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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 is Augusten's reaction to the meeting with Neil Bookman?

2. How does Augusten react to Natalie's suggestion about his career path?

3. Why does Augusten feel the need to comfort himself?

4. What professions does Augusten associate with mental illness?

5. How is Augusten's father described?

Short Essay Questions

1. After Neil Bookman comes to visit Augusten for a sexual experience involving hair gel, how does Augusten react?

2. What is Augusten uncomfortable at school, and what does he do about it?

3. What is the state of Norman and Deirdre Burroughs' relationship?

4. What is Augusten's reaction to meeting Kate Finch?

5. How does Augusten get out of school after he is discouraged by another classmate?

6. What does Augusten become obsessed with, relating to his future employment aspirations?

7. How does Hope respond to Augusten's desire to move to New York City?

8. Who is Joranne, and what is her condition when Augusten meets her?

9. How do Augusten's family members react to his admission of his relationship with Neil Bookman?

10. Why does Dr. Finch believe that he is in communication with God?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Augusten grew up with three central mother figures in his life: Agnes, Hope, and Deirdre. First, compare the mothering techniques of the three women, and then weigh in on which woman had the biggest influence on Augusten's life. Use examples from the text to support your claims.

Essay Topic 2

Another theme that is very prevalent in the memoir is one of normalcy versus absurdity. Explain what Augusten thought was normal, and give an example of a time that he strove to be normal, fighting against his absurd surroundings. What was the outcome of Augusten's fight for normalcy in that situation?

Essay Topic 3

In the beginning of the memoir, Augusten is filled with a deep admiration for his mother. Explain the way that Augusten viewed his mother when he was a child, and explain the way that Augusten's view of her changed as he grew older.

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