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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 does Amanda purchase from the Cowboy after Marx's employment?

2. According to his letter, why does Plucky entertain notions of burning down the monastery?

3. What movie does Nearly Normal Jimmy carry with him on his journey to his next destination from the Peace Corp?

4. What self-imposed is inflicting Jesus in Marx's vision?

5. On their way from their vegetation hunt, what depresses the Zillers and Marx?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Plucky stumble over the Corpse?

2. How do the Zillers, Plucky and Marx allow themselves to relax before addressing the presence of the Corpse?

3. What is Marx's suggestion about Plucky's plan for the Corpse and why?

4. What observations do the Zillers and Marx make about the loggers and their work?

5. Why and how does Marx address Baby Thor?

6. What is Amanda's theory about Marx's presence at their zoo?

7. Describe the Second Coming as Marx discovers it.

8. What argument does Marx use on Amanda against vegetarianism and what conclusions does she draw from this?

9. Why does Marx attempt suicide and what change overcome him as a result?

10. Who is Sister Hillary and why is she important?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does John Paul and Amanda's love for one another reflect upon their individual spiritual beliefs? Compose an essay that analyzes the spiritual aspects of their relationship, including his acceptance of her children, their open sexual nature, and John Paul's decision to commandeer the experimental balloon. Be sure to also discuss how their personal motivations in life affect their ability to live with and without each other. Cite specific examples from the text so support your answers.

Essay Topic 2

Compose an essay about the role natural elements from the earth play in "Another Roadside Attraction" in the following format:

Part 1) Thunderstorms.

Part 2) Mushrooms.

Part 3) Earthquakes.

Part 4) Sun and solar radiation.

Part 5) The food and beverage offered at the roadside zoo.

Essay Topic 3

Compose an essay about the complexities of Marx and Amanda's relationship. Discuss his visceral attraction to her and his need for a motherly and spiritual figure in life, as well as his suicide attempt after her rejection. From Amanda's perspective, discuss her reasons for sleeping with other men and her rejection of Marx Marvelous. Do not forget to discuss their sexual encounter at the end of the book and their motivations for doing so. Develop a clear thesis statement and cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

(see the answer keys)

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