Three Day Road Close Reading Task

Three Day Road Close Reading Task

Prologue

The Prologue provides a concise and insightful snapshot of Xavier and Elijah as 12-year-old boys. 

1. Choose one sentence from the Prologue that you feel is the most defining of one of the three characters referenced. Quote this sentence and explain what you believe it reveals about the character.

“He hesitates, then swings the stick. The animal screams out.” (2) It reveals that Elijah is not prepared for independence in the wilderness and taking on the task of hunting for his own food, because he cannot kill the animal.

Returning

This chapter reveals Niska to be simultaneously vulnerable and powerful.

1. Choose one quotation that demonstrates Niska's vulnerability and explain your choice.

“We do not stay in the town long. It makes me too nervous. Automobiles they are everywhere.”

This quotation shows that Niska has a hard time adapting to life in a town and that he is vulnerable in this situation because of his anxiety.

2. Choose one quotation that demonstrates Niska's power and explain your choice

“Only a couple days ago I battled with every stroke until my arms were dead things and my lower back felt broken.”

This shows that Niska is strong because he can paddle until his body cannot paddle any longer because of his determination and strength.