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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 does Chandler figure will happen to Plymale if Joanna's lineage is irrefutably proven?

2. Who is going to go together to pick up Billy?

3. What does Louisa tell Joe that he should have thought about himself?

4. Who takes Billy to his mother's house?

5. Why is Louisa Berbonette going to the canyon floor?

Short Essay Questions

1. The focus on the possibility of rain continues in this chapter; name several hints that the weather may play a role in the story.

2. The fact that Sherman survives the shooting by Joanna could have several implications; name one of them.

3. At this point in the story, do you believe it when Joanna says that she seeks only her father's arm to end his pain in the afterlife and is not interested in the diamonds?

4. How does Hillerman use the story of the cat in Chapter 6 for more than one purpose?

5. How does Sam Pinto illustrate Joe's theory by enumerating a theoretical series of events?

6. How do the two characters introduced in Chapter 3 contrast with each other?

7. How is the story about Cat an allegory for what Chee has encountered in his life?

8. Why do you think Fred Sherman, an ex-cop, is introduced as another "bad" guy?

9. What does Joanna say that gains Billy Tuve's attention and why?

10. What about the difference between white and Native American culture does Hillerman seem to be again emphasizing. Why do you as a reader respond to this obvious stereotyping?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Chapter 4, Chandler brings up the idea of "birthright." Answer the following questions by writing a well-developed, cohesive essay using examples from the text and your research or personal experience:

1. Research the term "birthright," and define it and give examples. How has the concept of "birthright" changed over the centuries?

2. Do you agree with Chandler that he should have all his material wants fulfilled because of having been born in a wealthy family? Should anyone born into a wealthy family be supplied with everything s/he wants? Why or why not?

3. What are other things one gets by "birthright"? What have you received by birthright? Are you happy with all of it? (Think of the term birthright in very broad ways). Can you change any circumstances that are yours by birthright? How would you do so?

Essay Topic 2

The theme of morality is an integral part of understanding both the characters and the plot. Answer the following questions and write a well-developed, cohesive essay using examples from the text and your research or personal experience:

1. How would you define morality as it is used in this novel?

2. Do all the characters have the same definition of morality? How do the characters differ in the way they perceive morality and in how they perceive themselves as moral people?

3. How important is it to Joanna, Chandler, Bernie, and Plymale that they are perceived as moral people? Give examples to illustrate each person's belief. How important is it to each of those characters that they are actually moral people? Is there a discrepancy? Why do you think this is? Do you think these four characters are moral? Why or why not? Be specific.

Essay Topic 3

In Chapter 3, Joanna Craig is introduced and a little about her is narrated. It becomes apparent that one of the driving motivations for her actions in the story is revenge. Answer the following questions by writing a well-developed, cohesive essay using examples from the text and your research or personal experience:

1. How would you define revenge? How often do you think people are motivated by the desire for revenge? What do you think is the effect of holding such a desire for a long time without fulfillment?

2. Explain why Joanna wants revenge and on whom. Do you think she is justified in seeking revenge? Is the taking of revenge ever justified?

3. How does Joanna plan to take her revenge on Plymale? Does it seem like a reasonable plan? What could go wrong? Do you think Joanna will be happier if she gets her revenge?

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