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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. Who does Sonny Elliman threaten in Chapter 18?

2. What war was Charlene's brother killed in?

3. What kind of letters does Johnny write in this section?

4. Which former actor does Johnny talk about in this section?

5. What do the FBI agents say they know about Stillson?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Stillson react when Johnny shoots at him?

2. Summarize the novel.

3. Why does Ngo compare Stillson to a laughing tiger?

4. What does Johnny think would happen if Stillson became president?

5. What do the Chatsworths think about Stillson?

6. Why does Ngo need to have a knowledge of American politics?

7. Why is the FBI suspicious of Stillson?

8. What does Johnny visualize about Chuck's graduation?

9. Why does Chuck need Johnny's help?

10. What image does Stillson project for himself as a politician?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Look at the structure of the book.

1. How does the author use character and dialogue to drive the narrative?

2. Discuss elements of the narrative structure: exposition, conflict, complication, climax, resolution and conclusion. Do all the elements make for a logical and linear story? How does the story's structure express the book's themes?

Essay Topic 2

In 1983, THE DEAD ZONE was released as a film starring Christopher Walken and Tom Skerritt. Why do you think the themes and ideas in the book are still relevant years later? How did the filmmakers adapt the themes to fit in with the new media? How did these changes affect the meaning of the story?

Essay Topic 3

Pick two characters from the book and discuss their goals and motives. Do they achieve their motive? Do they share similar goals and motives with other characters? Do their goals clash with other characters? How do the characters goals and motives affect their interaction with each other?

(see the answer keys)

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