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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. Who does Jayber take to a Christmas dance at a roadhouse?

2. Into what type of building does Jayber move?

3. What physical flaw does Jayber have to remind himself of Cecelia's hatred toward him?

4. Who is Mattie's only surviving child?

5. What is Athey's physical condition?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the deep attraction that Jayber has for Mattie?

2. How does the author use the technique of foreshadowing regarding Jimmy?

3. What lesson does the young Athey learn when his father puts him in charge of killing hogs one day?

4. Where do Jayber and Mattie meet occasionally and what is the nature of their meetings?

5. How does Jayber adjust to the changing world in the 1960s?

6. Describe the dream Jayber has that includes many of his old friends.

7. What are the forces that prompt Jayber to move to the river?

8. What does Jayber consider to be the biggest difference between Troy and Mattie?

9. What is Jayber's life like once he moves to the river?

10. What has happened in the Keith family that makes Troy feel as if he is free from any further obligations?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast Jayber and Troy. Both men had and have influence over Mattie but have their hold on her in very different ways. Why are their differences classic examples of conflict in drama? What other similarities and dissimilarities are there between the two characters?

Essay Topic 2

Does Berry end the story on a note of hope for Jayber or the continuance of his struggle to come to terms with flawed relationships and evolving trends and ways of life? Give your perspective and two reasons to support your answer.

Essay Topic 3

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,043 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample