The Wreck of the Zanzibar - Session 2 - Reading Comprehension suggested answers

In the second session of 'The Wreck of the Zanzibar' reading comprehension, students explore various aspects of the text through a series of questions and answers. The phrase 'by a whisker' is clarified to mean by a very small amount, indicating a narrow margin. The islanders' nickname for Granny May as 'a mad old stick' stems from her forgetfulness and habit of talking to herself. The description of Father as 'like a squall' reveals his volatile nature, with sudden and unpredictable mood swings. The death of the cow Molly and her calf is a significant blow to Laura's family, as Molly was a key source of milk and income for them. Joseph Hannibal captures everyone's imagination with his tales of distant places, suggesting a world of excitement beyond the confines of their island. Laura refers to the 15th of February as the worst day of her life because her brother Billy has run away with Joseph Hannibal. Billy asks Laura to bid farewell to their mother and Granny May on his behalf, fearing they would try to prevent his departure and finding it too difficult to say goodbye himself. With Billy gone, the household mood is sombre; Mother is distraught and blames Father, who remains stoic, while Laura and Mum recognize Billy's deep-seated anger and doubt his return. A concise summary of the events on the 12th, 14th, and 15th of February is requested, challenging students to distil the narrative into no more than 50 words.