Death by Toilet Paper Crossword Puzzle 

by Christopher Rudolph

“Death by Toilet Paper” by Donna Gephart is a heartfelt middle-grade novel that combines humor with poignant themes of grief, financial struggle, and resilience. The story centers on 12-year-old Benjamin Epstein, who is dealing with significant challenges after the death of his father. Living with his mother, Rachel, and his grandfather, Zeyde, in a small apartment in Philadelphia, Benjamin faces the looming threat of eviction due to their mounting financial difficulties.

Benjamin’s mother, struggling to make ends meet, is working toward her dream of becoming a nurse. Despite her efforts, the family is barely scraping by. To help, Benjamin participates in various contests and sweepstakes, hoping to win cash prizes. He is particularly focused on winning a contest from the Royal-T Toilet Paper Company, which promises a substantial prize for the best slogan.

The novel delves into the everyday struggles of Benjamin’s family. His mother juggles her job at a local diner with her nursing studies, while Benjamin navigates school and his passion for entering contests. The story also highlights the supportive yet sometimes overwhelming presence of Zeyde, who has Alzheimer’s disease and whose condition adds another layer of complexity to their lives.

Throughout the narrative, Benjamin’s friendships play a crucial role. His best friend, Toothpick, provides comic relief and unwavering support. Together, they embark on various adventures, including an ambitious attempt to sell candy bars to raise money for their families. The bond between Benjamin and Toothpick showcases the importance of friendship in overcoming life’s obstacles.

As the eviction notice deadline approaches, the tension in the household mounts. Benjamin’s relentless optimism and creative thinking lead to a turning point. With the help of his friends and a bit of luck, Benjamin finds a way to keep his family together and their home secure.

Donna Gephart masterfully balances humor and serious issues in “Death by Toilet Paper,” creating a story that is both entertaining and deeply moving. The novel addresses themes of loss, perseverance, and the power of community, offering readers a compelling and empathetic look at a young boy’s determination to keep his family afloat against all odds.

Dive into “Death by Toilet Paper” by Donna Gephart with the Rudolph Academy crossword puzzle! This interactive activity is a fantastic way for students to engage with the novel’s themes, characters, and plot twists. By solving clues, students will reinforce their understanding of Benjamin’s journey, his family’s challenges, and the humor woven throughout the story. The puzzle promotes critical thinking and vocabulary skills, making it an educational yet fun experience. Perfect for classroom use or independent study, the Rudolph Academy crossword puzzle is an excellent resource for deepening comprehension and sparking discussions about this touching and humorous novel. This Death by Toilet Paper Crossword Puzzle covers 22 terms and clues. Teachers, parents, and students can print out and make copies.

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Death by Toilet Crossword Puzzle
Death by Toilet Paper Study Sheet
Death by Toilet Paper CW
Death by Toilet Paper CW Answers

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