1. Why is Al Sutton important to this story?
(a) He is Shelley's husband
(b) He caused Lyman to lose his leg
(c) He provides comic relief and helps to flesh out the character of Lyman, son of the richest family in town.
(d) He saved Lyman's life

2. Why does Lyman Ward return to his family home?
(a) To escape from the present and explore his family's history for answers to his own life.
(b) To drink beer and watch television all day long.
(c) To start a relationship with Shelley Rasmussen.
(d) To serve as a marriage counselor to Ada.

3. What is the understanding between Oliver and Susan that develops during their five year correspondence?
(a) That Susan will become Oliver's wife
(b) That Oliver will be the best man at Susan's wedding to Thomas
(c) That Susan's family will finance Oliver's projects
(d) That Susan will draw Oliver's likeness for his personal stationery

4. Rodman is concerned about his father living alone because
(a) Lyman is disabled and his caretakers are also elderly
(b) Rodman is afraid Ada will steal Lyman's money
(c) Rodman wants to live in Zodiac Cottage by himself
(d) Rodman is romantically interested in Shelley

5. What is the reason for the Wards' financial problems when Susan arrives?
(a) Oliver has lost his job
(b) The mine supervisor originally said the improvements to the Ward home would be paid for by the mine, then changed his mind
(c) Oliver has an opium habit
(d) Susan has spent too much money on her wardrobe