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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 reason does Sally express regret?

2. Where do the Morgans live now?

3. Why does Sid not want to go on the picnic?

4. What has Charity planned?

5. Who is Hallie's husband?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens to the relationship between the Morgans and the Langs during World War II?

2. Why is this chapter the climax of the book?

3. How does Charity maintain control even though her death is imminent?

4. How is Charity managing her illness?

5. What revelation does Sid share with Larry about his life?

6. Although Larry and Sally never had the advantages or financial ease that Sid and Charity did, they seem to have a better marriage. Explain how the author reveals this.

7. How has Sid and Charity's home changed from the time the Langs first saw it in 1938?

8. Explain the metaphor of Adam and Eve used throughout the novel.

9. How does the theme of rescue extend in Part 2: Chapter 2?

10. Explain the method that Sally has of categorizing her memories.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe the state of Sid's barn wood shop and home office. How does the state of his rooms mirror the state of his spirit? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

The author begins the story in the present day and tells the story through a series of flashbacks. Why did he choose to tell his story this way? In what way is a flashback technique more interesting for a reader? In what ways is it more complicated?

Essay Topic 3

Sally is able to share some memories of Charity with Hallie before Charity dies. How can Sally know Charity better than Charity's own daughter? Why are these memories such a poignant gift for Hallie?

(see the answer keys)

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