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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 question "Which do you like better, State or Carolina?" refers to

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

3. During their last meeting together, Sedaris learns that Miss Sampson

4. The scientific term Sedaris fears his father will use is

5. Sedaris justifies viewing soap operas in class by

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the main differences between Sedaris and his father outlined in the chapter?

2. What features of the the typewriter does Sedaris praise?

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

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

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

6. What is significant about the title Go Carolina?

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

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

If "Selfishness and self-absorption are deadly charm-exterminators," how does Sedaris remain interesting and sympathetic despite his descriptions of himself throughout the book? Write an essay in which you identify specific strategies, such as humor and hyperbole, that contribute favorably to Sedaris' style, even when he is offering self-criticism.

Essay Topic 2

Considering Sedaris' exploration of the motifs of language and communication, write an essay in which you determine a conclusion or theme at which Sedaris arrives in his essays. Use specific examples of Sedaris' experiences with language and communication to develop and support your argument.

Essay Topic 3

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.

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