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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 Lorraine say about John's hostility?

2. Why is John angry at Lorraine's mother?

3. What does Mr. Pignati buy Lorraine and John at the zoo?

4. What does Lorraine not allow John to write in their book?

5. Lorraine states that Mr. Pignati lives on Howard Avenue, just a few blocks from ______.

Short Essay Questions

1. After the wild party at Mr. Pignati's house, how do John and Lorraine try to make their amends to their elderly friend?

2. What does the reader learn about John's feelings after Mr. Pignati dies?

3. Describe how and when Lorraine and John first meet.

4. Describe John's relationship with authority figures.

5. Why does Lorraine's mother have a habit of asking her the exact same questions over and over again?

6. Describe John's impression of Mr. Pignati upon meeting the man for the first time.

7. Why is having a party at Mr. Pignati's house so important to John?

8. What brings about Mr. Pignati's death?

9. What does John dislike about Miss King, one of his teachers?

10. Can the reader figure out the fate of Mr. Pignati from the first chapter?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Through this story, the author is conveying a larger message about life situations. Supporting your analysis with examples from the book, explain what the author is revealing about:

1. Growing up.

2. Growing old.

3. Trusting others.

4. Cherishing friendships.

Essay Topic 2

Perhaps more than any other character, Lorraine experiences a great measure of internal conflict. Explain how the following internal conflicts arise for Lorraine. How she deals with each one? In each instance, does she find a resolution to the conflict?

1. Doing what's right versus following John.

2. Having fun versus treating others with respect.

3. Being angry with her mother versus sympathizing with her mother's hard life.

Essay Topic 3

1. At the start of the story, the main characters state that they are setting out to write an epic memorial. What does this mean?

2. By the end of the story, do you feel that Lorraine and John accomplish their mission? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 880 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample