Tuesday, February 26, 2013

What are the three most important events in order in My Side of the Mountain?

It can be rather difficult to decide on the "most
important" events in a given work of literature, but here goes. You might want to
re-read the novel and see if you agree or disagree with my choice of events, as
certainly this is a great book with many different plot
elements.


Firstly, quite clearly we need to start with Sam
Gribley's exit from the hustling, bustling city and his move to the far more tranquil
countryside. His first night and its various disasters is interesting in terms of
providing a marker to show how quickly he learns and develops the skills and strategies
necessary to survive. The first night, for example, he is even unable to start a
fire.


Secondly, I would select the stage in the novel when
Sam has his own home in his tree and has worked out how to sustain his life and is
hoarding for the winter. This clearly is an important section of the novel because it
shows how Sam has mastered all the necessary skills for survival in his chosen
location.


Finally, I would select the time when a variety
of newspaper reports are published about Sam, as it represents the beginning of the end
for his solitary life, culminating in the arrival of his family to live with
him.

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