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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 Ruby told has sent her message from beyond the grave not to worry?

2. Who does Nell remember catching a bumble bee and letting it go?

3. What was Alice's occupation before her marriage?

4. Which Coronation guest is George's sibling?

5. What does the factory produce where Bunty works during the war?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Mrs. Carter.

2. What does Ruby witness their last morning on holiday that she probably shouldn't have?

3. What happens to Gillian after the pantomime?

4. How was Jack killed?

5. How is Bunty treated at Sunday School after missing the outing?

6. What happens to Frank?

7. Why does Nell keep the children from leaving for the train station?

8. Why does Ruby resolve to learn to read while at Auntie Babs'?

9. Describe the movie Jack and Nell went to when he was home on leave.

10. What "improvements" does Rachel make to the Barker family and home after she arrives to help out?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One of the themes in "Behind the Scenes at the Museum" is the loss of children. Using at least three examples, discuss how Atkinson develops this theme throughout the story and its impact on the characters involved.

Essay Topic 2

Choose two characters and discuss the effects that living through one (or both) of the World Wars has on him/her.

Essay Topic 3

Choose at least two of the main conflicts of "Behind the Scenes at the Museum" and discuss their development through the novel. Which characters are involved? How are they resolved? What commentary is Atkinson making through them?

(see the answer keys)

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