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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. With whom did Calder usually spend his free time until recently?

2. Who gave Calder the box he pulls out to look in?

3. What is in Petra's hair on the way to school the next morning?

4. What does Calder feel he is trying to solve?

5. Who is especially interested in the quote Ms. Hussey tells the students?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Calder learn about his grandmother and what does he wish about Vermeer and Fort and why does he wish that?

2. What do Calder and Petra learn about the Lady?

3. Who did Calder used to spend his time with, and what does he do now?

4. What do Petra and Calder do additional study on and what does Petra learn about the woman in her dream?

5. How does Petra obtain the book called "Lo!"?

6. What helps Calder think and what is he thinking about as he sits in his room?

7. What does Calder discover in Mrs. Sharpe's home?

8. How do Petra and Calder's families differ?

9. What does the author challenge the reader to do concerning the artwork and why?

10. What does the letter published by the Chicago Tribune state?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the following:

1. Who is/are the protagonists of the story and why?

2. Who is/are the antagonists of the story and why?

3. Which 3 secondary characters have the greatest impact on the plot?

4. Are any of the characters dispensable and which ones? Why or why not?

5. Do you think this is a character-driven plot or an action-driven plot? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss one of the following:

1. Thoroughly analyze how the setting informs the plot in "Chasing Vermeer".

2. Trace and analyze one major theme of "Chasing Vermeer". How is the theme represented by symbolism? By the characters' behaviors? By the action?

3. Trace and analyze two secondary themes of "Chasing Vermeer". How are the themes represented by symbolism? By the characters' behaviors? By the action?

Essay Topic 3

Many readers of fiction place themselves in the position of one character, wondering if they would do the same thing as that character. Discuss the following:

1. Do you think one of the values of literature is to serve as a reflection of oneself? Why or why not?

2. Socrates said "Know thyself." How can reading a book such as "Chasing Vermeer" help a reader to know him/herself? Do you find yourself reflecting on your own character and abilities when reading Chasing Vermeer? Why or why not.

3. Choose one specific incident in "Chasing Vermeer" to discuss and compare one of the characters' response to how you think you would respond.

(see the answer keys)

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