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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. To whom is Suzette nursemaid?

2. Who is Joseph Ferrier?

3. What does Philomene do when Clement arrives?

4. What about Philomene is dangerous for her in Chapter 11?

5. Who is Gerant's father?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Suzette say about her family after the slave auction?

2. How does Elisabeth treat Suzette after Suzette gives birth to Gerant?

3. What does Philomene say about her own light skin?

4. Why does Francoise chastise Elisabeth in Chapter 1?

5. What does Suzette ask Oreline to do, and what is Oreline's response?

6. What do the slaves receive for Christmas?

7. What does Joseph Ferrier agree to do after Suzette talks to Oreline in Chapter 14?

8. Of what is Philomene aware concerning her emerging womanhood?

9. What is Suzette's job in the household, and how does that affect her life?

10. What does Suzette ask Doralise concerning Gerant, and what is Doralise's reply?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Cane River belongs to the historical fiction genre. Discuss the following:

Define the literary term "genre" and name three other genres in addition to the historical fiction genre. What are the advantages and disadvantages of assigning a genre to a novel? What do you think is the difference between a historical fiction and a science fiction novel or a mystery?

Essay Topic 2

Many readers of fiction place themselves in the position of one character, wondering if they would do the same thing as that character. Discuss the following:

Do you think one of the values of literature is to serve as a reflection of oneself? Why or why not? Socrates said "Know thyself." How can reading a book such as Cane River help a reader to know him/herself? Do you find yourself reflecting on your own character and abilities when reading Cane River? Why or why not. Use examples from Cane River and your own life to support your answer.

Essay Topic 3

Elisabeth says that she knows any one of them - or all of them - could be sold at the whim of their owners. It's around this time that Suzette realizes that the childhood days of companionship with the white children are gone.

What are the reasons Suzette will not be able to play with the white children any longer and how does that impact her life? Use examples from Cane River to support your response.

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