Exploring Chapter 5 of Where the Red Fern Grows

Billy Coleman arrives at the depot to collect his puppies. Initially nervous, he gains courage and meets the stationmaster, who helps him retrieve the puppies. As Billy walks through town, he faces ridicule but remains proud of his new companions. A confrontation with a gang of kids leads to a fight, but a marshal intervenes and befriends Billy. Later, Billy camps in the mountains, where he bravely protects his puppies from a mountain lion.

Why was Billy initially afraid to go into the depot?

• He didn't have the money to pay for the puppies.

• He thought the stationmaster looked unfriendly.

• He was unsure if the puppies had arrived.

• He was nervous and couldn't explain why.

What did the stationmaster do to help Billy carry the puppies?

• He gave Billy a box to carry them in.

• He provided a cart for Billy to use.

• He cut holes in a gunnysack for the puppies' heads.

• He offered to drive Billy home.

How did Billy feel when he first saw his puppies?

• He was angry because they were dirty.

• He was worried they wouldn't recognize him.

• He was overwhelmed with joy and couldn't move.

• He was disappointed because they were smaller than expected.

Why did people in town stare and snicker at Billy?

• Because he was carrying puppies in a gunnysack.

• Because he was talking to himself.

• Because he was running through the streets.

• Because he was wearing torn clothes.

What did Billy do when the freckle-faced boy pulled his puppy's ear?

• He started crying.

• He called for help.

• He ignored it and walked away.

• He set down the sack and prepared to fight.

How did the town marshal help Billy after the fight?

• He gave Billy money for the puppies.

• He bought Billy a bottle of soda.

• He scolded the other boys.

• He drove Billy home.

What did the marshal think about Billy's determination to get the puppies?

• He thought Billy was foolish.

• He was impressed by Billy's grit.

• He was indifferent.

• He believed Billy should have asked for help.

Where did Billy plan to camp for the night?

• By the river.

• In a cave in the mountains.

• At a friend's house.

• In a hotel in town.

What did Billy do to protect himself and his puppies from the mountain lion?

• He ran away with the puppies.

• He hid in the cave and stayed silent.

• He used a weapon to scare the lion.

• He built a large fire and threw rocks.

How did the boy puppy react to the mountain lion's scream?

• He whimpered and stayed close to the girl puppy.

• He ignored the sound.

• He ran out of the cave and barked.

• He hid behind Billy.