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Josh arrived at the Thomas' home on a bitter cold morning in November. He had become used to moving at a moment's notice. He even began leaving his suitcase partially packed under his bed. Josh's 13th birthday was coming up, and he wondered if anyone would notice. He often felt disappointed, but he learned long ago that his life was normal for a foster kid.
Josh arrived at his first foster care home when he was four years old. His grandmother had died unexpectedly, and no one else in his family was able to take care of him, including his parents. Everyone assumed he would be adopted quickly; after all, he was bright, handsome, and very obedient. Josh stopped hoping for a family a long time ago. Now, he just wished he could stay in one school long enough to make friends and finish a basketball season.
As Josh walked up the porch steps, he realized he had never been to this side of town before. The lawns were green even in winter, and there was a pool and basketball goal in every yard.
"Hi, I'm Peter Thomas," a tall, professional-looking man said as he held out his hand. "You must be Josh. We're so happy you decided to stay with us."
Decided? Josh only learned where he was going from his caseworker in the car ride across town.
"Hey," Josh mumbled.
After going through her checklist, Josh's caseworker said goodbye and gave him her information for emergencies. Peter could sense that Josh was uncomfortable as he showed him the house, so he suggested that they bundle up and shoot hoops outside.
"My wife, Tanya, will be home from work in about an hour," Peter explained to Josh as he sank a free throw. "She had a few things to take care of this morning before her vacation."
"Where is she going?" Josh asked, puzzled.
"Nowhere. She just took off the rest of the week to make sure you get settled in okay."
Josh was speechless. This was definitely not the kind of family that he was accustomed to. As they took turns shooting, Josh's uneasiness went away. He and Peter had a lot in common. They both liked sports, video games, and cars. In fact, Peter was a basketball coach at the school Josh would be attending.
"You came just in time. Our first game is on your birthday." Just then, Peter paused and looked at Josh. "You know, I've been coaching other people's kids for years, but I always hoped one day I could coach my own son."
Josh smiled.
5
Which sentence best describes the theme of the passage?
A.
Do not be afraid to visit new places.
B.
Success is more important than patience.
C.
Forgiveness is important for happiness.
D.
Never give up hope for a better future.

Answer 1

D. Never give up hope for a better future.

The passage shows Josh, who’d stopped hoping for a stable family, finding a caring foster family (Peter and Tanya) who welcome him and offer new opportunities (staying, school, basketball), illustrating that better things can still happen if you keep hope.