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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. Ray describes falling in love with Iowa as a religious experience, but why can't he talk about it?

2. At the end of Chapter One, what does Shoeless Joe mistake Ray's field for?

3. What does Ray feel is ironic about Fenway Park?

4. Who sees "Shoeless" Joe Jackson play baseball while he is still alive?

5. Which baseball team does both Ray and his father loathe?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who is Eddie Scissons? What is his relationship to Ray?

2. In The Rapture of J.D. Salinger, what does Salinger promise Ray? Why is this significant?

3. In The Rapture of J.D. Salinger, Salinger says he wants to "touch the perfect dream." Describe what the "perfect dream" might be for Salinger.

4. What is Ray's response when he hears Shoeless Joe ask Salinger if he would like to go out with the players after the game?

5. Why doesn't anyone appear after Ray finishes the area around home plate?

6. At the Minneapolis Twins ballpark, how do Ray, Salinger and Archie get into the stadium at night?

7. How did Dr. Graham get the nickname "Moonlight?"

8. Describe Annie's appearance.

9. What happens when Karin chokes on a hot dog bun?

10. Explain the symbolism of doors in The Rapture of J.D. Salinger.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In an essay, analyze what genre Shoeless Joe is. What evidence from the text supports your opinion? Is it only one genre or a combination?

Essay Topic 2

W.P. Kinsella uses an abundance of figurative language to describe people, places and actions. In an essay analyze the use of figurative language in Shoeless Joe. Cite examples from the text of figurative language. Do you think the figurative language in the novel adds to or detracts from the telling of the story?

Essay Topic 3

Kinsella uses the literary technique of flashbacks to help fill in details about Ray's life. These flashbacks are interspersed with current activity, which form the combination of foreshadowing future events. In an essay, analyze the use of flashbacks to foreshadow future events. Use examples from the text to support your thesis.

(see the answer keys)

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