Sweeping open the heavy doors of the library, Maria felt the rush of cool air.
Grandpa had always called the library the best travel agent that existed. Slowly, Maria was beginning to be convinced.
Going to the library reminded Maria of the way an airplane climbs at take-off. That feeling of flight was thrilling, especially without the nervous "butterflies" in her stomach that she got with real airplanes. Instead, she smiled broadly, excited about what might be in store for her.
Where should I travel to today? she thought to herself.
Last week, she had visited famous presidents' faces, carved into huge stone layers. Mount Rushmore was a place that had always interested her. How could they have done that? Who created them in the first place? And why?
Not only did the library serve as a wonderful travel agent, it also played the part of historian and highly knowledgeable tour guide. Her "tour book" had answered all of her questions and explained all of the curious details she could dream up—and so much more.
She also enjoyed being able to leisurely stroll down aisles upon aisles of books. She could stop and look at any one of them that caught her attention.
Today, she started with Africa, but then she stopped herself.
"Why do I have to start with the A's? Why does it always have to be in order or make sense? I'm on vacation."
"Why not throw caution to the wind?" Grandpa would say when he wanted her to try something new or different.
So she turned around and headed toward the opposite end of the shelves. "Oh, the Z's. That's certainly different," she said.
The first book spine that caught her eye was a bold, sparkling gold print. It read "Zimbabwe."
Maria laughed to herself. Somehow, she had ended up in Africa anyway. Maybe that's where she needed to travel to today.
As she flipped through the thick pages full of colorful fabrics, stark landscapes, and wild animals, she was quickly convinced that Zimbabwe would be her trek for the day.
Maria carried the book to the checkout counter. Renee, the librarian, smiled as she read the title. "Ah, Zimbabwe! That's someplace I've always wanted to visit."
"Well, you can go there as soon as I return from my trip," Maria said.
Renee laughed and winked, knowing all about Maria's travels. "Yes, I will, Maria. You'll have to tell me all about it when you return. Bon voyage!"
Maria was eager to talk to Grandpa about this one. Sometimes, throwing caution to the wind brings you right back to where you began in the first place.
8
How does Maria's grandfather advise her in this story?
A.
He tells her to plan adventures by following library clues.
B.
He reminds her to be creative and open to new ideas.
C.
He teaches her to be kind and respectful of other ways of living.
D.
He explains there is a chance to learn things every day.