Key Ideas and Details
What does Exupnos realize when he and the others get to the labyrinth?
They will be fed to the Minotaur.
Where and when does the story take place?
A long time ago in a labyrinth beneath the Greek city Knossos.
What is the author's purpose for writing this story?
To entertain with a funny twist on a traditional myth.
How does Exupnos try to convince the Minotaur not to eat him?
What problems does Exupnos have?
He and his group are locked into a labyrinth with a hungry Minotaur that eats people.
How does the author create suspense on pages 10-12?
The tourists hear the voice of a scary creature and can't escape.
Why does Exupnos go to Crete?
He sees an ad about a tour of the maze beneath King Mino's palace in Crete.
How does the idea of eating new foods begin to solve Exupnos's problem?
The Minotaur wants to try the new foods, so it decides not to eat him. Instead, the Minotaur helps him and his group get out of the labyrinth.
Why does Exupnos lecture the Minotaur on pages 38-39?
He wants the Minotaur to eat "normal" food and not the solider.
How do Exupnos and the Minotaur use toenails to escape the maze?
Exupnos drops toenails to create a trail that will keep them from getting lost.
How does the setting change on pages 38-42?
Exupnos and the Minotaur emerge from the labyrinth and go to a restaurant.
What funny things does Exupnos say on pages 12-25?
Could be one of the following:
1. bad table manners
2. upset stomach
3. tourists are "meals"
4. pile of toenails
What does Exupnos mean when he says that no one would ever have to worry about showing their ankles to the Minotaur?
The Minotaur likes the restaurant's food and wouldn't want to eat people again.
What are 2 ways that you know the Minotaur is not a real creature?
1. It is mythological.
2. It is half-bull and half-human.
How does the author let you know that he wants you to enjoy this story?
He writes a postcard to readers and explains why he wrote the story.