<p> “The Devil and Tom Walker” Active Reading Worksheet Before You Read: 1. Pretend that you have just made a deal with the devil. A.) What are some things you desire that could cause you to strike such a deal? B.) What are your limits to the bargain? In other words, what are you willing and not willing to do to seal the deal? A.)</p><p>B.)</p><p>As You Read: 4. When Tom is taking a shortcut through the forest and stops at the old Indian fort, he sits on an old stump and picks up a skull. This is when he meets “Old Scratch.” Describe the devil’s appearance and personality.</p><p>5. Of all the “assignments” the devil wants Tom to do, he refuses to become a slave trader. A.) Based on what you know about Tom, does this surprise you? B.) Why do you think he considers this to be so awful? Think about the time and place (setting) of the story. A.)</p><p>B.)</p><p>6. Toward the end of his life, Tom regrets making the deal with the devil. What does he do in response?</p><p>7. What is something you regret?</p><p>8. Explain what happens to Tom’s valuables in the end (horses, gold/silver, house, etc.).</p><p>After You Read: 9. In your opinion, could Tom have escaped the consequences of his bargain with Old Scratch? Explain.</p><p>10. How is the devil in this story similar and/or different from your thoughts of the devil?</p><p>11. Discuss what you think is the theme of the story.</p>