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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 song does Garnett whistle while mailing his letter?

2. What is Lusa listening to in Chapter 8?

3. What is Garnett remembering in Chapter 6?

4. Where do coyotes live?

5. How do Little Rickie's friends describe Lusa?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. How do you think Herb and Big Rickie handle the situation about putting in Lusa's crop?

3. Describe Sam Hill as we meet him in Chapter 13.

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

5. According to Garnett's religious beliefs, when is it okay for an animal species to go extinct?

6. What does Garnett warn Lusa about, when she wants to place an ad for goats?

7. In Chapter 12, Garnett suspects that Nannie has slandered his name. What is the situation?

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Garnett appears to have a strong faith, in "Prodigal Summer", and likes to quote scripture. However, some of his opinions seem to contradict, not only the Bible, but also what some might view as a "Christian" attitude. Cite three examples from the book that would support this view. Be sure to address stereotypes, judging others, and views on animals' place on earth. Are Garnett's interpretations of the Bible solely to support his own views or do you think that he honestly believes them?

Essay Topic 2

Farmers and ranchers have long been at odds with conservationists, who believe in protecting predators. Give one example from the book to defend each side of the controversy. Do you feel that we, as a society, have an obligation to protect all species, in order to keep the eco-system intact? On the other hand, do we have an obligation to ourselves and our families to protect what is ours, in order to sustain our own existence?

Essay Topic 3

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.

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