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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. Who takes care of the errands to get things for Claire's baby?

2. What is one of the issues that Claire needs to talk to James about?

3. Why does Claire take Kate to the doctor?

4. What does Claire realize has come out of her marriage?

5. How does Claire feel about Adam?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Claire meet Adam?

2. How does Claire feel about her newborn daughter?

3. Who is Laura and how does Claire know her?

4. How did Claire meet her husband, James?

5. Explain how Adam outrageously flirts with Claire.

6. What does Claire say to Adam at the gym that puts a strain on the outing?

7. How does Claire find out about Adam's intentions toward Helen?

8. What realities does Claire realize that she must face now?

9. How does Claire show her feelings of loss as symbolized by her missing luggage at the airport?

10. What is especially gratifying to Claire about the dinner she shops for and prepares for her family?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Betrayal seems to be almost an unnamed character in the book. How pervasive is the sense of betrayal? Why does it have such a prevalent place in Claire's life? Explain how an inanimate object or characteristic can be a character.

Essay Topic 2

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of disappointment. Identify at least two characters that either embody or experience disappointment then cite an example to support your answers.

Essay Topic 3

Does Keyes end the story on a note of hope for Claire or the continuance of her struggle to come to terms with her flawed relationship with James? Give your perspective and two reasons to support your answer.

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