Narrator's Growth and Influences

The speaker shares a personal story of overcoming a troubled past with the help of a dedicated teacher, Mrs. Russ. Despite being incarcerated multiple times as a youth, the speaker was inspired by Mrs. Russ to return to school and graduate. The story of Uncle Ruben, who taught the speaker the value of hard work, is also highlighted. Mrs. Russ recognized the speaker's potential and encouraged them to use their background and work ethic to succeed academically and give back to their community.

What was the narrator's situation by the age of 15?

• He had been incarcerated multiple times.

• He was working full-time.

• He was a top student in his class.

• He had traveled the world.

Who was Mrs. Russ in the narrator's life?

• A caring teacher

• His parole officer

• His mother

• His neighbor

What did the narrator and his Uncle Ruben do for work?

• They collected glass bottles.

• They were construction workers.

• They worked in a factory.

• They ran a grocery store.

What lesson did Uncle Ruben impart to the narrator?

• The significance of education

• The need to travel and explore

• The value of hard work and seeking a better life

• The importance of saving money

How did Mrs. Russ help the narrator view his story?

• As a burden he needed to forget

• As a source of shame

• As a source of power and potential

• As a reason to leave school

What was the outcome of the narrator's interaction with Mrs. Russ?

• He moved to another city.

• He returned to school and graduated.

• He started a business.

• He dropped out of school.