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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 does Murray acknowledge Danielle in a quiet moment?

2. What news does Ludo deliver to Marina?

3. How many years has Marina been working on her book?

4. What kind of job does Bootie find?

5. What does Bootie think will make Marina fall in love with him?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where is Bootie after the September 11 attacks in New York?

2. What changes does Bootie make after he is kicked out of the Thwaite house and loses his job working for Murray?

3. What are Julius' feelings about his relationship with David at this point in his life?

4. What secret does Danielle continue to keep from Julius and Marina?

5. Why does Julius seem to be so uncomfortable around David's family?

6. How is Bootie a disruptive presence when he uses the Thwaites' Manhattan apartment on the holiday?

7. Why is Bootie so surprised by Murray's reactions to Bootie's expose on him?

8. Describe the altercation between David and Julius in the men's room at the bar.

9. Why does Danielle not go to the Thwaites' home in Stockbridge for the holiday weekend?

10. What memories does Danielle have about Marina's wedding the next morning?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the overall setting setting for the novel? Be sure to include geography, time period and any pertinent popular culture events. Why did Messud choose to use these places in the novel?

Essay Topic 2

Create a character study of Murray. What are his physical characteristics? What are his motivations? What are his fears? What are his dreams? What else can you say about Murray?

Essay Topic 3

THE EMPEROR'S CHILDREN is a classic story of loss and betrayal. What does that classification entail? Why does this novel fit into this category? Explain.

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