Chapter 1
Describe the setting of the story
William's home is in the countryside where most people are farmers.
What tragic loss do William and his family experience in Chapter 2?
William’s uncle, Uncle John, dies suddenly from tuberculosis, a disease that attacks your lungs.
Why does William want to fix radios?
William was never happy not knowing how something worked. He was always questioning and thinking about the “why” He is curious and wants to figure things out
True or false: William has 3 brothers and 3 sisters.
FALSE- all sisters
Who are the sing’anga? How does William feel about them?
William is terrified of the sing’anga, the witch doctors of his village. Most people were too poor to see a real doctor, so these “doctors” were respected in the village for their knowledge of magic and health
Who is Khamba and how does William become fond of him?
Khamba is a black-spotted dog who comes to live with William when William’s other uncle, Socrates, loses his job at a tobacco estate
Where and why do Geoffrey and William find batteries?
The garbage at the trading center because they can't afford to buy them.
What job does William's father have?
He is a farmer.
Who are William’s best friends?
Geoffrey and Gilbert- Geoffrey is William’s cousin, Gilbert is the son of the village chief
How does William hunt? What does this tell us about his character?
William finds and creates his own hunting tools. This shows Williams' inventiveness and creativity.
What game does William play at the trading center?
Bawo (mancala)
Which character introduces William to curiosity and learning early in the story?
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Why does William focus on stories about his village and the witch doctors in Chapter 1?
William wants the reader to understand where he comes from and how his culture and the people around him have impacted his decisions and life.
Is tuberculosis still present today?
Yes, but there is a vaccine and treatment.
Why do most people in Malawi not have electricity?
Most do not have enough money to afford it and in order to get electricity there are many hoops to jump through
Why does William's family believe in magic?
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What is the relationship between magic and everyday life in Malawi?
Magic and everyday life is deep-rooted, pervasive, and often viewed as a functional part of daily existence rather than mere superstition
What do Williams inner thoughts tell us in Chapter 2?
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How does deforestation impact people’s access to electricity in Malawi?
Many people use firewood as their source of light and heat which means they need lots of trees. Tobacco and maize estates also tear down trees to plant their crops. Without trees and forests covering the land, storms can turn into floods, tearing away soil that helps plants grow.
What does the anecdote about the gumballs tell you about William's character?
He is honest!