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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. What does Yolanda find in her search at the park?

2. What does the store owner think of Andrew's playing?

3. What does Yolanda fear in front of her Aunt Tiny?

4. For what does Yolanda blame Shirley?

5. What does Yolanda snack on during the car trip?

Short Essay Questions

1. What "epiphany" does Yolanda have when she is at the park?

2. How do Yolanda and Andrew play in their concert for Aunt Tiny and Yolanda's momma, and how do the two women respond to the performance?

3. What does Momma say in reply to Yolanda saying Andrew is a genius and needs a special school?

4. Why does Yolanda send Shirley away in a cruel manner?

5. What happens when Yolanda and Andrew visit Stellers music store?

6. What happens when Yolanda notices three men eying her momma?

7. What does Momma want Yolanda to study in college and what are Yolanda's ambitions?

8. What happens that gives Yolanda an idea about how to get back stage?

9. What does Yolanda do when she sees the bullies in Asphalt Hill?

10. Why is Yolanda unable to listen as the concert opens?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Choose one of the following to discuss:

1. Choose two significant symbols, then trace and analyze their appearance in "Yolonda's Genius". Are these universal symbols? Would they be understood in any culture? Are there other symbols that would portray the same idea? What are they? Why do you think Fenner chooses the symbols she does?

2. Choose two important metaphors and trace and analyze their appearance in "Yolonda's Genius". Are these universal metaphors? Would they be understood in any culture? Are there other metaphors that would portray the same idea? What are they? Why do you think Fenner chooses the metaphors she does?

3. Discuss Fenner's use (or lack ) of literary device (such as foreshadowing, cliffhangers, deux ex machina, etc.), and how they add or detract from the story. Does Fenner use too many or too little literary techniques? State which of the five major elements of fiction the literary device is related to (style, character, plot, setting, theme.)

Essay Topic 2

Many readers of fiction place themselves in the position of one character, wondering if they would do the same thing as that character. Discuss the following:

1. Do you think one of the values of literature is to serve as a reflection of oneself? Why or why not?

2. Socrates said "Know thyself." How can reading a book such as "Yolonda's Genius" help a reader to know him/herself? Do you find yourself reflecting on your own character and abilities when reading "Yolonda's Genius"? Why or why not.

3. Choose one specific incident in "Yolonda's Genius" to discuss, and compare one of the characters' response to how you think you would respond.

Essay Topic 3

Often, authors will write about "what they know," and sometimes knowing a little about the author makes the books more interesting. Discuss the following:

1. Research and give a brief biographical sketch of Carol Fenner.

2. What in Carol Fenner's background may have helped her in writing "Yolonda's Genius"? What may have influenced the way she depicts various characters and scenes?

3. Do you think there is always some of the author's own life in his/her novels? Why or why not? Give examples.

(see the answer keys)

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