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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Norah do when Reta attempts to forcibly remove her from her street corner?
(a) She screams.
(b) She sits passively.
(c) She hits Reta.
(d) She runs away.

2. In what month does Reta write her letter to Ford-Halpern?
(a) March.
(b) October.
(c) August.
(d) December.

3. What has been able to distract Reta from grieving for Norah?
(a) Her friends.
(b) Her house.
(c) Her novel.
(d) Her family.

4. Why does Arthur tell Reta the day after Christmas that it is urgent that she come to New York?
(a) Because he wants to have a conference before she finishes the first draft.
(b) Because he wants her to sign a six figure book deal.
(c) Because he wants to meet before he leaves the country.
(d) Because he wants her to give a reading at a major bookstore.

5. According to Lois, what year did her husband die?
(a) 1998.
(b) 1968.
(c) 1978.
(d) 1988.

Short Answer Questions

1. In January, what has Reta left in limbo since her last conversation with Arthur Springer?

2. According to Reta, what is the most egregious change Arthur suggests she make in her novel?

3. According to the Chair in Theology, what faith is balanced on words "already" and "not yet?"

4. What is the name of the third novel in Reta's trilogy?

5. What month does Reta finally meet Arthur Springer for the first time at her home?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why don't the Winters' want to discuss the fact that Norah probably gave her Christmas package away?

2. Why does Reta call Dennis Ford-Halpern's omission of women in his book "The Goodness Gap" a "moral dilemma in itself"?

3. What is Reta's central point in her letter to Helt?

4. According to Gemma Walsh, Reta's friend who has been appointed Chair of Theology, the Christian faith is balance on the words "already" and "not yet." Why does Reta find this significant?

5. According to Reta, why is goodness not a guaranteed virtue?

6. Why does Reta sign her letter to Dennis Ford-Halpern, "Yours, Rita Orange d'Ville"?

7. At the hospital, what does Natalie reveal about the injuries to Norah's hands?

8. How does Arthur feel about Roman, the other main character in Reta's novel?

9. What is Reta's impression of Arthur Springer when she finally meets him at her home in January and how do they get into a heated discussion?

10. Describe Reta and Lois's relationship.

(see the answer keys)

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