THE CHARACTERS
Who are Ponyboy’s two brothers?
Darry and Sodapop.
What happens to Ponyboy at the beginning of Chapter 1?
He gets jumped by Socs while walking home from the movies.
“Things are rough all over.” — Who says this, and what does it mean?
Cherry Valance; it means everyone has problems, not just the Greasers.
How does Ponyboy feel about Darry at the beginning of the book?
He feels Darry doesn’t love him and is too hard on him
What does “tuff” mean to the Greasers?
Cool or stylish.
Which Greaser is the toughest and most rebellious?
Dallas “Dally” Winston.
Where do Ponyboy, Johnny, and Dally meet Cherry and Marcia?
At the drive-in movie theater.
“You don’t ever think!” — Who says this, and to whom?
Darry says it to Ponyboy.
How does Ponyboy describe Sodapop? Write at least three adjectives.
Handsome, fun, and easygoing
What’s a “heater”?
A gun.
Why does Johnny carry a switchblade?
He was beaten badly by a group of Socs and is afraid it could happen to him again.
Why does Darry hit Ponyboy?
Because Ponyboy comes home late and Darry loses his temper as he was worried about him.
“Johnny worshiped the ground Dallas walked on.” — What does this reveal about Johnny?
He admires Dally’s strength and toughness.
What makes Cherry and Ponyboy’s friendship unusual?
They come from different social groups.
What does “madras” mean?
A plaid shirt popular with the Socs.
How does Ponyboy describe Cherry Valance?
A Soc girl who’s different from the others—kind and understanding.
Why do Ponyboy and Johnny run away to the park?
Ponyboy feels unwanted and hurt after Darry slaps him.
“We’re poorer than the Socs and the middle class. I reckon we’re wilder, too.” — What does Ponyboy mean here?
That the Greasers live rougher lives but are also more real and emotional.
Why does Ponyboy feel connected to Johnny?
They both understand what it feels like to be outsiders.
What does “getting jumped” mean?
Being attacked suddenly.
What do we learn about Darry’s personality in these chapters?
He’s strict and responsible, taking on a role of being parents after their parents’ death.
What major event ends Chapter 3?
Johnny kills a Soc (Bob) while defending Ponyboy from being drowned.
“Maybe the two different worlds we lived in weren’t so different.” — What is the realization Ponyboy has here?
That Socs and Greasers share common feelings and struggles.
How does Cherry react to Dally’s rude behavior at the drive-in?
She throws a soda in his face and stands up to him.
What does “bawl” mean?
To cry loudly.