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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. Who is Bryson's hiking partner on his day hikes in New Hampshire?

2. What does Bryson consider perfect about hiking in Vermont?

3. What is the last long stretch of hiking for Katz and Bryson before ending the first part of their trek?

4. What happens to Bryson and Katz in the lagoon at Moxie Bald Mountain?

5. What happens to Bryson while hiking in the rain?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Bryson's thoughts on areas through which he thinks the Appalachian Trail should pass.

2. What is the decision that Bryson and Katz make after Katz gets lost in the woods.

3. Explain why Katz starts drinking again.

4. Describe what is killing the hemlock trees along the AT in the Blue Ridge Mountains and how is it being treated.

5. Describe Chicken John's claim to fame.

6. Describe how Bryson returns to the hotel room in Waynesboro after he walks to Kmart.

7. Explain why Mount Washington has such extreme weather conditions.

8. What has Mount Greylock, the highest peak in Massachusetts, inspired?

9. Summarize the behavior of the hikers that Bryson and Katz meet in Gravel Springs Hut.

10. Summarize Bryson's experience hiking in Pennsylvania.

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) 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?

Essay Topic 3

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?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 624 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample