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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 is the name of the errand boy from the Ralph Parker Fan Club?

2. In what area did Bogus attempt to earn a PhD?

3. How did Bogus record the tale of his life in the middle of the night?

4. Why didn't Merrill want to be around Biggie and Bogus?

5. What does Bogus say Ralph would look like in a tropical climate?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Bogus's life with Tulpen begin to mirror his life with Biggie?

2. How did Bogus's letter to Biggie differ from his daily interactions with her?

3. Describe the irony between Bogus's medical issues and his father's career.

4. What caused Biggie and Bogus to fight in Chapter 14?

5. How do Biggie and Tulpen differ in their reactions to Akthelt and Gunnel?

6. Describe Bogus's fascination with Mr. Fitch.

7. Describe the difference between Bogus's worry for the mouse versus his worry for the turtles and fish.

8. Why did Bogus describe Merrill as "the great illusion of my life"?

9. How did Bogus describe the difference between him and skiers?

10. Compare and contrast Bogus's and Tulpen's views for a medical solution.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Focusing on the theme of generational conflict, analyze the ties between Mr. Trumper, Bogus, and Colm. How does Bogus's sexual past enter into his relationship with Mr. Trumper? Further down the family tree, how does that relationship help or hinder the relationship between Bogus and Colm?

Essay Topic 2

The story begins with Bogus looking for a solution for his urinary tract issues. Bogus notes that his father, who is a urologist, could not identify his urinary issues even though Dr. Vigneron claims they are quiet obvious. Expand on this thought and how it applies to Bogus's overall life. Also, Bogus has four choices for how to handle his problems. The choices are medication, abstinence, surgery, or the Water-Method. Explain how the choices he makes represent his interaction with the world.

Essay Topic 3

At various points in the novel, it is clear that Bogus's relationship with Tulpen begins to mirror his relationship with Biggie. The similarities between the women and the fact that Bogus hasn't changed makes this possible. However, both women have differences in the way they interact with Bogus, and this shapes Bogus's character along the way. Compare and contrast Biggie and Tulpen and the effect they have on Bogus.

(see the answer keys)

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