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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. How often is Jessie seen in public with Jack?

2. Who makes the decision to not put Charlie on trial?

3. To whom do the townspeople direct their anger when Charlie Soames is no longer a viable target?

4. What do Pat and Jessie do on Sundays?

5. Why does the sheriff call Pat?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

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

5. How does Charlie try to commit suicide?

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

7. Does Jack show any remorse when visited by the head of the grain elevator board?

8. How does Jessie interact with the people in town?

9. Why are the people in Holt so angry at Charlie Soames?

10. What job does Jessie take even though she is in the late stages of pregnancy?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the role of women in the mid- to late-20th century when the women in the novel are living their lives. What precedents do they feel compelled to follow? What restrictions do they have? What freedoms do they have that women in prior times did not have?

Essay Topic 2

Do a brief character sketch of Jack Burdette 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 3

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.

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