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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. At which famous New York building did Herr Blutwurst arrange for Kathleen to have an audition?

2. What ailment affects Teresa Taylor's husband Hector?

3. What year does Mercedes graduate from high school?

4. What type of music did Kathleen and Rose listen to?

5. What is the name of Jameel's only son?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens to Mercedes after her high school graduation?

2. What happens to Francess' baby shortly after its birth?

3. Who is Jeanne?

4. How does Frances feel about school?

5. How does the Piper family react to the news that Frances has a job?

6. What story does Frances tell Lily that causes her to pass out in a cave?

7. How does Lily believe Frances was impregnated?

8. What leads Mercedes to believe Lily is a saint?

9. How does Frances spy on Leo Taylor?

10. Why is Teresa Taylor fired from her job?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Both Materia and Mercedes have a strong Catholic faith. First, describe Materia's religious beliefs and how she passed them on to her daughter. Then, describe Mercedes' religious beliefs. In what ways does religion affect Mercedes' daily life? Which relationship do you think is most affected by Mercedes' religious beliefs? What troubles arise due to Mercedes' zeal? Finally, explain whether or not you believe religion has a positive or negative impact on the Piper family, and why. Be sure to include examples from the text to strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 2

Throughout his fatherhood, James has worked a variety of jobs to support his family. First, create a time line of James's employment throughout the novel. Which jobs did he most enjoy? Which did he least enjoy? What traits about each of the jobs make them similar? Then, explain how these jobs help to characterize James not only as a man but as a father? What symbolism can be found in James's line of work? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 3

Describe Materia's relationship with music as she grows up, particularly during the time of her marriage to James. What did music symbolize for Materia? During what times was Materia allowed to express herself through music? Then, compare / contrast Materia's life when she was allowed access to music with the times she was not allowed access to music. What aspects of Materia's life changed without music? What does this tell you about Materia as a character, and about the various relationships in her life? Be sure to include examples from the text to strengthen your arguments.

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