1. Chapter 1
Residential – an area designed for many homes.
Cur – a mean, old dog.
Coaxing – urged; persuade.
Chapter 2
Aromatic – having a pleasant smell.
Sycamores – a large shade tree, with egg shaped leaves.
Canebrakes – dense growth of cane plants.
Commotion – noisy confusion.
Squalling – loud screaming and crying.

2. Chapter 3
Discarded – thrown out
Mulled – thought over
Eaves – the edges of a roof
Heft – to test the weight of something by lifting it
Dumbfounded – too surprise to speak
Quavering – shaking
Horehound – type of mint candy
Adoration – a deep love

3. Chapter 4
Depot – a train station
Provisions – supplies
Winced – shrank back in pain
Gawked – stared stupidly
Sorghum – grain used to make syrup
Chapter 5
Grit – stubborn courage
Vicious – cruel; spiteful