Quiz on the Short Story 'Shells' by Cynthia Rylant

What is the main theme of the short story "Shells" by Cynthia Rylant?

• Adventure and exploration

• Overcoming loneliness and anger

• Mystery and suspense

• Friendship and loyalty

Who does Michael go to live with after his parents die?

• His uncle

• His grandmother

• His aunt Esther

• His older brother

Why did Esther insist on taking care of Michael?

• She needed help around the house

• She was fiercely loyal to her family

• She wanted to move to a new city

• She was afraid of living alone

Where did Esther live?

• In a rural farmhouse

• In a suburban neighborhood

• In a condominium in Detroit

• In a beach house

Why did Michael's aunt, Esther, not allow him to use her phone?

• She was worried about the phone bill.

• She admired only those who were white and Presbyterian.

• She thought he would break it.

• She didn't know how to use it.

What did Michael bring home from the pet store?

• A goldfish

• A parrot

• A hermit crab

• A hamster

How did Esther react when Michael showed her the hermit crab?

• She ignored it.

• She was excited and wanted to hold it.

• She poked the shell and asked where it was.

• She screamed and ran away.

What was Michael's response when asked what the crab does?

• "It sings."

• "It dances."

• "Just grows, I guess."

• "It plays."