More Resources

James Thurber, The Greatest Man in the World

James Thurber, The Greatest Man in the World

Read The Greatest Man in the World and check your comprehension by answering the following questions. Then “submit” your work.

1. What does Jack Smurch do for a living before he becomes a record-setting aviator?

He is a hit man.

He is a reporter.

He is a banker.

He is a mechanic’s assistant.

2. What does Smurch’s mother say when she is asked to comment on her son’s adventure?

“I hope he drowns.”

“He is a chip off the old block.”

“He’s a fraud. He’s afraid of heights.”

“If he makes it, I’ll buy all of you a drink.”

3. Which of the following activities is not part of Smurch’s past?

stealing an alter cloth from church

marrying his high school girlfriend

serving in the reformatory

knifing his principal

4. What is the purpose of the “secret conference” of city, state, and government officials?

to teach Smurch how to be a hero

to plan a surprise party for Smurch

to expose Smurch as the man he really is

to find out if Smurch has committed any felonies

5. What does Smurch have tattooed over his heart?

the word “Sadie”

the word “Mom”

an airplane

a cross