Out of the Dust Summer 1934

Front

Who does Billie Jo blame for the accident?

Back

Billie Jo blames both her dad and herself for the accident.

Front

Why does the author include the grasshopper invasion?

Back

The grasshopper invasion is included to show that the dust is not the only environmental hardship affecting people, to mirror Ma's death with the trees' death, and to illustrate Billie Jo's determination to save the trees.

Front

What is the purpose of the poem "Nightmare" in the story?

Back

The poem "Nightmare" serves to show just how much the accident will affect Billie Jo.

Front

What does Billie Jo's action of beating out the flames reveal about her character?

Back

It reveals that she doesn't put herself first when it comes to her family.

Front

What happens when Aunt Ellis arrives?

Back

Aunt Ellis realizes the baby is dead and leaves.

Front

What is the main theme of "Out of the Dust"?

Back

The main theme is resilience in the face of hardship and the impact of loss.

Front

How does Billie Jo's relationship with her father change throughout the story?

Back

Billie Jo's relationship with her father evolves from blame and anger to understanding and reconciliation.

Front

What role does the setting play in the story?

Back

The setting, during the Dust Bowl, highlights the environmental challenges and emotional struggles faced by the characters.

Front

What does Billie Jo's piano symbolize in the story?

Back

The piano symbolizes Billie Jo's passion, her connection to her mother, and her struggle to find her voice after the accident.

Front

How does the author use imagery to convey the hardships of the Dust Bowl?

Back

The author uses vivid imagery to depict the dust storms, the barren landscape, and the emotional turmoil of the characters.