View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Jende know that his train is in Harlem?

2. Who is Cheri?

3. What question does Clark ask Jende during the interview?

4. Who is Leah?

5. What does Clark tell Jende at the end of Jende's interview?

Short Essay Questions

1. During Jende's interview with Clark Edwards in Chapter One, what seems to be Edward's top requirements for a chauffeur?

2. What causes Jende to become angry at Neni for in Chapter 20?

3. How does Mbue show the novel's time period in the first few chapters of the novel?

4. What is Winston's role in getting Jende his job with the Edwards?

5. What is the opening scene of the novel?

6. What are the first signs of trouble with Clark's job in Chapter Six?

7. What does Jende learn about Clark when they talk in Hudson River Park?

8. What is Neni's reaction when she meets Jenny?

9. How does Mbue make it clear to the reader that Mr. Edwards is wealthy in Chapter One?

10. Why does Vince come over to the Jongas?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Winston was able to come to America and become a successful lawyer. What does Winston symbolize in the novel?

Essay Topic 2

How does Jende's views of America change after the collapse of Lehman Brothers?

Essay Topic 3

How is the setting of the text, New York City, used as a symbol in the novel?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 698 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample