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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. How long do Liesel and Rudy work with the gang leader before he moves away?

2. Where was Hans Hubermann stationed when he fought in WWI?

3. What does Rudy's father, Herr Steiner, do for a living?

4. How does Viktor Chemmel compare to the last gang leader Liesel worked with?

5. Which of the following emotions does Max feel comfortable expressing only in his journal?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where does Rosa get the idea to send Liesel on all of her sales calls for the laundry business?

2. How does Liesel react when she realizes the mayor's wife saw her steal the book from the bonfire?

3. What chores is Liesel expected to complete around the house while she is living with Hans and Rosa?

4. Why is the relationship between Hans and Hans Jr. strained?

5. How do the Hubermann and Steiner families stretch the food they have during the recession so no one goes hungry?

6. When Frau Hermann invites LIesel inside her house, what does she show the young girl?

7. Why is Liesel in a train at the opening of the novel?

8. What are Liesel's first impressions of Rosa and Hans Hubermann?

9. What happens to Liesel's younger brother while he is on the train at the opening of the novel?

10. How does Hans treat Liesel during the first few weeks she is at his home?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

When WWII broke out, the economy in Munich was devastated. First, describe how the Hubermann and Steiner families were directly affected by the failing economy. Then, describe how each family managed to pick themselves up by their bootstraps and survive while surrounded by the abject poverty around them.

Essay Topic 2

Hans' relationship with his children is one that haunts him throughout his entire life. First, describe the relationship Hans has with his son, Hans Jr. Then, compare / contrast that to the relationship he has with Liesel. In your opinion, which relationship has a deeper impact on Hans' view of the world? How can you tell?

Essay Topic 3

When Max arrives at the Hubermann doorstep, Liesel is sworn to secrecy about his appearance. Why are the Hubermanns so concerned with keeping Max's visit a secret? Does Liesel manage to keep the secret? If so, how and why? If not, what are the effects of her slipped secret?

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This section contains 956 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample