View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Senora Valencia ask Amabelle to light a candle after the babies are born?

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

3. Why does Sebastien insist that the narrator take off her uniform?

4. Why does Sebastien insist on remaining in the dark while with the narrator?

5. What does Amabelle notice about Dona Sabine's home that makes her concerned "another Yanki invasion was coming?"

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

In The Farming of Bones, a few minor characters have a major impact on the story line. Select two of the following minor characters to analyze: Papi, Senor Pico, Kongo, Yves, Man Rapadou. Discuss:

1) The personality (character traits) of this character.

2) The relationship between this minor character and the major characters in the story.

3) The impact of this character on the story line--How does s/he influence the overall story line? How would the story be different if this character was removed?

Essay Topic 3

Edwidge Danticat is a Haitian immigrant who came to the U.S. in 1969 when she was 12 years old. Knowing this piece of information:

1) Discuss how you think her background influenced the creation of this novel.

2) Discuss the viewpoints she likely brings to the novel.

3) Critique the novel's point of view. Is it more or less trustworthy? Is it more or less biased? Why?

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

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 446 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample