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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. According to Waldo Butters, what has disappeared?

2. What is Harry's attitude toward money?

3. What does Susan tell Henry is happening that evening?

4. Who is Shiro with when Harry encounters him?

5. What is The Archive there to discuss with Harry?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Harry lead Susan into his apartment but not invite her in?

2. What happens when Harry's suppression spell slips?

3. How does Harry arm himself and why does it then seem unnecessary?

4. Why does Susan interrupt the kiss between her and Harry?

5. How does Father Vincent respond when Harry updates Vincent about Harry's attempts to recover the Shroud, and how does Harry react?

6. Who does Harry encounter on the Erlanger and what do they order him to do?

7. Where and with whom does Harry appear in Chapter 1?

8. About what is Susan there to warn Harry?

9. What does Harry tell Father Vincent when Harry calls him?

10. Who are the other two guests on the talk show?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Often, authors will write about "what they know," and sometimes knowing a little about the author makes the books more interesting. Discuss the following:

1. Research and give a brief biographical sketch of Jim Butcher.

2. What in Butcher's background may have helped him in writing Death Masks? What may have influenced the way he depicts various characters and scenes?

3. Do you think there is always some of the author's own life in his/her novels? Why or why not? Give examples.

Essay Topic 2

The ultimate success of a book hinges on many factors. A book such as Death Masks is difficult to gauge its success because it is one in a series of books about Harry Dresden. Nonetheless, there are some aspects of any book that must be rendered well in order for it to be considered a successful work of fiction. Discuss the following:

1. What are some aspects of Death Masks that contribute to it being a successful novel? Give examples.

2. What are some aspects of Death Masks that should be changed to make it an even more successful novel? Give examples.

3. Discuss five aspects of any work of fiction that need to be present and done well to make it a successful novel.

Essay Topic 3

Titles often play a vital role in making a person decide to read a particular book. Discuss the following:

1. Fully explain why you think Death Masks is titled as such. Do you think it is the best title for the book? Why or why not? Can you think of a better title? Why would you choose it?

2. How important is a title in influencing you to consider reading a book? Explain your answer.

3. Do you think a title needs to have direct relevance to a book's content? Explain your answer.

4. Have you ever read a book that when you finished, you do not understand the relevance of the title? Does it discourage you from "trusting" that particular author again?

(see the answer keys)

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