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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 is this Lanya's reaction?

2. Where does Kidd believe he has been held for some time, but cannot quite remember?

3. Who does June Richards turn out to be?

4. What do Lanya and Kidd discuss once Kidd returns to the commune?

5. Who cuts Milly's leg at the park commune?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is odd about June Richards?

2. Who does Kidd meet in the first chapter of the book?

3. What does Mr. Richards do everyday he "goes to work."

4. Why do the scorpions begin to trust Kidd?

5. In this section, Kidd starts to lose time again, how does this affect him?

6. Why is Kidd angry with the Richards and why does he end his work relationship with them?

7. Why is Layna surprised that Kidd got a job?

8. Why is Frank's introduction important in this part of the novel?

9. Who fills Kidd in on the riots that have occurred in Bellona?

10. What does Kidd discover when he goes exploring throughout the Richards' apartment?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although Kidd is the main character, it seems as though he never advances as a character. The reader goes on a journey with him, but is never really sure whether or not Kidd grows.

1. Why is self awareness and character expansion an important part of a novel?

2. Do you think that Delany purposefully halted the growth of Kidd?

3. How does stopping Kidd's character development match up with the novel?

Essay Topic 2

Although it may seem as though it is not a theme, many characters are subjected to fear. Examine the following characters and analyze how they deal with their emotional, physical, and psychological fear throughout the book:

- Kidd

- Mrs. Richards

- June

- Tak

Essay Topic 3

Although Kidd seems to be fearless of people in Bellona, he fears himself and his mind.

1. Describe and discuss why this fear could be more damaging than a fear of physical danger.

2. Why does Kidd break down towards the end of the book? Is it because of the fear he has felt concerning his mind and himself.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 720 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample