View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why are grizzly bears not a concern on the trail?

2. Where does Bryson set up the tent for practice?

3. What is the only accommodation available at the campground?

4. What does Bryson say is his universe while he is on the Appalachian Trail?

5. What does the far shore of Fontana Lake border?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. Explain the type of hiking that Bryson and Katz will have to do through the Smoky Mountains.

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

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

6. 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.

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

8. Describe the bunkhouse at Rainbow Springs Campground.

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

1) What is the message Bryson is trying to convey about the wilderness and civilization?

2) How does he depict a realistic and relevant view of human nature and the wild?

3) Are the human qualities of each character true to life? Explain.

4) How do the characters react to the everyday struggles of hiking the Appalachian Trail?

Essay Topic 2

1) Evaluate the elements of cause and effect in this story using examples from the book.

2) Choose three events from the story which cause either Bryson's or Katz's life to undergo a change.

3) How does he react to the events and their effects?

4) How does he grow emotionally in his own life and in his attitude toward the hike because of these changes?

Essay Topic 3

1) Evaluate the relationship between Bryson and Katz.

2) Describe if they are good hiking partners or not ?

3) How do they interact with one another?

4) What are the qualities of the friendship?

5) Cite examples from the story proving their acceptance of one another for who they are?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 681 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample