Summary

The short story “Examination Day” by Henry Slesar begins by introducing the Jordan family and their son Dickie, who is turning 12 years old that day. For the first time, he also hears about an exam he has to take. His parents, who seem concerned, explain that the exam is set by the Government for all children at the age of 12.

When Dickie asks more about the exam, his parents tell him not to worry about it, and his father sends him to read his comics. Dickie looks out the window and complains about the rainy day. He asks his father why the grass is green, and his father abruptly answers that nobody knows.

Later in the day, Dickie receives his presents and birthday cake from his parents. An hour later, he asks his father how far the sun is, and his father tells him that it is five thousand miles...