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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 does Malachi's name mean?

2. What are the twelve sides of the company's headquarter building said by the architect to represent?

3. What does Beatrice purchase just in case she is ever in Malachi's presence?

4. What object does Boaz carry in his right front trouser pocket?

5. What is Malachi known as?

Short Essay Questions

1. When Malachi greets Winston during the materialization, Malachi experiences an unfamiliar feeling and starts to feel panicky. Why?

2. How does Beatrice feel about her husband?

3. What did the invitation to witness the materialization say regarding the relationship between Malachi and Winston? Why is this odd for Malachi?

4. When Beatrice and Winston are together in Skip's Museum, why is Beatrice upset with Winston?

5. How does Unk's son get his name?

6. What are goofballs and what is their purpose?

7. Describe Noel Constant's investment strategy.

8. According to the narrator, what did Earth's advance agents find in space that had already been found in abundance on Earth?

9. Why does Malachi send offensive letters to Beatrice?

10. According to the hospital, what is the very worst thing that Unk can do?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The entire story takes place primarily in four different locations. Compare and contrast each of the four primary locations in the story - Earth, Mars, Mercury, and Titan. Be sure to include how the characters are treated on each of these planets, as well as how they eat, live, and interact with each other. Of the four locations in the story, which location would you most prefer to live in and why?

Essay Topic 2

While Unk and Boaz are stranded on Mercury, their experiences are very different. Compare and contrast the personalities, outlooks, living arrangements, and goals of these two men. Based on your understanding, which of these two men was better prepared for their temporary exile to Mercury? Why?

Essay Topic 3

Compare the relationship of Malachi and Beatrice at the beginning of the story and at the end of the story. What major theme in the novel is showcased in the development of their relationship? Explain and support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 639 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample