What kind of object was a paper book for Tommy and Margie?

Correct answer: New and unusual

A paper book seems ordinary to children today, but Tommy and Margie live in a future where learning is done through telebooks and a mechanical teacher. Therefore, a printed book feels unfamiliar and special to them. They are surprised that the words stay on the same pages instead of moving on a screen. This shows how technology has changed their reading habits and their idea of a book.

Option C is correct because the paper book is described as new and unusual from the children's point of view. It is not common, useless, or something they receive every day. Margie especially finds it strange that the pages cannot be changed or refreshed like those of a telebook. The choice depends on understanding the future setting and the children's experience, not on the value of printed books in our own time.