Paul's Relationship with Benji

Paul, a 13-year-old boy, seeks solace in art under the casarina trees, reflecting on his complex relationship with his twin brother, Benji. Despite his admiration for Benji's courage, Paul struggles with feelings of envy and self-doubt. Memories of a fearful night walk with their father highlight Paul's internal conflict between love and hate for Benji. Ultimately, a moment of confrontation leads Paul to realize that Benji also experiences fear, allowing him to find common ground and purge his feelings of hate.

What does Paul take with him when he leaves the house to escape the heat?

• A book and a blanket

• His pencils and watercolors

• A camera and a notebook

• His guitar and a journal

How does Paul feel about the casarina trees during the day?

• They are frightening and ghostlike

• They are dark and ominous

• They are tall and graceful

• They are short and stubby

What memory does Paul recall about a walk with his father and Benji?

• A picnic in the park

• A sunny day at the beach

• A visit to the zoo

• A night walk with eerie shadows

Why does Paul feel inferior to Benji during their childhood?

• Benji is more popular

• Benji is taller

• Benji can whistle and Paul cannot

• Benji is better at sports

What does Paul wish he could share with Benji?

• His new video game

• His favorite book

• His collection of stamps

• The secret ways of his heart

What is Paul's greatest fear regarding his relationship with Benji?

• That Benji will forget about him

• That Benji will reject his offer of friendship

• That Benji will move away

• That Benji will become more successful

What action does Paul take during his confrontation with Benji?

• He runs away

• He pushes Benji into a corner

• He yells at Benji

• He ignores Benji

What realization does Paul come to after his confrontation with Benji?

• That his brother also knows fear

• That he no longer wants to be friends with Benji

• That he should apologize to Benji

• That he should move away