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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. Who was sick in Ira's family?

2. What is the novel Breathing Lessons about?

3. Who does Serena wish was at the funeral?

4. Who does Maggie see at Serena's house?

5. Why was Boris upset with Maggie?

Short Essay Questions

1. How did Ira and Maggie meet?

2. What does Serena think about those who sing?

3. What does Maggie want Ira to allow?

4. Do they decide to help the person in need?

5. What does Maggie break as she drives?

6. What sets them back from leaving on time?

7. What does Ira spend most of his time doing?

8. What about those who do not choose to sing?

9. Why does Maggie want Leroy to live with them?

10. What does Ira's dissatisfaction with life come from?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

1. Where does the book take place? Name the settings.

2. What significant event happens at each setting?

3. Describe and explain the events of the story.

Essay Topic 2

1. The theme of control occurs repeatedly in this book. Describe a time where Maggie tries to control everything.

2. How does Maggie's character exemplify the need to control?

3. How does Ira's?

4. How does Ira pacify Maggie so that she will not control so much? How does Maggie do this for Ira?

Essay Topic 3

1. Much of the book is based on reliving memories between the characters. How do memories affect our actions?

2. Where do you record your memories?

3. How do you keep them alive?

4. How do we keep memories alive in our greater culture?

(see the answer keys)

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