Storm Runners

John brings his son with him on his dangerous search for disaster repair work. Suggest two reasons why John might think that this would be a good experience for Chase. What do you think might also make it a bad idea?

Chase has learned from his father to ignore foolish advice from others during an emergency. Yet, he agrees to board a school bus for the ride home against his better judgment. Why does Chase do this? Is his decision wise or foolish?

When the bus crashes into the lake, Nicole does three things that help save Chase and Rashawn. List the three things, and describe the skills and character strengths that enable Nicole to perform them.

After Nicole emerges from an exhausting rescue swim in a gale-swept lake, Rashawn does something that revives Nicole. Describe that act and explain briefly why it works so well. What might have happened to Nicole if Rashawn hadn’t thought to do it?

Why does Chase try to jump over a giant alligator? Was this wise or foolish, and why? What other choice, if any, did Chase have?

Newscaster Richard stands in hurricane-force winds and reports on his trek toward the place where Hurricane Emily made landfall. Why is his seemingly brave performance not nearly as dangerous as it looks? What does that suggest about Richard’s character?

Though John is very private about his motives in seeking out storms and the repair work they cause, he invites reporter Cindy to join him as he drives north in search of Chase. Suggest two reasons why John might benefit from her participation, despite her nosiness.

Chase and his companions face new challenges nearly every hour from the hurricane; each time, they observe the situation and figure out the best option for moving forward. Describe one such incident—for example, the bus driver lying dead on the shore of an alligator-infested lake, the mystery of Nicole’s disappearing headlamp, or the padlock on the outside of the circus headquarters gate—and explain how the kids figure out what to do.