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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 does Harry say on his voicemail?

2. What does Frieda's tattoo represent?

3. What story does Frieda tell Olympia about a 17-year-old Harry?

4. Which child does Harry find most unhelpful around the house?

5. What is the weather like the day of the ball?

Short Essay Questions

1. How are Veronica and Virginia different?

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

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

4. How does Frieda solve the visible tattoo issue for the ball?

5. Why is Olympia still worried about Charlie in Chapter 8?

6. What happens to Max that makes life more difficult for Olympia right before the ball?

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

8. How does Harry feel about The Arches ball?

9. What is wrong with Olympia two days before the ball?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How do the family's Jewish and Protestant cultures play an important role throughout the novel? Do their cultural differences add depth to the novel or is it unnecessary?

Essay Topic 2

Harry and Chauncey are very different characters. Compare and contrast them using examples from the book.

Essay Topic 3

Throughout the book, symbolism is an important theme. Discuss the use and meaning of the following symbols: Frieda's tattoo, Veronica's tattoo, the white ball gowns, the black velvet dress.

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