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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 is the seventh day of the Jewish week and the Jewish day of rest?

2. According to Reuven’s father in Chapter 6, the Cossacks fought against the Jews in what year?

3. Reuven goes onto his front porch and observes what caught in a spider web in Chapter 9?

4. What does Reuven tell Mr. Savo his father wants him to be when he grows up in Chapter 3?

5. By what name is Danny Saunders’ father referred to in the novel?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is demonstrated by Danny’s interests in psychoanalysis in the novel?

2. Where is Reuven taken for his injury in Chapter 2? How does Reuven feel?

3. What is the implication when Reuven’s eyes are tested in the light in Chapter 2?

4. How are the differences between Reuven and Danny explained to Reuven by his father in Chapter 6?

5. What is indicated by David Malter’s discussion of Dov Baer in Chapter 8?

6. What is foreshadowed by David Malter’s comments about friendship in Chapter 4?

7. What two things does David Malter say the Talmud says a person should do for himself in Chapter 4?

8. How does Reuven respond to the information he learns about Billy in Chapter 9? What symbolic imagery is described at the end of this chapter?

9. How is Reuven’s home described when he returns from the hospital in Chapter 5? Who greets them when they arrive home?

10. What is indicated by David Malter’s description of the fortunate and unfortunate in Chapter 4?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the theme of identity in the novel. How is identity developed thematically in Reuven and Danny? How does it apply to the character of Reb Saunders? What symbolism reflects this theme in the narrative?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the character of David Malter in the narrative. What relationship does David have with his son? How is this illustrated through their conversations in the novel? What relationship does David Malter form with Danny Saunders?

Essay Topic 3

Reuven’s entrance into the Hasidic world by visiting Reb Saunders’ Shul. What are Reuven’s impressions of the congregation? How does he feel about the rituals enacted at the service?

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