1. On page 127, the author lists people she interviewed for Growing up in Coal Country. What stories do your family members—your grandparents or other relatives—tell you about growing up, working, and living in the twentieth century? Interview a relative about an incident or about what life has been like for him or her. Tape the interview and transcribe it. Think about what questions are important to ask your relative.

2. The children have little time for school or play in "Coal Country." For one week write down the number of hours you spend on the following activities: school, personal grooming, sleeping, recreation, watching television, work, volunteer activities, and family time (talking and playing with parents or siblings). For your report, analyze how you spend your time and answer the following questions. On average, what percentage of your day's...