1. What is the signal Reta gives to Lois for her to come over for her nightly meal with the family?
(a) Reta opens the red kitchen curtains.
(b) Reta shuts the red kitchen curtains.
(c) Reta opens the patio door.
(d) Reta shuts the patio door.

2. Why does Reta include "The Hermitage" in her signature at the end of her letter of complaint about "Great Minds of the Western Intellectual World"?
(a) Because Reta feels as a mother she should tend to her family.
(b) Because Reta feels as a woman she should focus on her home.
(c) Because Reta feels as a writer she needs to work away from people.
(d) Because Reta feels as a woman she is shut out of the universe.

3. What task do Reta and Tom engage in after the package is delivered to the Winters' home?
(a) Carpentry.
(b) Gardening.
(c) Reading.
(d) Cleaning.

4. Why does Reta also chide Valkner about his article "The History of Dictionaries"?
(a) For attempting to discuss all literature instead of narrowing his focus.
(b) For his patronizing tone in discussing some of the great female writers of the century.
(c) For failing to mention some of the century's great female writers.
(d) For including male writers that are blatantly sexist.

5. What does Reta discuss with the person she visits after her encounter with Norah in early November?
(a) Feminist intellectuals.
(b) Marriage and divorce.
(c) Children of war.
(d) Literary matters.

Short Answer Questions

1. In the few weeks prior to her disappearance, who does Ben think Norah might have a problem with that would account for her uncharacteristic behavior?

2. What exercise does Reta find repellent?

3. What is the subject of the new book Tom is reading?

4. According to Reta, what does she find "monstrous" in the face of Norah's absence?

5. How are Reta and Danielle different?

(see the answer key)

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