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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Hail to the Chief, Lost in Cyberland, Your Tax Form Explained, Book Tours, The Waste Generation, A Slight Inconvenience, At the Drive-In, Drowning in Red Tape, Life's Mysteries and So Sue Me.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In "The Best American Holiday," what does Bryson say about his mother?
(a) She was a great cook.
(b) She had Thanksgiving catered.
(c) She tried, but the Thanksgiving meal was always a failure.
(d) Once a year, for Thanksgiving, she'd make a great meal.

2. What mistake did Bill make that made him realize that he, along with many others, needs product guidance?
(a) He left his bank card in the ATM.
(b) He injured himself with his letter opener.
(c) He bought some tobacco and then put it in the mailbox.
(d) He put his shoes on the wrong feet.

3. What does Bryson say about computer energy consumption at the beginning of "The Waste Generation"?
(a) That computer manufacturers could fix the high consumption very easily.
(b) That computer users need to be educated.
(c) That computer use should be restricted to a few hours a day.
(d) That a lot of energy is consumed by computers left on at night.

4. What did the town of Laconia, New Hampshire, have to do about its new sidewalks and benches in its town center?
(a) Refit them for use in a movie.
(b) Sanitize them.
(c) Refit them for handicapped residents.
(d) Remove them because no one was using them.

5. What do U.S. post offices do once a year that Bill likes a lot?
(a) Give customers free stamps.
(b) Give out door prizes.
(c) Give customers free donuts, pastries, and coffee.
(d) Have a charity softball game.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Bill discuss at the beginning of his essay on design flaws?

2. In "Drowning in Red Tape," what is Bryson frustrated about acquiring for his wife?

3. What does Bryson say about New England in "Fall in New England"?

4. As Bryson was writing, which American President was suing the government for loss of earnings?

5. Where do Bill and his wife go to celebrate their anniversary?

(see the answer key)

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