The Watsons Go to Birmingham

Study Notes

Reactions to Hair Decisions

Kenny identifies Momma's anger through her southern expression "he-uh," signaling that she is upset about Byron's actions.
Momma’s physical display of emotion includes sucking in a lot of air, indicating her extreme concern.

Byron's Hair Transformation

Byron gets a "conk," a perm that alters his hair to a reddish-brown, straight, and slick appearance, contrasting his natural texture.
His choice reflects a desire for a specific style that may align with peer influence rather than family expectations.

Byron’s Attitude Toward Authority

On page 91, Byron expresses indifference towards his parents by calling them "squares," highlighting a teenage rebellion.
His actions can be interpreted as both a rebellion against parental authority and a journey of self-discovery during adolescence.

Joetta's Concerns

Joetta’s reaction to Byron's new hairstyle is one of shock and fear, believing their grandfather, Big Daddy, will react violently.
This contrasting response emphasizes her sense of familial responsibility compared to Kenny's more cavalier attitude.

Kenny's Reaction to the Hair Situation

Kenny humorously pretends to be a prison guard, creating a light-hearted perspective on the situation while Joetta is visibly distressed and protective of Byron.
This divergence in their reactions showcases the differing ways siblings can process familial conflicts.

Byron's Decision-Making Process

Joetta questions Byron’s impulsive behavior, pointing out that he rarely considers the consequences of his actions.
This suggests a pattern of recklessness associated with his teenage years, prompting concern from his sister.

Consequences of Byron's Choices

The immediate consequence of Byron’s decision to perm his hair results in Daddy forcing him to cut it all off as punishment for his misjudged stylistic choice.
The fairness of the consequence may vary among opinions, emphasizing familial disciplinary measures.

Reasons for Grandma Sands' Involvement

The decision to contact Grandma Sands at the chapter's conclusion hints at planning a trip to Alabama aimed at distancing Byron from negative influences in his environment.

Momma’s Disapproval of Byron’s Hair

Momma expresses her disapproval of Byron's hairstyle explicitly on page 88, indicating her concern for her son's appearance and well-being.

Influence on Byron's Decision

The character Buphead serves as a key influence on Byron, as Kenny notes that he is the only nearby peer with a similar hair style, suggesting that peer pressure played a significant role in Byron’s decision-making.

Description

This quiz focuses on Chapter 7 of 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963' by Christopher Paul Curtis. It explores key events and character reactions, particularly how Kenny perceives his mother's anger and Byron's actions regarding his hair. Test your knowledge of this important chapter!