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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. West of Corpus Christi, Tom Black Bull assesses his life and his riding skills. How many horses have died under him?

2. What is Bessie's response to the situation her man has gotten into?

3. Tom Black Bull's ego and sense of adventure are fed by what as he assesses himself west of Corpus Christi?

4. When Tom Black Bull is entered in the first rodeo in Aztec, what is he instructed to do?

5. What is the powerful, violent force directing Tom Black Bull's life while he is in training on the San Juan ranch?

Short Essay Questions

1. What methods does Red Dillon use to teach Tom Black Bull to ride?

2. What is Tom Black's intent regarding rebuilding his muscles following his Madison Square Garden fall?

3. After returning to Pagosa following his injuries in New York, what does Tom Black recall when he enters Thatcher's Market?

4. How does Mary Redmond attempt to pressure herself into becoming a continuing part of Tom Black's rehabilitation?

5. What causes Tom Black to change his plans again when Woodward collects his sheep for the winter?

6. What transpires during Tom Black Bull's discussion with the doctor following Meo's passing?

7. What is the legend about Tom Black being a first cousin of the Devil who got into an argument with him?

8. How will Tom Black work for Jim Woodward in the summer?

9. How is Tom Black Bull introduced to his moneymaking skills in Chapter 21?

10. How does the theme of the roundness of all life unfold through Bessie Black Bull?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Thomas Black Bull was given that baptized name by the white man. But the Ute Indians select their own names by which they will be known. Tom declares he will call himself Bear's Brother. How does he come to select that name?

Essay Topic 2

Tom encounters the bear while herding sheep and he is surprised. It brings back memories as well as questions. Why does Tom go back to track the bear down? What will he do when he finds the bear? Why is he unable to kill the bear? What journey does his second meeting with the bear compel Tom to take?

Essay Topic 3

Early in the book the reader learns the Utes are quite resourceful, and they approach life in a very practical fashion. When the farming methods taught them by the white man fail due to drought, they revert to their 'old ways', which are clearly in concert with nature. Contrast the approach of the white man to life with the 'old ways' handed down to Tom Black Bull by his parents.

(see the answer keys)

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