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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. Where does Bryson reside in the beginning of the book?

2. Why is Katz walking most places at the time he calls Bill?

3. What is the most compelling reason for Bryson to hike the trail?

4. What did the future hold for Earl Schaffer?

5. Where does Bryson suggest he and Katz go to begin hiking again?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the reaction Bryson and Katz have toward Hiawassee when they arrive there with Donna and her fiancé.

2. Summarize the realization that Bryson and Katz come to as they look at a map of the Appalachian Trail in Gatlinburg.

3. Summarize what Mary Ellen says about Bryson and Katz when she meets other hikers on the trail.

4. Describe Stephen Katz, Bryson's hiking partner.

5. Summarize Katz's attitude toward hiking.

6. What are the benefits Bill Bryson believes he will get from hiking the Appalachian Trail?

7. Describe the Chattahoochee Forest.

8. Summarize what Bryson does when he brings all his camping equipment home.

9. Summarize why the US Forest Service builds so many roads.

10. Summarize the first decision Bryson and Katz make about continuing their hike along the AT.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

1) Compare and contrast the characters of Katz and Bryson with the Spring hikers they meet along the trail.

2) Summarize the impact each group has on one another.

3) How is each group realistic in its view of hiking?

4) How do their attitudes toward hiking differ? Cite examples from the novel.

Essay Topic 2

1) Analyze the fears Bryson experiences throughout the book.

2) Describe three events in the story where Bryson's fears paralyze him.

3) How does Katz help Bryson with his fears?

Essay Topic 3

1) Analyze the resolution of the story as it relates to each of the characters in the novel.

2) Explain the metamorphosis each of them experiences in the final chapter.

3) How has their experiences on the trail affected their attitudes toward the future?

(see the answer keys)

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