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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 kind of flower is on Olympias' corsage?

2. Which character seems preoccupied and upset to Olympia?

3. What is "driving Harry nuts" at work?

4. Who calls Olympia while she is at work?

5. Who makes a stole for Veronica?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. Why does the family celebrate Christmas and Chanukah?

4. How does Harry feel about The Arches ball?

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

6. Describe Charlie's relationship with Max.

7. What does Olympia have to run out to buy for Virginia at the beginning of Chapter 8?

8. Why does Chauncey threaten to stop paying Veronica's tuition for a second time?

9. Why has Margaret taken a vacation?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Harry chooses to skip the ball because he thinks it is a racist event. How is Olympia's bringing Margaret and Frieda to the ball more of a statement against discriminating behavior than Harry's refusal to come? Explain your reasoning.

Essay Topic 2

Olympia tries to make life look easy, but in reality she juggles a marriage, children and a job. While she seems to get by, sometimes added stress and problems arise that throw her out of her routine. In the end, Olympia manages to get everything done and looks amazing doing it. Do you think Olympia portrays a strong, modern woman? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

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