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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. When Jennifer leaves at the end of Chapter 22, where does she go?

2. Why does Rachel move the hostages outside the caves?

3. Where does Rivera go at the end of Chapter 33?

4. Who does Amanda call for help?

5. What did Jennifer want to be when she grew up?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain the plan Howard, Robert, Travis, Augustus, and Gian plan in the Head of the Slug in Chapter 32.

2. Why does Robert think he is being arrested, and what, in fact, are the actual charges?

3. How does Rachel convince Jennifer to come to the caves, and what does Jennifer do following this event?

4. Describe Travis and Jennifer's evening after they arrive at her home at the end of Chapter 22.

5. In Chapter 20, Effrom is visited by Catch, and several times, thinks he has has killed his wife. Why?

6. What does Rivera not report the bullet hole he finds in the Elliott's home?

7. How does Gian explain lying about what will happen to Catch, and how does Augustus respond?

8. Explain, in detail, why Amanda doesn't tell Effrom she is aware of his smoking and of his watching of women's exercise programs, and what she does to extend his pleasure.

9. What connection does the Nailgun find between the names and dates in Travis' suitcase?

10. What does Rachel tell Travis when he calls him at Jennifer's?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The sexual interactions of the characters within the novel seem to dictate many of their actions, which is common among human beings. While some, like Rachel and Bella, use sex for power, some, like Travis and Jennifer, appear to use sex as a means of ending loneliness and to feel closer to another human being. Effrom uses sexual concepts as an escape from reality, and also as a way to preserve memories of his wife. Choose one of these themes, and explain how the characters use sex to attain these goals in the novel.

Essay Topic 2

Augustus Brine is "chosen" to help save the world from the demon, Catch. He could have chosen not to participate, and instead accepted the situation as futile, thereby allowing the world to perish. Explain, using details from the book, those characteristics of Augustus Brine that made him suitable for the job, and unable to not accept the responsibility.

Essay Topic 3

There are several references to pop culture in the novel. The author creates humor by contrasting horrific or difficult situations with an everyday, commonplace interaction. Choose one reference which shows such characteristics and analyze it. What is the reference? Which characters are involved? How does the author's use of such a reference lighten the situation? Do you believe the result is successful?

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