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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. What instrument does Sedaris' father choose for him?

2. Why is Sedaris offered a job teaching a writing workshop?

3. One bi-product of new computer technology that Sedaris finds unfortunate is

4. The title The Youth In Asia applies to

5. The name "Rooster" came from

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Mr. Mancini constantly refer to women and his sexual exploits?

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

3. Describe Amy Sedaris' appearance in the much-anticipated magazine article.

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

5. What does Sedaris find unusual about the way the food in his neighborhood restaurants is served on the plate.

6. Why doesn't Sedaris plan any activities for his writing class beyond the first introductions?

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

8. How does Sedaris' mother respond to the music lessons the kids are taking?

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

10. How has Sedaris' mother explained bodily functions?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

Considering the family and relationship stories Sedaris recounts in his book, write an essay in which you describe the success of his relationships in general. Using specific examples to support your argument, evaluate Sedaris' own reflection on the important relationships in his life.

Essay Topic 3

Through several of his essays, Sedaris explores the theme of belonging. Choose three examples from the text that illustrate Sedaris' feelings about belonging, and write an essay in which you explore his viewpoint, supporting your argument with text.

(see the answer keys)

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