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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 the primary role of the Forest Service?

2. What do Bryson and Katz plan to do after eight days of hiking?

3. How are Bryson and Katz covering the last 11 miles to Hiawassee?

4. What kills the Chestnut trees along the Appalachian Trail?

5. Which true story by author, Herrero, describes the injuries a grizzly can deliver quickly?

Short Essay Questions

1. Mary Ellen becomes a hiking companion to Bryson and Katz. Describe her experience as a hiker.

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

3. Summarize the weather report the man at the airport check-in gives to Bryson and Katz as they prepare to leave for the Appalachian Trail.

4. Describe the two things Bryson is shocked about when he goes to buy equipment for the hike.

5. Summarize the secret pact that Bryson and Katz make about how to get to Hiawassee.

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

7. Why does Bryson describe his first day on the trail as hell?

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

9. Describe the first look Bryson and Katz have of the Smoky Mountains.

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

1) Describe the changes to the Appalachian Trail from the time it first came into being to the present day.

2) What differences from the original plan have been made?

3) What effect does the National Forest Service have on the trail?

Essay Topic 2

1) Interpret the feelings Bryson and Katz have for the trail in the first part of the novel with the emotions and reaction they have later in the novel.

2) What regrets do they have at the end of the novel with regard to their journey?

3) How does their relationship differ from the first part of the novel?

Essay Topic 3

1) Compare and contrast the characters of Bill Bryson and Stephen Katz.

2) Summarize the impact each character has on the other.

3) Which character is the stronger character of the two both physically and emotionally? Defend the answer with examples.

(see the answer keys)

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