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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 song does Kayla sing at the service?

2. How many television sets are left in the neighborhood?

3. What does Keith give to Lauren on her birthday?

4. Who does Aura Moss almost accidentally shoot?

5. How long does Lauren think her money lasts?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the requirements to participate in the neighborhood watch?

2. What does Lauren think is the purpose of prayer?

3. What is the one paradox in Lauren's philosophy?

4. Why is Lauren convinced that her father is dead?

5. Why are water peddlers dangerous?

6. Why doesn't Harry want to stay and build a community with the group?

7. What does Bankole say is the cause of all the human bones on the highway?

8. Why does Allie feel close to Justin?

9. What lessons does Lauren learn on the road?

10. What is it about Lauren's flying in her dream that makes her seem "better" than she used to be, and what makes her still not an expert?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The America that Lauren lives in does not faced an apocalyptic event like a major terrorist attack, a war or an environmental disaster. Instead, the changes come about insidiously, over time. Explain whether you think this is realistic. What elements of American society in Lauren's world seem particularly realistic?

Essay Topic 2

Describe Lauren's relationship with Bankole. Does this seem like a relationship of equals or is Lauren searching for a father figure? What do Lauren and Bankole have in common? What obstacles seem to stand in their way?

Essay Topic 3

Lauren has a dream in the first chapter about flying and facing a major obstacle. Describe this dream, and then explain its symbolism in the context of the novel. What themes does this dream foreshadow?

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This section contains 618 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample