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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. Jerome is weary from...

2. At this point, Jerome is housing...

3. Jerome knows now that he must do something about...

4. All of the Eppy men, including young Ben, decide to ...

5. Jerome decides to give Emma...

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Jerome generate the spirit of Christmas in preparation for the party? Again, compare this to a Christmas party you might have at home.

2. Why does Donald choose to go to the country school where Emma goes? Does he have hidden motives?

3. Discus Jerome's developing attitude toward Donald. Why does he not go ahead and welcome Donald to come visit?

4. What becomes clear about Donald's need to compete with Emma Lou? What is his problem with her?

5. Emma Lou's life is busier than today's students'. Describe her day and compare it to your own.

6. What is it about the spotted skunks that is special?

7. Discuss Emma Lou's response to the discovery that Donald has been visiting Jerome. How is Jerome affected?

8. Discuss Jerome's scheme. Was he taking a risk? Why, or why not?

9. Poor Jerome is discouraged. How do we know this?

10. What activities seem to bring the two kids together? Why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Through the story we begin to see signs that Jerome is aging. Although it is not clear how old he is, he is obviously retired and slowing down. Do a careful reading of the story and discuss the signs of aging that Jerome increasingly displays.

Essay Topic 2

Jerome Kildee is a lonely man. Do you think he is lonely by choice? Do you think he is socially distant because of the kind of work he has done? What kind of person purposely attempts to be reclusive?

Essay Topic 3

How does Montgomery deal with the authoritative nature of Jim Hinkle? Is Hinkle an aggressive or over-zealous enforcer of the law? How does Emma Lou's attitude change toward game wardens after spending a day with Jim Hinkle? Why would HInkle come from Santa Cruz all the way up to the redwoods to check on this complaint?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 990 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample