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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. Whom does Jill want to sue for breach of contract?

2. For whose children does Rita care?

3. Who is Peggy?

4. The wife of the married man is pregnant with their _____________ child.

5. What affliction does Pat's aunt have?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the premise of "Marble Arch"?

2. What does Marigold tell Pat about their previous roommate, Nadia?

3. How does Margaret convince Harry that he has made the right decision to stay with her and their son?

4. Who is Charles Benson and why does Jill Twilly require his services?

5. How does Frankie alienate the narrator's husband one evening when she drops in on them?

6. Why is Rita shocked by Ken's wife and what lesson does she learn from the dinner with the couples?

7. Why does Julia decide to resort to visiting the pornography store?

8. Describe Rita, the latest temp hired by the newspaper.

9. How does the narrator view the possibility of a lesbian relationship with her friend?

10. What is the premise of "Holland Park"?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In several of the stories, the element of family reproach or disapproval over the choice of a lover or mate is prevalent. Why is this a recurring theme in Binchy's stories? Was this a typical mindset for the time period? Or is family judgmentalism an ever-present element in life in general?

Essay Topic 2

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

Essay Topic 3

What is the significance of the book's title? What are some other possible titles for the book? List at least five and cite your reasons for each.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 913 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample