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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through "Why I Write," "Telling Stories" .

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What are the underground newspapers Didion describes in "Alicia and the Underground Press" able to do that mainstream papers are not?
(a) They are able to get through to the readers.
(b) They are able to speak indirectly to the reader.
(c) They are able to contain their bias.
(d) They are able to sway the reader's opinion.

2. What does one meeting attendee tell Joan happens to kids upon the first time entering a gambling club?
(a) Most do not become addicted.
(b) He loses his money right away.
(c) He is hooked for life.
(d) They are so shocked they leave.

3. Where in Las Vegas is the reunion Joan attends in "Fathers, Sons, Screaming Eagles"located?
(a) Stardust Casino.
(b) El Cortez.
(c) Stargazers Casino.
(d) Caesar's Palace.

4. What does Didion say she considered doing after receiving her rejection letter in "On Being Unchosen by the College of One's Choice"?
(a) Shooting herself.
(b) Slitting her wrists.
(c) Running away.
(d) Overdosing on pills.

5. What is something Didion felt her classmates in English 106A had that she did not in "Telling Stories"?
(a) Experience.
(b) Humor.
(c) Wealth.
(d) Friends.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Nancy's son get home from school in "Pretty Nancy"?

2. In "Telling Stories," what novel does Didion say developed from her notes that began about a man and woman in New York?

3. From whom does Didion say she stole the title "Why I Write"?

4. What is the name of the male character in A Book of Common Prayer which Didion discusses in "Why I Write"?

5. How old is Nancy's son in "Pretty Nancy"?

(see the answer key)

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