Major Theme:

Cooperation, Responsibility

Summary:

After experiencing difficulties getting along with his family, a young boy goes to spend the summer with his grandfather.  There he learns how to be responsible, and also the story of the family's struggle to be free.

Question #1

Question #2

Question #3

What is the setting of the story?

Why, in your opinion, did Mildred Walter include the "Reflections on My Young Life" segments?

What was the problem with Justin and his sisters?

Question #4

Compare Justin's problems with those of Philip Ward, his great-grandfather.

Question #5

What happened to great-grandpa's neighbor when he tried to go West?

Question #6

Question #7

Question #8

Question #9

Predict what you think Justin's family life will be like when he gets back home.

Name two contests that Justin entered at the Festival.

What "life lesson" did you learn from reading this book?

What did Justin learn about "women's work"?

Question #10

Would you recommend this book to a friend?  Why or why not?

Question #11

Question #12

Question #13

Question #14

Question #15

Question #16

Question #17

Question #18

Extension #1

Extension #2

Extension #3

Research some of the Black cowboys mentioned by Justin's grandfather in the story.  Write a report about one of them.

Research the Night Riders.  When, where, and why did the organization start?

Have a cooking contest in your classroom.  Each child may bring the dish he/she makes best.

Extension #4

As your grandmother or grandfather to share his/her favorite recipe with you, and help them prepare it for the family.

Extension #5