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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. While Bryson climbs the first mountain, what is Katz doing well behind him?

2. What happens three or four times a day as Bryson and Katz hike the trail?

3. How long is the average hike time for the complete trail?

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

5. What are parts of the original Appalachian Trail plans that are never realized?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Bryson summarize the quality of Appalachian Trail maps?

2. Summarize Katz's attitude toward hiking.

3. What are some of the issues Bryson worries about with regard to hiking on the AT?

4. Describe the forest of the Appalachian Trail in 1948.

5. Describe the vision Benton MacKaye has for Appalachian Trail.

6. Describe the bunkhouse at Rainbow Springs Campground.

7. 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.

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

9. Why do Bryson and Katz feel guilty about leaving Mary Ellen behind in the woods?

10. 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.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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?

Essay Topic 2

1) Analyze Bill Bryson's reasons for wanting to hike the Appalachian Trail.

2) In what ways did he accomplish what he set out to do?

3) In what ways is the hike a disappointment for him?

Essay Topic 3

1) Compare Stephen Katz's thoughts and ideas as he hikes in the first section of the novel his emotional state when he goes to hike the Hundred Mile Wilderness with Bryson.

2) Cite examples from the book that describe his emotional problems and the need for alcohol.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 640 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample