View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

1. What topic do Vicki and her grandfather discuss?

2. What does Zachary's instructor tell Zachary when they get back to the airport?

3. For what does Vicky's family go down to the cove?

4. Where is Vicky going in the afternoon?

5. What does Vicky picture in her mind?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

"A Ring of Endless Light" belongs to the young adult novel genre. Discuss the following:

1. Define the literary term "genre" and give several examples of three other genres in addition to the young adult novel genre.

2. Discuss two reasons why it might be useful to label a text by genre and two reasons it might be disadvantageous to label a text by genre.

3. What do you think is the difference between a young adult novel and a historical novel mystery?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the following:

1. Compare/contrast the characters of Adam and Zachary. How are they similar? How are they different? Is there a flaw in each of their personalities? Be specific and give examples.

2. Compare/contrast the characters of Vicky and Suzy. How do they seem different? Which do you like more? Why? Which one seems more of a well-rounded character?

3. Thoroughly analyze how three of the secondary characters in "A Ring of Endless Light" help drive the plot and what their contribution is to the storyline. Are any of the secondary characters unnecessary? Indispensable? Which of the secondary characters are likable? Which are either unlikable or even despicable? Be specific and give examples.

Essay Topic 3

Many readers of fiction place themselves in the position of one character, wondering if they would do the same thing as that character. Discuss the following:

1. Do you think one of the values of literature is to serve as a reflection of oneself? Why or why not?

2. Socrates said "Know thyself." How can reading a book such as "A Ring of Endless Light" help a reader to know him/herself? Do you find yourself reflecting on your own character and abilities when reading "A Ring of Endless Light"? Why or why not.

3. Choose one specific incident in "A Ring of Endless Light" to discuss and compare one of the characters' response to how you think you would respond.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 452 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample