Locations
Jeannette attends college.
New York
to ensure someone or something is remembered forever.
immortalize
"It's the Joshua tree's struggle that gives it its beauty."
Rose Mary
the author and narrator
Jeannette
Mountain Goat
Mom inherits a house from Grandma Smith.
Phoenix
thrown into confusion
addled
"Years from now, when all the junk they got is broken and long forgotten, you'll still have your stars."
Rex
Rex's mother and the kids' paternal grandmother; she is an alcoholic, and a racist
Erma
What is Rose Mary's philosophy on raising children?
Children should have unlimited freedom because they learn a lot from their mistakes.
Mom paints the Joshua tree.
Midland
average, ordinary, undistinguished; moderate to inferior quality
mediocre
"I wondered if the fire had been out to get me. I wondered if all fire was related, like Dad said all humans were related."
Jeannette
the youngest Walls sibling; described as being the most fragile
Maureen
Of which branch of the military was Rex a veteran?
Air Force
Maureen is born.
Blythe
to persuade someone to do something through flattery
cajole
"I'm such an excitement addict!"
Rose Mary
the sibling closest in age to Jeannette and her constant companion
Brian
What does Rex call his invention, which he plans to use to find gold?
The Prospector
Brian and Jeannette find a diamond ring while scavenging.
Welch
threatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic events
ominous
Lori
she was both Rex and Jeannette's English teacher; Rex describes her as one of the only people to ever believe in him
Miss Bivens
According to Rose Mary, Rex was never the same after what event changed him?
The death of their daughter, Mary Charlene.