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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 causes a lump to form in Cotton's throat as they are driving through the wilderness at nighttime?

2. What do the Bedwetters drink with dinner during their quest away from camp?

3. What religion does Shecker observe?

4. Which of the following objects was an important object in Goodenow's suicide threat?

5. Which of Cotton's family members watches him die in his dream?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happened at the Petrified Forest on the day before Cotton had his alarming dream?

2. What gruesome discovery do the boys make when they reach their destination?

3. Why did Lally Two want to leave camp?

4. Why did the boys finally fall apart, threatening to quit the quest and return to camp?

5. How did Teft save the boys from the abuse of their camp counselor, Wheatie?

6. Why does Lally Two often act like an infant, and how did that affect his position within camp life?

7. What is "the bump"?

8. How does Box Canyon Boys' Camp reward good behavior and hard work?

9. What dramatic event occurred when Teft was flying to Arizona?

10. What does Cotton dream about in the opening chapter of the novel?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the references to the Vietnam War present in the novel. At what times is the war mentioned? What symbolism can be found in the references to war, particularly the Vietnam War? Do you think the use of a historical event is an effective symbol to convey a message to the larger reading audience? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 2

Based on the actions of the characters in the novel, what do you think is Swarthout's definition of a hero? In what ways are the Bedwetters heroes both physically and morally? Do you think the Bedwetters are good role models for young boys? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 3

This novel is rife with references to pop culture that are now dated. List at least ten references to pop culture that are present in the novel and explain what they add to the narration. Then, describe whether these references add to or detract from your reading experience as a member of a "modern" audience. Do you think the book would be better off without the pop culture? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

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