3. Mark writes that after ____________ years of losing, they have learned a great deal and Mark hopes to return as a team manager in a way that can make them win.

4. In professional auto racing it is _____________________ that make(s) the race.

5. Their experience at Indianapolis proves ________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens when Mark asks for advice from other drivers? Why do they act this way?

2. Describe Mark's retirement.

3. How is Mark affected by the anti-skid system?

4. What takes place right after a victory?

5. For whom is this book good? Why?

6. What does Roger Penske think about the situation with American Motors? How does the situation with American Motors work out well for everyone involved?

7. Why does the team take the car to Indianapolis for testing? Describe these tests. Is this a good idea? Why or why not?

8. How is this book important to race car enthusiasts?

9. Describe Mark's death.

10. What fact is reiterated using Mark's difficulty at Indianapolis?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Race cars need modifications and adjustments.

Part 1) Describe two of Mark's cars and the adjustments made. Explain what the reader can learn about racing and engineering from Mark's descriptions of these adjustments?

Part 2) What else do all race cars have in common? Why do they often not last long? Can this be remedied? If so, how? If not, why not?

Part 3) How are race car drivers and their teams affected by these facts about race cars? Do you believe racing has changed much since Mark's years as a driver? If so, how? If not, why not?

Essay Topic 2

Mark dies in a crash.

Part 1) How does Mark end up racing one last time? How does this lead to his death? Might he have known that this was a risk he was taking? Why or why not?

Part 2) What does his death reveal about the sport of racing? How does it affect your view of this popular sport? What could be done to make this sport safer for those involved?

Part 3) Many forms of entertainment are dangerous for the performers/athletes. Are these activities worth the risks? Why or why not? Should it be legal to participate in these activities? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Mark retires.

Part 1) Describe his last race and his retirement party. What does this reveal about Mark, the people with whom he works, and his fans?

Part 2) How does Mark view himself regarding his career and fame prior to his retirement? How does this view change as he grows closer to retirement? Why does it change in this way? How do you believe his view of himself regarding his career and retirement compares to the views of other celebrities and athletes?

Part 3) Do you see retirement as difficult for the general population as well? Why or why not? Why do people see their careers as truly a part of who they are? How does retirement change this? Is this a good change? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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