Vocabulary
What is the definition of shimmering?
shining with a soft or unsteady light.
Where does the story take place?
The story takes place on the Mississippi River
Why do you think Minn’s journey is exciting to readers?
Minn’s journey is exciting to readers because she faces challenges and explores new places.
What lesson do you think Minn’s journey teaches readers?
That animals have to be brave and adaptable to survive.
What does deserted mean?
Deserted means empty and not lived in by people or abandoned.
What type of animal is Minn?
Minn is a snapping turtle
Why do you think Minn travels all the way down the Mississippi River?
Minn travels all the way down the Mississippi River because she is following her journey to find a good home.
Why do you think the author chose a snapping turtle as the main character?
Because turtles live in rivers, face challenges, and their journey can teach readers about nature.
What is the definition of desire?
Desire means a strong feeling of wanting something.
What does Minn do to hibernate in the winter?
To hibernate in the winter Minn burrows herself deep in the mud.
Why do you think Minn survives dangers along the river?
Minn survives dangers along the river because she is clever, strong, and careful.
How do the illustrations and maps add to the story?
They help readers picture Minn’s journey and understand the geography of the Mississippi River.
What part of speech is the word rapids?
Rapids is a noun.
How was Minn able to survive all winter burrowed in the mud at the bottom of the swamp?
Minn was able to survive all winter by storing air in her strong lungs
Minn survives many dangers throughout the story. This suggests she has what type of personal quality?
bravery or toughness
Why is Minn’s interaction with other animals important to the story?
It shows how animals share the river and how Minn must adapt to live safely with them.
What part of speech is the word shallow?
Shallow is an adjective.
At the end of the story what had startled the boys?
At the end of the story Minn (the monster) had startled the boys.
Why do you think the river has many different animals and people along it?
The river has many different animals and people along it because the Mississippi River connects many habitats and communities.
How does Minn’s journey encourage readers to think about protecting rivers and wildlife?
By showing the importance of rivers and how animals depend on them, readers learn why nature should be cared for.