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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. When the narrator describes her mother as a "joiner" (p. 31) what does she mean?

2. As Lisa Shilling's mental condition continues to deteriorate, how do her classmates respond?

3. What is the profession of Betsy Goodman's father ?

4. After Lisa Shilling's first public outburst of irrational behavior amidst a group of friends occurred, Mary Nell Fickett apologized by saying...

5. Elizabeth Frazer agrees to try to help Lisa Shilling...

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Elizabeth Frazer gradually become the de facto decision-maker of what is and is not good for Lisa Shilling?

2. Describe the nature of the relationship between Brian Morris and Lisa Shilling in the early part of the novel.

3. Based on the various descriptions of the four main protagonists' families, do you believe they would all go to the same public high school?

4. What kind of a job does Mr. Jackson do as the school principal?

5. What kind of a job does Rev. Fickett do as a church reverend?

6. Describe the family situation of the four main characters.

7. Why does Lisa Shilling feel more comfortable with her new friend Betsy Goodman than with her older friend Mary Nell Fickett?

8. Why is Betsy Goodman the youngest of the major protagonists?

9. Who is the narrator in chapter one?

10. Why does Lisa Shilling find herself attracted to Elizabeth Frazer, as a potential friend?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The novel presents four teenage girls who begin the year thinking about boys, dating, and sexuality. As the year progresses they think more and more about mental illness and less and less about dating. Discuss elements of sexuality within the novel--why are characters attracted to each other? Is Betsy attracted only to looks? Or does she have a deeper understanding of sexuality? Will she be successful as a married housewife?

Essay Topic 2

Which character causes the most harm to Lisa Shilling--Mr. Bernstein, Mr. Shilling, or Mrs. Shilling? Explain and defend your selection.

Essay Topic 3

In the final analysis, who is the novel 'about'? Is the novel the story of Lisa Shilling and her fight against mental illness? Or is the novel about Betsy Goodman and her coming of age as a friend in a difficult relationship? Is it about denial in parents and community? Or is it about someone or something else? Explain and defend your selection.

(see the answer keys)

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