View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What happens to Pat and Nora's daughter?

2. What is Jack's only regret about his crime?

3. How long had Jack been gone from Holt?

4. What is the name of the town's newspaper?

5. What makes Jessie's job difficult for her?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do so many people in town turn up at the diner when Jack returns to town?

2. What purchases does Jack make prior to leaving town for good?

3. Why are the people of Holt so angry at Charlie Soames?

4. What personal tragedy does Pat suffer in the Summer of 1982?

5. What happens when Charlie's suicide attempt fails?

6. Why is the sheriff unable to keep Jack locked up?

7. How does Jessie find out that Jack has returned to town?

8. After Jack has been gone for awhile, what shocking and public action does Jessie take?

9. Who are Jessie and Jack's children?

10. Who becomes the target of the townspeople's wrath when they cannot get any justice through Charlie Soames?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Do a brief character sketch of Pat Arbuckle including positive and negative characteristics. What are his physical characteristics? What are his hopes and dreams? What is important to him at this point in time?

Essay Topic 2

Haruf is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphors, and irony, briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 774 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample