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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 changes does Miss Nili bring about in Mr. Salgado's house?

2. When Robert brings by a journalist to see Mr. Salgado, Miss Nili greets them wearing what?

3. At the Christmas Eve dinner, who watches Miss Nili intently as she speaks?

4. While working for Mr. Salgado, how does Triton educate himself?

5. As Miss Nili and Mr. Salgado get ready to attend the Mahaweli Scheme inauguration party, Triton gets the sense that things are ___.

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Triton's experience at the Christmas Eve dinner.

2. What gift does Nili bring Triton on Christmas Eve after the dinner party?

3. After Miss Nili quits her job at The Sea Hopper Hotel, she spends much more time with Mr. Salgado. In what ways does he become more like her during this phase?

4. How does Triton grow and evolve from "Part I, Kolla" to "Part II, Cook's Joy" in Reef?

5. What transformations does the household undergo after Miss Nili moves into Mr. Salgado's house?

6. Explain how the ocean is used as a significant symbol in "Part III, A Thousand Fingers".

7. How is Triton's name a fitting choice in light of the story's theme and setting?

8. How does Triton feel about the sea?

9. How does Mr. Salgado's personality change after Nili moves into the house?

10. During the festive dinner party at his home with Miss Nili and several other distinguished guests, what does Mr. Salgado talk about?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although he starts out without any cooking skills, Triton evolves into an accomplished chef. Analyze how this culinary evolution mirrors Triton's personal transformation with respect to his self-esteem, confidence, and self-perception.

Essay Topic 2

Describe in detail several of the images the author creates through his narrative to bring the tropical Sri Lankan setting to life for the reader.

Essay Topic 3

Referring to specific passages from the book, explain the commentary the author makes regarding each of the following:

1. Human flaws.

2. Human resilience.

3. The persistence of hopes and dreams.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,057 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample