The Boxcar Children

The questions inside

One per chapter, across all 13 chapters — every question is editable before you print.

1. In Chapter 1, what do you learn about the Alden children and their situation? Use details from the chapter to explain why they are afraid of being found.
2. Chapter 2 is called "Night Is Turned into Day." How does the night change for the children, and what does this show about their problem-solving skills?
3. The children find a boxcar in Chapter 3. Why does it seem like a good home for them, and what might be difficult about living there?
4. In Chapter 4, Henry has two surprises. How do these surprises affect him and the other children?
5. The children are excited by the things they find in Chapter 5. What does the word "treasure" mean in this chapter, and why are simple things so valuable to them?
6. In Chapter 6, the children hear a strange noise in the night. How do they react, and what does their reaction tell you about their characters?
7. Chapter 7 includes a big meal made from little onions. What does this chapter show about teamwork and making the best of what you have?
8. In Chapter 8, the children finally have a swimming pool. How does this event help the children feel more comfortable in their new life?
9. Chapter 9 takes place in a cherry orchard. How does the setting add fun, danger, or excitement to the story?
10. In Chapter 10, Henry joins the Free-for-All race. What do his actions during the race show about his personality and values?
11. In Chapter 11, the doctor becomes important to the story. How does his help change what happens to the children?
12. Chapter 12 reveals more about James Henry and Henry James. How does this chapter change what the children, and the reader, understand about Grandfather?
13. By the end of Chapter 13, how has the idea of "home" changed for the Alden children? What do you think the author is saying about family and belonging?

Example answers

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

The children find a boxcar in Chapter 3. Why does it seem like a good home for them, and what might be difficult about living there?

I think the boxcar seems like a good home because it gives the children shelter and a place where they can stay together. They can make it cozy with the things they find, and it feels safer than wandering around. But living there would also be difficult because they do not have a real kitchen, beds, or adults to help them. They have to be brave and figure out many things on their own.

In Chapter 10, Henry joins the Free-for-All race. What do his actions during the race show about his personality and values?

Henry's actions show that he is determined and hardworking. He wants to do well, but he also cares about being fair and responsible. I think he is proud, but not in a mean way, because he wants to help his family. This chapter made me see him as someone who tries his best even when things are hard.

By the end of Chapter 13, how has the idea of "home" changed for the Alden children? What do you think the author is saying about family and belonging?

At first, home means a safe place where the children can hide and take care of each other. By the end, home becomes a place where they can be loved and not be afraid. I think the author is saying that family is not just about a house, but about people who care for you. The children still love their boxcar, but they learn they can belong with their grandfather too.