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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 is Dave's final thought in the book?

2. How is Dave treated by the rest of the family when his mother is in the hospital?

3. What does Dave dream on the night his stab wound infection is cleaned?

4. How does Dave feel about his father after he tells his father about the stabbing?

5. What does Dave realize after years of struggling?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain why Dave's morale is low in the summer of 1971.

2. Explain what Dave eats after he finished the dishes one day in Chapter 7, The Lord's Prayer.

3. In Chapter 6, While Father is Away, what does Dave's father vow he will do for Dave someday?

4. Describe why Dave is so fascinated with a piece of driftwood that is washing ashore in the Epilogue.

5. How does Dave look positively at his abusive past?

6. Dave goes to his father for help after being stabbed. What is his father's reaction?

7. How does Dave feel about life in America, as outlined in the Epilogue?

8. Summarize Mother's reaction when she receives a letter from Mr. Zeigler praising Dave's efforts in school.

9. Describe where Dave brings his son in the Epilogue and his emotions at that time.

10. Summarize Russell's attitude toward Dave, as described in Chapter 5, The Accident.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the book, Dave's mother reveals her coldness and cruelty toward Dave.

- Summarize how her attitude toward Dave reflects the attitudes of the rest of the family. Cite examples from the story.

- How does she brainwash Dave's brothers and father not to acknowledge Dave's abusive situation?

Essay Topic 2

Describe the relationship between Dave's mother and father.

- Summarize the impact each of them has on the other.

- How does their alcoholism play a part in Dave's abuse?

- What do Dave's parents do to amuse themselves when they spend time together?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the relationship between Dave and his brother, Russell.

- How does Russell have an impact on how Dave's mother treats him?

- What are Russell's feelings toward Dave?

(see the answer keys)

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