Before we were free

The questions inside

One per chapter, across all 12 chapters — every question is editable before you print.

1. In Chapter 1, what changes does Anita notice in her family compound, and what do those changes make her wonder about?
2. In Chapter 2, Anita starts to understand that adults are keeping secrets. How does this affect the way she feels about her family and her home?
3. In Chapter 3, words and names like "El Jefe" and "SIM" are important. What do these words mean in the story, and how do they help create a feeling of danger?
4. In Chapter 4, Anita learns that people in her country cannot always say what they really think. What does this chapter show about freedom?
5. In Chapter 5, based on the whispered conversations and strange events, what do you predict Anita’s family may be involved in? Use details from the chapter.
6. In Chapter 6, how does Chucha help Anita understand what is happening, even when Chucha speaks in unusual or mysterious ways?
7. In Chapter 7, do you think the adults are right to hide some truths from Anita? Why or why not?
8. In Chapter 8, Lucinda is in danger because of the ruler’s power. How does the family try to protect her, and what does this show about them?
9. In Chapter 9, what are some ways Papi and other characters show courage? How is their courage different from just being unafraid?
10. In Chapter 10, after the danger grows even stronger, what do you think might happen next to Anita and her family? Explain your prediction.
11. In Chapter 11, Anita has to live with fear and uncertainty. How does she change from the beginning of the book to this point?
12. In Chapter 12, what does Anita learn about freedom, family, and hope by the end of the story?

Example answers

Printed at the front of the booklet, so your reader can see what a strong answer looks like.

In Chapter 2, Anita starts to understand that adults are keeping secrets. How does this affect the way she feels about her family and her home?

I think the secrets make Anita feel confused and unsafe. Her home used to feel like a place where everyone belonged, but now people whisper and leave without explaining. I can tell she still loves her family, but she is starting to notice that something serious is happening. This makes her feel more grown-up because she has to pay attention to things she did not understand before.

In Chapter 7, do you think the adults are right to hide some truths from Anita? Why or why not?

I think the adults are partly right because they want to protect Anita from being scared and from saying something dangerous by accident. In their country, even children could get their families in trouble without meaning to. But I also think hiding everything makes Anita feel lonely and confused. She needs some truth so she can understand why her life is changing.

In Chapter 12, what does Anita learn about freedom, family, and hope by the end of the story?

By the end, I think Anita learns that freedom is not just doing whatever you want. It means being able to speak, live safely, and make choices without fear. She also learns that family love can stay strong even when people are separated or hurt. Even though the ending is sad in some ways, Anita still has hope for a better future.