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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. Why does the coyote like Nannie's orchard?

2. What does Nannie not "take much stock in"?

3. What is the other name of Highway 6?

4. How many sisters does Jewel have?

5. What kind of therapy does Lusa discover, after Cole's death?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Chapter 30, Lusa starts to think of Cole in a different manner. What is this?

2. How does Garnett embarrass himself in Chapter 28?

3. What are some of the ghost experiences in the house that Lusa relates to Crys?

4. In Chapter 27, what does Lusa find out about the father of Jewel's children?

5. Even though Nannie drives Garnett crazy, why does he feel it is his responsibility to give her the shingles in his garage?

6. What reasons does Lusa give Jewel for wanting to adopt her children?

7. Deanna finally opens up to Eddie about her half-sister, in Chapter 16. What does she tell him?

8. In Chapter 19, Deanna is exhibiting what symptoms that causes Eddie to think that she is anemic and Deanna to think she is menopausal?

9. In Chapter 16, why is Deanna embarrassed when Jerry brings her supplies?

10. What does Nannie do, in Chapter 20, that makes Garnett realize how starved he is for human touch?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Barbara Kingsolver is a biologist originally from Kentucky, with a home in southern Appalachia. Discuss what you believe to be her intention in writing this book. Did she mean for there to be a deeper meaning to the book other than ordinary fiction? Is it merely coincidence that she writes about a place and subjects that she is well versed in? Do you believe that she is trying to sway your opinion in areas such as eco-systems, hunting, or tobacco? Give precise reasons for your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Garnett appears to have a strong faith, in "Prodigal Summer", and likes to quote scripture. However, some of his opinions seem to contradict, not only the Bible, but also what some might view as a "Christian" attitude. Cite three examples from the book that would support this view. Be sure to address stereotypes, judging others, and views on animals' place on earth. Are Garnett's interpretations of the Bible solely to support his own views or do you think that he honestly believes them?

Essay Topic 3

After several conversations with Crys, Lusa concludes that Crys's aunts do not understand her and are doing her more harm than good. Cite three examples from the book that support this. What have they said and done that convinces her of this? What impact has their behavior had on Crys? Does Jewel agree with Lusa?

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