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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Where are the Patimkin's going while Neil babysits?
(a) To attend a lecture.
(b) To the Museum of Modern Art.
(c) To a reception for the mayor of New York.
(d) To take Ron to the airport.

2. How has Mrs. Patimkin reinvented herself?
(a) Her identity is derived directly from her husband's wealth and upwards mobility and from being Brenda's mother.
(b) She has never forgotten her humble beginnings and remains simple and kind.
(c) She has gone from former debutante to simple housewife.
(d) Her identity is based on her children's education.

3. What does Neil find in the basement?
(a) A ping pong table with a broken leg.
(b) A refrigerator full of beer.
(c) A playroom and a bar.
(d) A storage room.

4. Why is Neil going to the Patimkin's house that evening?
(a) They have asked him to babysit Julie while they all go out.
(b) He is going to park down the street and follow Brenda when she leaves the house.
(c) He is going with them to the opera.
(d) He is going to talk with Mr. Patimkin about working in his store.

5. When does Neil call Brenda for the second time?
(a) After the ten o'clock news.
(b) Just before midnight.
(c) When Uncle Max gets home from work.
(d) The next day.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does the head librarian tell Neil just before he leaves on vacation?

2. In the basement, what is next to a photo of Brenda on a horse?

3. How is dinner different at the Patimkin's house from the dinner at Aunt Gladys' house?

4. What does Brenda ask about his cousin, Doris?

5. What is Neil's impression of Brenda as she plays tennis?

Short Essay Questions

1. Since they met that day at the Country Club, has Brenda forgotten the young man she asked to hold her glasses while she dived into the pool?

2. How is Julie's character further defined in the play room that evening?

3. What rather strange job is given Neil the evening after the dinner?

4. How does Aunt Gladys show that she is somewhat isolated in her Newark Jewish community?

5. What is learned about Mrs. Patimkin from the conversation Neil and Brenda have outside under a tree?

6. What is a noticeable difference between dinner at the Patimkins' house and dinner in the Klugman house?

7. Explain a commonality between Neil and the boy.

8. What is the image the reader gets of Ron as he joins Neil and Brenda at the pool?

9. Describe Brenda's neighborhood in Short Hills.

10. Contrast Aunt Gladys and Mrs. Patimkin from the conversation Gladys and Neil have about the Patimkin house.

(see the answer keys)

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