Name ____________________________ Date _______________________
Throughout the first part of chapter nine, Papa is teaching Sarah how to ride a horse and drive a wagon to prepare her for her first trip to town by herself. While this is happening, Anna goes into the “safe darkness of the barn” and loudly asks “Why?”
Reread this part of the story (pages 52-53) and explain Anna’s reaction to seeing her father helping Sarah learn how to do these things.
On page 56 Caleb is having a strong, emotional reaction when Sarah arrives back safely from her solo trip into town. Read the following excerpt and think about why he’s acting and saying the things he is in this situation.
Papa took the reins and Sarah climbed down from the wagon.
Caleb burst into tears.
“Seal was very worried!” he cried.
Sarah put her arms around him, and he wailed into her dress. “And the house is too small, we thought! And I am loud and pesky!”
Sarah, Plain and Tall – page 56
Explain Caleb’s emotional reaction when Sarah came home from her trip into town. Why does he act in this way and say the things he said?
