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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 long have the Hartes been friends with their neighbors?

2. What is stressing Gus out other than the recurring dream?

3. What dream does Gus have after she returns home from her short separation from James?

4. Where is Melanie's husband while she is in labor?

5. What happens on the expert slope on the Christmas trip in 1993?

Short Essay Questions

1. How do Emily and Chris' needs contrast?

2. Why is James' award not such a rewarding experience?

3. What does Chris' reaction to the killing of the rabbit suggest?

4. How do the Golds and Hartes contrast?

5. How do the parents react to seeing Emily and Chris begin a relationship?

6. What causes Emily and Chris to break up temporarily?

7. Why does Melanie latch onto the idea that Chris killed Emily?

8. Why does the detective think that suicide is a ridiculous theory in the death of Emily?

9. Why does Gus relent and let the detective talk to Chris?

10. What makes Chris appear to be innocent?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Art plays a role in this novel through Emily's talented works. How does art reflect Emily's state of mind? How did Emily use art in her life? How does her art show the progression of her emotional and mental state? Make sure you answer each question, using examples from the book.

Essay Topic 2

Depression is one of many themes that run through "The Pact." What are the symptoms of depression, and which ones did Emily display? Why is Emily depressed, and why didn't she seek treatment? Provide support for your answers using examples from the novel.

Essay Topic 3

The relationships between parent and child in this novel are strong, especially between Gus and Chris. How does Gus protect her son? How would you describe her relationship with her son in comparison with James relationship with his son? Make sure you answer each question with evidence from the novel.

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