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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. Who kills Thomas?

2. Where does Rudolph take Billy to stay?

3. What does Thomas remind Gretchen not to do?

4. What is consuming Gretchen's life in Part 3, Chapter 4?

5. At what age does Jean get her inheritance?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is ironic about Thomas' love for the sea?

2. What is the sad irony of Mary's life right now?

3. What is the nature of Gretchen's struggles in Part 3, Chapter 4?

4. How does the author fill in plot and character development between chapters?

5. What are Gretchen's legal battles related to the death of her husband?

6. How does Thomas' protection of his friend, Dwyer, in a fight ultimately have profound negative impact on Thomas' life?

7. What is the symbolism of the name Thomas chooses for his boat?

8. How does Jean's depression escalate into alcoholism and what are the first signs of the disease?

9. How does Jean indirectly ruin Rudolph's career as mayor?

10. What are the two main reasons Thomas' reconnection with his mother is so important?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses several instances of irony in the book. One example is the boat-related deaths of Axel and Thomas. Cite at least two other examples you can identify in the story and note why they are examples of irony.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the author's use of point of view in this story. Identify the point of view used and explain why this book qualifies. How would the book have changed if the author had selected a different point of view?

Essay Topic 3

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

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