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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. "Maybe it just _____________ like a heavy load."

2. How old is Basil at the beginning of this chapter?

3. What fact does Mattie refuse to accept?

4. Who does Mattie's father believe is the father of Mattie's unborn child?

5. Who is the author of this book?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain Mattie's perspective on Basil's life and her responsibility for him.

2. Explain how Basil is a product of his upbringing even though Mattie thought she was raising him the right way.

3. Describe the third generation of people to move into Brewster Place.

4. How does the author choose to open the book?

5. According to the author, what happens when a street dies?

6. What can the tenants tell from Ben's singing?

7. Explain how Kiswana's mother tries to show Kiswana what it means to be a strong black woman.

8. The theme of baptism is an important one in the book. Explain why the rain that starts on the day of Ben's funeral is so significant.

9. Compare and contrast Mattie and Basil.

10. What is Mattie's father's role in her life?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One recurring theme in the story is that of babies and the next generation. Cite at least three examples that support this theme and explain why they do.

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast Mattie and Etta. How are they different? How are they similar? What does each bring to the relationship that allows it to continue for so many years?

Essay Topic 3

Even though Butch does not have noble intentions with Mattie, he is at least honest about it. Do you think this was appealing to Mattie? Is Butch very different from the other men in the story in this way? Explain.

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