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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. What kind of business does Gus run?

2. Why doesn't Chris attend Emily's funeral?

3. When do the phone calls start?

4. Where do the Golds and Hartes go for Christmas 1993?

5. What is wrong with Chris?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What occupation does Melanie hold, and how does it complement her personality?

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

4. What does the path of the bullet in Emily's head suggest?

5. How does Emily break her leg?

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

7. How do Melanie and Michael react to the idea of Chris killing Emily?

8. What does the euthanasia of the dog represent?

9. What does Chris admit to bringing on his date with Emily?

10. What is ironic about the theory that the detective has about the tragedy?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

The parent/child relationship is explored in various characters in the novel. Choose a parent/child relationship to answer these questions: What kind of relationship do these characters have with each other? What trials do they go through, and how do they end up? Make sure you answer each question, using examples from the book.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 610 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample