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Copywork
About This Passage
Mrs. Watson knows the exact bribe. Mercy 'narrows her eyes' — the gesture of a creature considering a deal. Kate DiCamillo grants Mercy the inner life of a small negotiator.
'Darling,' said Mrs. Watson, 'if you let Mr. Watson drive, I will make you an extra helping of hot buttered toast.' Mercy narrowed her eyes. She loved hot buttered toast. She also loved extra helpings...
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Discussion Questions
Narration Prompt
In your own words, tell the chapter. What is the most surprising moment?
Discussion Questions
- Mr. Watson tries to push Mercy out of the seat. Mercy does not move. Mrs. Watson offers extra toast. Mercy moves. What is Kate DiCamillo saying about the difference between force and persuasion?
- Mercy 'narrows her eyes' at Mrs. Watson's offer. The narrow eyes are the gesture of a creature thinking, weighing, deciding. What kind of inner life is the author granting Mercy here?
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Vocabulary Builder
Item 1
a beloved one — a term of deep affection
Item 2
a serving of food on a plate
Item 3
made smaller — here, eyes squinted in thought
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Critical Thinking
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