When and How to Pair:
Read this text after chapter eight to generate a discussion on the theme of belonging. In this chapter, Bud finds a community in Hooverville and tries to board a train going West. Have students discuss Bud’s observations about Hooverville and his interactions with Bugs, Deza, and the adults in the community. Then, have students discuss Erik’s interactions with Bjorn and his mother during the raid in “Left Behind.” Have students consider the degree to which the characters feel a sense of belonging in their communities. Ask, “Why does Bud leave Hooverville after the confrontation between the crowd and the police? How are Bud’s feelings about Hooverville similar to and different from Erik’s feelings about his village in ‘Left Behind?’” Students should provide evidence from both texts to support their thinking about the theme of belonging.