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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. Who is the son of Don Achille that is in the school competition in Childhood: Chapter 8?

2. With whom does Lila suggest she and Elena go dancing with in Adolescence: Chapter 14?

3. What does Nino say to Elena on their way to school in Childhood: Chapter 11?

4. What is the name of Donato Sarratore's wife?

5. Who repeatedly asks that Lila be sent to school in Childhood: Chapter 15?

Short Essay Questions

1. What themes are predominant in Adolescence: Chapters 13-18?

2. What is discovered of Lila's belongings and mementos in Chapters 2 and 3?

3. How would you describe Lila's demeanor at the age of six?

4. What exposition does the author reveal in the Prologue and Chapters 1-3?

5. How is Lila's sense of competition illustrated in Adolescence: Chapters 13-18?

6. What is foreshadowed by the encounter between Lila, Elena, and the Solara brothers in Adolescence: Chapter 13?

7. What is foreshadowed by the attentions paid to Lila during the outing in the city in Adolescence: Chapter 16?

8. How does Don Achille respond to Lila asking for their dolls in Childhood: Chapter 14? What is revealed of his character through is response?

9. What questions does Donato Sarratore's book of poetry elicit after its publication?

10. How would you describe Elena's relationship with her parents in the novel?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe and discuss the Solara brothers in My Brilliant Friend. How old are the Solara brothers in relation to Lila and Elena? How are these characters perceived in the community? What role do they play in the plot of the story?

Essay Topic 2

Describe and discuss Stefano Carracci's pursuit of Lila in the narrative. How does Stefano go about wooing Lila? Why do you think he is more successful than Marcello Solara? How do you foresee their marriage unfolding?

Essay Topic 3

Describe the events at the New Year's Eve party that is recounted on different occasions in the novel. What is foreshadowed at this party? What themes are illustrated through the fireworks displays and the aftermath of the event?

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