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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. On his trip back to his hometown from the east coast, Ish has to drive a long way around something. What causes Ish to detour?

2. After Ish and Em come together, something happens that makes Ish panic, but Em turns it into a game. What happens?

3. What event occurs during the Year of Woodcarving that has a very
 negative effect on Ish?

4. In Year Nine, (The Year of the Deaths) what causes almost everyone to
 become ill?

5. At the end of Chapter Two, Ish makes a list of the reasons he will survive better than many of the people he meets. Why does Ish believe he is better prepared to survive?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the author trying to illustrate when he shows how the young men treat Ish if he doesn't answer questions?

2. How does the Tribe see Ish?

3. When Ish goes to the library, he chooses two books to take home with him. Why do you think he chose these particular titles?

4. Ish uses razors, and then throws them away, using a new one every day. Is this behavior a good idea or a bad idea? What doesthis say about Ish?

5. Has Ish changed over the years? Why?

6. What did Ezra do to test Charlie about his vest?

7. What was the significance of Ish taking the hammer with him to meet Charlie instead of another weapon?

8. Is Ish a good leader for the Tribe? Why or why not?

9. Why is Ish so concerned about finding people who can "fix" civilization?

10. What tradition does Em begin when they carve the year into the rock?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

After the first few chapters of the book, Ish begins collecting companions. Each one interacts with, and affects, Ish in a number of different ways. What effect do the people in Ish's life have on him and his plans? What do the interactions between these people say about Ish, and how did their influences affect the outcome of the story?

Essay Topic 2

Ish, as the main character, is constantly thinking about the benefits and deficiencies of the old civilization. As the story progresses, he notices how many things have changed, but not according to his plan. However, there are times he has to admit that the changes are positive. Based on Ish's thoughts and the author's italicized commentaries, do you think that the author views civilization as good, bad, or with both elements? What is your reasoning?

Essay Topic 3

At the beginning of the story, Ish is referred to as a person who doesn't do well in social gatherings. Later in the book, Ish decides that he is, ironically, happier than he would have been if things had been normal, but still, he never seems satisfied that civilization hasn't returned to the way it was before. Why do you think Ish never seems to be satisfied? How do you think this affects him, and the fate of the people who look up to him?

(see the answer keys)

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