3. Why are we reading this? I chose this story because it is pretty easy to understand. The story is straightforward (no time travel, for example). The language is direct and relatively simple (no 'thee' and 'thou' or other historically challenging language, etc.). And, it's a good story. Not a happy story, but a good story that will give you a feel for what Anderson thought was a typical American life.

8. Focus on 'what is happening' not the words or sentences.

10. It can help you learn to handle vocabulary in context.

11. It can be used to practice writing and other academic skills.