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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. What is Harry's nickname for Olympia?

2. Who does Olympia spend Friday afternoon's with?

3. How long has Olympia been married to her current husband?

4. Which sport does Harry and Olympia love to play together?

5. What was the purpose of debutante balls in the 1940s or 1950s according to Olympia?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Chauncey threaten to do if Veronica refuses to attend the ball?

2. How is Harry different than Olympia's previous husband, Chauncey?

3. How does Chauncey feel about the invitation to The Arches?

4. Describe Veronica's dress for the ball.

5. Why does Olympia call Chauncey after Charlie recommends that she does?

6. What are Charlie's summer plans?

7. How does Max feel about the ball?

8. What are Charlie options for post graduation plans?

9. Why is it unusual for Olympia to invite Frieda and Margaret to the ball?

10. How do Harry and Olympia meet?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Olympia values family above anything. How does she show her love of her family throughout the book, even when times are rough or she is frustrated with her family?

Essay Topic 2

Harry chooses to skip the ball because he thinks it is a racist event. How is Olympia's bringing Margaret and Frieda to the ball more of a statement against discriminating behavior than Harry's refusal to come? Explain your reasoning.

Essay Topic 3

The author tries to paint Olympia as a character who has a "perfect" life. Do you think Olympia has a perfect life? Explain your reasoning using details from the book.

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