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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How did Senora Valencia's mother die?

2. What does the narrator say she has never seen Sebastien do?

3. Why is it ironic to Juana that Senora Valencia has twins?

4. What does Amabelle notice pinned to Dr. Javier's shirt collar?

5. Why does the narrator prefer her shadow to other children?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The settings of The Farming of Bones are almost like characters in the novel. Select two of the settings in the novel and:

1) Describe each setting

2) Discuss the impact of the setting on the story line

3) Discuss the impact of the setting on the characters' development

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the significance of the novel's title. Be sure to include:

1) A definition of "the farming of bones."

2) The variety of meanings that the phrase takes on in the novel (beyond it's literal meaning).

3) What the phrase represents about Amabelle's life.

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 3

Memories are central to the story lines in Middlesex. Discuss how the author uses recollections of the past in the novel. What is the impact of these memories on the story? What is the author trying to say about our beliefs about memories? Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 329 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample