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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 does Miles think David grows at his house?

2. Where had C.B. Whiting spent several years as an aspiring artist and poet?

3. With whom do Cindy and Miles have a conversation at the game?

4. Walt is ________________ older than Janine.

5. What does Principal Meyer tell Miles about Tick?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Father Mark represent in the story?

2. How is Tick different from most of the residents of Empire Falls?

3. Why does David keep pressuring Miles about a liquor license?

4. What is the role of Timmy, the cat, in the story?

5. Explain the economic dynamics of the town as the story begins.

6. Describe how Zack Minty exhibits unsportsmanlike behavior and then manipulates the crowd at the football game.

7. What are the three elements consuming Janine's life at this point in time?

8. Explain how Jimmy Minty is a true product of his environment.

9. How does David want Miles to expand his business opportunities?

10. What revelation does Miles get when he examines an old photo in the newspaper?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the ongoing conflict between Miles and Jimmy Minty. What is the source of the conflict? Why does it perpetuate?

Essay Topic 2

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 3

Russo liberally uses humor in the story to both entertain and convey character. Cite at least two examples which you find especially humorous.

(see the answer keys)

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