Elements of Plot
The narrative technique used by Walters that parallels Winston's present-day experiences with flashbacks to Terry's earlier life and the amputation of his leg.
Ans. What are non-linear (or parallel) narratives?
Winston MacDonald Sr.’s ethical compromises create a complex person vs person and person vs self conflict.
Ans. What is derived from his moral duty to accurately report on a national hero and his professional desperation to create an award-winning, sensationalist publication.
Winston is completely shocked when he learns this major fact about his father's education level.
Ans. What is that he never graduated from high school?
The ultimate transformation Winston undergoes by the end of the narrative, bridging the gap between his own broken home and a broader understanding of resilience.
Ans. What is evolving from a cynical runaway into a mature individual who defines people by their ability rather than their disability?
The pivotal point in the novel where Winston transitions from hearing about Terry Fox to actually witnessing his determination on the highway.
Ans. What is the climax?
This type of conflict is initially highlighted by Winston's recurring actions of running away from home and authority.
Ans. What is Character vs. Society
As Terry’s best friend and resolute companion, he shares the arduous journey of the Marathon of Hope, driving the van and supporting Terry fervently.
Ans. Who is Doug Alward
The moment on the highway when Winston attempts to run with Terry, which shatters his emotional detachment and completely alters his perspective.
Ans. What is the realization of the agonizing, unrelenting physical toll of the run?
After being suspended from drinking and making a fourth attempt to run away from home, this provoking action impels Winston to be sent to Nova Scotia with this specific relative.
Ans, Who is his father?
This deeply rooted internal conflict plagues Winston as he reconciles his distant, flawed father with his own need for guidance.
Ans. What is Character vs. Self?
Winston’s age at the beginning of the book.
Ans: What is 13?
The protagonist's initial perspective on Terry's run; he sees it simply as an assignment rather than a life-altering experience.
Ans. What is viewing Terry as a mere "story" to write about rather than a hero?
In the novel, the author strategically blends fictional events with the nuances of this historic Canadian milestone.
Ans. What is the Marathon of Hope?
Winston battles his own feelings of abandonment, often skipping school, and running away from home to attract his parents’ attention.
Ans. What is Character Vs Self,
As the guardian of Winston Macdonald, she took care of Winston, watching Winston as he grew up until her divorce with Winston’s father.
Ans: Who is Mrs. Evans?
Inspired by Terry’s refusal to quit despite losing his leg to osteosarcoma, Winston learns and adopts this psychological trait
Ans. What is resilience?
The final outcome for Winston sees him returning to school and making a binding “deal” with Terry that dictates his future behaviour, centered entirely on this philanthropic foundation.
Ans. What is the Terry Fox Foundation?
The broader philosophical and ideological conflict the protagonist must navigate regarding what defines true capability and disability.
Ans. What is the clash between societal stigma/ableism and Terry Fox's ethos of equality?
As a veteran newspaper journalist traveling with Winston, this character struggles with his own career ambitions.
Ans. Who is Winston Macdonald Sr. ?
Early in the novel, Winston feels intense anger towards his parents, largely because of their divorce, and neither of them wanted to assume this role.
Ans. What is to take custody of him?