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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 refers to the science that deals with the dynamics and physical history of the earth, the rocks of which it is composed, and the physical, chemical, and biological changes that the earth has undergone or is undergoing?

2. The author describes Johnny's character as being what in the book's Forward?

3. By what month had Johnny passed the English examination for school in Chapter 4?

4. When did the author receive notice from the school that their son had a stiff neck and was in the infirmary in Chapter 1?

5. What school had John Gunther attended for his high school education?

Short Essay Questions

1. What was Johnny's condition like when he entered Dr. Gerson's Nursing Home in Chapter 3? How was his recovery there?

2. What did Johnny's family know about his condition in Chapter 4? Who helped him with his physical activity?

3. What does the author write of Johnny's bad moods in Chapter 3?

4. When was Johnny first sent to the infirmary in Chapter 1? Why?

5. How were Johnny's Christmas and Spring visits home described in Chapter 1?

6. What information did Johnny's family receive after his surgery in Chapter 4? How did Johnny recover from the operation?

7. What interests did Johnny develop as he grew older, according to the author in the Foreword?

8. When were Johnny's parents informed that he might have a brain tumor? What did they do upon hearing the news?

9. Describe Johnny's first operation. When did it take place and where? What was the objective of the operation?

10. What was controversial about Dr. Gerson's form of treatment, as discussed in Chapter 3? How did Johnny feel about it?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe Johnny's first operation. How common was this type of brain surgery during the 1940s? How successful was the treatment?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the theme of denial in the book. How did Johnny attempt to block out the seriousness of his condition?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Johnny's relationship with Mary in the narrative. How did Mary feel about Johnny? What was her reaction to his condition?

(see the answer keys)

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