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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 label has Lusa been given by the community?

2. Where do Deanna & Eddie "complete their introduction"?

3. Whom is Lusa not very comfortable around?

4. What is George Tick's gas station giving away?

5. What does Garnett blame for the pests on his property?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is a "windfall" in the forest?

2. Why does Deanna physically attack Eddie, in Chapter 7?

3. Why do Cole and Lusa fight a lot?

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

5. What are Garnett's views of the Amish?

6. Do you think the way the townspeople treat Lusa at Cole's wake is right?

7. Why does Lusa feel that her new sisters-in-law do not like her?

8. Do you think Eddie respects Deanna?

9. What does Nannie need to do to keep her organic farming certification valid?

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 the beginning of "Prodigal Summer", we see much conflict and very little empathy between the characters. However, as the story progresses, we start to see a shift in this. Cite three examples from the book that demonstrate how the characters are learning to empathize with each other. Address how this empathy is beginning to lessen conflict.

Essay Topic 2

Deanna and Lusa are both strong women, each in her own right. Which woman do you believe to be the stronger overall? Give three examples to support this and explain why you chose one and not the other.

Essay Topic 3

The Appalachian area is seen, by some, as being "hick" or "backward". Cite three examples from the book that would support this theory. Address regional dialect, stereotypes, and character names.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 692 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample