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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. Which relative does Dr. Symes want to visit in Belize?

2. Webster gives Ray a map marked with the locations of the Dupree farm and _________________.

3. Which of the following are people that Jack does NOT encounter in the Mexican town?

4. How does Ray get Dr. Symes out of Mexico?

5. Ray is interested in finding the location for _______________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Mrs. Symes perceive the arrival of her son in Belize?

2. Who is Webster Spooner and how does Ray meet him?

3. What signs did Norma show that she was unhappy in her life?

4. What prompted Norma's running away with Guy?

5. Who is Christine and how does Ray meet her?

6. Who does Dr. Symes plan to visit in Belize and what is his motive for the visit?

7. What deal does Ray strike with Dr. Symes when Ray has some financial problems?

8. Why did Ray not see the signs that Norma was unhappy in her life?

9. Why does Ray decide to pursue Norma and Guy and what preparations does he make?

10. Why does Ray change his mind about riding with Jack to find Norma and Guy?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Portis is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphors, and irony. Briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the ongoing conflict between Ray and Norma. What are the main sources of the conflicts? Why does it perpetuate? What does Norma learn about the reality of her life with Ray as opposed to the perceptions she has held for so long?

Essay Topic 3

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of regret. Identify at least two examples about regret in the book. Then explain how each example supports the theme of regret.

(see the answer keys)

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