You learned earlier that the climax of the novel is when Ponyboy and Johnny rush into the burning church to save the children. However, you have probably noticed that several outstanding conflicts are still unresolved in the novel. Most of these issues won't be resolved until the last page of the book, and even then, some of the conflicts may not be resolved.
In this next chapter, you learn more about Johnny's condition and how the other characters are dealing with it. As you read, look closely at the details to see how Ponyboy, Dally, and Two-Bit are understanding and coping with the idea that Johnny may never walk again.
Get Your Text
Read Chapter 8 of The Outsiders.
| What do you predict will happen to Johnny? |
| Why is Johnny opposed to seeing his mother, and does he have a good reason for avoiding her? |
| Why might Dally want Two-Bit's switchblade? |
| When Two-Bit and Ponyboy are at the bus station, what does Two-Bit say is wrong with Ponyboy? |
| Why does Ponyboy ask Cherry if she can see the sunset from the West Side? |
When you finish the reading assignment for this lesson (Chapter 8), return to this lesson to complete the remaining activities and the lesson quiz.
