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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. Why are the sea fauna greatly attracted to the archipelago?

2. What is the one thing that Roger, Widdle, and Puke find interesting about Dodo?

3. Where does Geronimo live?

4. Instead of catching Old Plop, what does Gerry catch?

5. How does the family feel about Great Aunt Hermione?

Short Essay Questions

1. Gerry's magpies, or magenpies, are from the crow tribe of birds. How do they live up to the crow tribe stereo type in the Durrell family house, especially in Larry's room?

2. How did Gerry apply psychology to get his family on board with the idea of him getting a boat for his birthday?

3. What is the final event, revisited oppositely, that Spiro helps the family with?

4. Why are the Durrells having a party in Part 3?

5. What battle between a gecko and mantis takes place in Gerry's room? What is the outcome?

6. In Part II: Conversation, how does Gerry describe the arrival of spring?

7. What is Margo's reaction to Peter having to leave the island because they are getting too close?

8. What does the introduction of Dodo say about Mother's character?

9. How does Gerry describe the Chessboard Fields?

10. Why did Gerry's trips to the archipelago in the Sea Cow become less frequent?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Margo is dramatic throughout the book. Cite some of her more dramatic entrances or exits. Were her emotions warranted, or do you think she was overly dramatic?

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the weather in England and Corfu during the month of August, and the effects on the family.

Essay Topic 3

Chaos often ensues in the Durrell family, such as that caused by Gerry's animals, or the fire in Larry's room. Would you theorize that on some level they enjoy the chaos? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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