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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. At what ages does Dr. Finch believe people should begin to make their own decisions about life?

2. What does Augusten believe that the city he hopes to move to represents?

3. With whom do Deirdre's fights typically become physical?

4. What does Kate give Augusten to study from?

5. Who is the only family member that is supportive of Dr. Finch's new communication?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens when Augusten goes to visit Neil Bookman, under the pretense of looking at his paintings?

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

3. How does the reunification between Augusten and his mother go?

4. What happens when Poo Bear walks in on the kids playing with the electroshock machine?

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

6. How does the Finch family celebrate "World Father's Day"?

7. How does Augusten cope with the stress at home?

8. What does Augusten do while he is skipping school, and what is Dr. Finch's reaction?

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Throughout most of Augusten's life, Dierdre is in tumultuous and unhealthy relationships.

Part 1.) Give examples of three relationships that Deirdre was in during Augusten's childhood and explain why they were unhealthy.

Part 2.) Explain the way that each of these relationships had a larger effect on Augusten's life and perception of love.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 666 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample