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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. Janey thinks the creature in #99 is _______________.

2. What makes Janey happy about staying?

3. The correct name for the creature in #99 is _____________________.

4. What does the doctor take in form of payment for his services?

5. To whom does the doctor give care instructions for Mrs. Larkin?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does the eucalyptus tree job mean for the Larkin family?

2. What is the purpose of Miss Peterson's visit to the Larkin house?

3. What memory is prompted for Janey when seeing cows outside on a cold night?

4. Why is Janey taken with the story of King Arthur and how does Dad say that they also have bravery?

5. How is the family relieved as Mom's condition continues to improve?

6. How do the Larkins spend the money won in the cotton picking contest?

7. Who all participates in Mrs. Larkin's care?

8. What offer does Mr. Anderson make to Mr. Larkin?

9. Explain what Janey knows about the Camp School.

10. Describe the events of the Larkins moving into the place recently vacated by Bounce?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the greatest lesson Janey learns from her father? Is it true that important lessons are also painful ones? What will Janey always recall about her father from their experiences in California during the Great Depression?

Essay Topic 2

There are several events of foreshadowing in BLUE WILLOW. Define foreshadowing. Cite at least two situations in the story that serve as foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 3

Explain the significance of the book's title. What does the author mean by calling it simply BLUE WILLOW. What is she trying to emphasize with this emphatic style? Suggest three alternate titles for this book with supporting rationale for each one.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,273 words (approx. 5 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample