Encounter by Jane Yolen encounter – (n.) an unexpected or casual meeting with someone or something “Since most stories about that first encounter are from…point of view” hammock – (n.) a bed made of canvas or of rope mesh and suspended by cords at the ends “I ran then and found our chief still sleeping in his hammock” feast – (n.) & (v.) (n.) a large meal, typically one in celebration of something; (v.) to eat and drink alot ” So we built a great feasting fire and readied the pepper pot…” desire – (n.) and (v.) (n.) a strong feeling of wanting to have something or wishing for something to happen (v.) strongly wish for or want (something): “They desired all that the strangers had brought…”

The Gardener by Sarah Stewart anxious– (adj.) experiencing worry, unease, or nervousness “I’m anxious to learn to bake, but is there any place to plant seeds?” bulb – (n.) a rounded underground storage organ present in some plants ” Thank you again for the bulbs…you should see them now!” container – (n.) an object that can be used to hold or transport something ” Some neighbors have brought containers or me to fill with flowers…” retire – (v.) to leave one’s job and stop working, usually due to old age “We gardeners never retire.” vacant – (adj.) empty “You should smell the good dirt I’m bringing home from the vacant lot down the street.”

Chicken Sunday by Patricia Polacco exchanged– (v.) give something and receive something of the same kind in return “The three of us exchanged looks” flutter – (v.) to wave, flap, or move or fall with a light irregular or trembling motion ” Her paper fan fluttered back and forth” glower– (v.) have an angry or sullen look on one's face; scowl ”He raised his eyebrows and glowered at us” intricate– (adj.) very complicated or detailed “They picked them up and said things like “Beautiful! Splendid! Intricate!” solemn – (adj.) formal and dignified “They were my brothers by a solemn ceremony we had performed in their backyard one summer”

The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson damp– (adj.) slightly wet partner– (n.) A person who takes part in doing something with someone else polite– (adj.) having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people stretched– (v.) extended the scope of something in a way that exceeded an acceptable limit yonder – (adv.) At some distance in the direction noted; over there

Love that Dog by Sharon Creech anonymous– (adj.) A person not identified by name embarrassed– (adj.) Feeling or showing shame; awkwardness; self-consciousness inspire– (v.) Fill with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative pasture– (n.) Land covered with grass or other low plants suitable for grazing animals, especially cattle tottery– (adj.) To appear to be unsteady; to sway, as if about to fall; unstable