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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 liquid did Goodenow slip in when trying to climb over the fence?

2. At the time of the quest, how far away is the end of summer?

3. How do the bullies figure out that the Bedwetters are lying to them?

4. How many cabins was Shecker assigned to before he came to stay with the Bedwetters?

5. How does Cotton show his anger and frustration with his gang when they complain about wanting to return back to camp?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Cotton feel when he hears the gang fighting and blaming each other for their plan's failure?

2. What type of car do the boys want to steal from the motel parking lot?

3. What is the end result of Cotton's demand that the boys vote unanimously about whether or not they should continue their mission?

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

5. Why did Goodenow threaten to commit suicide over the summer?

6. What unusual supplies do Lally One and Goodenow pack for their dangerous mission?

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

8. Why does the Bedwetters' first choice of transportation out of camp fail?

9. After relocating Lally Two, how does Cotton exhibit his leadership over the misfit boys, particularly in their decision to go forward with their "dangerous" plan?

10. Where did the boys finally find Lally Two?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The landscape of Arizona acts almost as its own character in the novel. First, describe the Arizona landscape as it is represented in the novel? In what ways does the landscape affect the plot and themes of "Bless the Beasts and Children"? In your opinion, could this novel have taken place in any other setting? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the novel, Swarthout uses the physicality of light and shadows to convey many things, including enlightenment. Choose two examples of times when light and shadows were present in the text and describe how these elements conveyed the emotions of the scenes. In your opinion, were these techniques successful in creating mood and tone? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 3

In the opening of the novel, Cotton has a disturbing dream about the buffalo reserve where he and his fellow camp mates travel later in the novel. What are the important elements of Cotton's dreams? What message can be drawn from the imagery? In what way is Cotton's dream foreshadowing for the later events of the novel? Be sure to use examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

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