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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. How does John convince Lorraine that they go visit Mr. Pignati?

2. While his parents criticize him for not being more like his brother Kenneth, John blames his latest prank on _____.

3. Lorraine feels that John needs to make up interesting stories about his life because he is _______.

4. What does John's father do for a living?

5. What does Lorraine see in the middle of Miss Stewart's living room?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does John convince Lorraine that it's all right for them to cash the check they collected from Mr. Pignati under false pretenses?

2. Describe Bobo, Mr. Pignati's friend.

3. What uninvited guest shows up at John's and Lorraine's party?

4. Which son does John's father favor, him or his brother?

5. Describe Lorraine's interest in psychology.

6. Do you think Lorraine has a crush on John?

7. How does getting busted at a wild party become a turning point for Lorraine in her relationship with her mother?

8. Even though he dies, Mr. Pignati's last few months are transformed by John and Lorraine. How does Mr. Pignati benefit from his friendship with these two teenagers?

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

10. Describe the picture of her parents that Lorraine keeps.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain how the author uses Lorraine's narration to foreshadow what happens to Mr. Pignati in the end. Cite specific examples from the book, including omens Lorraine refers to.

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast Lorraine's mother with John's mother.

1. Which one is the more effective parent?

2. By the end of the book, which pair has the better relationship -- Lorraine and her mother, or John and his mother? Why? Support your answers with specific details from the book.

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 912 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample