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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 kind of engines drive the Icarus?

2. What do Dirk and Dahlgren arm themselves with once they board the Odyssey?

3. Who is captain of the Odyssey?

4. What type of engines drive the Icarus?

5. What is the LASH system?

Short Essay Questions

1. What plan do NUMA and homeland security officials put into action in Chapter 43?

2. Describe how Kang attempts to salvage his plan after the failed rocket launch.

3. What do Dirk Pitt, Sr., and Al do after they land at LAX in Chapter 48?

4. What happens to Kwan and Kang's empire?

5. Describe the final scene with Dirk and Sarah.

6. Describe the end of Tongju.

7. What do Tongju and some of his closest soldiers plan to do after the failure of the rocket launch from the Odyssey?

8. Describe what happens after Dirk Sr. and Al spot the Badger tied up to the Odyssey.

9. What information do Dirk and Summer share with the authorities in Chapter 41?

10. What initially happens after Dirk and Dahlgren board the Odyssey?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Consider the way Cussler structures his plot. Is he a "formula" writer? If so, what "formula" does he use? Analyzing the book as a whole, compare the book to other books or movies in popular culture. Since the Dirk Pitt books are considered a series or "franchise," compare them to other series or franchises. In your discussion, rate Cussler's work in Black Wind to any one entry in another series (we are assuming that Black Wind is the only Dirk Pitt novel you have read.) Compare and contrast heroes, villains, plots, etc.

Essay Topic 2

In an action novel, it might be tempting for the reader to skip over the "boring" parts to get to the "good parts." How well do the Cusslers perform the writer's task of pacing a novel? Discuss the pace of the novel, noting if it is successful in keeping the reader engaged through the "slow" parts, and whether or not the action sequences are well-staged and understandable. Use specific sections or setpieces in the novel to support your contentions. Note, too, any tricks of the writer's trade the Cusslers employ to keep the pages turning.

Essay Topic 3

Black Wind begins, as do many of Cussler's books, with a historical incident. Explain why Cussler employs this technique. Discuss how the historical context provides foundation for the rest of the story. Discuss how effective this device is, going into some detail as to whether this acts as a distraction or as a necessary part of the storytelling.

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