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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. In the beginning of "The River Writes" how does Gus now view himself in regard to fishing?

2. Why do Titus and Gus go to Portland?

3. What story does Gus tell about the animals in the chapter "The Raven and the Why"?

4. What is amusing about the way Titus speaks while making breakfast for Gus and Descartes?

5. What stuffed animal does Rama have with him in "Jesus Keeps Fishing"?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens to Gus when he meets the most beautiful girl that he could imagine?

2. Why can't Gus communicate with Eddy when he meets her?

3. How do Ma's views of dams differ from Thomas Bigeater's views?

4. Why is Bill Bob standing in the cold whistling?

5. How does Gus become somewhat famous in the chapter "Hemingway"?

6. On Gus's trek back home from the source of the Tamanawis, what does he discover about the spiritual source?

7. How have Henning and Ma changed since Gus has been away? What do they tell Gus is the reason for the change?

8. How does Eddy lead Gus to God?

9. What neighbors does Gus meet; who are they; what do they do; what do they offer Gus?

10. What exchange do Titus and Gus have and why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In the early chapters of the novel, Duncan gives strong indicators of how Gus sees the way his parents feel about their children. What are Gus's deepest thoughts? How does he express them? How do they affect Gus?

Essay Topic 2

How are the Orvistons a non-traditional family? How does this effect Gus and Bill Bob?

Essay Topic 3

If Gus is the protagonist, who or what is the antagonist? Explain how Gus is the protagonist and why the antagonist is the antagonist.

(see the answer keys)

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