Eddie's life
What is Eddie’s job at Ruby Pier?
He is the head maintenance man, in charge of keeping the rides safe.
What is Ruby Pier?
An oceanfront amusement park where Eddie has worked his whole life.
What special event is happening the day of the accident?
It’s Eddie’s 83rd birthday.
What theme does the idea of “the end” suggest?
That endings are also beginnings; death leads to new understanding.
How old is Eddie on his last day?
83 years old
What does Eddie do every morning at the pier?
He walks through Ruby Pier, checks rides, and greets workers and visitors.
What types of rides or attractions are mentioned?
The Freddy’s Free Fall ride, carousel, roller coaster, and food stands.
What goes wrong with the ride in Chapter 1?
A cable on the Freddy’s Free Fall ride snaps.
What does Eddie’s limp symbolize?
His lingering pain and trauma from the war — both physical and emotional.
What is the weather like on Eddie’s last day?
It’s hot and sunny at the beach.
Who does Eddie interact with before the accident?
Dominguez (a pier worker) and a little girl who wants a pipe cleaner animal.
What is the significance of the maintenance shop?
It represents Eddie’s lifelong work and identity as the pier’s caretaker.
What does Eddie notice about the cart before it falls?
It’s hanging dangerously at an angle, about to drop.
How does Albom use foreshadowing in this chapter?
The title and countdown of Eddie’s last minutes hint at his death.
What word is used to describe Eddie’s final motion before he dies?
“Reaching.” He reaches out to save the little girl.
How is Eddie’s relationship with the pier employees shown?
They respect and like him; he’s seen as dependable and caring.
What kind of people visit Ruby Pier?
Everyday families, couples, and children enjoying the beach and rides.
What is Eddie trying to save when the accident happens?
A little girl trapped under the falling ride cart.
What idea about “life’s endings” is introduced here?
That life and death are connected, and every ending has a purpose.
What detail hints that Eddie is about to die?
The story counts down the final minutes of his life.
How does Eddie feel about his life?
He feels trapped and disappointed, believing his life has become routine.
How does the pier connect to Eddie’s past?
He has worked there since his youth; it symbolizes the cycle of his life.
What happens to Eddie at the end of Chapter 1?
The cart falls on him as he pushes the girl out of the way, killing him.
What might the carousel symbolize?
The cycle of life, innocence, and the
What final sound or image does Eddie experience before death?
The screams of children and a flash of light as everything goes silent.