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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. With whom does Claire talk about her life until the wee hours of the morning?

2. Where does Adam invite Claire?

3. What do Claire's parents always hide in the house?

4. What does Claire do when a romantic story comes on television?

5. What is Claire frightened of at the Dublin airport?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Claire's mother think about Claire's attraction to Adam?

2. Describe Claire's behavior as she settles into her parents' home.

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

4. What is an important theme in the first section of the book?

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

6. How did Claire meet her husband, James?

7. What is the significance of the novel's title, WATERMELON?

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

9. What advice does Claire get from Laura about dating a younger man?

10. How does the author show that Claire is conflicted about whether or not she should spend time with Adam?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the ongoing conflict between Claire and James. What are the main sources of the conflicts? Why does it perpetuate? What does Claire learn about the reality of her life with James as opposed to the perceptions she has held for so long?

Essay Topic 2

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 3

What is the overall setting for the novel? Be sure to include geography, time period and any pertinent popular culture events. Why did Keyes choose to use these places in the novel?

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This section contains 972 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample