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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 is the one item of jewelry that Vivian has retained from her early childhood on the orphan train in 1929?

2. How old does Vivian say she is in the Prologue of the novel?

3. How old does Vivian say she was when her parents died in the Prologue?

4. What is the setting for the novel Anne of Green Gables?

5. What grade was Molly in when she transferred to Mount Desert Island High School?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where is Vivian first adopted from the orphan train? Who adopts her? What is this couple's motivation for adoption?

2. How would you describe the narrative style of Orphan Train? Who narrates the story? Are there transitions in the narrative style?

3. What is Molly's function in the narrative? How has Molly's past influenced her character in the beginning of the story?

4. What happens when the orphan train stops in Minneapolis, Minnesota, according to Vivian's narrative in Section 2? Who is adopted at this stop?

5. What conversation takes place between Vivian and Dutchy on the orphan train in Minneapolis?

6. How would you describe Vivian's objectives as she and Molly begin working in the attic in Section 2?

7. Discuss the literary allusions in the novel. What two literary works are referenced repeatedly? What do these books have in common with the characters of Orphan train?

8. How does Vivian trigger the beginning of Molly's transformation of character in Section 2?

9. What foreshadowing can be seen through the meeting of Molly and Vivian in the beginning of the novel?

10. What function does Vivian's character play in the story? How is Vivian's character introduced in the beginning of the novel?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze and discuss the character of Vivian Daly in Orphan Train. What function do you think Vivian plays in the story? Is Vivian a protagonist, antagonist, or catalyst? What effect does Vivian have on Molly? What are the admirable qualities of Vivian’s character? How does Vivian’s character differ in the contemporary timeline (as a 91-year-old-woman) from her depiction as a child in 1929?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the conflicts between Vivian and Mary after Vivian arrives at the Byrnes’ residence. How does Mary act toward Vivian? Why does she act this way, according to Fanny? Do you think that Mary’s fears are valid? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Describe and analyze the character of Mrs. Murphy in the novel. Why does Mrs. Murphy take to Vivian so quickly? What prevents Mrs. Murphy from adopting Vivian herself? How does Vivian feel about Mrs. Murphy? What impact does Mrs. Murphy have on Vivian’s outlook on life?

(see the answer keys)

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