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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. How long did it take the Cleary family to arrive in Gillanbone?

2. Why is Fiona punished by her family?

3. How frequently is mail delivered to Drogheda?

4. Which of the following is not one of Fiona's duties?

5. What is the next career move for Father Ralph after the role of private secretary in Sydney?

Short Essay Questions

1. What kind of employer is Mary Carson?

2. Since Fiona never converted to Catholicism, what aspects of a Catholic life are missing in the household?

3. What does the family think of Paddy's disappearance?

4. How has Father Ralph's life changed since Mary Carson died?

5. What makes Meggie's doll special?

6. What are the negative aspects for Meggie of living a clannish existence on their farm?

7. Describe Mary Carson's relationship with her brother, Paddy.

8. Describe Father Ralph's relationship with the Cleary family after Mary's death and the unveiling of her will.

9. What is life like for Fiona at Drogheda?

10. What is significant about Mary Carson's 72nd birthday party?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Fiona and Paddy have an arranged marriage. Fiona's father, aghast at her pregnancy, pays Paddy to marry Fiona and move her away from the family. Can an arranged marriage ever be successful? Do you consider Fiona and Paddy's marriage a success? Please be specific and provide details from the book.

Essay Topic 2

Dane is Meggie's pride and joy. However, she cannot bring herself to attend his ordination. Why? What do you think of her decision? Does this put Meggie in the role of a "selfish" mother? Why or why not? How do some of her actions mirror what Fiona did when raising her family? Is her decision justified? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

There are several dissatisfied characters in this book who cannot seem to find contentment. On the other end of the spectrum, are there any characters that are content with their lives? Who are these characters? Describe their situations and their reactions to the events that unfold around them.

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