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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 instrument does Doris play?

2. Who does Doris make sure to never be alone with?

3. Who does Simon say broke a contract?

4. Where is Banquete?

5. Who does Simon kick out of the band?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Doris stand up to Colonel Webb?

2. What animal does Simon shoot?

3. Why does Simon pretend to be a fruit vendor?

4. What does Josephina remember about Simon?

5. Why does Doris tell Simon she can no longer write him?

6. Where does Simon finally see Doris?

7. Who is Mr. Pressley?

8. What job does Simon get in Houston?

9. What do Simon's coworkers call him?

10. Why does Doro leave the band?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay describing the author’s narrative tone and writing style. Use examples from the text as evidence for your argument.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay in which you explore the theme of home. What is home to Simon? What kind of home and life does he wish to build for himself, and why? Use evidence from the text as support.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay in which you explore the theme of power. There are many instances throughout the novel that demonstrate a struggle for power, particularly in the case of the post-war South but also simply between individual characters. Who is afforded power throughout the novel? What does is take to acquire power, or to take it from others? Use evidence from the text as support.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 455 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample