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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. Which character seems preoccupied and upset to Olympia?

2. Why is the ball important to Frieda?

3. What is Max's temperature on Sunday?

4. Who has the week off work?

5. What is Veronica's tattoo?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Olympia so thankful to see Charlie in Chapter 6?

2. How are Veronica and Virginia different?

3. Describe Charlie's relationship with Max.

4. Why can't Olympia call in sick to work and take care of herself and Max?

5. Why does Harry feel bad for not helping Olympia?

6. How does Harry feel about The Arches ball?

7. Why does Harry agree to drop his mother, Frieda, off at the ball?

8. Why is Virginia upset at the end of Chapter 7?

9. What happens to Frieda that adds to Olympia's stress?

10. Why is Harry unable to be helpful at home?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Foreshadowing is also used in this book in many instances. Cite 3 examples of foreshadowing and how it is used to indicate events to come. Why would the author choose to foreshadow?

Essay Topic 2

Olympia is a good mother and wife, but she does a lot to support other people. Do you think that Olympia is too enabling to her children and husband? Explain your reasoning using support from the book.

Essay Topic 3

What was the most prominent theme in this book? Please provide examples of this theme throughout the novel.

(see the answer keys)

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