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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 does Mina do to cheer herself up, and to lift the spirits of those around her?

2. According to Calvin, Alice has especially strong views about which of the following subjects?

3. Which phrase best describes Alice's religious views?

4. In chapter five, Trillin states that he once gives a speech at the annual dinner for which organization?

5. Alice serves on the board of what organization for children with cancer and other illnesses?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe what Alice means when she says that someone "doesn't have a nice life."

2. Alice believes that all people are capable of learning and can be taught new things, regardless of their background, provided they have the desire. Do you agree? Why or why not?

3. Describe the Trillins' trip to Japan. What does their disagreement say about their marriage?

4. Why does Calvin Trillin show his wife Alice his rough drafts?

5. Why does Alice believe that "Herbie" deserves to be paid more than what he originally quoted for his contracting services?

6. What is Alice's attitude toward cigarettes?

7. In chapter six, explain Calvin Trillin's theory about the person who makes out the mortgage check in a marriage.

8. True or false: Alice shies away from taboo subjects. Explain your answer.

9. Why does Alice think that marrying Calvin Trillin means she has to live a modest lifestyle?

10. What is the one thing that Alice forbids her teenage daughters from doing?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Both Abigail and Sarah grow up to have careers in social work.

• According to Trillin, which parent influence Abigail and Sarah more? Why?

• In what ways does this parent influence Abigail and Sarah?

Cite examples from the book in your response.

Essay Topic 2

Write about the messages in this memoir about parenting.

Part 1) Does Calvin Trillin agree with his wife Alice about the importance of attending their children's school plays and eating dinner together? Why or why not?

Part 2) To what extent does Alice's parenting style differ from that of her husband?

Part 3) Why does Trilllin spend so much time on the subject of parenting in About Alice?

Part 4) Trillin provides brief glimpses into the points of view of Abigail and Sarah. What do their statements say about the parenting they receive?

Cite examples from the book in your response.

Essay Topic 3

Explore the concept of love between a husband and wife in About Alice. Be sure to answer the following questions:

• How does Trillin portray his love for his wife?

• How does Trillin portray Alice's love for him?

• What is unique about their marriage? Is it a marriage of equals? Why or why not?

• What statement does Trillin's memoir make about his love for her?

Cite examples from the book in your response.

(see the answer keys)

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