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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Sedaris describes his guitar teacher as
(a) An expert.
(b) A dwarf.
(c) Short.
(d) A midget.

2. What instrument does Sedaris' father choose for him?
(a) Guitar.
(b) Trumpet.
(c) Piano.
(d) Flute.

3. Lou Sedaris busies himself
(a) Working equations in the sand.
(b) Chatting with fishermen.
(c) Tanning.
(d) Smoking.

4. Sedaris enjoys Alisha's visits because
(a) She is independent and always goes out on her own.
(b) She never brings guests.
(c) She is willing to do whatever anyone else wants to do.
(d) She has her own opinions on New York.

5. One reason Sedaris resists the computer is
(a) He likes to see the physical product of his work, as he does with a typewriter.
(b) He likes to be able to physically correct his mistakes using Liquid Paper.
(c) He believes the computer cannot translate his words correctly.
(d) He likes travelling with the typewriter.

Short Answer Questions

1. Sedaris resents his father's approach toward art because

2. Sedaris recalls that his mother explained

3. Sedaris suggests his brother is radically different from his other siblings because

4. Miss Sampson believes Sedaris lisps because

5. What prompts Sedaris to find a job in New York?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Sedaris claim to prefer the belief that his television is inhabited by tiny humans over a scientific explanation of its workings?

2. What does Amy Sedaris do to torture her father over Christmas vacation?

3. Why does Sedaris seem to object so strongly to his speech therapy sessions?

4. Describe Sedaris' tone in relation to his own artistic talents.

5. Why does Sedaris believe there are no "normal" restaurants left in his neighborhood?

6. Why does Sedaris resist learning to play the guitar?

7. How does the statement "You Can't Kill the Rooster" relate to Paul's personality?

8. Why does Sedaris suggest Miss Sampson's "timing was off" when she reveals her human side during their last session?

9. How are Valencia and Patrick different?

10. What is Sedaris' attitude toward the wealthy at the start of the essay?

(see the answer keys)

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