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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. According to the rumors that Penn had heard, where is Olivia living?

2. What is the name of the black man running for mayor in Penn's hometown?

3. Where is Penn's hometown?

4. Which character is friends with Penn even though he is Jewish and Penn is not?

5. Where was Hanratty's brother shot?

Short Essay Questions

1. While Tom and Penn are fighting about the newspaper article, two women appear on Tom's doorstep. Why are the women there?

2. According to the story Penn tells during his interview, why was Payton murdered?

3. When Penn first confronts his father about what's bothering his father, how does Tom react?

4. When Penn calls home to tell his parents that he is moving back to his hometown, he senses something is wrong. Why does Penn not press his mother for details?

5. When Penn's mother confesses why she has been upset, why is Penn stunned by her news?

6. When Penn announces to his parents that he is moving back to his hometown, how do Penn's parents react?

7. When Penn first confronts his father about what's bothering his father, what does Penn think is going on?

8. Why does Sam Jacobs warn Penn about the Payton murder as they leave the fund-raising party?

9. When Presley and Tom met after Hillman had been killed, what did Tom ask Presley?

10. How does Penn explain to his interviewer that Johnson is not courting the black vote?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Several times in the story, Penn seeks out the help of other people in order to move forward in both his investigation into the Payton murder and in his personal life.

a. Identify at least three times in the story in which Penn reaches out for help.

b. Compare and contrast each of these events in terms of the situation Penn is trying to understand, the effect of his asking for help, and the situation that immediately follows this time.

c. How might Penn's actions have impacted the story's plot if he hadn't reached out for help from others?

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the novel, Penn is involved with two very different women. Compare and contrast the relationship Penn has with Caitlin and the relationship Penn has with Olivia. Then, compare and contrast these two women. How do these relationships influence not only Penn, but also the other people that are in his life?

Essay Topic 3

Planning is an essential part of the story for several characters, as well as for the author to ensure that his plot moves forward. Identify instances in which Penn Cage and Leo Marston plan for their upcoming court fight. Identify instances in which each of these men fails to plan well. What is revealed about each of these characters through their ability ,or lack of ability, to plan? How is the strength of the author revealed in his ability to have his characters adequately plan? Be sure to support your reasoning.

(see the answer keys)

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