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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 writes the condolence letter that makes Calvin laugh?

2. Where does Calvin keep one of the photos of Alice from the article in chapter three?

3. Which statement best describes Alice's upbringing?

4. What is the name of Calvin's youngest daughter?

5. What is written on the envelope in which Alice keeps special items?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is one positive quality that Alice inherits from her father? Why do you think this quality is especially beneficial to Alice?

2. In what ways is Alice's beauty a hardship?

3. In chapter three, Calvin Trillin explains that Alice's role as caretaker to her parents has a positive impact on her life. How?

4. Describe Calvin Trillin's father-in-law.

5. In chapter one, Trillin reveals that although his readers become familiar with Alice as a sensible, somewhat serious character in his books and articles, they never really know her. Why?

6. According to Calvin Trillin, Alice's beauty gives her some advantages. Explain.

7. In chapter one, Calvin Trillin states that the stories he writes about his family can be compared what kinds of television shows?

8. In chapter one, the reader learns that there is one condolence letter that makes Calvin Trillin laugh. Why?

9. When Calvin Trillin describes the first time he sees Alice in chapter two, what does he say is the first thing that strikes him about her? Is it simply her attractiveness, or something else?

10. What event causes Alice to feel as though she loses her looks?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In what ways does Trillin rely on his wife Alice in his professional life?

Part 1) What function does she have in Trillin's work routine?

Part 2) How is she portrayed in Trillin's writings?

Part 3) In what ways does Alice serve as a muse to her husband?

Cite examples from the book in your response.

Essay Topic 2

Is About Alice a life-affirming memoir? Why or why not? Cite examples from the book in your response.

Essay Topic 3

Write about the levels of perseverance exhibited by Alice and Calvin.

Part 1) In what ways does Alice or Calvin exhibit perseverance?

Part 2) What keeps them hopeful?

Part 3) Do either person ever lose hope? If so, when? What is the outcome?

Cite examples from the book in your response.

(see the answer keys)

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