Make sure you've read the book before attempting to answer the questions. Print a copy of this assignment when you are finished.
Here's an excerpt to help with your review of the story.
Across Five Aprils
Hunt, Irene
Readability: 6. 5
Newbery Runner-up
Main Character: Jethro, age 9
Setting: Illinois, Civil War days
"The world had turned upside-down for Jethro. It seemed that he was a different person now It seemed that it had been a hundred years since he had left home with a team and wagon. Now he found his voice, like his identity, had left him and everything seemed like a bad dream. Dave Burdow took the reins from his hands just as Jethro saw the dim outline of the horse next to the tree."
Jethro, a young boy of nine, experiences the heartache the war brings his family. By the time five Aprils have passed, he must defend one brother's choice, hear of the death of another,and assume the responsibility for his family after his father takes ill. The final blow is the death of Lincoln, a man he considers a personal friend.
Questions:
1. How does the title of the book help explain the main idea in the story?
2. Which side did Jethro's brothers fight for?
3. Why did the people criticize Jethro's family?
4. How did Jethro know Lincoln?
5. What special memories or experience have you had that you would be willing to share
with your grandchildren?
