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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. Why does Mr. Walker ask Willie to be the team-manager for girls' basketball?

2. Where has Willie found the money to fund his trip?

3. What accusation does Willie hurl at Jenny at the end of Chapter 9?

4. What city is Willie's final destination?

5. When was Willie's first motorcycle ride with his father?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Willie agree to play basketball with Jack?

2. Why does Andre not try to stop Angel from being a prostitute?

3. According to Andre, why is OMLC a better choice for Willie than public high school?

4. Why does Big Will suggest to Willie that he savor every moment leading up to the Crazy Horse Electric game?

5. Why does Big Will get angry with Willie on the racquetball court?

6. What evidence suggests that Jenny Blackburn is a match for Willie in both athleticism and competitiveness?

7. How does Willie feel about his job as the manager for the girls' basketball team.

8. How does Kato provide a connection for Willie between Oakland and his home?

9. What makes Willie think that Lacey might help him even though he says he wants him out the next day?

10. How has Willie's attitude toward Jenny changed since the summer?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

When Lisa talks about Willie's accident, she refers to it as "you crippled yourself" as opposed to saying "you got crippled." Explain her reason for choosing to phrase it this way, and explain whether or not you agree with her perspective. Provide evidence from the novel to support your point.

Essay Topic 2

How might Willie's experience have been different if he had made it to San Francisco instead of getting stuck in Oakland?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze Willie's relationship with Jack, aka Telephone Man. How does he feel about him, and in what ways does he become a friend to Jack? Be sure to include specific examples and evidence to support your points.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 908 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample