259 Questions
What did Uncle Potluck say about talking to the moon?
The moon talked back
What did Uncle Potluck say about trusting the moon?
You've got to trust the moon if you want the moon to trust you
Where did Uncle Potluck and Mattie go to talk to the moon?
To the edge of the woods, to the flat rock ledge by the apple tree
What did Uncle Potluck do when they reached the flat rock ledge by the apple tree?
Leaped up on the rock and called for Miss Moon
What item does Uncle Potluck entrust Mattie with?
A veteran light bulb
How does Mattie feel about her name in Mrs. D'Angelo's class?
She felt like her name was just a lesson on the whiteboard
What does Mattie envision herself doing while replacing the light bulb?
Standing in front of the class
What does the passage provide insight into?
The challenges of being the new kid in school
What does the text primarily focus on?
Mattie's internal struggles and efforts to overcome shyness
What does Mattie recall struggling with in previous schools?
Introducing herself
What does Mattie try to convince herself she is, based on what she sees on the board?
Bold and friendly
What is the condition of the light bulb that Mattie replaces?
Veteran and old
What does the text describe the light bulb as?
Having 'gave its life in service of the illumination of youth'
What does Mattie reflect on while replacing the light bulb?
Her previous experiences at new schools and her struggles to make friends
What is the central theme of the passage?
Overcoming shyness and finding a sense of belonging
What does the passage depict about Mattie's struggles?
Her internal monologue and efforts to overcome her shyness
What item does Mattie receive from her mother to document her new role as Custodial Apprentice?
A silver notebook
What does Uncle Potluck want to take Mattie on as?
His apprentice
What does Uncle Potluck do at Mitchell P. Anderson Elementary?
He is the custodian
What does Mattie find solace and a sense of control in?
Writing and reflecting on her experiences
What does the silver notebook represent for Mattie?
A fresh start and a sense of control
What does Mattie's mother do with items when they move?
Gets rid of them
What does Uncle Potluck's office look like?
Orderly with labeled spots for everything
What does Mattie feel empowered to do in her new role as Custodial Apprentice?
Make her own plans and find ways to navigate the school environment
What theme does the text highlight for Mattie?
New beginnings and empowerment
What does Mattie reflect on her decision to do?
Write in the notebook and her feelings about her new role
What does Mattie's mother's new job prompt the family to do?
Move back to Uncle Potluck's house
What does Mattie realize about the school environment?
There are rules, but she also discovers areas where she can make her own choices
What is Mattie determined to become?
A custodial apprentice
How many days does Mattie plan to spend proving herself as a custodial apprentice?
Four days
What fuels Mattie's determination to become a custodial apprentice?
Her desire to avoid interacting with the 'wild kids'
Who startles Mattie in the text?
Quincy Sweet
Why does Mattie struggle with social interactions?
She is shy and had a difficult incident in fourth grade
Who provides comfort to Mattie in the text?
Uncle Potluck
What does the text explore about Mattie?
Her internal struggle with social anxiety
Why is Mattie reluctant to hang out with Quincy Sweet?
She perceives herself as not awesome or teenage enough
What do Mattie's interactions with Uncle Potluck and Quincy Sweet shed light on?
Her internal struggles with confidence and social interactions
What does the text provide insight into?
Mattie's complex emotions and her desire for acceptance
What does the text set the stage for?
A deeper exploration of Mattie's journey towards overcoming her social anxiety
What does Mattie's plan to become a custodial apprentice involve?
Writing down things she has learned about custodial safety and preparedness
What does Star do with Mattie's private notebook?
Tears up the notebook pages and drops them on the floor
Why does Mattie decline Mama's suggestion of a sleepover with Quincy?
She feels uncomfortable about it and wants to focus on her custodial wisdom notes
What does Mattie decide to do with her custodial wisdom notes?
Memorize them and keep the notebook close while whispering the words into the pages
What surprises Mattie the next day at school?
The arrival of teachers unexpectedly
Where does Mattie watch Miss Sweet's activities from?
Her window
What does Star do after finding Mattie's private notebook?
Starts reading her stories out loud
Why does Mattie want to memorize her custodial wisdom notes?
To ensure she doesn't forget them
What does Mattie do with her custodial wisdom notes while memorizing them?
Keeps the notebook close while whispering the words into the pages
What is the reason for Mattie declining the sleepover with Quincy?
She feels uncomfortable about it and wants to focus on her custodial wisdom notes
Why does Mattie reminisce about the history of her room?
Her room used to be her mother's, and she watches Miss Sweet's activities from her window
What does Star hope will change their relationship?
Star reading her stories out loud
What does Mattie do with her custodial wisdom notes?
Memorize them and keep the notebook close while whispering the words into the pages
What does Mattie reveal about her notebook to Uncle Potluck?
She had never shown it to anyone before
What does Mattie document in her notebook while Uncle Potluck checks his e-mail?
How the school was dark-silent until Uncle Potluck jingled his keys and flipped on the lights
What is the content of the notes that Mattie shares with Uncle Potluck from her janitorial notebook?
List of tasks that need to be done and notes about the school environment
What does Uncle Potluck do to fill up the quiet of the room when he sits on the DIRECTOR OF CUSTODIAL ARTS chair?
He says 'So, so, so' and talks about the distracting day
What does Mama pretend to be, gaining respect and strength?
An ER character
What prompts an awkward exchange between Mattie and Quincy?
Quincy's questions about 'Poor Moe'
What makes Mattie feel uncomfortable during Quincy's visit?
Quincy staring at her
What does Quincy use as unconventional materials for her art?
Grocery bags and chalk
What does Mattie admire about Quincy?
His matter-of-fact way of speaking
Why does Mattie agree to a sleepover with Quincy?
Feeling pressured by Mama and Uncle Potluck
What prompts Mattie to lie to her mother about feeling unwell?
To avoid spending more time with Quincy at Uncle Potluck's house
What does Uncle Potluck interrupt the girls to ask them to bring in?
Carrots
What does Mama become preoccupied with during Quincy's visit?
Uncle Potluck's phone conversation
What does Mattie struggle to maintain during Quincy's visit?
A matter-of-fact demeanor
What does Mattie reflect on while replacing a light bulb?
Her mother's past experiences
What does Quincy do upon arriving at Mattie's house?
Changes into unconventional pajamas
What does Mama share her experiences about after Uncle Potluck's question about Mattie's new job?
Working at a hospital
What does Mattie feel about her pajamas during Quincy's visit?
Self-conscious, fearing judgment from others
What does Mattie struggle to reconcile with her mother's image?
Mama's confidence and strength
What does Mattie feel empowered to do in her new role as Custodial Apprentice?
Find solace and a sense of control
What does Uncle Potluck do while Quincy is at Mattie's house?
Plays cards with Mama and Uncle Tommy
What does Mattie write in her notebook after everyone is asleep?
Her true feelings about Moe
What does the story primarily highlight about the characters' struggles?
Discomfort and anxiety
What does Quincy do that prompts an awkward exchange with Mattie?
Questions Mattie about 'Poor Moe'
What does Miss Sweet talk to Mama about regarding Uncle Potluck?
Uncle Potluck's story of learning to predict the future
What does Mattie observe Quincy doing while she contemplates a Queen of Garbage and custodial wisdom?
Drawing silently
What does Mattie do when Quincy arrives at her house?
Sneaks to her room to change into pajamas
What does Miss Sweet offer to show Quincy, indicating a growing bond between them?
Prom pictures
What does Mattie struggle to explain her attachment to saying 'Poor Moe' due to?
Pressure to match Quincy's unemotional tone
What does Mattie feel uncomfortable with regarding Quincy?
Quincy's casual attitude about her brother's operation
What does the text primarily explore?
Dynamics between characters
What does Mattie contemplate while Quincy sets up her art supplies on Uncle Potluck's rock?
A Queen of Garbage and custodial wisdom
What does Mattie struggle to support her brother through at Uncle Potluck's house?
His operation
What does Mattie name her missing button from her pajamas?
Moe
What does Mattie share with Quincy, symbolizing her worries and fears?
A story about Moe getting lost in a washing machine
What does Miss Sweet express impatience about regarding Quincy?
Getting ready for the day
What does Mattie wait for before writing the truth about Moe in her notebook?
Everyone to sleep
What does Mattie struggle with in explaining her attachment to saying 'Poor Moe'?
Matching Quincy's unemotional tone
What does Miss Sweet express excitement about regarding Quincy?
Showing her prom pictures
What does Mattie do with her pajama buttons when she was little?
She used to name each button
What does Mattie struggle with when Quincy Sweet interrupts her solitude?
Expressing herself and dealing with social interactions
What does the text primarily portray about Mattie in the face of bullying?
Resilience and dedication to her custodial apprenticeship
What does Mattie learn from Uncle Potluck during her custodial apprenticeship?
The meaning of 'posterity' and 'custodial'
What does Mattie realize about the cafeteria after her observation?
It has 450 seats but finding a place to belong is more complex
What does Star use to intimidate Mattie into moving to different spots?
The word 'Og-ree'
What does the narrative provide insight into?
The challenges and growth experienced by a young custodial apprentice in a school environment
What does Uncle Potluck do in relation to Mattie's custodial apprenticeship?
Mentors and educates her about custodial tasks
What does Mattie's observation reveal about the cafeteria?
It has 450 seats but finding a place to belong is more complex
What does Quincy Sweet interrupt Mattie's solitude to ask about?
Her writing and 'drawer's block' in drawing
What does Mattie contemplate when Quincy Sweet interrupts her solitude?
Her writing
What does Mattie face from a classmate, Star, during her custodial apprenticeship?
Bullying and intimidation
What does the text highlight about Mattie's experiences in the school environment?
Emotional and social struggles
What does Mattie do when she is sure that everyone is sleeping?
Writes in her notebook
What does Moe represent in Mattie's story?
A button stitched to pajamas
What happens to Moe in the washing machine?
His strong thread snaps
What does Mattie feel empowered to do as the Custodial Apprentice?
Take control of her environment
What does Uncle Potluck use to demonstrate the steps to fix the fountain leak?
A stack of washers
What does Mattie Mae pretend the washers are when Uncle Potluck demonstrates how to replace a washer?
Friendship bracelets
What does Uncle Potluck let Mattie keep as a reward for her work?
The pipe bracelet
What does Mattie Mae hope Quincy Sweet will see when she takes her notebook to the rock?
Her writing
What does Mattie Mae see Quincy Sweet doing outside Crystal Sweet's house?
Trying to get her attention
What does Crystal Sweet appear uncertain about when she suggests asking Mattie along?
Whether being 'frosted' is good or not
What does Mattie Mae plan to do with her notebook to avoid Quincy Sweet?
Take it to the rock
What does Uncle Potluck joke about during the fountain repair?
A custodial beauty pageant winner
What does Mattie Mae hope will change in her relationship with Quincy Sweet?
Their relationship
What does Mattie Mae feel uncertain about regarding Quincy Sweet?
How to respond to her
What does Uncle Potluck explain the role of in fixing the fountain leak?
Washers
What does Mattie Mae see Quincy Sweet doing when she arrives at Crystal Sweet's house?
Trying to get Crystal's attention
What does Mama suggest as a secret code for Mattie and Quincy?
A secret word or phrase
What does Miss Sweet talk about regarding Uncle Potluck's odd behavior?
A story about a psychic in the army
What does Mattie forget and resolves to pay extra attention to at work?
Her notebook
What does Mrs. Diaz-Smith call Uncle Potluck about?
A leak
What does Mattie imagine when she resolves to pay extra attention at work?
A dramatic leak at the school
What does Mama retrieve from the cellar and set up in the yard with Mattie's help?
Her old tent
What does Miss Sweet express excitement about regarding Quincy?
Her upcoming prom
What does Mattie struggle to maintain during Quincy's visit?
Her composure
What does Mattie find solace and a sense of control in?
Her custodial duties
What does Mattie realize refers to a sad event when Quincy expresses sympathy for Moe?
A pet's death
What does Mama and Miss Sweet discuss in the kitchen while Mattie gets dressed in private?
Potluck's odd behavior
What does Mattie wake up early and do before Quincy wakes?
Gets dressed in private
What does Mattie find comfort in during a moment of helplessness?
Holding Miney tightly
What does Uncle Potluck refer to the day as while working at Mitchell P. Anderson Elementary?
D-day
Where does Uncle Potluck leave Mattie alone to attend to Principal Bonnet's request?
In the nurse's room
What does Mattie offer to do for Uncle Potluck, but he insists that she rests?
Help him
What is the primary focus of the text?
Mattie's internal struggle and her longing to find her place and purpose within her environment
What does Uncle Potluck involve Mattie in during their work at Mitchell P. Anderson Elementary?
Doorknob installation process
What does Mattie contemplate discussing with Uncle Potluck during their work at Mitchell P. Anderson Elementary?
Her custodial apprentice plans
What does Uncle Potluck request Mattie not to include in her notebook during their work at Mitchell P. Anderson Elementary?
Him saluting Principal Bonnet
What is Mattie's desire for a sense of purpose and contribution in her current situation indicative of?
Her longing for significance
What does the text highlight about the dynamics of Mattie's relationship with Uncle Potluck?
Her desire to prove herself and contribute meaningfully to their work
What theme does the text primarily explore?
Self-discovery and yearning for agency
What distracts Mattie from her emotional turmoil?
Uncle Potluck's gardening task
Why does Mattie suspect Quincy of not saying yes to something she asked?
She suspects Quincy read her notebook
What interrupts Uncle Potluck's story about his injury caused by his dog, Stella?
A phone call
What does Mattie do when Uncle Potluck leaves to attend to his laptop?
Finishes Uncle Potluck's story
What does Mattie feel when left alone in the garden after Uncle Potluck's departure?
A bit disappointed
What does Uncle Potluck's story about his dog, Stella, and his injury provide?
A distraction from Mattie's emotional turmoil
What does Mattie seek Uncle Potluck's company for?
To avoid thinking about her feelings
What does Uncle Potluck ask Mattie to help with?
Weeding in the garden
Why does Mattie finish Uncle Potluck's story about his injury?
To show engagement in the conversation
What does Mattie suspect Quincy of doing?
Reading her notebook
Why does Mattie feel a bit disappointed when left alone in the garden?
She wanted to continue the conversation with Uncle Potluck
What does Mattie's interaction with Uncle Potluck provide?
A distraction from her emotional turmoil
What does Uncle Potluck ask Mattie about her notebook?
If she plans to record his saluting for posterity
What does Mattie observe about the doors in the school?
The inside doors lack doorknobs
What does Mattie see Uncle Potluck doing outside the nurse's room?
Kneeling and readying for doorknob installation
What does Mattie do with the cart in the administrative office?
She carefully parks it by the reception desk
What does Mattie do while Uncle Potluck is away?
Vacuums and installs doorknobs
How does Mattie accidentally get locked in the principal's office?
While installing a doorknob
Why is Uncle Potluck unable to hear Mattie calling for help?
Due to chaos caused by tripping over the vacuum cord
Who eventually helps Uncle Potluck and Mattie?
Principal Bonnet
Why does Mattie feel sorry for the situation?
She wishes she could have been a better custodial apprentice
What was Mattie being taught by Uncle Potluck?
How to install doorknobs
What does Uncle Potluck leave Mattie to do?
Rest
What does Mattie hear Uncle Potluck doing outside?
Singing
What does Uncle Potluck call for Mattie's assistance with?
Unclear, Mattie is unable to help
What does Mattie wish she could have been?
A better custodial apprentice
What does Mattie decide to do after Uncle Potluck leaves?
Help by vacuuming and installing doorknobs
What does Mattie try to do when she hears Uncle Potluck outside?
Call for help
What does Principal Bonnet emphasize as crucial in overcoming fears?
Taking small brave steps
What flavor is Mattie's Popsicle, purchased by Mama after Uncle Potluck's injury?
Raspberry
What does Principal Bonnet tell Mattie about bravery and fear?
You can't have brave without scared
What does Mattie struggle with regarding her fears?
Identifying what she fears and how to face it
What does Principal Bonnet share to illustrate the concept of bravery?
A personal story about her first serious climb
What does Mattie wish for Uncle Potluck's recovery and for Quincy Sweet to do?
Disappear
What does Mattie ponder in relation to facing fears?
The concept of facing fears and doing small brave things
What kind of Popsicle does Mattie have that can be shared with someone else?
The kind that can be broken in half
What does Mattie contemplate the absence of in relation to overcoming fears?
A clear path for overcoming fears without guidance or clarity
What is Mattie's struggle in relation to guilt and uncertainty?
Struggling with guilt and uncertainty about what she fears and how to face it
What does Principal Bonnet explain bravery depends on?
Individual fears
What does Mattie feel guilty for in relation to Uncle Potluck?
Uncle Potluck's injury
What does Quincy suggest Mattie should do with Moe's story?
Write a brave adventure for Moe
What does Mattie insist she is, when Quincy suggests she should write a brave adventure for Moe?
An artist, not a writer
What does Quincy say Mattie can only draw?
Real things
What does Mattie struggle to embody when Quincy asks her to pose for a drawing?
A brave mouse
What does Mattie wish for when she feels uncomfortable posing for Quincy's drawing?
She was lost in a washing machine
What does the interaction between Mattie and Quincy primarily focus on?
Their creative pursuits
What does Quincy give Mattie to help with posing for the drawing?
A stick
What does Mattie feel about Quincy's scrutiny while posing for the drawing?
Uncomfortable
What does Mattie struggle to write when she starts working on Moe's adventures?
A story
What does Quincy say Mattie needs to see in order to draw it?
Something real
What does Quincy need to draw but struggles without it?
A model
What does Mattie suggest Quincy should try, despite her struggles in drawing?
Drawing Moe's adventures
What does Mattie wish Uncle Potluck could do with her and Quincy?
Tell stories to the moon
What does Quincy suggest they do with the moon?
Sleep in a tent and talk to the moon
What does Mattie contemplate sharing with the moon?
Army experiences
What does the chapter end with Mattie doing?
Remaining still, contemplating what she could say to the moon with Quincy nearby
What does Quincy mistakenly refer to Mattie as during their play?
The Lint
What does Mattie, as Moe, save Quincy's character from?
A washing machine coil
What does Quincy reminisce about not doing since childhood?
Playing like they did that day
What does Mattie recall Uncle Potluck's belief about?
The moon talking back when spoken to
What does Mattie feel uncertain about?
What to say to the moon with Quincy present
What does Mattie wonder about Uncle Potluck sharing with the moon?
Stories about Stella the dog
What does Mattie contemplate doing with the moon?
Telling a story
What does Quincy suggest they do with the moon?
Sleep in a tent and talk to the moon
What does Mattie hope to avoid while in Quincy's company?
Revealing her habit of talking to the moon
Why does Mattie believe Quincy might be a friend?
Quincy may not have been faking her interest in Mattie's notebook
What does Mattie plan to do until Halloween?
Avoid messing up to maintain Quincy's friendship
What does Mattie consider doing to avoid talking to the moon in front of Quincy?
Listening for kitchen sounds to divert her attention
What does Mattie do when Uncle Potluck invites her to sit by him?
She hesitates and feels self-conscious
What does Quincy do when entering the kitchen?
She enters with a red face and no makeup
What does Uncle Potluck do to lighten the mood after Mattie apologizes for tripping over a vacuum cord?
Shares the blame and adds humor
What does Miss Sweet do that prompts laughter from all family members?
Teases Quincy for washing off the makeup
What do the family dynamics primarily show?
Affection and humor
What do Mattie's internal thoughts and interactions with family members reflect?
Her desire for acceptance and connection
What does Uncle Tommy and Uncle Potluck engage in?
Storytelling
What does Mattie contemplate doing in the kitchen?
Joining Quincy
What does Quincy state she has figured out when stepping out of the rental house?
What to tell the moon
What does Uncle Potluck continue as Quincy enters the kitchen?
The Stella story
What does Mattie seek solace in?
The moon
What does Mattie's reflection prompt her to do?
Shift her attention to the moon
What prompts an awkward exchange between Mattie and Quincy?
Miss Sweet's predictions about Quincy's future
What does Uncle Potluck use to give readings about the future?
Corn
What does Principal Bonnet visit Mattie's house to check on?
Uncle Potluck
What does Miss Sweet make predictions about based on the corn?
Quincy's future
What does Quincy do upon Principal Bonnet's visit to Mattie's house?
Abruptly grabs the corncob and chomps on it
What does Miss Sweet discuss during the interaction at Mattie's house?
Tween culture
What does the shiny black car represent at Mattie's house?
A sign of trouble
What does Mattie struggle to reconcile with her mother's image?
Her mother's profession
What does Quincy react strongly to during the interaction at Mattie's house?
Miss Sweet's comments
What does Miss Sweet express impatience about regarding Quincy?
His obsession with tween culture
What does the interaction between Miss Sweet and Quincy reveal?
Tension in their relationship
What does Mattie feel uncertain about during the interaction at her house?
Miss Sweet's predictions
What does Mattie do when she is inspired to write a story?
Begins writing on a paper bag
How does Mattie feel when she introduces herself as a writer in Ms. Morgan's class?
Self-conscious
What does the narrative emphasize about Mattie's bravery?
Sharing her passion for writing
What does the author's acknowledgments emphasize?
Support and encouragement received
What does the narrative highlight about speaking and finding a real friend?
Importance of speaking about what matters most
What does Mattie feel about her classmates as they introduce themselves in Ms. Morgan's class?
Nervous
What does the author's journey in creating the novel emphasize?
Support and encouragement
What does Mattie's introspective thoughts add to the story?
Depth
What does the text primarily emphasize about the story?
Courage and connection
What does the narrative showcase about Mattie's writing journey?
Support and encouragement received
What does the narrative highlight about the importance of sharing one's passion?
Speaking about what matters most
What does Mattie feel about her introduction as a writer in Ms. Morgan's class?
Self-conscious
What does Mattie realize about herself during her interaction with Quincy?
She has a talent for storytelling
What does Quincy share stories about while sitting with Mattie in the garden?
Duey, Nicolette, and Crystal
What does Mama offer to set up for Mattie and Quincy before leaving them in the garden?
Sleeping bags and an extra flashlight in the tent
What is the atmosphere described as during Mattie and Quincy's interaction in the garden?
Half-dark, with the moonlight playing a significant role
What does Quincy decide to do regarding sleeping arrangements in the garden?
Sleep in her clothes
What does Mattie decline during Mama's interruption of their conversation in the garden?
The offer to change into sleeping clothes
What does the scene primarily focus on?
Mattie and Quincy's interaction in the garden
What does Mattie share with Quincy while sitting in the garden?
A story about a girl named Star finding her notebook
What does Quincy encourage and compliment Mattie on during their conversation in the garden?
Her storytelling abilities
What does Mattie realize about Quincy's stories while sitting in the garden?
They matter to Quincy and are her secrets
What does Mattie find solace and a sense of control in during her interaction with Quincy?
Storytelling
What does Mattie realize about the moon's role in her interaction with Quincy?
The moonlight plays a significant role in their interaction
Study Notes
"The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle" Summary
- Star is caught stealing change from other kids' coat pockets and backpacks, and she also finds Mattie's private notebook and starts reading her stories out loud.
- Mattie hopes that Star reading her stories will change their relationship, but Star ignores her and tears up the notebook pages, dropping them on the floor.
- Mattie's room used to be her mother's, and she watches Miss Sweet's activities from her window, reminiscing about the room's history.
- Mama wants Mattie to have a sleepover with Quincy, but Mattie declines, feeling uncomfortable about it and wanting to focus on her custodial wisdom notes.
- Mattie decides to memorize her custodial wisdom notes and keeps the notebook close to her while whispering the words into the pages.
- The next day, teachers unexpectedly arrive at the school.
- Mattie is surprised by the teachers' presence and wonders why they are there.
Custodial Apprenticeship and School Bullying
- Mattie is a custodial apprentice and is secretly documenting her experiences for posterity.
- She learns the meaning of "posterity" and "custodial" from Uncle Potluck and is inspired to care for the school.
- Uncle Potluck mentors Mattie, and she diligently observes and records custodial tasks.
- They visit the cafeteria, and Uncle Potluck educates Mattie about the cafeteria's routines and challenges.
- Mattie's observation reveals that the cafeteria has 450 seats but acknowledges that having a place to belong is more complex.
- Mattie faces bullying from a classmate, Star, who uses the word "Og-ree" to intimidate her into moving to different spots.
- Quincy Sweet, a classmate, interrupts Mattie's solitude and asks about her writing, mentioning "drawer's block" in drawing.
- Mattie struggles with what to say to Quincy and contemplates her writing.
- This encounter with Quincy challenges Mattie's ability to express herself and deal with social interactions.
- The text portrays Mattie's resilience in the face of bullying and her dedication to her custodial apprenticeship.
- The narrative provides insight into the challenges and growth experienced by a young custodial apprentice in a school environment.
- It also highlights the emotional and social struggles faced by Mattie as she navigates her school experience.
Mattie's Feelings and Conversations
- Mattie overhears a conversation between Miss Sweet and Quincy, and feels that Quincy did not say yes to something she asked.
- Mattie suspects that Quincy read her notebook and that's why she didn't say yes.
- Mattie seeks Uncle Potluck's company to avoid thinking about her feelings.
- Uncle Potluck asks Mattie to help with some weeding in the garden.
- Uncle Potluck shares a story about how his knee got injured because of his lazy dog, Stella.
- Uncle Potluck's story is interrupted when he receives a phone call.
- Mattie finishes Uncle Potluck's story about his knee being injured.
- Uncle Potluck's phone call is about his laptop, and he hurries back to the house.
- Mattie is left alone in the garden, feeling a bit disappointed.
- Mattie is eager to help Uncle Potluck and asks questions to engage in conversation.
- Uncle Potluck's story about his dog, Stella, and his injury is a humorous and engaging one.
- The interaction between Mattie and Uncle Potluck provides a distraction from Mattie's emotional turmoil.
Imaginary Play and Moon Talk
- Mattie and Quincy engage in imaginative play, pretending to fight off "The Lint" with sticks.
- Quincy mistakenly refers to Mattie as "The Lint" but then corrects herself after Mattie asserts her name as Moe.
- The girls continue to play-fight, pretending to battle the "Evil Lint" in a dramatic, imaginary scenario.
- Mattie, as Moe, saves Quincy's character "Lint Girl" from a washing machine coil.
- The girls run back home and crash against Crystal Sweet's car, exhausted from their play.
- Quincy reminisces about not playing like that since childhood, while Mattie remains silent.
- Mattie recalls Uncle Potluck's belief that the moon talks back when spoken to and shares her thoughts with Quincy.
- Quincy suggests sleeping in a tent and talking to the moon, which Mattie agrees to.
- Mattie wishes Uncle Potluck could join them in telling the moon a story, but he is resting due to a knee injury.
- Mattie wonders what Uncle Potluck would say to the moon with Quincy listening, considering sharing stories about Stella the dog or army experiences.
- Mattie contemplates what to say to the moon with Quincy present, feeling uncertain about the interaction.
- The chapter ends with Mattie remaining still, contemplating what she could say to the moon with Quincy nearby.
Small Brave Thing Summary
- Mattie Breen decides to do a small brave thing and goes outside to find Quincy Sweet.
- Quincy is sitting on a rock with her toolbox and papers, and Mattie joins her.
- Mattie shares a story with Quincy, starting from the end and working backward, about a girl named Star finding her notebook.
- As Mattie tells her story, Quincy encourages her and compliments her storytelling abilities.
- Mattie realizes her talent for storytelling and states it as a fact.
- The two girls look up at the moon, and Quincy shares stories about Duey, Nicolette, and Crystal.
- Mattie understands that these stories matter to Quincy and are her secrets.
- Mama interrupts their conversation and offers to set up sleeping bags and an extra flashlight in the tent for them.
- Quincy decides to sleep in her clothes and Mattie declines the offer to change.
- Mama leaves to attend to other responsibilities.
- The scene is set in a garden, with a stone rabbit, bean tepees, tomato cages, and pumpkin vines.
- The atmosphere is described as half-dark, with the moonlight playing a significant role in the interaction between Mattie and Quincy.
Test your knowledge of 'The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle' novel, covering Mattie's experiences as a custodial apprentice, her struggles with bullying, and her friendships at school.
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