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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. When Angela brings up the idea of a reconciliation between her parents, her mother rejects the idea. Why?

2. Richard goads Tycho about the quote, "Nothing exists but atoms and the void," saying he is ____.

3. Tycho confides to Angela that when he was younger he had a reputation as ____.

4. Both Angela and Tycho think that Dido doesn't renovate the house because ____.

5. Africa changes her story in the second phone call. What does she say?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Chapter 8, Angela tells Tycho of her plan to go to her father's place of business and meet with him face to face. How does Tycho respond?

2. What does Angela tell Tycho about the men they see in the coffee shop, and how does he respond?

3. In Chapter 4, Tycho puts forth an interesting idea about truth. Describe what he thinks about truth.

4. Although Tycho's brother Richard appears only a few times in the novel, in Chapter 2, he is described in some detail. How is Richard's character portrayed?

5. What secret is Angela keeping from her mother in Chapter 1?

6. When Tycho attempts to talk Angela out of her plan to visit her father's office, Angela's response gives the reader an idea of how well she actually understands Tycho. How is this made clear?

7. While Tycho waits for Angela to return from her father's office, he reads a book. What is the book about, and how does it mirror the events in the novel itself?

8. In Chapter 2, what evidence does the author give that demonstrates the sibling rivalry between Tycho and his brother and sister?

9. Angela and Tycho come from entirely different worlds it seems. Compare the differences in their family lives.

10. What does Angela's sharing her secret with Tycho, rather than with Robin, indicate about her relationships with the two boys?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Chapter 4, one of the main themes of the novel is introduced: Truth and common sense are often at odds. With respect to the experiences of Angela and Tycho, discuss the implications of the idea that truth "wobbles." Use specific examples from the text to illustrate.

Essay Topic 2

The accident involving the Cherrys seems to be a turning point for Angela. Explain why this incident has such a strong impact on Angela and how it is instrumental in changing her attitude not only toward Dido but also toward Roland.

Essay Topic 3

Describe the way in which Dido is introduced in the novel and what this initial view of her tells the reader about her nature, character, and personality. Use specific examples from the text to illustrate.

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