The Bean Trees Chapters 1-3

Respond to the following questions. If you have other comments, please post them.

Chapter One "The One Who Got Away"

Taylor's mom compares a scarecrow to a person's character. Discuss her words and how they sum up the decision Taylor makes. What do these words tell us about Taylor’s mother, her values, and Taylor’s upbringing?

Chapter Two "New Year’s Pig"

Chapter Two is told from the perspective of Lou Ann. How does this change in point of view affect the story for you as a reader? Lee Sing compares Lou Ann’s baby to a new year’s pig. Why and what does this say about some of the issues thus far addressed in the novel?

Chapter Three "Jesus is Lord Tires"

Choose details from the story to characterize the shop. Is unusual? Explain your answer.