Question

Read this passage from Dragonwings by Laurence Yep.

"Some," Father said. Truth to tell, he had never handled a horseless carriage in his life, though he had a book on them and cut out articles whenever they appeared in the demon magazines and newspapers. That was the extent of Father's knowledge. But to know facts is nothing. He had an intuitive feeling for what made the horseless carriages tick. He looked around inside the engine for about ten minutes and then wiped his face absentmindedly, so that the grease stained his cheek. He did not even notice.

What is the best inference about Father, based on his actions in the passage?

Father’s response to the man shows he is unaware and weak.
Father’s response to the man shows he is helpful and confident.
Father’s response to the man shows he is unhappy and resentful.
Father’s response to the man shows he is honest and educated.

Answer 1

Father’s response to the man shows he is helpful and confident.

He inspects the engine despite never having handled one, relies on an intuitive feel for how it works, and is so absorbed (wiping grease off his cheek without noticing) that he comes across as confident and willing to help.