Available Answers

1. 1.

   Arrange the following sentences in the order of events in the passage.

   1. Lapin discovered that Mildred Wirt Benson had written more than 130 books for children.
   2. Lapin set up an interview with Mildred Wirt Benson.
   3. Lapin confirmed that Benson was Carolyn Keene.
   4. Lapin read all the books by Mildred and Wirt Benson and discovered similarities with Nancy Drew.
   5. Lapin found a clue in a Baltimore library book.
   6. Lapin located the book, American Women.
   7. Lapin told Mildred about a court case involving the publishers of Nancy Drew.
2. 2.

   Combing through antique stores and musty bookshelves, Geoffrey said he had 'truly  found a gold mine'.

   1. Who was Geoffrey? What did he discover in 1963?
   2. Why was Geofrey combing through antique stores and musty bookshelves?
   3. Explain the phrase 'found a gold mine.' Why was Geoffrey's discovery a gold mine?
3. 3.

   Stratemeyer offered Mildred the job of ghostwriting a new series about a girl named Nancy Drew.

   1. Who were Stratemeyer and Mildred?
   2. What is 'ghostwriting'? Why was Stratemeyer hiring ghostwriters?
   3. How was Nancy Drew going to be a different heroine?
   4. Did Stratemeyer like Mildred's Nancy? What was the public response?
4. 4.

   Coincidence played a major role in the discovery of the real creator of Nancy Drew. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.

5. 5.

   What aspects of Mildred Benson's own life helped her shape Nancy Drew's character and adventures?

6. 6.

   Discuss at least four character traits of Geoffrey Lapin as evident from the chapter.