Chapters 1-5

Reading Check

1. Alcohol poisoning and a concussion (Chapter 3)

2. Laurie (Chapter 4)

Short Answer

1. He steals a car and drives drunk because he is trying to get back at his father for divorcing his mother and dating his third-grade teacher. (Chapter 2)

2. Simon is angry that Janet left alcohol in the house. (Chapter 3)

3. She is a petite, blond-haired girl who dresses in Goth clothing and is an expert in karate. (Chapter 4)

Chapters 6-7

Reading Check

1. Community service in a nursing home (Chapter 6)

2. Solomon “Sol” Lewis (Chapter 6)

Short Answer

1. He is forced to work with the cantankerous Mr. Lewis, who is described as “an ancient, merciless gargoyle” because he is combative and insulting. (Chapter 6)

2. She tells Alex that he has met his match in Mr. Lewis and that he should keep plugging away. (Chapter 7)

Chapters 8-11

Reading Check

1. Laurie (Chapter 8)

2. He plays his guitar for Sol. (Chapter 9)

3. Emphysema (Chapter 11)