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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 shocking news does the theater owner make moments after Kathleen's performance?

2. Where does James hope to send Kathleen to school when he returns home from the war?

3. How does Materia react when she learns James will soon be returning home from the war?

4. During what hours of the day does James work as a bootlegger?

5. Which regiment does James join when he is shipped out to war?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Materia feel guilty about her expectations for James's future in the army?

2. What did Mercedes think was happening when she watched the incident at the creek?

3. How does baby Ambrose die?

4. What is James's reaction to Ambrose's death?

5. What is the reaction to Kathleen's talent when she arrives in New York City?

6. What story does Frances tell Lily about the christening gown?

7. Who is Mrs. Luvovitz?

8. What nightmare does Lily have after hearing about Ambrose's death?

9. Who is put in charge of raising the family when Materia dies?

10. What film stars do the Piper girls idolize?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Lily is often described as an eerie child with special powers in the spiritual world. First, describe Lily's relationship with her dead brother, Ambrose. In what ways does Ambrose come to Lily and "speak" to her. How do these conversations with Ambrose inform Lily's understanding of Piper family dynamics? Then, describe Mercedes' religious reaction to Lily's spirituality. What hopes and fears does she have for Lily's future? Finally, describe Lily's own reaction to her communing with spirits. What, if anything, does she wish she could change about herself? Why? Be sure to include examples from the text to strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 2

In school, Kathleen is clearly ostracized by her peers. First, describe the type of student Kathleen was in school. What were her strengths? What were her weaknesses? Then, describe, with specific examples, the way Kathleen was treated in school. Why do you think she was treated this way? Do you think she deserved this type of treatment? Why or why not? Finally, who, if anyone, is to blame for Kathleen's maltreatment in school? Kathleen herself? The students? Or someone else? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 3

Throughout the novel, Lily hears different stories about her brother Ambrose and the way he died. First, describe at least two stories that Frances tells Lily about Ambrose. Then, compare / contrast those stories to the truth of what really happened to Ambrose. What did Frances gain by lying to Lily about her brother? How did these stories affect Lily's character? Then, explain how Lily finally found out the truth about Ambrose, and what her reaction to that truth was. Be sure to include examples from the text to strengthen your arguments.

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