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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. When Richard is walking around the kitchen while Karina is in New Orleans, what does he inspect?

2. Why is Dr. George saddened?

3. On what street does Karina live?

4. What surprising news do Richard's brothers tell him after the funeral?

5. Which of Karina's students sits in silence for nearly an entire lesson?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Richard think about Karina's talent and career?

2. What revelation does Karina experience in New Orleans?

3. Who is Tommy and what information does Richard learn from him?

4. How has caring for Richard taken a toll on Karina after the addition of the BiPAP? Why?

5. What happens when Karina first sees Richard writing a letter to his father? How does Richard respond?

6. Following her trip to New Orleans, what surprise does Karina have for Richard? How does he respond?

7. How does Karina prepare for Christmas Eve?

8. While Karina is in New Orleans, what trouble befalls Richard?

9. What changes does Richard see in Karina following her trip to New Orleans?

10. How does Grace learn of Richard's diagnosis?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

At one point in the novel, Richard thinks that “living with ALS is a practice in the art of Zen” (98). Explain the truth behind this belief as evidenced by the novel.

Essay Topic 2

Denial plays a big role in the lives of the main characters. Explain how Richard and Karina each suffer from denial. What are the consequences of denial in the novel?

Essay Topic 3

Helen Keller once wrote, “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” Explain how the characters of Richard and Karina illustrate Keller’s words.

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This section contains 687 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample