Red Character
How does Ashley’s excitement about Thanksgiving reflect her relationship with Emily?
Ashley’s excitement about Thanksgiving reflects her deep bond with Emily and her longing to reconnect with her best friend after being apart for five months.
What does “postpone” mean in the context of Ashley’s mom suggesting they delay the trip?
“Postpone” means to delay or put off to a later time.
Why was Thanksgiving such an important time for Ashley to visit Emily?
Thanksgiving was important because it gave Ashley a chance to see Emily for the first time in months after moving away.
Why might Ashley feel jealous of Isabella when talking to Emily on the phone?
Ashley feels jealous because she fears Isabella might replace her as Emily’s best friend.
What caused Ashley’s family to stop at a hotel instead of driving straight through to Minnesota?
The flat tire and wrong exit delayed their progress, forcing them to stop at a hotel.
What do Ashley’s actions, like crossing her fingers in complicated ways, reveal about her personality?
Crossing her fingers in complicated ways shows Ashley’s determination and her tendency to rely on small gestures or rituals to bring luck.
What is a “snowplow,” and why is it significant in the story?
A “snowplow” is a vehicle used to clear snow from roads, and it’s significant because it temporarily helps Ashley’s family stay safe during the snowstorm.
What challenges did Ashley and her mom face on the way to Minnesota?
They faced a flat tire, took a wrong exit, and had to navigate through a snowstorm, which delayed their trip.
What can you infer about Ashley’s relationship with her mom based on their interactions during the trip?
Ashley’s relationship with her mom is supportive and loving, as seen in how they handle challenges together and comfort each other during setbacks.
How did the snowstorm affect Ashley and her mom’s plans to get to Minnesota?
The snowstorm made it unsafe to continue driving, leading them to wait at a rest stop.
How does Ashley’s mom demonstrate her practicality and concern for safety throughout the trip?
Ashley’s mom demonstrates her practicality by prioritizing safety, such as suggesting they postpone the trip and deciding to stay at the rest stop during the snowstorm.
Explain the term “borshch” as it is used by the Ukrainian family.
“Borshch” is a traditional Ukrainian beet soup.
How does the encounter with the snowplow driver impact their journey?
The snowplow driver’s advice to stay off the road led them to seek shelter at the rest stop.
Why does Ashley compare their situation at the rest stop to the first Thanksgiving?
Ashley compares their situation to the first Thanksgiving because both involved strangers sharing food and finding unity in difficult circumstances.
What effect did the Ukrainian family’s hospitality have on Ashley and her mom?
The Ukrainian family’s hospitality helped Ashley see the true spirit of Thanksgiving and brought comfort to her and her mom during a challenging time.
How does Ashley’s decision to share the pie illustrate her growth by the end of the story?
Sharing the pie illustrates Ashley’s growth by showing her ability to adapt, empathize, and prioritize the well-being of others over her own plans.
What does the word “forecast” imply when Ashley argues about the weather?
The “forecast” refers to a weather prediction, which Ashley challenges when she argues it might not snow.
What role does the Ukrainian family play in changing Ashley’s perspective on Thanksgiving?
The Ukrainian family introduces a new perspective on Thanksgiving, showing Ashley the value of sharing and community in difficult circumstances.
How do the shared struggles at the rest stop bring the families closer together?
Shared struggles, like being stranded in a snowstorm, foster a sense of camaraderie and connection between Ashley’s family and the Ukrainians.
Why does the snowplow driver’s decision to stop at the rest area lead to Ashley’s family staying there?
The snowplow driver’s decision to stop influenced Ashley’s family to take shelter, ensuring their safety.
Compare and contrast Ashley and Emily’s friendship with the interaction between Ashley’s family and the Ukrainians at the rest stop.
Ashley and Emily’s friendship is based on shared memories and promises, while the interaction with the Ukrainians reflects warmth and community in the face of challenges.
What does the phrase “like a complicated pretzel” suggest about Ashley’s feelings or actions?
The phrase “like a complicated pretzel” suggests Ashley’s anxious, hopeful, and somewhat humorous attempts to bring good luck.
Why does Ashley ultimately decide to share the pie with the Ukrainian family?
Ashley shares the pie because she realizes Thanksgiving is about coming together and making the best of the moment, even if it’s not what she originally planned.
What do you think Emily’s reaction would be when Ashley explains what happened to the pie?
Emily would likely understand and appreciate Ashley’s explanation, as best friends are understanding and value the meaning behind actions.
How does Ashley’s decision to share the pie impact her view of Thanksgiving?
Sharing the pie helps Ashley realize that Thanksgiving is about gratitude and togetherness, not just personal plans.