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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. In Chapter IV, "Anticipation," what bothers Melissa (George) about Kelly's reaction to her wanting to play Charlotte?

2. In Chapter V, "Auditions," what is the first reaction that Ms. Udell has to Melissa's (George's) audition?

3. In Chapter III, ("Acting Is Just Pretend"), why does Melissa go to Kelly's house?

4. In Chapter I, "Secrets," what does Melissa (George) think about the girls in the magazine?

5. What does Melissa's (George's) teacher say in Chapter II, "Charlotte Dies," that makes Melissa cry even harder?

Short Essay Questions

1. At the end of Chapter I, "Secrets," why does Melissa (George) wish to be someone else?

2. In Chapter IV, "Anticipation," why does Melissa (George) not want her classmates to know that she is going to try out for Charlotte?

3. What does Melissa (George) hate about the boys' bathroom?

4. In Chapter IV, "Anticipation," Kelly spends quite a bit of time talking about the poor cooking of school lunches. What does this reveal about her and about her background?

5. What points is the author trying to make about the Arden household by including the details about the dishes?

6. In Chapter IV, "Anticipation," what does Kelly say her dad says about Melissa (George) trying out for a female role?

7. Why is Kelly so sure that Ms. Udell will be happy that Melissa (George) wants to audition for the part of Charlotte?

8. In Chapter V, "Auditions," what story does Scott tell at dinner, and how does his mother react?

9. In the beginning of Chapter II, "Charlotte Dies," why does Melissa (George) find Charlotte's death particularly sad?

10. Describe Melissa's (George's) relationship with her father.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Evaluate Gino's depiction of Kelly's process of coming to terms with Melissa's gender identity. Does it feel authentic to her character? Does it seem like a realistic depiction of how a child of this age might react to this kind of news? Be sure to use textual evidence to support your claims.

Essay Topic 2

Why do you think that Rick and Jeff target Melissa? As you write, take into account who all three of these people are, using quoted material from the book to support your ideas. Be sure to discuss what Rick and Jeff are feeling and trying to accomplish when they bully Melissa.

Essay Topic 3

What does the nickname "Gee-gee" tell you about the relationship between Melissa and her mother? Explain two things that this nickname implies about their relationship.

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