View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. After telling Edgar how long he has to live, what advice does the doctor give Edgar?

2. What gift does Mary Ann receive as her welcome gift?

3. In "Mrs. Day at Home," who does DeDe call?

4. Over whom do Beauchamp and Edgar argue in "Edgar Blows Up"?

5. After admitting that his wife left him, what does Vincent do?

Short Essay Questions

1. Briefly compare the two women in Edgar's life, Ruby Miller and Frannie.

2. Explain what happens when DeDe visits Mary Ann?

3. How does Mrs. Madrigal react when Mary Ann mentions the picture of the soldier in her bedroom?

4. What does DeDe do after Splinter refuses her?

5. Briefly discuss the scenario between Mary Ann and Beauchamp in the Mendocino cabin.

6. How does Edgar Halcyon describe himself?

7. What is Mona worried about after Michael meets Jon?

8. How is Mona's relationship with her mother different from her relationship with Mrs. Madrigal?

9. Briefly discuss the argument between Edgar and Mrs. Madrigal as regards Mona's employment.

10. How does Mona help Mary Ann when the two women first meet?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The word "halcyon" is a synonym for happiness and peace. Discuss how the meaning of his name relates to Edgar's journey and transformation as a character, giving specific examples from the novel.

Essay Topic 2

"Tales of the City" is a book with a lot of characters. Discuss how the author's use of dialogue contribute to the reader's understanding of the characters in the novel.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the overall style of the book, "Tales of the City." Make sure your answer includes the following:

1. How the short chapters contribute to the style.

2. The chapters alternate between different characters. How does this impact the style of the book?

3. Many chapters have cliffhanger endings. How does this impact the style of the book?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 767 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample