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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. Why does Rachel hire a cook and housekeeper?

2. What is at the core of Tom's problems?

3. Where does Tom move to eventually?

4. Tom and Jackie make love before he goes to _________________.

5. Which company has bought out The American Coal Company?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where does Jackie encounter Tom again and what are the circumstances that have them spending more time together?

2. Why is Dillon driven to tell Jackie that he is her father?

3. How does Dillon show his devotion to Rachel at her funeral?

4. What comfort can Jackie take away from Tom's death?

5. How has Rachel's illness impacted her life?

6. How does Dillon exhibit his loyalty both in his personal and professional life?

7. What impact can Dillon see that the strike will have on the way of life he has known?

8. What does Tom advise Jackie to do when he unexpectedly show up in town?

9. How will Jackie's profession allow her to shed light on the poverty and suffering of people in her hometown?

10. Why is Dillon still so conflicted in his relationship with Jackie?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain some of the examples of regionalism found in the book. Can regionalism include more than accents and food? What else encompasses the culture and personality of a region?

Essay Topic 2

Does Giardina end the story on a note of hope for Jackie or the continuance of her struggle to come to terms with flawed relationships and evolving trends and ways of life? Give your perspective and two reasons to support your answer.

Essay Topic 3

What is the overall setting for the novel? Be sure to include geography, time period and any pertinent popular culture events. Why did Giardina choose to use these places in the novel?

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This section contains 886 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample