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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 is the name of the new religion introduced in the middle of the novel?

2. Aside from the Binewski daughters, what is the hair color of all the other girls who work for the circus?

3. Who cleans the Chute?

4. What is Oly's birth defect?

5. What is the Geek's job in the circus?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Dr. Phyllis' hiring significant in Arty's climb to power?

2. What is the significance of Mariposa and her horse's accident?

3. How does the family realize that Chick has special powers?

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

5. What does the article Oly finds tell us about Dr. Phyllis time in medical school?

6. What happens when Al takes Chick into town?

7. What is Arturism?

8. Why does Al choose to keep the children separate from the rest of the town folk?

9. Describe the invention that Zephr McGurk brings to Arty.

10. What happens when the children are brought to the hospital?

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

Arturism is the cult that Arty starts for his followers which seems very similar to the unusual hobby of Miss Lick. In an essay, explain the beliefs of Arturism and the process that followers must adhere in order to be accepted. Why is Alma Witherspoon's reaction to the process vital to Arty's rise in power? How does Arturism compare to what is seen on Miss Lick's home flicks?

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