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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. The scientific term Sedaris fears his father will use is

2. Paul's relationship with his father might be described as

3. Sedaris enjoys Alisha's visits because

4. Facing his lack of artistic talent might mean

5. What adds to Sedaris' tension while he is in the bathroom?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Sedaris' attitude in the face of the task he has to perform in his friend's bathroom.

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

3. What is ironic about the fact that Bonnie at last finds some "nice New Yorkers" at the Plaza Hotel?

4. Why does the young Sedaris miss the irony of the fisherman's inability to live by the seashore?

5. Why does Sedaris claim he lives in constant fear as Mr. Sedaris?

6. Why does Sedaris feel the need to offer a comment to the final performance artist he mentions in the essay before he leaves?

7. Why does Sedaris believe his his parents are so lenient with Melina, the Great Dane?

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

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

10. What attributes of Paul's relationship with his father seem to balance out his directness and crude behavior?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Consider Sedaris' reflections on French and American culture. Based on these reflections, write an essay in which you argue whether Sedaris seems to "belong" in France or America. Use specific examples from the text to support your argument.

Essay Topic 2

Comedian George Carlin once said, ""When you're born, you get a ticket to the freak show. When you're born in America, you get a front row seat." Write an essay in which you identify Sedaris' attitude toward the freakish qualities of Americans. Be sure to use specific examples from the text to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 3

Several characters is Sedaris' essays seem to find freedom from the need for others' approval. Write an essay in which you compare Sedaris to any other character in the book, noting whether either person is ultimately free from others' approval. Use examples from the text to support your argument.

(see the answer keys)

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