View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

1. What do the boys steal from the camp shed before they depart on their quest?

2. What animal head is the trophy for the Apache cabin at Box Canyon Boys' Camp?

3. How many feet in the air ways Teft's airplane flying when he was restrained?

4. What item is used as the "trophy" for Cotton's cabin?

5. As the Bedwetters walk through the wilderness, what is their only source of light?

Short Essay Questions

1. While driving into Arizona, what causes a lump to form in Cotton's throat?

2. After waking up from his dream, what does Cotton realize has happened in camp while he slept?

3. What family troubles does Goodenow struggle with when he is not at camp?

4. Where did the boys finally find Lally Two?

5. What dramatic event occurred when Teft was flying to Arizona?

6. What does Cotton dream about in the opening chapter of the novel?

7. Why did Lally Two want to leave camp?

8. Why did Lally One throw a temper tantrum and kill the animals in camp?

9. What is the end result of Cotton's demand that the boys vote unanimously about whether or not they should continue their mission?

10. Why did the boys finally fall apart, threatening to quit the quest and return to camp?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The landscape of Arizona acts almost as its own character in the novel. First, describe the Arizona landscape as it is represented in the novel? In what ways does the landscape affect the plot and themes of "Bless the Beasts and Children"? In your opinion, could this novel have taken place in any other setting? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the novel, Swarthout uses the physicality of light and shadows to convey many things, including enlightenment. Choose two examples of times when light and shadows were present in the text and describe how these elements conveyed the emotions of the scenes. In your opinion, were these techniques successful in creating mood and tone? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 3

This novel is fascinated with the idea of masculinity and coming-of-age. There is no doubt that the Bedwetters have a distinct definition of manhood, but where did they learn it? Describe at least two "manly" behaviors the Bedwetters take part in and discuss who they might be modeling themselves after. Who are the clear role models for the Bedwetters? Does this surprise you? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,113 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample