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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 does Karen tell Jamie about his accent?

2. When does Granda die?

3. What seems to be the only part of Granda which has not changed?

4. What song does the congregation sing before dispersing to the cemetery?

5. Which of the following does NOT describe Granda's behavior with Jamie?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does the author reintroduce the elements of orderliness and tidiness regarding Jamie's life?

2. What is the opinion of Granda Hugh regarding the accusations from those who know him well?

3. What emotional event does Jamie witness regarding Granda Hugh's work?

4. Describe Jamie's last personal encounter with Granda Hugh.

5. What event precipitates Jamie's contacting his estranged mother?

6. What surprise does Jamie get at Granda Hugh's funeral?

7. What is Jamie's mother's condition when he meets her?

8. What is the nature of the drunken journalist's derogatory comments directed at Jamie?

9. What is Jamie's overall opinion of the afternoon spent with his mother?

10. What is especially troubling to Jamie about Granda Hugh's story about John MacLean?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses more than one iteration on the concept of pressure and time. Identify at least two characters who either embody or experience the concept of pressure and time then cite an example to support your answers.

Essay Topic 2

Does O'Hagan end the book on a note of hope for Jamie or the continuance of his struggle to come to terms with his flawed relationship with his father? Give your perspective and two reasons to support your answer.

Essay Topic 3

Create a character study of Gran Margie. What are her physical characteristics? What are her motivations? What are her fears? What are her dreams? What else can you say about Gran Margie?

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This section contains 912 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample