Reading Check and Short Answer questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Reading Check

1. Who owns the drugstore where Alfred works?

2. What does Sam Carr ask Alfred to do before leaving for the night?

3. What items does Alfred have in his pockets?

4. How does Alfred’s mother react when she arrives at the drugstore?

5. When Alfred looks at his mother at the end of the story, what does he notice?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. What role does Alfred’s mother play in the resolution of the situation at the drugstore?

2. How does Alfred’s perception of his mother change throughout the story?

3. How does Sam Carr show Empathy toward Alfred?

4. How does Alfred’s experience at the drugstore and his mother’s response highlight the True Meaning of Maturity?

5. How does Alfred’s mother exemplify the Selflessness of Maternal Love in the story?

Recommended Next Reads

More Joy in Heaven by Morley Callaghan

• An ex-convict who initially reformed his life after serving 10 years in prison ultimately returns to a life of crime.
• Related themes include The Development of Empathy.
• Related topics include consequences of one’s actions.