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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where is MacKaye's trail idea first published?

2. What is the major drawback of AT trail maps?

3. What is a diversion available at the campground?

4. What is Katz planning to do in Franklin?

5. What does Bryson want to do right after getting cleaned up?

Short Essay Questions

1. Summarize the details of the National Trails System Act which was passed in 1968.

2. Summarize the accomplishments of Earl V. Shaffer during the summer of 1948.

3. Summarize what Bryson reads about on winter nights before he sets out on the Appalachian Trail.

4. Describe the bunkhouse at Rainbow Springs Campground.

5. What are some of the issues Bryson worries about with regard to hiking on the AT?

6. Describe the town of Gatlinburg which is just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

7. Describe the physical condition of Bryson and Katz when they reach Clingman's Dome.

8. What are the benefits Bill Bryson believes he will get from hiking the Appalachian Trail?

9. Explain why Bryson thinks woods are spooky.

10. Summarize what Bryson does when he brings all his camping equipment home.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

1) What is the message Bryson is trying to convey about the wilderness and civilization?

2) How does he depict a realistic and relevant view of human nature and the wild?

3) Are the human qualities of each character true to life? Explain.

4) How do the characters react to the everyday struggles of hiking the Appalachian Trail?

Essay Topic 2

1) Evaluate the relationship between Bryson and Katz.

2) Describe if they are good hiking partners or not ?

3) How do they interact with one another?

4) What are the qualities of the friendship?

5) Cite examples from the story proving their acceptance of one another for who they are?

Essay Topic 3

1) Examine how Bill Bryson uses humor throughout the book, even in dangerous circumstances.

2) Analyze and describe at least three instances of humor depicted in the story.

3) Explain why Bryson writes the situation with comical imagery and what is revealed to the reader through humor.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 602 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample