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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. For what infraction does Silas stop a motorist in Chapter 8?

2. What had been the real reason behind the date between Cindy and Larry?

3. What is the name of the young woman with whom Larry had gone on a date just before her disappearance?

4. Who calls Silas in Chapter 4 to tell him that Larry is alive?

5. What lack does Silas feel deeply as he walks home in the dark from Larry's house the only time he goes there during his adolescence?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what way is the theme of family bonds underscored within Chapter 1?

2. What nickname do the people of Chabot, Mississippi call Silas?

3. In what way, if any, does Carl finally address with Larry the subject of the fight over the rifle?

4. What does Silas ultimately find underneath the flock of buzzards?

5. What reason does Larry assume is behind Alice's instruction to Silas that he should stay away from Larry?

6. How is the theme of courage demonstrated within Chapter 5?

7. What had been the impetus for Silas and his mother's move out of south Chicago?

8. What details does Franklin use in order to indicate to the reader just how small Cabot, Mississippi really is and how it functions as such?

9. Describe French's character.

10. What is Silas's reaction when Larry tells a story about Cecil's reckless use of fireworks?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Trace the characterization arc of Larry’s character throughout the novel. Discuss whether Larry is a round or flat character and whether he is a static or dynamic character.

Essay Topic 2

Write a critical essay about the novel Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter while using the critical power theory lens of feminist theory. Use textual evidence to back up your strong, specific claim regarding the novel's treatment of gender roles, violence against women or girls, female empowerment, misogyny's role within society, or any other issues related to feminist theory that can be found in the novel.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the instances of irony within the narrative of the novel Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter and analyze Franklin's purpose for including each instance you discuss.

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