READING CHECK

1. Contrasting the marsh and the swamp, which does the Prologue present as a place of death and decay?

Answer: the swamp

Discussion Suggestion: Use the question above to prompt a discussion about how words elicit associations with other words and concepts. How do the associations linked with the word “marsh” differ from those the word “swamp” elicits? Review or introduce the literary device connotation.

2. What age is Kya when her mother leaves wearing gator high heels?

Answer: 6

3. Which of Kya’s siblings is the last to leave the shack for good?

Answer: Jodie

4. What type of small payment does Kya’s father receive weekly?

Answer: a disability payment

5. What does Miss Pansy Price call Kya when she goes into town?

Answer: swamp trash

6. Who does not return to celebrate Kya’s 7th birthday?

Answer: Ma

7. Whose lifeless body is found in Chapter 3?

Answer: Chase Andrews

8. What does the Sheriff notice is missing from the scene around the body?

Answer: footprints

9. Where does Mrs. Culpepper take Kya?

Answer: to school

10. After Kya cuts her foot, what does she fear she will contract?

Answer: lockjaw

QUIZ

1. Which of the following is the basis for the laws that govern marsh life?

A) cooperation

B) survival

C) equity

D) reproduction

2. Why do Kya’s siblings leave home?

A) to search for their mother