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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. Craig decides to focus on _____.

2. Raina and Craig are _____.

3. What is the name of the main character?

4. What does Craig burn?

5. The Sunday school teacher talks about:

Short Essay Questions

1. Discuss the issues faced by living in an old farmhouse.

2. How does the author describe the dreaded cubby hole?

3. How do the boys feel about winter?

4. Describe the opening scene with the brothers?

5. Describe the events at breakfast.

6. Discuss the scene between Steve and Craig as they work outside.

7. What are Craig's feelings about Raina when they kiss?

8. What is the result of the boys' argument?

9. Discuss the challenge undertaken by Craig and Phil each winter. Who is the winner?

10. What are Raina's thoughts about static? What is Craig's story?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Craig's visit to Michigan changed his life in a number of ways, from learning about a new family to exploring first love. During the stay, Craig says, "When I'd first arrived, we were full of restlessness and enthusiasm - awake to all sensation. The days inbetween wandered aimlessly and blended together - oblivious to any other world" (Chapter 7, p. 379). What had changed from the time Craig arrived until he made that statement? What did Craig learn? How was Craig changed from the experience? How was Raina changed? How might these changes affect each in the future?

Essay Topic 2

Thompson uses many flashbacks, particularly when telling tales about his childhood. Discuss the use of flashback in the storytelling process. Does each character give enough information to make the story relatable? If not, why? How do you think Gaiman creates a story within a story using flashback? Do you like the use of flashbacks? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Craig struggles with a great deal of shame and guilt. The shame and guilt originate from Craig's upbringing and effects his thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Discuss, in depth, Craig's issues with shame and guilt, what causes those issues, and how they might be dealt with in a positive way.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 925 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample