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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. Which of the following characters gets into a fight with an opposing gang rival, starting a fight?

2. Which of the following alcoholic beverages is CD Henderson's drink of choice?

3. Which of the following workers is concerned when Mr. Stepford misses an appointment?

4. How old is Ruta Beth Tull?

5. What color does Lamar want to repaint Ruta Beth's home?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Bud Pewtie not excited to be partnered on a manhunt with Ted Pepper?

2. How many people are shot and killed during the Denny's robbery?

3. How does Lamar treat the manager of the Denny's during the robbery?

4. How does Bud learn about Ted's death, and what is his reaction to the news?

5. What story does CD Henderson frequently tell about the heyday of his career?

6. How does Lamar escape prison?

7. At the opening of the novel, why is Lamar Pye in prison?

8. What type of relationship does Lamar have with Richard at the opening of the novel?

9. What is Richard's job during the Denny's robbery?

10. How has CD Henderson's police career changed as he has aged?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the novel, many of the main characters are in search of redemption for their past mistakes. Choose one character from the novel and explain his / her path to redemption. What past sins is this character hoping to absolve? What process does this character go through in his/her pursuit of redemption? In the end, is this character successfully redeemed for his/her sins? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Baseball turns out to be an important symbolic element within the novel. First, explain what the significance of baseball is to Bud and his family. Then, compare / contrast that to the significance baseball has for Lamar and his gang. Finally, explain the symbolism of baseball in direct relation to Bud's chase of the gang.

Essay Topic 3

Richard Peed is described in the novel as a brilliant but weak man. First, describe Richard physically. Then, describe the relationship Richard has with Lamar. What does Richard gain from this relationship? What does Lamar gain from this relationship? What struggles must these two men overcome in their pursuit of friendship?

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