Chapter 14 or XIV 

 

1. Think a minute.  Explain why the author, Wilson Rawls, bothered to put in the scene where Old Dan and Little Ann insist on going to the store with Billy.  He was just going to talk with Grandpa.  Why include the dogs in this scene?

2. Explain how Grandpa feels about the Pritchard incident.

3. Explain how the author shows that Grandpa is a little worried about his new “deal” even though he wants Billy to forget about the accident.  He mutters something under his breath.  Think about that for a moment.  (137)

4. Grandpa says he’s always wanted to go on a big coon hunt.  How does this explain his past behavior? Think about all the things he has done for Billy so far.

5. Explain what Grandpa was writing down every time Billy brought him coon hides.  (138)

6. Explain how the author references something from the beginning of the novel in this chapter.  Think for a minute.  Explain the purpose of mentioning the item in the very beginning of the novel.  What purpose does it serve now?

7. Make a list and explain the meaning of the many uses of figurative language in this chapter.  My favorite so far explains Grandpa’s excitement while also reference the book’s time period – “Grandpa flew out of gear like a Model-T Ford.

8. Explain why Old Dan and Little Ann wouldn’t walk into the store. What does Grandpa say this says about the dogs?

9. After all that has happened, explain why Billy believes he is the “luckiest boy in the world.” (141)

10. Explain why Billy suddenly feels guilty.

11. Explain what the tiniest sister wants to put in her gold cup.

12. Explain Billy’s conversation with his dogs before they leave for the hunt.  What are his expectations? (144)

13. Explain who Billy is referring to when he talks about the “mysterious artist.”

14. What is the one thing that is wrong with Little Ann?

15. Explain what character we meet in this chapter.  Describe this person using all the details from the book and your inferences based on the details of the action.

16. Grandpa has packed the ax.   Explain how Billy feels about still using the infamous ax. Explain how you would feel about having the ax with you after the accident.