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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 John eat for breakfast in Chapter 16?

2. What topic does Emma discuss with John as they look at the stars in Chapter 17?

3. After John knocks out Stevens in a fist fight in Chapter 27, how does he revive him?

4. What lie does John tell Mrs. Wiley about Beth in Chapter 17?

5. Where does John drive to first, in Chapter 19?

Short Essay Questions

1. While he is out to dinner with Emma, what does John spend the evening contemplating?

2. Why does John think it will be difficult for Beth to get a warrant to search Tobin's home?

3. How does John trick Stevens into coming back to his house in Connecticut?

4. What bad news does Beth bring to John on Monday morning?

5. How does John gain entry into Tobin's place of work and apartment?

6. Describe the appearance of Fredric Tobin.

7. After the Gordons' bodies were examined, what were some clues that they were doing something manual before their deaths?

8. When John sees Beth again in Chapter 38, how does he feel about her?

9. Describe the appearance of Emma Whitestone.

10. What reason does Emma give for her short relationship with Tobin?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One of the literary tools employed by DeMille in Plum Island is the use of paradox and irony. Give examples of where DeMille has employed verbal or situational irony and discuss in detail how this use of irony has furthered the plot, developed characters, or strengthened a theme.

Essay Topic 2

Throughout Plum Island, there are several journeys made both on sea and by land by different characters. Discuss at least two specific journeys and how they could be viewed as extended metaphors for character development of the characters who undertake these journeys.

Essay Topic 3

Throughout the novel, John and Beth's relationship changes dramatically several times. Using textual examples, describe how the shifts in their relationship resonate with the themes of love, lust, judgment, and redemption.

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