Chapter 18 · Holes

Copywork

His muscles and hands weren’t the only parts of his body that had toughened over the past several weeks. His heart had hardened as well.

Read the passage aloud. What two kinds of toughening does the author set side by side?

Narration Tell back what happens in the chapter, in order: the new holes, Stanley's body, his letter, and what Zero asks him.

Stanley's letter says the camp “builds character.” What do you think it has built in him so far? Theme
Stanley thought Zero was reading over his shoulder, but Zero wanted something else. Why might Stanley have been so sure of what Zero was doing? Inference
Zero says, “I don’t have anybody to write to.” What do you hear in that sentence? Tone
Stanley's letter is printed in pieces, and Zero's request breaks in between them. Why might the author do it this way? Author's choice
Zero asks, “Can you teach me?” in only a few words. What does it tell you about Zero that he asks this way? Character

Make a Connection Tell about a time someone asked you for help when you were tired. What did you do, and what do you think now?

toughened: parts of his body that had toughened over the past several weeks Became hard and strong.
hardened: His heart had hardened as well. Became stiff, or less gentle.
considerably: was considerably swollen By a large amount.
callused: his hands were tough and callused Covered with thick, hard skin.
throbbing: he felt a throbbing pain just above his neck Beating or aching in a steady pulse.
challenging: Camp is hard, but challenging. Hard in a way that tests you.
penetrating: Zero stared at him with penetrating eyes. Sharp; seeming to see deep.
energy: He needed to save his energy for the people who counted. The strength to do things.
moisture: He barely had enough moisture in his mouth to seal and stamp the envelope. A small amount of water or wetness.

Stanley is glad to be digging his own hole again. Using two pieces of evidence, explain why this day feels easier for him.
Stanley's body has changed, but he still feels pain and thirst. Using two pieces of evidence, explain whether he is better or worse off in body than before.
Stanley's letter says camp is “hard, but challenging.” Using two pieces of evidence, explain how well the letter matches what the chapter shows.