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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. Lonnie tells Ralph that the __________________ on the car is broken.

2. Who is Ted Hawkins?

3. Why does Ralph have a difficult time finding a job out west?

4. Who is Ralph's family doctor?

5. Ralph's new plan includes buying a _________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. Who is Ralph's family doctor and what does the doctor encourage Ralph to do to help his condition?

2. Why does Lonnie have to walk back to Mesa the next day?

3. What does Mr. Larsen do to help the boys get the car back and then send them on their way?

4. Explain the experience the boys have while trying to get the car up the hills?

5. What is revealed about Ralph's character in the first two chapters?

6. What is Ralph's opinion of the mechanic when Ralph returns to ask a few questions about the car?

7. What deal does Lonnie make for the car and what is Mr. Larsen's opinion of the deal?

8. What is the important thing that Ted shows Ralph as he gives him a tour of the movie set?

9. Why does Ralph allow Lonnie to search for a car, and what is Ralph's opinion of the car Lonnie finds?

10. What advice does Mr. Larsen eventually give Lonnie regarding the car?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Moody is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphors, and irony, briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

Essay Topic 2

Explain some of the examples of regionalism found in the book. Can regionalism include more than accents and food? What else encompasses the culture and personality of a region? What are the major differences Ralph found in his new life in Arizona as opposed to the life he led before in Boston?

Essay Topic 3

There is much symbolism in this story, especially the car. Cite at least three examples of symbolism and support your answers.

(see the answer keys)

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