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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 does Chloe realize Ruth feels at the advent of her pregnancy?

2. Who is going to make Ruth's wedding cake?

3. What does Chloe do every Friday with her best friend?

4. What does Ruth hum at breakfast that Esther chides her for?

5. Who donated money for the church's talented show prize?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Esther so angry at Ruth?

2. How does Vivian treat Freddy?

3. What do Ruth and Gerry tell VIvian when she tells them Mr. Franklin want to manage The Salvations?

4. What does the police officer tell Vivian and Freddy in Part II?

5. What happens to Esther in childhood that makes her separate from her family somewhat?

6. What does Vivian worry Ruth will regret?

7. What kind of relationship do Mary and VIvian have?

8. Who is Vivian very excited about meeting in Part I and why?

9. What dream has Vivian had for many years for her daughters?

10. How does Ruth feel about Vivian's dream for her and her sisters?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does Esther's experience of sexual assault as a young girl change her relationships with her sister and mother? Write an essay explaining your answers, citing specific references to the text to help support your conclusions.

Essay Topic 2

At the end of the novel, Sexton suggests that several characters have embarked on fresh starts, or at least different directions for their life paths. Write an essay explaining how the author demonstrates the possibilities and power of second chances, citing specific references to the text to help support your conclusions.

Essay Topic 3

How does Sexton develop the topic of ongoing grief through Vivian's and the Preacher's characters? Write an essay explaining your answers, citing specific references to the text to help support your conclusions.

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