1. In the context of the text, what does it mean to be brave? Do you think Oliver exhibits bravery despite being picked by the other boys to complete the task?

In context, Oliver has the choice of putting himself in danger with the adults or becoming the object of bullying by the boys. Oliver is, in fact, hungry. Thus, his actions are brave in that he participates in drawing straws, loses the draw, and then follows through even though he is frightened.