Characters
Ella
In which U.S. state does Ella live?
South Carolina
How does Ella feel about her mother being far away?
Sad and lonely
What time in history does the story take place?
The 1940s
What big event is Ella waiting for?
Her mother’s visit for Christmas
Who does Ella live with in Alcolu?
Her grandparents, Mama and Papa
What is the name of Ella’s town?
Alcolu
How does Ella feel when she hears her mother might come home for Christmas?
Excited and hopeful
What is one example of unfairness in the story?
Segregation / Racism / George’s situation
What do the children talk about at school that makes Ella uncomfortable?
Skin color and being “lighter” or “darker”
What is Ella’s mother’s job in Boston?
She’s a jazz singer
Where does Ella’s mother live?
Boston
Why does Ella feel confused when her friends talk about skin color?
Because she doesn’t understand why skin color should matter
What dream keeps Ella strong and hopeful?
Living with her mother in Boston
What terrible thing happens in Alcolu?
George is accused of attacking two white girls
Who are Ella’s two close friends?
Myrna and Henry
How is Ella’s school different from white children’s schools?
It has fewer resources and worse materials because of segregation.
What mixed emotions does Ella have when her mother leaves again?
Happy that she visited but sad to see her go
What lesson does Ella start to learn about the world?
That it’s not always fair, but you must stay hopeful and brave
What gift does Ella’s mother bring when she comes home?
Small presents from Boston (students can name any if mentioned)
Who is George, and why is he important in the story?
A local Black boy accused of a crime he didn’t commit — his story shows racism and injustice.
Why does Ella dream about Boston?
She thinks it’s freer, fairer, and more exciting than Alcolu.
What emotion do people in town feel after George is accused?
Fear and anger — they know it’s unfair but dangerous to speak out
What do friendship and family mean to Ella?
They help her feel loved, even when life is hard or unfair
What promise does Ella’s mother make before she leaves?
That she will write and maybe take Ella to Boston one day