“Hurry and finish your hot chocolate, Alex,” my big sister calls. She pulls on her blue parka and scoops her gloves off the floor. “Come on, slowpoke, or they’ll be gone by the time we get there.”
I gulp the last drop of chocolate and wipe my mouth on my sleeve.
Mother smiles. “Dress warm,” she says.
Sister holds open my new green parka. It is my favorite color. I slip my arms in, then lace up my boots.
“Allie, I’m not slow. See, I’m ready.”
Mother looks out the window. “Yes, the SkySpirits will come tonight,” she says.
“Let’s go! I shout, and I race to the door.
Mother calls after me. “Alex, remember to listen to Allie.”
“Yes Alex, I’m older.” Allie grins.
“Not by much,” I say.
Mother raises a finger to her lips and quietly says, “Shh, remember the words of Grandmother, our Nokomis. Wisdom comes on silent wings.” She smiles and waves, then closes the door.
Comprehension Questions
1. What message does the mother give her girls before they head out on a winter evening?
A. Be sure to take a cellphone with them.
B. Pray for good luck and safety.
C. To remember their grandmother's wisdom about the importance of staying silent.
A. So they don't wake up the neighbors.
B. For awareness of their surroundings and feel the awe of nature.
C. To increase their chances of hearing and seeing wildlife.
Your Thoughts
Vocabulary
4. List any vocabulary words below.