Characters and Setting
What does Mike, Jimmy's brother, think about diesels?
He thinks they are unrealistic.
Why was it important that Jimmy's dad took him to work?
Sample Answer (may vary): If Jimmy's dad didn't take him to work, Jimmy wouldn't have seen the conflict of the new and old trains, as well as the danger of the train life.
What was the name of the train Jimmy's brother Bill was supposed to be on?
The 7049 (extra points if you included it going to Tunnelton)
What was the impact of Bill being alive?
Sample Answer (may vary): Jimmy's brother was alive, but another was dead in his place, showing immense pressure, helplessness, and tragedy.
How high did the boiler explode into the air? (Hint: lower than 60, higher than 20)
About 40 feet in the air
When Fran Cannon Slayton explains how Jimmy wants to "run. Away from them all. Towards them all," what does she mean?
Sample Response (may vary): Jimmy is inclined to help them but also wants to run away from the pressure.
Who was the engineer that died in the train explosion?
David Fisher
What does Fran Cannon Slayton mean when she writes, "And there's another man in place of Bill...Every heart beating for its brother."
Sample Answer: Themes including awaiting death and loss.
Who was the train's fireman that died in the train explosion?
Willie Garrison
Sample Answer (may vary): Themes including the risks of old trains, accidents, loss and death.