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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. Why does Naomi maintain her Big Sur house?

2. When does Max divorce Marielle?

3. Who is a vegetarian?

4. In "Talking to Myself and Feeling Old," where does Marielle intern?

5. Jordan's desire to view his death as an astronaut's journey instead of a harsh end is an example of what?

Short Essay Questions

1. While Jordan and Jordy get snacks for Marielle's funeral, Joran reveals that Jordy struggles with what?

2. How does Naomi react when Marielle discovers her ring and why did her fiancé choose it?

3. In "We've Only Just Begun," why does Jordan not want to go to Big Sur?

4. Why does Jordan want to return to Columbia; what does he think about the political state in Columbia versus America?

5. Why does Naomi say "nerd alert" (146) when she sees Jordan in in "Talking to Myself and Feeling Old" - what is the purpose behind his decision?

6. How does Marielle meet her husband?

7. What reasoning does Marielle give for wanting to have sex with Craig in "We've Only Just Begun;" what motivates her?

8. In "Talking to Myself and Feeling Old" why is Craig feeling pretty good about himself?

9. What are Naomi and Marielle's taste in music like?

10. What does Jordan think about the paint choice in the hospital?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss how the title "You're the Nearest Thing to Heaven That I've Ever Seen" (Jordy, 2023) is symbolic of the strength of Jordy and Jordan's relationship throughout the years. Consider Jordan's religious faith and his views on heaven. Furthermore, consider addressing the time period and the identification of Jordy in the parenthesis.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay arguing how Rowley's use of omniscient narration is necessary for the construction of his characters. What elements would be left behind if limited narration was used; which facets of the novel would no longer work? Why is it important that the reader has access to every person in the friend group's thoughts?

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay about how Rowley’s use of non-literary elements affects his novel. What larger thematic connections is Rowley making by quoting Harris’ Chocolat? How do these elements provide context to how Rowley wants his novel to be read? Reference the epigraph, cover art, dedication, acknowledgments, or obituary at the end of the novel.

(see the answer keys)

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