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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. According to Greta, what was her mother addicted to?

2. Where did Greta meet Rob?

3. What was the name of Greta's first girlfriend?

4. According to Greta, where can pain be felt?

5. Who is Sabine’s gardener?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Greta think Sabine is hiding something from her?

2. Why did Flavia step in to help Greta's dog?

3. Why did Greta stop talking to Rob?

4. Why did Big Swiss lie to the police about her assault?

5. Why is Greta transcribing Om’s therapy sessions?

6. Why does Greta feel bad for Jelly Roll?

7. What happens after Greta finds the “PS” her mother left behind?

8. What is Greta's first impression of Big Swiss?

9. What was "Authentic Movement" in Flavia's childhood?

10. What reason does Greta give Flavia for leaving Stacy?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Readers might describe the book's tone as uncomfortable, dark, or even funny. Describe the tone of Big Swiss from your perspective. As you assess the book's tone, consider the author's diction in contributing to this theme's presence in the novel. Point out at least three specific pieces of evidence from the text.

Essay Topic 2

The relationship between Greta and her mother was a complicated one. Describe the emotions Greta feels regarding her mother. What do you make of Greta's diagnosis of emotional detachment? Is Greta conflicted about her mother's death? Why or why not? Analyze the way this relationship impacts her interactions with other characters.

Essay Topic 3

Piñon is a core figure in Greta's life. Describe why you think Greta centers her life so firmly around Piñon in spite of her emotional detachment. In what ways does Piñon influence Greta's development as a character?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 717 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample