Chapters 1-2
Where does Nat first meet Annie Clayton?
At Grand Central Station.
Who is Wilma Patterson?
Mrs. Whittaker’s lawyer.
Who gives Nat insider information about Whittaker Air?
Ed Winchester.
What new lead appears about Jackie?
A message from a taxi driver who might know him.
What two worlds does Nat move between?
Wealthy NYC and the homeless community.
What medical emergency happens to Annie?
She has a heart attack and collapses.
What main task does Annie give Nat?
Find her son Jackie.
What crime did Jackie commit in the past?
Car theft (he was in Rikers Island).
Why is Nat more urgent in finding Jackie now?
Annie’s health is getting worse.
What motivates Nat to help Annie?
Compassion and curiosity.
Why does Mrs. Whittaker want Nat’s help?
She wants him to rewrite her will.
What information does Annie give Nat about Jackie?
His name, tattoo, age, and that he might be driving a cab.
Why is Jackie being a cab driver suspicious?
He shouldn’t get a taxi license with a criminal record.
How does Nat show he cares about Annie?
He protects her, checks on her, and stays involved.
How does Annie represent vulnerability?
She is sick, alone, and living on the streets.
What item does Annie ask Nat to keep safe?
Her metal box.
Where does Wilma meet Nat to discuss the will?
A private club/restaurant.
What plan does Stella use to help find Jackie?
Pretends to be his ex-girlfriend calling cab companies.
What emotional change happens in Annie?
She becomes weaker and more emotional.
What theme appears through the search for Jackie?
Family, forgiveness, and second chances.
How do Chapters 1–2 show “high life vs. low life”?
Annie is homeless while Mrs. Whittaker is very wealthy.
What do these chapters reveal about Annie’s feelings toward Jackie?
She loves him deeply and wants to see him again.
How does Jackie’s background deepen the “low life” theme?
It shows crime, poverty, and survival on the streets.
What internal struggle does Annie face?
She fears dying before seeing Jackie again.
How do Chapters 1–7 set up the main mystery?
They introduce Annie, Jackie, and Mrs. Whittaker’s will.