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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. Who does Levi usually meet with to compare homework?

2. What is the setting of the opening scene of the novel?

3. What does Zim say everyone does?

4. What does Dov say about how people deal with their problems?

5. What does Levi say Boaz used to have?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the conversation between Dov and Levi about Boaz.

2. What is Levi doing when Boaz comes home and how does the family greet him?

3. What happens when Amanda knocks on Boaz's door and why is this different than Boaz used to be?

4. What did Mrs. Bowers talk about in glowing terms?

5. Who do Pearl and Levi see at the movie and what happens after the show?

6. How does Pearl try to comfort Levi concerning Boaz?

7. How does Boaz's choice after high school impact the family?

8. What is Levi hoping for concerning the sign in front of his school?

9. What does Boaz say he is going to do that Abba and Dov think is good, and why does Levi think Boaz is lying?

10. How is Levi conflicted about Boaz and who has he told?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Over the course of The Things a Brother Knows, Levi grows as a person in both complexity and understanding. The Things a Brother Knows might be considered a slice of Levi's larger story of his "coming of age." It might be said that The Things a Brother Knows is a "bildungsroman" of Levi Katznelson. Discuss the following:

1. Define Bildungsroman, or "Coming of Age," and give several examples from literature you have read.

2. Trace and analyze the character of Levi as he changes from a more carefree, innocent boy to a wiser, young man. What are the significant events that change Levi?

3. After thoroughly analyzing Levi's growth throughout The Things a Brother Knows, do you think The Things a Brother Knows could be considered Levi's Coming of Age story? Why or why not?

4. Are there any other characters in The Things a Brother Knows who go through a Coming of Age experience? Who? Why do you think so?

Essay Topic 2

Adjusting to life as a civilian is difficult for Boaz. He stays in his room and sleeps, but he is probably just avoiding talking about his experience. He's not ready to discuss it yet. But his silence, just like his military service, is impacting the family. His mother is worried, but keeps reminding herself that at least he's home. Abba doesn't understand why his son is isolating himself and isn't just his old self. Levi is confused and hurt. Boaz's apparent depression is making Levi feel guilty.

1. Discuss why adjusting to civilian life might be difficult for Boaz. Use examples from The Things a Brother Knows and your own life to support your answer.

2. How do you think Boaz's silence is affecting his family? Use examples from The Things a Brother Knows and your own life to support your answer.

3. Compare Boaz's parents reactions to his behavior and why you think his mother and father are reacting differently. Use examples from The Things a Brother Knows and your own life to support your answer.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the following:

1. Who is/are the protagonists of the story and why?

2. Who is/are the antagonists of the story and why?

3. Which three secondary characters have the greatest impact on the plot?

4. Are any of the characters dispensable? Why or why not?

5. Do you think this is a character-driven plot or an action-driven plot? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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