Characters
What is Stanley’s family curse related to?
The Yelnats family has bad luck because of a broken promise made by his great-great-grandfather.
Why does Stanley end up at Camp Green Lake?
He is wrongfully accused of stealing shoes.
Is there a lake at Camp Green Lake?
No
Who is Sam the Onion Man in love with?
Miss Katharine Barlow
“You have to dig the hole. It’s the only way to survive.” — Who says this and what does it reveal about the environment at Camp Green Lake?
Mr. Sir; it shows how the camp is harsh and focused on physical labor, with no actual purpose for the digging
What does Zero's real name (Hector Zeroni) reveal about his connection to the past?
He is a descendant of Madame Zeroni, who cursed the Yelnats family.
What happens when Stanley runs away to find Zero?
They survive together on the mountain.
What do the onions symbolize in the story?
Healing, survival, and connection to the past.
What happens to Katherine after Sam dies?
She becomes the outlaw Kissin’ Kate Barlow.
“I can fix that.” — Who says this and why is it important?
Sam; he says it when helping Katherine—symbol of love and healing.
What did Miss Katherine Barlow do after the death of Sam the Onion Man?
She became the outlaw "Kissin’ Kate Barlow," robbing banks and leaving a mark of her lipstick.
How is the Yelnats family curse finally broken?
Stanley carries Zero up the mountain.
What is the “thumb of God”?
A mountain that looks like a thumb, where Stanley and Zero find water.
How is Zero connected to the Yelnats family curse?
He is Madame Zeroni’s descendant.
“You’re not digging to build character. You’re digging to find something.” — What does this mean?
The Warden is using the boys to search for treasure.
What is the significance of the name "Stanley Yelnats"?
It’s the same backwards and forwards, symbolizing the connection between past and present.
How does the relationship between Stanley and Zero evolve throughout the story?
They go from being strangers to close friends who rely on each other, breaking the curse together.
What’s the significance of the holes?
They represent punishment, searching for truth, and hidden history.
What object connects Kate Barlow’s treasure to Stanley’s family?
A suitcase with “Stanley Yelnats” on it.
“Zero’s the real thief.” — Why is this quote important in the story?
It reveals who actually took the shoes and deepens the bond between Zero and Stanley.