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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. When Navidson enters the long hallway, what does he hear below his feet?

2. How does Tom react to the news that he is part of the rescue mission in the hallway?

3. What is the name of the Davidson's cat?

4. What color is the trunk Lude finds in Zampano's apartment?

5. What is the name of the bar Johnny's boss frequents?

Short Essay Questions

1. As a child, how did Johnny react to his father's sudden death?

2. How does Thumper react to the writings Johnny creates about her?

3. What does Johnny write about when he writes about Thumper?

4. How did Zampano die?

5. How does Johnny feel while he is working at the tattoo parlor?

6. When Johnny is reading the contents of Zampano's trunk, what is revealed about Will's childhood?

7. What happens when Audrey comes from Washington to visit with Karen?

8. How does Will react when the explorers have not emerged from the hallway after eight days?

9. How does Will find Wax and Jed, and what happens when he locates the men?

10. How does Johnny react to the manuscript found in Zampano's trunk?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Thumper proves to be a very important person in Johnny's life. First, describe Thumper and the way she and Johnny meet. Then, explain how Thumper helps Johnny come to terms with his destructive childhood. Finally, explain why Johnny trusts Thumper enough to divulge his disturbing history to her.

Essay Topic 2

The story of the Greek mountain nymph Echo is a story pervasive in this novel. First, explain the story of Echo in traditional Greek mythology. Then, explain how Echo's story relates to Will's story and the mystery of the house. Finally, discuss why you think Danielewski chose to include Echo's story in this novel.

Essay Topic 3

Toward the end of the novel, Karen really begins to question her relationship with Will and wonders whether they will survive the tragedy they have seen. First, explain what events lead up to Karen's feeling distant from Will. Then, explain if you think Karen is justified in partaking in affairs while Will is away, and why. Finally, explain how Karen and Will finally find their ways back to one another with renewed spirits.

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