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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 are the followers of the new religion called?

2. What did Dr. Phyllis believe was implanted in her abdomen while she was in medical school?

3. When Oly sneaks away to listen to a story while she is supposed to be watching Chick, what happens while she is gone?

4. What does Dr. Phyllis take over that was initially Al's job?

5. What is Arty's birth defect?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Olympia's appearance.

2. How is the twins' sick horse healed?

3. Describe Arty's appearance.

4. Why does Oly feel guilty after her performance at Miranda's work?

5. What happens to the Binewski family in the parking lot of the shopping center?

6. How does Oly gain access to Miss Lick's life?

7. What happens when the children hide out in a cherry tree?

8. What happens between Arty and Chick when Oly sneaks off to listen to a story, leaving Chick unsupervised?

9. Why does Oly visit Miranda in her apartment?

10. What is the profession of the Binewski family?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

It seems that the lifestyle of the Binewski family is almost addicting. To the outsider, life within a circus may seem daunting or bizarre, but once these outsiders have experienced the community, many of the characters chose not to leave. Choose one character who was not initially a member of the Binewski family and describe the events that led him/her to be a permanent member of the cast or crew. What characteristics within the family dynamics or circus lifestyle may be appealing to an outsider? Why does the desire to belong affect the members of the Admitted and how does Arty exploits this mentality?

Essay Topic 2

The family lives a life of separation from those who are "norms." While the family outwardly admits that they dislike "norms," Arty seemingly wants to be accepted by them. In an essay, compare/contrast Arty's vocalization of "norms" versus the actions that he partakes in while desperately seeking acceptance from "norms." How does Arty's view of norms compare to Oly's view? How does Arty's view of "norms" affect his relationship with his brother, Chick?

Essay Topic 3

The twins present an interesting relationship as they long to be individuals, but physically share one body. In an essay, discuss how the twins are characterized as individuals in the novel. Then, compare/contrast the ways that their shared body helps/hinders them. Finally, explore the twins' romantic relationships and explain how each suitor affects the each twin's relationship with the other.

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