Paragraphs 14-15
With no way for Brody to escape the hike, he gave in. But the trek up Twisted Mountain reinforced Brody's opinion of forest adventures. The mosquitoes hovered around his head like a whining cloud. In spite of his cautious steps, Brody planted his new tennis shoes in mud and scratched his hands on some thorns. Uncle Stephen hardly spoke a word the entire way; he moved like a shadow through the woods in front of Brody. When they reached the top of the mountain, Brody's one reward was a glimpse of an eagle circling in the skies. That would be a cool topic for a poem, he thought.
The two spent an hour observing nature, and Uncle Stephen taught Brody about various plants they saw nearby. Brody was impressed by the fantastic scenery and was just starting to enjoy being there, but his glimmer of joy vanished as soon as Uncle Stephen said it was time to return home —Brody remembered how difficult the journey to the top had been.
Paragraphs 17-19
Just as Brody finished his poem and settled in to watch some television, Uncle Stephen announced, "Let's go fishing."
"Marvels of Science is starting," Brody stammered. He was convinced he had experienced enough nature to last him for decades.
"Can't leave you behind," Uncle Stephen told him, and Brody nodded his head, seeing no way out.
Paragraphs 21-22
With little enthusiasm Brody also cast his line, swatting at pesky insects that swarmed all around him. Quietly they fished, but Brody felt an impatience simmering inside of him.
"Don't you ever get bored?" Brody finally blurted out.
Paragraphs 25-26
Suddenly a fish leaped in the distance. With a splash it broke through the surface and darted through the crystal-clear water. Brody admired the gracefulness of the fish swimming underwater. Then, Brody was struck with inspiration—maybe his robotics team could build an underwater fish robot. That would be a great project.
As Brody thought more about the design for his team's robot, he cast his line again. He had to swat away another bug, but he no longer felt annoyed. Instead, the silence enveloped him like a welcoming friend, inviting his imagination to wander.