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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 Astrid do with her expensive clothes when she moves in with Rena?

2. What does Ron suggest the family do to cure Claire's depression?

3. Where does Paul tell Astrid to check for letters at?

4. What does Claire decide to skip as a result of her depression?

5. What does Luanne give Astrid when they see each other?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the visit that Astrid and Claire have with Ingrid.

2. What role does money play in Rena's home?

3. What does Paul represent to Astrid?

4. What does Ingrid mean when she tells Astrid, "I am your home"?

5. How does Astrid interpret the scene at the maternity ward when all the woman shout out for their mothers?

6. How does Astrid fit in with Yvonne and Niki?

7. How does Astrid treat Tasha? Why?

8. Compare and contrast Susan and Ingrid.

9. What offers does Ingrid get from others when she is released? Why does she take them?

10. How does Ron react to Astrid telling him Claire has been talking about suicide?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Astrid is surrounded by characters that influence her to be destructive even if they didn't intend on it, such as Ingrid and Conrad. Which characters have a positive influence on Astrid and try to encourage her not to be destructive? Use evidence from the novel to reinforce your argument.

Essay Topic 2

Consider the character names in the novel. Many of the women's names are unique in comparison to other contemporary names -- Astrid, Ingrid, Marvel. Also consider the men's names and that they are all fairly common -- Ed, Ray, Ron. Do you think there is a meaning behind this? Choose three characters to discuss in relation to their names. Do you think these characters have anything in common with their names? Why do you think they were given these names by the writer?

Essay Topic 3

Irony is used throughout the novel and in Astrid's life. Find three specific examples of irony in the novel and explain what role this piece of irony plays in the novel.

(see the answer keys)

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