2. Why does Zooey get so upset when Bessie mentions calling Philly Byrnes, the psychoanalyst?
(a) He fears that it will send Franny over the edge.
(b) He hates all psychoanalysts.
(c) He believes Franny will get past this on her own.
(d) He believes only Franny's family can help her.

3. What are the last words Zooey speaks to Franny before leaving the room?
(a) "I'm sorry."
(b) "Get over it."
(c) "Eat."
(d) "Call Buddy."

4. Zooey says that the only thing that counts in the religious life is what?
(a) Being kind to others.
(b) Prayer.
(c) Detachment.
(d) Reading the Bible.

5. What was the one idea that Jesus absolutely knew that often eludes people, according to Zooey?
(a) That the kingdom of heaven is within us.
(b) That he died for us.
(c) That man is innately good.
(d) That he will forgive our sins.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why doesn't Zooey want to leave New York?

2. What does Zooey tell Franny that her problem is in regards to the people she says are too egotistical?

3. What does Franny say that she and Zooey have in common?

4. What does Zooey believe Franny is using the prayer for?

5. Why did Seymour tell Zooey to shine his shoes for the radio show?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Zooey explain to Franny that he does to other people that drives Zooey crazy?

2. How does the phone call redeem Zooey?

3. What does the setting of Buddy and Seymour's bedroom say about their characters?

4. Once Zooey arrives at Buddy's phone, he puts himself in "the ready position." What is he readying himself for?

5. How would you interpret Franny's dream?

6. What is Bessie saying about her relationship with her children when she states to Zooey that when they were little they were so happy and smart--"just lovely"?

7. How did Zooey and Franny become freaks in Zooey's eyes?

8. What theme of the novel is suggested by the quotations on the door of Buddy and Seymour's bedroom?

9. What issue does Bessie have over the way Zooey feels about Lane?

10. What is the difference between knowledge and wisdom according to Franny?

(see the answer keys)

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