Essay Questions

Why does M.C. feel such a strong connection to Lurhetta Outlaw? Why is he jealous of her ease with conversing with the Killburns?

M.C. sees Lurhetta as a strong person who can hold her own with anyone. She is confident to leave her home and explore what is unknown to her. He is jealous with how she does not treat the Killburn’s differently and feels embarrassed by his family’s reaction to the Killburns. He wishes he had her worldly view.

What is M.C.’s fascination with his 40-foot pole? What does it symbolize to him?

M.C. feels free when he is on his 40-foot pole. He can view life outside of his mountain and think about what life would be like away from his home. The pole symbolizes the possibilities of the future and the great things that he could accomplish out in the world.

Why does M.C. want Mr. Lewis to make Banina Higgins a star? Why is it important to get away from the mountain?

M.C. is scared for his family’s safety after the coal industry strip-mined Sarah’s Mountain. He worries that the mountain will slide down into their home. He wants Mr. Lewis to take Banina’s voice off the mountain where everyone will enjoy it and she will become a star taking them to the big city and away from danger. His greatest fear is that the mountain will slide, and they will be buried alive under the mountain.