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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 happens when Charlie and Eliza get to her house in Chapter Three?

2. Why does Charlie's dad give him a stack of American books on Civil Rights in Chapter One?

3. What research captures Charlie's imagination at the library?

4. In Chapter One, who has been murdered?

5. How does Jasper plan to buy himself some time to solve Laura's murder?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what ways is Eliza similar to Audrey Hepburn's movie characters?

2. How is The Wizard of Oz a prominent motif in Chapter Four?

3. It is shocking that Jasper wants to hide Laura's body in the river. Does he respect her?

4. Why does Jeffrey really come to Charlie's window in Chapter Four?

5. How does Wesley Bucktin describe Laura Wishart, from a teacher's point of view?

6. In what ways are children bullied in this novel?

7. What is ironic about Charlie's nickname for An Lu's garden?

8. Why does Charlie admire Batman?

9. Why is it unusual that no one is talking about Laura Wishart's disappearance in Chapter Two?

10. What is it that attracts Charlie to Eliza Wishart?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the novel, trees are of special symbolic importance. We see many different types of trees, and they are connected with different relationships, characters, and plot points. Write an essay in which you detail the symbolism of at least one type of tree mentioned.

Essay Topic 2

The Lu family faces many hardships and abuses in Corrigan. Write an essay in which you explore the reasons behind these abuses, and the ways that the family members choose to cope.

Essay Topic 3

Eliza and Laura Wishart end up facing two very different lives and fates, despite the fact that they are sisters. In a formal essay, explore the reasons behind those differences and why their outcomes end up very differently.

(see the answer keys)

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