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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. Where was Vernon's mom when she died?

2. Where does Maxine leave the note for Vernon?

3. What grade does Maxine say was the last she finished in school?

4. What does Maxine carry in her handbag?

5. What is Vernon supposed to do to pay Miss Annie for tutoring him?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Vernon particularly worried about being held back?

2. What are three of the facts Maxine tells Vernon about Ronald while he's helping her do chores?

3. What does Vernon discover happens to the neighborhood once he's in junior high?

4. What does Miss Annie say is the main difference between Maxine and people such as Vernon and Miss Annie?

5. What happens when Vernon takes the potatoes back to Maxine's house?

6. What are the tasks Vernon, Maxine and Ronald do to clean up Maxine's yard?

7. What does Vernon note about Miss Annie's house the first time he goes inside?

8. Why does Vernon begin performing the magic trick for Ronald?

9. What is Vernon supposed to tell Maxine when Miss Annie sends him to see her in jail?

10. How does Vernon describe his mother when he's talking about the family photo he likes so much?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Vernon should have been very happy when Ronald tries to talk but he's suddenly frightened because of all the changes that are happening. What are some of the other changes occurring in Vernon's life and what are his reactions? Who does he turn to for help?

Essay Topic 2

Where is Vernon's mother? Why is her absence important to the story? What aspects of the story might have been different if she were present?

Essay Topic 3

What does Vernon learn about Jerry's brother, John? Why do you believe Jerry didn't tell Vernon about John earlier? Where does Vernon meet John? Describe John.

(see the answer keys)

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