Essie's Homecoming Experience and Reflections

In Chapter 8 of 'Coming of Age in Mississippi', Essie struggles with poverty as her family can't afford school clothes. Despite this, she becomes homecoming queen but faces challenges in obtaining a gown. Her father surprises her with a new gown, causing family tension. At the parade, Essie is accused of borrowing the gown from her employers. She reflects on the cultural and generational divides, realizing the older generation's connection to Southern traditions and the younger generation's desire for change.

What financial challenge does Essie's family face?

• They can't afford school clothes.

• They can't pay for school lunches.

• They can't afford school transportation.

• They can't buy school books.

What unexpected event happens to Essie at school?

• She wins a scholarship.

• She is chosen as class president.

• She is elected homecoming queen.

• She receives a detention.

Who offers Essie a gown for the homecoming parade?

• Her sister

• Linda Jean

• Her mother

• Her teacher

What causes tension in Essie's family during the homecoming event?

• Essie's new hairstyle

• Essie's decision to skip the parade

• Essie's choice of friends

• Essie's new gown from her father

How does Essie feel about the attention she receives at the parade?

• She feels embarrassed.

• She feels anxious.

• She feels indifferent.

• She feels thrilled.

What song is sung by the crowd during the parade?

• Lift Every Voice and Sing

• Dixie and Swanee River

• Amazing Grace

• The Star-Spangled Banner

What realization does Essie have about herself during the parade?

• She dislikes parades.

• She is still a child.

• She is no longer a little girl.

• She wants to leave town.

What does Essie observe about the older generation's view of the past?

• They have a realistic view.

• They have a futuristic view.

• They have a neutral view.

• They have a romantic view.

How do younger people feel about Southern traditions, according to Essie?

• They are confused by them.

• They want to preserve them.

• They are eager for change.

• They are indifferent.

What does Essie think about the relationship between older Negroes and whites?

• They have a hostile relationship.

• They have a competitive relationship.

• They have a sympathetic relationship.

• They have no relationship.