Estimated Time: 30 minutes

Questions to Ponder

1. The opening scene of the book indicates that Hercule Poirot has performed some valuable service for a General and "saved the honor of the French Army." What do you think Poirot has done?
2. In Chapter 2, there is a passenger who has not arrived: AM Harris. Poirot says, "I read my Dickens. M. Harris, he will not arrive." What is this alluding to? You will need to do some research to find the answer.
3. Why does Poirot refuse to take Ratchett's case?
4. What is your first impression of Hercule Poirot?
5. In chapter 5, after the murder, what does Poirot ask for to begin his investigation? Why?
6. What evidence does Poirot have at this point? Is it useful evidence?
7. Describe how finding out Ratchett's true identity changes the case.
8. Who are you most suspicious of at this point?

Freewriting

After you have pondered and discussed these questions with your teacher, choose one to complete a freewrite on. If you are unfamiliar with freewriting, here are a few tips:

• Keep your pencil moving. Don’t stop. Just brain dump onto your paper
• Have a set amount of time. Set a timer and write for the full amount of time.
• Ignore all grammar and spelling. Don’t let editing slow down the process. The goal is to get thoughts on paper. Spelling and grammar are not important in this instance.
• Pen and paper aren’t the only ways to freewrite. Feel free to type on the computer. Not only does this accomplish the task, but it builds typing skills.

Share your freewrite in the comments below.