Understanding Chapter 14: The Rhododendron

The transcript follows a day in the life of Phoebe and Sal, exploring family dynamics, suspicions about Mrs. Cadaver, and Sal's reflections on her father's relationship with Margaret. Phoebe is jumpy and imagines sinister activities, while Sal contemplates her own family situation. Mrs. Winterbottom expresses concerns about her life, and Sal receives a gift from Margaret, which she rejects.

What was Phoebe's reaction to her mother's list of instructions?

• She ignored it.

• She was indifferent.

• She felt reassured.

• She became anxious.

What activity were Phoebe and the narrator observing Mrs. Cadaver doing in her garden?

• Mowing the lawn

• Hacking branches

• Watering plants

• Planting flowers

Who was the man with bushy black hair that visited Mrs. Cadaver?

• Phoebe's father

• The narrator's father

• A police officer

• Mr. Birkway, the English teacher

What did Phoebe suspect was hidden under the rhododendron bush?

• A treasure chest

• A secret message

• Mr. Cadaver's body

• A time capsule

How did the narrator feel about her father's behavior at Margaret's house?

• Comforted

• Uncomfortable

• Amused

• Indifferent

What did the narrator notice about her father's demeanor at home compared to at Margaret's?

• He was more relaxed at home.

• He was sadder at home.

• He was happier at home.

• He was more talkative at home.

What was Mrs. Winterbottom's condition when she returned home?

• She was cheerful.

• She was upset.

• She was energetic.

• She was indifferent.

What did Mrs. Winterbottom ask Prudence about her life?

• If she was happy

• If she was tired

• If she led a tiny life

• If she was successful

What did the narrator wonder about Mrs. Winterbottom's actions?

• Why she was always happy

• Why she didn't ask for help

• Why she was always busy

• Why she was so energetic

What was the narrator's reaction to the gift from Margaret?

• She was excited.

• She was indifferent.

• She was grateful.

• She was upset.