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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. Why does Birdie go to the woods to urinate in Chapter 14?

2. What does Birdie tell the police officer about her relationship with Sandy?

3. Why is Nicholas expelled from his private school?

4. In Chapter 10, what school does Birdie imagine she is attending?

5. In Chapter 12, where does Nicholas spend his summer?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Birdie feel betrayed by Sandy in Chapter 13?

2. Why do the girls in New Hampshire make fun of Birdie in Chapter 9?

3. How does Birdie finance her trip to California?

4. What does Birdie do after Dennis' party?

5. What mementos does Birdie find stashed in her mother's room?

6. What reaction does Birdie expect her mother to have about her absence?

7. Why is Birdie taunted by a group of boys in Chapter 12?

8. Who is Exu and why does Birdie pray to him?

9. How does Ronnie Parkman help Birdie find her father?

10. Describe Samantha.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe the significance of Birdie's relationship to Nicholas. What lesson does Sandy teach Birdie about men and how does Nicholas fit into that lesson? What role does race play in Birdie's relationship with Nicholas? How might their relationship change once Birdie has established a life in Berkeley?

Essay Topic 2

How does Nicholas' comment about Birdie's appearance affect their relationship? What perceptions does Birdie have of beauty and race? What perceptions does Nicholas have of beauty and race? What might this foreshadow for their relationship?

Essay Topic 3

How does Birdie's perceived race affect her status in society? What strengths will she need to develop as an adult in order to thrive in American society? How might living in Berkeley affect her outlook on people of mixed race?

(see the answer keys)

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