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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. In Tupelo, which famous home does Bryson visit?
(a) Billy the Kid's.
(b) Elvis's.
(c) Doris Day's.
(d) Jack London's.

2. "Dullard" reminds Bryson of a movie in which the locals wait for what?
(a) A lone traveler to barbeque.
(b) A celebrity to pass through.
(c) God to come so they can be saved.
(d) Their big break.

3. Why were Bryson's family vacations always so dingy?
(a) Because it made the trip more exciting.
(b) Because they were trying to save money.
(c) Because no one cared either way.
(d) Because the midwest is dingy.

4. What does Bryson say he set out to Missouri with?
(a) A light heart.
(b) A bicycle.
(c) Great expectations.
(d) No money.

5. The Herman Talmadge Memorial Bridge "_____" Bryson into South Carolina.
(a) Flings.
(b) Pulls.
(c) Chases.
(d) Pushes.

Short Answer Questions

1. When Bryson's stops to buy an Iowa post-card, what does he agree with the cashier about?

2. What thought comforts Bryson about the pushy seniors at the "Little White House"?

3. Bryson finds that most items advertised in the New York Times are _____.

4. What is the effect Charleston has on Bryson?

5. As an adult, Bryson finds Mark Twain's boyhood home to be ______.

Short Essay Questions

1. What are Bryson's feelings about Mississippi? Why does he feel this way?

2. What is the greatest barrier Bryson faces in southern towns?

3. Why does Bryson name the town "Dullard"?

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

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

6. What is the most fun Bryson can have in Carbondale?

7. How does Bryson generalize towns from his youth?

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

9. How do the tourists in Warm Springs embody Bryson's dislikes?

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

(see the answer keys)

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