Train Dreams Quiz

Take our free Train Dreams quiz below, with 25 multiple choice questions that help you test your knowledge. Determine which chapters, themes and styles you already know and what you need to study for your upcoming essay, midterm, or final exam. Take the free quiz now!

Why does Grainier do Gladys' share of the chores in Chapter 1? (from Chapter 1 )

He's frightened of hurting Kate and doesn't want to be around her very much.

He is sensitive to her fatigue and illness, and he wants to take care of her.

He's frightened of what he thinks "the Chinaman" might do, and thinks that doing a favor for Gladys will bring good instead of danger.

He thinks she's lazy, and angrily does her share of the work because it has to be done.

In Chapter 7, narration refers to Grainier seeing a cabin "he’d never remembered before, the places of his hidden childhood, a vast golden wheat field, heat shimmering above a road, arms encircling him, and a woman’s voice crooning, and all the mysteries of this life were answered.” Given what the narrative has indicated about Grainier and his life so far, what do you think is the answer to those mysteries? (from Chapter 7)

Rebirth.

Parenthood.

Land ownership.

Love.

What is the most likely reason that Kate / the wolf-girl runs off in Chapter 8? (from Chapter 8)

She realizes that Gladys (her mother) isn't there and runs off in grief and confusion.

Being more wolf than human, she feels that her chances for healing would be better with the other wolves.

She realizes who Grainier is, and feels embarrassed to be seen by him in that condition.

Being more wolf than human, she is afraid of the human nearby.

In Chapter 9, what is the metaphoric connection between the bobcat glimpsed by Grainier on his trip to town and Grainier himself? (from Chapter 9)

Grainier feels that, like the bobcat, nature has let him down.

Grainier feels that, like the bobcat, he is old and desperate for company.

Grainier feels that, like the bobcat, he is old and in a "cage" of loneliness.

Grainier feels that, like the bobcat, he is a wild animal "caged" for other people's enjoyment.

What is the most likely reason that Grainier seems concerned about the reappearance of "the Chinaman" on his walk home in Chapter 1? (from Chapter 1 )

He is afraid that people will see him with "the Chinaman" and think they were involved in the theft together.

He is afraid that people will see him with "the Chinaman" and think they're friends.

He is afraid of being attacked in revenge for what happened to Mr. Sears.

He is afraid of being attacked in revenge for what happened on the bridge.