We’re Not Afraid to Die Questions Answers Class 11 CBSE

“We’re Not Afraid to Die Questions and Answers Class 11 CBSE” offers well-explained, accurate solutions to all NCERT textbook questions. These answers help students understand important themes such as courage, resilience, teamwork, and survival. Ideal for CBSE exam preparation, quick revision, and better understanding of Gordon Cook and Alan East’s gripping real-life adventure.

About the Author:

Gordon Cook was a professional sailor and adventurer from England. He, along with his family, undertook a dangerous sea voyage around the world. Alan East is a writer and editor who helped document this real-life survival story. Together, they wrote about the thrilling experience in “Wavewalker: A Voyage”. Their work showcases bravery, teamwork, and human determination in the face of danger.

Summary:

In July 1976, the narrator, along with his wife Mary and two children, set out from Plymouth, England, on a round-the-world sea voyage in their boat Wavewalker. Their aim was to recreate Captain James Cook’s historic journey. They had spent 16 years preparing for this, acquiring seafaring skills and readying their professionally built 23-meter wooden boat.

Their journey was smooth until they reached the southern Indian Ocean. There, they encountered violent storms with huge waves. On January 2, a gigantic wave nearly destroyed their boat. The narrator was thrown overboard but miraculously survived. The boat was badly damaged — its decks were smashed, water gushed in, and they lost many crucial items. Still, the narrator and the crew managed temporary repairs while his wife, Mary, took charge of steering.

Their children, especially seven-year-old Sue, showed immense courage. Despite her head injury, she stayed calm and didn’t want her parents to worry. They battled for survival with broken pumps and flooding water. On January 6, after days of struggle and sailing in hope, they finally sighted Ile Amsterdam, a tiny French island. With immense relief, they reached it and were helped ashore by the islanders.

This story is a powerful account of human courage, resilience, and the strength of family bonds in the face of life-threatening challenges at sea. It highlights the importance of calm decision-making, teamwork, and unwavering hope during adversity.

Hornbill & Snaoshot Class 11 English Solutions NCERT

Main Theme of the Chapter:

Human Courage and Endurance – The story highlights how the family and crew show extraordinary bravery and resilience while facing life-threatening challenges at sea.

Power of Family Bond – Despite the danger, the unity and emotional strength of the family, especially the children, play a crucial role in survival.

Calmness and Presence of Mind in Crisis – The narrator takes quick and wise decisions during the storm, proving the importance of staying calm under pressure.

Triumph of Hope and Teamwork – The story celebrates the victory of hope, teamwork, and determination over despair and destruction.

NCERT Hornbill Textual Questions Answers Class 11 [Page No 12]

NCERT Hornbill Textual Questions Answers Class 11 CBSE offers clear and accurate solutions to all textbook questions. These answers help students understand themes, characters, and literary devices with ease. Perfect for revision, exam preparation, and building strong conceptual knowledge.

Notice these expressions in the text.[Page No – 12]

Ans: 1. Honing our seafaring skills

Contextual Meaning: Improving or sharpening our sailing abilities over time.

Explanation: The narrator and his wife had been practising and perfecting their sailing skills for many years to prepare for their sea voyage.

2. Pinpricks in the vast ocean

Contextual Meaning: Tiny and almost invisible spots (islands) in the huge ocean.

Explanation: While navigating, the narrator referred to the small islands like Ile Amsterdam as pinpricks because they were very small compared to the large, wide ocean, making them very difficult to find.

3. Ominous silence

Contextual Meaning: A scary or threatening silence just before something bad happens.

Explanation: Before the giant wave hit the ship, everything became quiet. This silence was not peaceful but rather frightening, indicating that something dangerous was coming.

4. A tousled head

Contextual Meaning: Hair that is messy or untidy, usually because of movement or illness.

Explanation: The narrator saw his child with a tousled head, meaning the child’s hair was messy — possibly from the chaos and injuries suffered during the storm.

5. Mayday calls

Contextual Meaning: Emergency distress messages sent through the radio by a ship or aircraft in danger.

Explanation: As the situation on the boat became worse, the narrator and his crew tried sending Mayday calls through the radio to ask for help, but no one replied because they were in a very remote part of the world.

Understanding the text [Page No – 17]

1. List the steps taken by the captain

Ans: (i) To protect the ship from rough weather:

• Dropped the storm jib to slow the ship.
• Lashed everything tightly.
• Double-lashed the life-raft.
• Went through life-raft drill.
• Put on oilskins and life jackets.

(ii) To check the flooding of water in the ship:

• Used a hand pump to remove water.
• Found and plugged leaks temporarily.
• Used spare electric pumps and a canvas to control flooding.
• Managed steering despite damage and water entry.

2. Describe the mental condition of the voyagers on 4 and 5 January.

Ans: 4 January:

• They were exhausted and losing hope.
• Children showed unexpected courage.
• Adults were determined but afraid of death.
• The captain felt hopeless but stayed strong for the family.

5 January:

• Mood slightly lifted when weather improved.
• Still anxious, but started to hope.
• Sue’s calmness and optimism gave motivation.
• Captain calculated a route to safety — a ray of hope.

3. Describe the shifts in the narration of the events as indicated in the three sections of the text. Give a subtitle to each section.

Ans: The story has three parts with different moods and events.

Section 1 – “Preparation and Adventure Begins” (Paragraphs 1–6): The narrator talks about their dream to sail around the world and how they prepared for the long journey. The family sets sail on Wavewalker and enjoys the early part of the trip.

Section 2 – “Struggle for Survival”(Paragraphs 7–18): The tone becomes serious. A huge storm hits. The ship is damaged, and they fight to survive. The narrator, crew, and family face danger bravely.

Section 3 – “Hope and Rescue”(Paragraphs 19–34): They keep sailing, hoping for land. The children’s courage and hope support the narrator. Finally, they reach Ile Amsterdam.

The narration moves from excitement to fear, and finally to relief and triumph.

Talking about the text [Page No. – 17]

Discuss the following questions with your partner.

1. What difference did you notice between the reaction of the adults and the children when faced with danger?

Ans: When faced with danger, the adults worked hard to protect the ship. The father took all steps to save his family. He steered the ship, pumped out water, and kept repairing. He was tired and hurt, but never gave up. The mother helped him and stayed strong. The children, Sue and Jonathan, reacted calmly. Though Sue was injured, she did not complain. Jonathan said, “We are not afraid to die if we can all be together.” Their words gave courage to the parents. The children were brave and hopeful. The adults showed responsibility and action. The children showed quiet courage. This difference made the family stronger in the face of danger and helped them survive the storm.

2. How does the story suggest that optimism helps to endure “the direst stress”?

Ans: The story shows that optimism gives strength in the worst times. The captain and his wife stayed hopeful, even when the waves damaged the ship. They kept trying to save the boat. The children also stayed positive. Sue, though badly hurt, did not cry or panic. Jonathan said, “You must be able to save us. You are the best daddy in the world.” His words gave hope to the father. These hopeful words made the parents fight harder. Even when the situation was terrible, they did not lose heart. Their courage and positive thinking helped them survive. The story tells us that when people think positively, they can stay calm, act wisely, and fight the hardest battles with faith and hope.

3. What lessons do we learn from such hazardous experiences when we are face-to-face with death?

Ans: Such dangerous experiences teach us many important lessons. We learn that life is uncertain and can change at any moment. Courage, calmness, and teamwork are very important during crises. In the story, the captain and his family worked together to face the storm. Even the children showed bravery. We also learn that quick thinking and never giving up can save lives. The captain fought the waves and repaired the ship again and again. These experiences show the value of hope, love, and family support. Facing death closely makes us stronger and more thankful for life. We understand the real meaning of survival, and we become more careful, patient, and respectful toward nature and its great power.

4. Why do you think people undertake such adventurous expeditions in spite of the risks involved?

Ans: People undertake adventurous expeditions because they want to test their limits and explore the unknown. They enjoy the thrill, challenge, and beauty of nature. Some people, like the narrator and his family, dream of sailing like great explorers. Adventure gives them a sense of achievement and teaches courage, discipline, and teamwork. Even though risks are involved, they prepare with care and training. These journeys help them grow stronger and more confident. Facing danger brings out the best in people. The joy of overcoming challenges gives deep satisfaction. For many, it is not just a trip, but a way to learn about life and themselves. The spirit of adventure keeps them moving forward, despite the fear and danger.

Thinking about language [Page No – 17]

 1. We have come across words like ‘gale’ and ‘storm’ in the account. Here are two more words for ‘storm’: typhoon, cyclone. How many words does your language have for ‘storm’?

Ans:
Words for ‘storm’ in Indian languages: In Hindi (हिन्दी):

• तूफ़ान (Toofan)
• आँधी (Aandhi – strong windstorm)
• चक्रवात (Chakravat – Cyclone)
• धूल भरी आँधी (Dhool Bhari Aandhi – Dust storm)
• बारिश के साथ तूफ़ान (Barish ke saath Toofan – Rainstorm)

2. Here are the terms for different kinds of vessels: yacht, boat, canoe, ship, steamer, schooner. Think of similar terms in your language.

Ans:
Similar terms for vessels in my language:

• Yacht – नौका विहार नौका (Yacht)
• Boat – नाव / डोंगी
• Canoe – डोंगी नाव
• Ship – जहाज
• Steamer – स्टीमर
• Schooner – पालवाला जहाज (कम प्रचलित शब्द)

3. ‘Catamaran’ is a kind of a boat. Do you know which Indian language this word is derived from? Check the dictionary.

Ans:  The word ‘Catamaran’ comes from the Tamil word ‘kattumaram’, where ‘kattu’ = tied and ‘maram’ = wood.

So, ‘Catamaran’ literally means “tied wood” — a type of traditional boat used in South India and Sri Lanka.

4. Have you heard any boatmen’s songs? What kind of emotions do these songs usually express?

Ans: Yes, I have heard boatmen’s songs, especially Bengali boat songs like Bhatiali. These songs are usually sung by boatmen while rowing their boats on rivers. The music is soulful and melodious. They often express deep emotions like longing, loneliness, love, hope, and the beauty of nature. Many songs talk about waiting for loved ones or praying for safety during storms. The calm flow of the river and the uncertain life of a boatman are reflected in these songs. Sometimes they also sing about joy, unity, and the rhythm of life. These songs connect people with rivers and traditions and show how boatmen find strength and peace through music, even during hardships.

Working with Words [Page No – 18]

1. The following words used in the text as ship terminology are also commonly used in another sense. In what contexts would you use the other meaning?

Ans: 

Knot:

Ship use: A unit of speed at sea (1 knot = 1 nautical mile per hour).

Other use: A loop in a rope or string; also used in phrases like “tie a knot” or “a knot in the stomach.”

Stern:

Ship use: The back part of a ship.

Other use: Serious or strict in attitude (e.g., “a stern teacher”).

Boom:

Ship use: A pole to which the bottom of a sail is attached.

Other use: A loud noise (e.g., thunder); a period of growth (e.g., “economic boom”).

Hatch:

Ship use: An opening in the deck of a ship.

Other use: To hatch eggs; to create a plan (e.g., “hatch a plot”).

Anchor:

Ship use: A heavy object dropped to keep the ship in place.

Other use: A TV news presenter (e.g., “news anchor”); to secure something (e.g., “anchor your hope”).

2. The following three compound words end in -ship. What does each of them mean?

Ans: 

Airship: A powered flying vehicle that floats in the air, like a blimp or zeppelin.

Flagship: The best or most important product, idea, or part of a group (e.g., “flagship store”).

Lightship: A ship that stays in one place in the water and has a light to guide other ships safely, like a floating lighthouse.

3. The following are the meanings listed in the dictionary against the phrase ‘take on’. In which meaning is it used in the third paragraph of the account:

Ans: 

In the third paragraph, “take on water” means:

➤ “To take sth/sb on: to allow sth to enter”

So here, the correct meaning is:

“to take sth/sb on: to allow something to enter (a bus, ship, etc.)”

→ The ship was damaged and began to take on water—meaning water entered the ship.

Things to Do [Page No – 18, 19]

1. Label the parts of the yacht (use the terms in the box):

Here’s how to label the yacht (if you had a picture). Match the parts like this:

Bow – Front part of the yacht

Stern – Back part of the yacht

Cabin – The inside room where people stay

Cockpit – The seating or steering area

Rudder – A flat piece under the boat used to steer

Boom – A horizontal pole attached to the sail

Mainsail – The big main sail

Mast – The tall vertical pole that holds the sail

2. Information about Ile Amsterdam (summary):

Location: In the South Indian Ocean, between Australia and South Africa

Latitude/Longitude: 37.92° S, 77.67° E

Country: France

Status: Part of French Southern and Antarctic Lands

Population: 35 people, mostly meteorological staff

Land Area: 86 square kilometres

3. Locate Ile Amsterdam on the world map:

To find Ile Amsterdam, look:

South of the Indian Ocean, near the middle of the ocean

Between Madagascar and Australia

It’s a very remote island belonging to France

Exam Pattern-Based Questions Answers

Exam Pattern-Based Questions Answers are designed according to the latest CBSE guidelines to help students score better. These include MCQs, short and long answers, and competency-based questions. They ensure thorough practice and clear understanding of the exam format.

Extract-Based Questions: We’re Not Afraid to Die Questions Answers

One Prose extract from the book Hornbill, to assess comprehension, interpretation, analysis, evaluation, and appreciation. 3×1=3 Marks

We’re Not Afraid to Die Questions Answers Set 1

1. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.

“Water, Water!” I screamed. “I’ll have to stop the water somehow! God help us!” I had no time to worry about bumped heads. After finding that her head injury was only a minor one, I half-swam, half-crawled into the children’s cabin. Mary was busy trying to hold on to a water pump. Larry and Herb were pumping like madmen. Broken timbers hung at crazy angles, the whole starboard side bulged inwards; clothes, crockery, charts, tins and toys sloshed about in deep water.

(i) What had caused this sudden emergency on the ship?
(ii) What were Larry and Herb doing at this moment?
(iii) Choose the correct option:
What does the expression “pumping like madmen” suggest?
(a) Pumping in turns
(b) Pumping with all their strength
(c) Pumping carelessly
(d) Pumping only to appear busy

Ans.
(i) A huge wave had hit the ship, causing massive damage and flooding the cabins.
(ii) Larry and Herb were trying to remove water from the ship using hand pumps.
(iii) (b) Pumping with all their strength

We’re Not Afraid to Die Questions Answers Set 2

2. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.

 My head swam. I knew all the boat’s main rib frames were smashed down to the keel. In fact, the whole starboard side of the boat was being held together by a few cupboard partitions. And the aft section was open to the sea.

(i) What does the phrase “my head swam” mean in this context?
(ii) What was the condition of the boat at this point?
(iii) The boat’s rib frames were:
(a) partially damaged
(b) slightly cracked
(c) totally destroyed
(d) still intact

Ans:
(i) It means the narrator was dizzy and shocked by the damage.
(ii) The boat was severely damaged; the starboard side was broken and open to the sea.
(iii) (c) totally destroyed

We’re Not Afraid to Die Questions Answers Set 3

3. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.
Then a tremendous explosion shook the deck. A torrent of green and white water broke over the ship. My head smashed into the wheel… I was aware of flying overboard and sinking below the waves. I accepted my approaching death…

(i) What caused the “tremendous explosion”?
(ii) What happened to the narrator after the explosion?
(iii) The narrator thought he would die because:
(a) he was thrown into the sea
(b) he was unconscious
(c) he saw his boat break apart
(d) he gave up trying

Ans:
(i) A huge wave hit the boat, causing a loud crash and flooding the deck.
(ii) The narrator was thrown into the sea and went underwater.
(iii) (a) he was thrown into the sea

We’re Not Afraid to Die Questions Answers Set 4

4. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.
“We’re not afraid to die… if we can all be together,” said Suzanne. She gave me a card she had made, which showed caricatures of Mary and me. It was a message of hope and love from a child facing death bravely.

(i) What shows Suzanne’s courage in this situation?
(ii) Why did she make the card?
(iii) Suzanne’s words reflect:
(a) fear and panic
(b) acceptance and love
(c) anger and blame
(d) confusion and shock

Ans:
(i) Despite her injuries, she comforted her father and showed bravery through her calmness.
(ii) To give her parents hope and show her love in a dangerous situation.
(iii) (b) acceptance and love

We’re Not Afraid to Die Questions Answers Set 5

5. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.
January 6 found a cheerful atmosphere on board. We had another reason to celebrate: our first and last Christmas lunch – a corned beef and cracker meal with herbs and orange juice – inside a makeshift rest area.

(i) Why did the family celebrate on January 6?
(ii) What kind of meal did they have?
(iii) This celebration shows the family’s:
(a) wealth and luxury
(b) relief and optimism
(c) disappointment and fear
(d) anger and sorrow

Ans:
(i) Because the worst was over and they had survived a life-threatening storm.
(ii) They had corned beef, crackers, herbs, and orange juice.
(iii) (b) relief and optimism

We’re Not Afraid to Die Questions Answers Set 6

6. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow.
It was to be a leisurely sail in the footsteps of the famous explorer Captain James Cook. For the past 16 years, I had spent all my leisure time improving my seafaring skills in British waters. Our boat, Wavewalker, a 23-metre, 30-ton wooden-hulled vessel, had been professionally built, and we had spent months fitting it out and testing it in the roughest weather we could find.

(i) What was the purpose of the narrator’s voyage?
(ii) What was special about the boat Wavewalker?
(iii) The narrator prepared for the journey by:
(a) taking professional sailing classes
(b) reading about Captain Cook
(c) practicing in rough seas
(d) hiring a guide

Ans:
(i) To recreate the famous voyage of Captain Cook around the world.
(ii) It was a strong, professionally built, wooden-hulled 23-metre boat.
(iii) (c) practicing in rough seas

Short Answer Type Questions: “We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers

One Short answer type question (one from Prose from the book Hornbill), to be answered in 40-50 words. Questions should elicit inferential responses through critical thinking. 3×1=3 Marks

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers Set 1

1. What preparations did the narrator make for the world voyage?

Ans: The narrator and his wife had dreamt of sailing around the world. They had spent 16 years improving their sailing skills. They hired a professionally built 23-metre boat, Wavewalker, and spent months fitting it out. They tested it in rough weather and trained hard before starting the voyage from Plymouth in July 1976.

2. How did the narrator react when the storm hit the boat?

Ans: When the storm hit, the narrator acted quickly and calmly. He slowed the boat, dropped storm sails, and double-lashed everything. He wore safety gear and steered the boat through huge waves. Even after being thrown overboard, he struggled back and pumped water out of the boat. He remained brave and focused to protect his family.

3. How did the children show courage during the storm?

Ans: The children, Suzanne and Jonathan, showed remarkable courage despite their injuries and fear. Suzanne, badly hurt, didn’t complain and made a card to cheer her father. Jonathan told his father not to worry, saying, “We’re not afraid to die if we can all be together.” Their positive attitude gave the narrator strength and hope.

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers Set 2

4. How did the family finally reach safety?

Ans: After fighting stormy seas and damages, they saw Ile Amsterdam on January 6. It was a small volcanic island with a French base. They managed to reach it with effort. The journey had been tough, but their teamwork, courage, and determination led them to safety after 36 intense hours of struggle at sea.

5. Why did the narrator hire two crewmen from Cape Town?

Ans: The narrator hired Larry Vigil and Herb Seigler to help sail through the Southern Indian Ocean, one of the roughest seas. He wanted experienced hands to assist during the most challenging part of the voyage. Their support became vital when storms hit, as they helped in pumping out water and navigating the damaged boat.

6. How did the narrator get thrown overboard?

Ans: A massive wave struck Wavewalker on January 2. It hit with such force that the narrator was thrown into the sea. Fortunately, he was secured with safety lines, and the wave tossed him back onto the deck. He suffered broken ribs and a head injury but continued to take control of the situation.

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers Set 3

7. What damage did the boat suffer during the storm?

Ans: The boat’s starboard side was smashed. Water entered the cabins. The main boom was broken, the sails were torn, the steering was damaged, and the engine stopped working. Despite this, the family and crew worked constantly to pump out water, fix leaks with canvas and spare parts, and steer the boat manually.

8. What role did Sue’s card play during the crisis?

Ans: Sue, though injured, gave her father a card with a loving message and a cartoon. It said, “To Daddy, with lots of love… Thank you.” It cheered him up and gave him strength. Her courage and affection reminded him of the importance of family and gave him emotional support during the toughest time.

9. What was the narrator’s plan after the ship was damaged?

Ans: The narrator decided to head for a nearby island, Ile Amsterdam, about 150 kilometres away. Since the main compass was destroyed, he used a spare compass and a sextant to estimate direction. He made a makeshift rudder to steer the boat. The plan was risky but their only chance of survival.

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers Set 4

10. What happened on January 4 and 5?

Ans: The storm was still strong on January 4, but the water level had reduced. They managed to pump out most water. The weather started improving on January 5. Although the sea was still rough, they were more hopeful. They adjusted course toward Ile Amsterdam and prayed for safety and rescue soon.

11. Why was Ile Amsterdam so important to the narrator?

Ans:  Amsterdam was the nearest inhabited island and the only hope for rescue. It was a small volcanic island in the South Indian Ocean. The crew and family, exhausted and injured, had no choice but to reach it. Despite rough seas and a makeshift rudder, they managed to reach it on January 6.

12. What does the title “We’re Not Afraid to Die…” signify?

Ans: The title comes from Jonathan’s words. It shows how brave and united the family was in the face of death. It reflects their spirit, courage, and strong bond. Even the children accepted danger with calmness. The title conveys that with love and unity, people can face even the deadliest situations bravely.

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers Set 4

13. How did the narrator calculate direction after the compass broke?

Ans: After the main compass was damaged, the narrator used a spare compass and sextant. He took readings when the sun was visible and estimated their location. Although the steering system was destroyed, he built a makeshift rudder to change direction. His skill in navigation helped them sail toward Ile Amsterdam safely.

14. What qualities of the narrator are revealed in the story?

Ans: The narrator showed courage, leadership, presence of mind, and responsibility. Despite injuries, he took control, repaired the boat, and navigated through danger. He stayed calm, motivated his crew, and cared deeply for his family. His optimism, skills, and determination helped them survive the deadliest storm in the Southern Indian Ocean.

15. What difficulties did Sue face after the storm?

Ans: Sue was badly injured. She had a bump on her head, two black eyes, and a deep cut in her arm. Despite the pain, she didn’t complain. She was brave and even made a card to cheer her father. Her silent endurance and strength made her a symbol of hope and courage.

16. What did Jonathan say to encourage his father?

Ans: Jonathan, just six years old, told his father, “We’re not afraid to die if we can all be together.” His innocent yet powerful words deeply moved the narrator. It gave him strength and the will to fight on. This moment showed how even children can inspire adults during the most dangerous times.

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers Set 5

17. How did the crew support the narrator in the crisis?

Ans: Larry Vigil and Herb Seigler helped the narrator steer the boat and pump out water. They worked tirelessly, showed no panic, and followed orders quickly. Their teamwork and courage supported the family through the storm. Without their help, repairing the ship, handling the sails, and maintaining course would’ve been impossible.

18. Describe the narrator’s feelings on seeing Ile Amsterdam.

Ans: When the narrator saw Ile Amsterdam, he felt extreme relief and gratitude. After days of fear and struggle, land brought hope. It was a volcanic rock, but it meant safety. The whole crew cheered, and it felt like a miracle. The narrator thanked God and admired his family’s courage and survival.

19. What message does this story give to the readers?

Ans: The story teaches courage, teamwork, and the power of human will. It shows that even in the worst moments, love and unity help us stay strong. Optimism, preparation, and quick thinking can save lives. The courage of children and the leadership of adults remind us that hope shines even in darkness.

Long Answer Type Questions: “We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers

One Long answer type question, from Prose of Hornbill, to be answered in 120-150 words. Questions can be based on incident / theme / passage / extract / event, as reference points to assess extrapolation beyond and across the text. The question will elicit analytical and evaluative response from the student.  1×6=6 Marks

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers Set 1

1. How did the narrator and his family display courage and resilience in the face of life-threatening danger?

The narrator and his family showed tremendous courage and resilience when their ship, Wavewalker, was struck by a giant wave in the Southern Indian Ocean. Despite injuries, broken equipment, and dangerous flooding, they did not panic. The narrator, even with broken ribs and head injuries, continued to manage the boat, control the flooding, and steer toward the nearest island using a spare compass and sextant. His wife Mary took over steering, while his daughter Sue silently bore her injuries and even made a card to encourage him. His son Jonathan calmly accepted the danger, saying they were not afraid to die if together. The crew, Larry and Herb, showed determination by pumping water and assisting in navigation. Their teamwork, optimism, and will to survive helped them overcome the crisis. This story inspires us to stay strong in adversity, work together, and never give up even in the worst situations.

2. ‘We’re Not Afraid to Die’ is a tale of human endurance, optimism, and unity. Justify this statement with reference to the story.

The story is a powerful example of how human endurance, optimism, and unity can overcome even the worst disasters. When Wavewalker was damaged by a massive wave, the narrator and his crew didn’t lose hope. He kept navigating and steering the damaged boat. His family displayed remarkable emotional strength—Sue, though badly hurt, remained silent and even cheered her father. Jonathan’s words, “We’re not afraid to die if we can all be together,” show a strong family bond and courage. Larry and Herb, the crew, worked for days pumping out water, steering the ship, and showing discipline under pressure. Even when all seemed lost, the narrator remained focused and positive, guiding the ship toward safety. Their ability to stay calm, focused, and united in a life-threatening situation makes this story a lesson in how optimism and teamwork can turn disaster into survival.

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers Set 2

3. Describe how the use of practical skills, leadership, and emotional strength helped save the narrator’s family and crew.

The narrator used practical sailing skills, leadership, and emotional strength to save his family and crew. After their boat was damaged in a storm, he took immediate action. Despite serious injuries, he managed repairs, checked flooding, and calculated their direction with a sextant and spare compass. His leadership kept everyone calm. He made decisions like pumping out water, steering manually, and changing course toward Ile Amsterdam. His emotional strength was tested when his children got hurt—Sue had a swollen head and deep cut, yet didn’t complain. Jonathan stayed brave, saying they weren’t afraid to die together. The narrator also stayed strong emotionally, cheering his family even when exhausted. He showed resilience and kept the crew motivated. His wife Mary and crewmen Larry and Herb followed his leadership and worked tirelessly. This blend of technical knowledge, mental strength, and leadership saved their lives in one of the world’s roughest seas.

4. Highlight the role of teamwork and mutual trust in helping the narrator’s family overcome the challenges during the voyage.

Teamwork and mutual trust were the most important reasons the narrator’s family and crew survived. Each person contributed during the storm. The narrator led with calmness and skill. His wife, Mary, steered the boat while he worked on repairs and navigation. Larry and Herb, the crew, followed instructions and took turns pumping water and controlling the boat. They trusted the narrator’s leadership and stayed focused on survival. Even the children played a part—Sue didn’t complain despite injuries, and Jonathan’s calm acceptance showed emotional strength. The narrator trusted everyone’s capabilities and stayed hopeful. Their combined efforts helped steer Wavewalker toward safety. No one panicked. Everyone worked silently but strongly, encouraging each other. The mutual support, love, and understanding between family members and crew kept them alive. The story proves that in life-threatening situations, trust and teamwork can give strength and help people overcome even the biggest challenges together.

“We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together” Questions Answers Set 3

5. What life lessons does the story “We’re Not Afraid to Die…” teach young readers? Explain.

The story teaches young readers many life lessons. First, it shows that courage matters more than fear. Even young Jonathan said, “We’re not afraid to die if we can all be together.” Second, it teaches resilience. The narrator, though injured, took charge and kept trying to fix the boat. Sue, despite being hurt, remained brave and even made a card to lift spirits. The story also teaches the value of teamwork. The narrator’s wife, the children, and the crew worked together without complaining. The story shows how optimism and a never-give-up attitude can help overcome disasters. It teaches problem-solving—navigating without the main compass, building a makeshift rudder, and using limited resources wisely. Most importantly, it teaches the value of family, love, and unity. This story inspires readers to stay calm, hopeful, and united in difficult times and face challenges with confidence and courage.