Heroes & Family
Who was Finn’s father, and what was his job?
Noah C- Finn’s father was a firefighter, often described as a community hero.
What does Kelly ask Finn to do as reparations for vandalizing the grave?
Kelly asks Finn to climb all 46 High Peaks as a way to make amends.
What is the tone of Finn’s poetry at the beginning of the book?
heavy, angry, and full of grief.
Who is Seymour, and why is he important on the hikes?
Seymour is Kelly’s dog, a loyal hiking companion who brings Finn comfort and steadiness.
What does Finn realize about grief while hiking?
It doesn’t go away, but you learn to carry it.
Why is Finn caught up with the word “hero”?
Finn struggles with the word hero because while others celebrate his dad, Finn remembers his absence and the complicated reality of his death.
What happened when Kelly offered Finn her mother’s hiking boots?
Finn didn't wear the boots the first time and broke Kelly's rules.
What is Ms. Garcia’s poetry assignment for her students?
write poems about what matters to them, what is a hero
Who was Annie, and how did Finn feel about hiking with her?
Annie is another hiker; Finn is awkward with her at first but slowly learns from her experience and kindness.
Helped his moms store, and reflect about the hikes
Who was Edna Grace
The first women to finish all 46 mounts
What was the job of all the helpers?
To help Finn get up the moutains but they were allowed to help Finn out.
How do Finn’s two “Hero” poems differ?
First is bitter; second shows growth and hope.
What wisdom does Coach offer Finn during their hikes together?
Coach reminds Finn that heroes aren’t perfect and that resilience is what matters most.
How do mountains connect to life?
They show struggles, steps, and perseverance.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic make Finn’s dad’s death even more complicated for his family?
No funeral or support, harder to grieve.
What did Finn learn from the toxicology report about his dad?
The toxicology report revealed Finn’s father was not under the influence, clearing doubts about recklessness.
Why does Finn tell Ms. Garcia that his poems are going to be different?
He wanted to be honest about his dad and himself.
Why did Finn climb Esther and Whiteface without Sam, and what lie did he tell his mom?
Finn hiked without Sam because he wanted to prove himself; he lied to his mom by saying he was with Sam
What impact did Finns dad have on others?
Gave time and life helping others.
What did Coach tell Finn about his dad?
He saved lives and showed bravery.
What happened to Finn on Esther Mountain?
A cougar came and attacked him
Does someone only become a hero when others admire them, or can they be a hero quietly? How does Finn wrestle with this?
No — they can be quiet and personal.
What is significant about Seymour being described as “a dog that’s stayed by my side”?
Seymour represents loyalty and companionship, teaching Finn the importance of having someone at your side through hardship.
Who was the girl in the photo that Finn's dad was holding?
The girl in the photo Finn’s dad was holding was Kelly’s mom.