63 pages 2 hours read

Paul Fleischman

Whirligig

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1998

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

“Party Time”-“Weeksboro, Maine”

Reading Check

1. What does Brent think is a “drag”?

2. What is Chaz’s party’s dress code?

3. What does Brent tell himself that he has “the power” to do?

4. How does Steph respond to Alexandra’s help at the end of her story?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. Describe Brent’s father temperament. Has his recent promotion helped his mood? Why or why not?

2. Summarize Brent’s concerns about attending the party. Are these concerns alleviated when he enters Chaz’s home? Why or why not?

3. Who is Brianna? How does a conversation with her change the course of Brent’s evening?

4. What is guided imagery? How does Alexandra want to use guided imagery to help Steph and what setting does she choose to do this in?

Paired Resource

What Is a Whirligig, Anyway?

  • Happy Gardens shares a brief history and definition of whirligigs.
  • What is the typical purpose of a whirligig?

“The Afterlife”-“Miami, Florida”

1. How does Miss Gill describe the meeting between Brent and Mrs. Zamora?

2. What does Brent note is his “interim identity”?

3.