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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 is the new parole officer that upsets Jamel so much in Chapter 36?

2. What former prisoner does Elaine run into at the train station who has just graduated from college?

3. Who is Deon?

4. When Elaine prepared her first Thanksgiving meal after being released from prison, she made enough for how many people?

5. In Chapter 33, who has cream of turkey soup at a diner?

Short Essay Questions

1. What changes does Jamel see on Avenue D in Chapter 34?

2. Why does Elaine call 911 in Chapter 32?

3. Explain "cuff therapy."

4. What is Donna Charles' situation upon leaving prison?

5. Where does Elaine find herself on the third anniversary of her release from prison?

6. When Elaine realizes that a family member stole money from her, she does nothing. Why is that?

7. What does Elaine do to prepare for her Thanksgiving celebration?

8. Why is Jamel so angry with Cassandra?

9. Why is Jamel upset with his new parole officer in Chapter 36?

10. What is Officer Russell's background?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "Life on the Outside," the author presents a situation in which it is easier to remain in prison than to succeed out of prison. Stories of people returning to Bedford Hills Prison are told. Jamel's repeated history in prison is another example. Do you agree with the book's message that it is easier in prison than out for the offender? Why or why not? Support your answer with examples.

Essay Topic 2

"Life on the Outside" is an example of narrative nonfiction in that it's a true story that reads like fiction. While the story is about Elaine Bartlett, it is not her voice recounting the story. In reality, author Jennifer Gonnerman is part of the story. What is her role and goal in the telling of this book? Do you ever feel her advising or judging Elaine? Is she ever a part of the story? Do you find any evidence of her "voice?"

Essay Topic 3

During Part 3 of the book, Elaine makes many decisions. Sometimes she is breaking minor rules of her parole. Other times, she makes questionable decisions regarding her family. Pick one situation in which you believe that Elaine made the wrong decision or took the wrong action. Do you understand why she makes the decision that she does? In your opinion, what would have been a better option for Elaine and why?

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