《2026年水木金卷高考模拟试卷精编英语》

阅读下面短文,按照题目要求用英语回答问题。
When an editor wrote to offer me the task of writing a famous artist's authorized biography, I was surprised. I replied, "Me? Are you sure you have the right writer?" But that's just what I was thinking. At that point in my career, although I had written many magazine articles, I had just a few small books to my name—children's comic books, mostly.
So I asked why she chose me. "Due to your warmth," the editor said. Besides, the editor thought my writing style would be a good fit for that artist. Finally, I accepted the writing task. I told my friend about it and she warned me, "Just understand that celebrities will often not treat others well. They all just seem nice on television, but they'll treat you like nothing but a servant to them."
Her words made me quite uncertain and anxious. "What if the artist ignores me? Can I finish the writing task? Should I give up?" I thought to myself. Anyway, days later I boarded the plane to the artist's city to meet her, still overwhelmed with uncertainty and anxiety. However, these feelings melted into thin air within minutes after meeting her. My friend was wrong; this artist was an absolute sweetheart, who was humble, down - to - earth, funny and caring.
She shared cookies with me. She sat on the floor with me and we chatted into the middle of the night like we were old schoolmates. During the following days, she told me a lot about her life, work, dream, etc. And I managed to have a good knowledge of her. When I finished the book, the artist's husband called to tell me how well I had captured her and that he felt very emotional and proud after reading the book. Hearing it, I was thrilled.
Since then, I've realized the importance of self - belief and courage to face the unknown. Otherwise, I may pass up a good opportunity in life. Now I've met many fascinating people and written many fascinating stories.
56. Why was the author surprised when she was offered the writing task? (no more than 12 words)

57. What made the editor choose the author for the task according to Paragraph 2? (no more than 8 words)

58. What does the underlined part in Paragraph 3 probably mean? (1 word)

59. According to Paragraph 4, what made the author feel very excited after getting a call? (no more than 6 words)

60. How are you inspired by the author's story? Please explain. (no more than 20 words)

答案： 56.(Because) she had just a few small books to her name.
57.The author’s warmth and her writing style.
58.Disappeared./Vanished.
59.The praise/response/feedback from the artist’s husband.
60.We should believe in ourselves and needn’t be afraid of any uncertainty.