View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What contraband does one boy leave at Salim's shop?

2. Why do other boys from the lycee come to see Salim?

3. Where has Salim come from as the story opens?

4. The palace once built by a businessman in town is now serving what purpose?

5. How does Salim's Moslem religion differ from pure Arabian religion?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Salim observe about the foreigners at the Domain?

2. What is the underlying mood of the villagers and what effect does it have on Ferdinand?

3. Why does Ferdinand ask the question about African religion?

4. What does Salim think about the slaves on the east coast of Africa?

5. What is everyone's perception of Raymond?

6. What is happening with the town shortly after Salim arrives?

7. Describe the rumors about the new complex being built near the town.

8. In what way is Father Huismans somewhat naive?

9. What makes the trip longer and more complicated?

10. Describe the reunion of Salim and Indar.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

At the end of the novel, Salim is leaving the town and it is inferred he will return to London and marry Kareisha. The marriage arrangement was tacitly made years ago when Nazruddin sold his store in the town at a loss. Write your opinion of arranged marriages as opposed to the western way of dating before marriage.

Essay Topic 2

Write a paper about means of travel in the novel. Include the advantages and disadvantages of each. What method of travel in the novel seems most reliable? State your reasons for selecting that means as opposed to the others.

Essay Topic 3

Write a two-page summary of A BEND IN THE RIVER. In your summary include only the major theme of the novel and the transformation of Salim from east coast living to his experiences in the town to his leaving at the end of the novel.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 666 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample