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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 is with Davenport when Shadow breaks into the house?

2. Davenport learns that his dreams are _____.

3. Barbara apologizes to the men for her shabby ____.

4. Shadow Love asks which of the following to call Hart?

5. Where is the first place they run for cover?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Sam Crow so angry about Barbara's involvement in the Hart death? What is Barbara's response?

2. Why does Davenport feel less than effective in the case?

3. How do the Crows learn about the sting?

4. How does Anderson learn the true identity of the Crows? How is the evidence supported?

5. Why does Daniel order secrecy surrounding the sting at the Crows' apartment?

6. What happens after Shadow Love's death?

7. What is Daniel's prediction about the escalation of the murders?

8. What has Lily so upset on the morning she and Davenport must return to Minneapolis?

9. Discuss the scene in which the Crows discuss John Liss.

10. Discuss Shadow's plan to kill Larry Hart.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Symbolism is an important part of a mystery, often giving clues to the reader and the story's detective. What are the ways in which Sandford uses symbolism in his stories? Give examples of blatant symbolism and more subtle symbolism. Identify any changes in symbolism as they relate to different groups such as the Sioux versus the whites. Compare and contrast the symbolism used in Sanford's mysteries and the mysteries written by another famous author.

Essay Topic 2

Backstories are important as they fill in the gaps of characters' lives that may not have been addressed elsewhere. This is seen clearly in the backstories of the Crows, Shadow Love, and Davenport. Explain how Sandford uses the technique. When is the appropriate time for a backstory? Does the backstory always resolve unanswered questions? Where might Sandford use it in reference to other characters or situations? Give at least three examples and explain in detail. Also discuss the most important factor in each character's backstory.

Essay Topic 3

Davenport is often viewed as a rogue cop, one who does not play by the book. Discuss this behavior. How is Davenport's method helpful to his work? How might it hinder or jeopardize an investigation? How do Davenport's colleagues feel about his behavior? How is the behavior viewed by the rural cops in Grant? Is Davenport viewed as an asset or liability by his commander? What kind of reprimands might Davenport receive for his unusual methods? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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