View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. At which national landmark did the Bedwetters win the Apache buffalo head trophy?

2. How do the Bedwetters feel about having to lead the buffalo to the fence, with only inches between them and the massive animals?

3. How fast are the Bedwetters driving as they reach the final fence?

4. How does Cotton die?

5. Where was the alcohol stolen from?

Short Essay Questions

1. What was the general emotion surrounding the crowds that had gathered for the hunt?

2. What emotions do the Bedwetters exhibit in the final scene of the novel?

3. What plan does Cotton devise to open the buffalo pen gates?

4. What is Teft's criminal past?

5. What is the Bedwetters' plan to free the buffalo?

6. How did the Bedwetters finally win the Apache buffalo head?

7. Why does Cotton cut his celebration of the buffaloes' freedom short?

8. How did the Bedwetters find themselves present at a buffalo hunting event?

9. Who do the Bedwetters imagine seeing them as they drive toward the final fence?

10. How has the herd of buffalo changed from night to morning?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

Many of the Bedwetters suffer from debilitating mental illness or disturbances. Choose two of the Bedwetters and describe their mental struggles throughout the novel. Where did these mental disturbances come from? How were these Bedwetters able to overcome their troubles to function as valuable members of their gang? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 980 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample