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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. When Bryson's stops to buy an Iowa post-card, what does he agree with the cashier about?
(a) It's unusually cold this winter.
(b) Too many people drive SUVs.
(c) Iowa is amazing.
(d) That the postcard is "purty."

2. Why does Bryson leave Pine Mountain so quickly?
(a) It's too cold.
(b) It isn't like what the name implies.
(c) He has bad allergies.
(d) There is massive racial segregation.

3. In Bryson's opinion, what explains the stupidity of students?
(a) They do too many drugs.
(b) There are no decent bookshops.
(c) Their parents are absent.
(d) Their teachers are too young.

4. How long did Bryson stay in Kentucky?
(a) Five hours.
(b) One night.
(c) Forty minutes.
(d) Two days.

5. What does Bryson observe has "eaten" Carbondale?
(a) Shopping malls.
(b) Factories.
(c) Vacationers.
(d) A monster.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Bryson say is a relative term similar to a "scenic route" on a map?

2. Why does the Dullard barmaid compliment Bryson on his good English?

3. While in Columbus, what does Bryson realize about his journey?

4. Bryson says he "wouldn't hesitate to give an old person a shove, especially a _______."

5. According to Bryson's generalization, where will people from Des Moines work?

Short Essay Questions

1. Do people ever get out of Des Moines, according to Bryson? Why or why not?

2. What do Bryson's expectations in revisiting his grandparents' home say about him?

3. How does Auburn, AL prompt more of Bryson's criticisms of youth?

4. What, in Bryson's opinion, is good about being from Des Moines?

5. Why does Bryson like Charleston, SC?

6. Why was Abe Lincoln's home more fun for Bryson and his generation that it is for the youth of today?

7. Why does Bryson like Tupelo?

8. How is Tuskegee, AL a trip back in time for Bryson?

9. What was the effect of Bryson's "disturbed and erratic" childhood?

10. Does Bryson view his grandparents critically or endearingly? How does he portray them?

(see the answer keys)

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