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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. 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 kind of world is Reta interested in creating for her characters?

3. According to Reta, what is the most important aspect in her life?

4. Who is Reta's mentor?

5. In what point of view is Reta considering writing her novel?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Reta's feelings about the formation of her inner dialogue, the "longest conversation" that goes on in a lifetime in a person's mind.

2. What are some concerns Reta has in creating her fictional character Alicia, and how are they significant?

3. Why does Arthur love Alicia as a character and why is it significant?

4. What does Reta do each month that indicates her attempt to live up to an idea of "goodness?"

5. What are Reta's feelings about Tom and their sexual relationship?

6. How does the American election results in Florida that Tom, Christine, and Natalie watch relate to Norah's absence?

7. During Norah's visit from university the previous year, Reta states that she knew how "wildly out control" Norah was, how "she'd become dangerous to her own being." Describe why Reta comes to this conclusion.

8. How does Reta respond to the death of Mr. Scribano and how is it significant?

9. Why does Reta realize that she cannot create a perfect woman as a hero in her novel?

10. Why does the memory of shopping for the perfect scarf for Norah haunt Reta as a "big female secret" and what does the scarf represent?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the plot and subplot of the novel, including the rising action, climax, and resolution for both.

Essay Topic 2

What is the role of language in "Unless"? Identify and discuss the following relationships and its significance for the characters:

1. Language and identity.

2. Language and truth.

3. Language and power.

Essay Topic 3

Healing, both physical and psychological, is significant to the characters' recovery in the novel. Identify the ways in which the Winters family heals from the stress and trauma over the past year.

(see the answer keys)

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