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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 amusement in the bunkhouse for about 30 minutes?

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

3. What did the future hold for Earl Schaffer?

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

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

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

4. Summarize the details of the National Trails System Act which was passed in 1968.

5. As Bryson and Katz wait for a cabdriver, what do they suddenly decide about their destination?

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

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

8. Summarize what Bryson reads about on winter nights before he sets out on the Appalachian Trail.

9. Explain how a hiker manages to get on the Appalachian Trail at Amicola Falls State Park when it is seven miles from the nearest highway.

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

1) Analyze the character of Mary Ellen.

2) How is she depicted by the author?

3) How is she revealed through her own words and actions?

4) In what way is she revealed through other character's comments?

Essay Topic 2

The wilderness is the main constant throughout the novel. It is depicted in all the chapters of the book.

1) Explain the different images Bryson uses of the wilderness as the book progresses.

2) What is the significance of the wilderness in each part of the book?

3) What meaning does the wilderness have for Bryson and Katz?

Essay Topic 3

1) Describe the differences between Bryson's hike with Katz along the Appalachian Trail and the day hikes he takes through Pennsylvania.

2) Why is Bryson frustrated with his hiking experience in Pennsylvania?

(see the answer keys)

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