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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 the narrator states that Grace is not ashamed of Rafe, of whom is she said to be ashamed instead?

2. What does Joaquin immediately think is happening when he returns home from his therapy session and sees a strange car in the driveway?

3. Before Joaquin and Adam part, Joaquin tells Adam that the two of them will have major problems if what event happens?

4. What does Rafe say about his relationship with his sister?

5. When Mark and Linda ask Joaquin for the second time about his possible adoption, what is his reply?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Joaquin do when he is overcome by the feelings associated with his altercation with Adam?

2. How is the theme of secrecy depicted within Claire's accusations toward Maya during their fight that ends in a break-up?

3. How does the author employ allusion within Grace's thoughts about Joaquin's lonely childhood existence?

4. How does Maya characterize her relationship with Lauren?

5. What do the Oreos symbolize in the scene between Lauren and Maya?

6. For what transgression does Maya blame Claire for an extended period of time near the end of the couple's relationship and why?

7. What does the narrator mean when stating that Grace feels "trapped in the amber of her pregnancy" (182)?

8. How is the theme of isolation depicted within Joaquin's reaction to his sisters' queries after his altercation with Adam?

9. What turns out to be the mysterious event involving Joaquin and the Buchanans?

10. What are the characteristics of Lauren's communication with Claire that Maya considers unforgivable?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Trace the characterization arc of Grace’s character throughout the novel. Discuss whether she is a round or flat character and whether she is a static or dynamic character.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the many instances of irony within the narrative of Robin Benway's novel Far From the Tree and analyze the author's purpose for including each instance you discuss.

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the author's focus on the theme of transformation. What message is the author sending about change and about one other theme of your choice?

(see the answer keys)

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