such as a central vacuum system, hinting at their aspirations and lifestyle changes.
Rat's mother visits the narrator's house for the first time, leading to the narrator's internal conflict about eavesdropping on adult conversations.
The text captures the narrator's coming-of-age experiences, including personal growth, changing relationships, and evolving perceptions of the adult world.
The narrator's reflections and interactions with others illustrate the complexities of adolescence and the challenges of navigating social dynamics and personal identity.

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Description

Test your understanding of key events, character interactions, and themes in fictional chapters involving protagonists navigating challenges and coming of age. From encounters with neighbors to conversations with mentors, explore the rich storytelling elements in each chapter.