Question

spotted the first thorn almost instantly. the soles, made from rubber tire treads, had already begun to separate from shreds held together with a little leather and a great deal of hope. after only a few minutes, salva had to kick off the flapping shreds and continue barefoot.
the first day in the desert felt like the longest day salva had ever lived through. the sun was relentless and eternal: there was neither wisp of cloud nor whiff of breeze for relief. each minute of walking in that dry heat felt like an hour. even breathing became an effort: every breath salva took seemed to drain strength rather than restore it.
thorns pricked his feet. his lips became cracked and parched. uncle cautioned him to make the water in his gourd last as long as possible. it was the hardest thing salva had ever done, taking only tiny sips when his body cried out for huge gulps of thirst-quenching, life-giving water.
from linda sue park, a long walk to water. copyright 2010 by linda sue park.
look at the text in bold. what does it mean to say that the soles of salva’s shoes are held together with a great deal of hope?
the shoes are falling apart so badly that salva can only hope they stay together
the shoes were made by someone who hoped they would last for a long time

Explanation:

To determine the meaning, analyze the context. The shoes are made from rubber tires (likely worn - out) and held together with hope. The first option says the shoes are falling apart so badly that Salva can only hope they stay together. This fits because if the shoes are in poor condition (held together with hope, not strong materials), they are likely falling apart and he hopes they hold. The second option about the maker hoping they last is not supported as the focus is on Salva's situation, not the maker's hope.

Answer:

The shoes are falling apart so badly that Salva can only hope they stay together