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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 was Lusa's odd dream about in Chapter 5?

2. What does Deanna tell Eddie is fairly rare to find in the forest?

3. What are Eddie & Deanna searching for in Chapter 13?

4. What does Garnett call his ancestors?

5. Whom do Eddie & Deanna find in a tree?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Garnett's basic persona, when we first get to know him?

2. Do you think it odd that Lusa dreams of a moth making love to her?

3. In Chapter 15, Lusa finds she is happier than she has been a long time. Explain this change.

4. Was Nannie right in moving her "No Spray Zone" sign onto the bank bordering Garnett's property?

5. What is Lusa's plan for her goats?

6. What was the occupation of Lusa's grandparents?

7. What is Deanna's main defense of coyotes, concerning the killing of farm livestock?

8. How does Deanna equate her husband with the typical "male animal"?

9. What is Deanna's demeanor, when Eddie leaves, after staying with her for nine days?

10. In Chapter 11, Deanna and Eddie are talking about who built Deanna's cabin. Explain the Walker family and their influence on the land in this area.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "Prodigal Summer", Nannie attempts to explain the "Volterra Principle" to Garnett. Explain, in depth, what this is. What does it have to do with pesticide use? Why, according to Nannie, is it being kept quiet and by whom?

Essay Topic 2

Antagonism is seen commonly throughout this book. Explain, in depth, who you believe to be the most antagonistic character. Cite specific examples of behavior or conversation, from the book, to support your answer. Also address repercussions of the antagonism.

Essay Topic 3

Nannie and Garnett have very different opinions on the aging process and this causes conflict in their relationship. Explain both of their views on this subject. Why do they feel this way? Does their view of this affect their every-day life? Do you think either view is better or more appropriate? Do you think either view would lead to a happier life?

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