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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. Which two family members are not going to the ball?

2. Why does Jeff have to change his hair color for the ball?

3. Who has the week off work?

4. Which of these ailments is not affecting the family?

5. What is "driving Harry nuts" at work?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens to Frieda that adds to Olympia's stress?

2. Why does the family celebrate Christmas and Chanukah?

3. Why is Olympia so angry that Steve broke up with Virginia on the night he did?

4. Why is Virginia upset at the end of Chapter 7?

5. What makes Olympia upset when she sees Veronica come out of the shower?

6. Why is Olympia angry at Harry's choice not to go to the ball?

7. Why is Steve coming to the ball?

8. Why does Harry feel bad for not helping Olympia?

9. Why does Chauncey threaten to stop paying Veronica's tuition for a second time?

10. How are Veronica and Virginia different?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Olympia is a good mother and wife, but she does a lot to support other people. Do you think that Olympia is too enabling to her children and husband? Explain your reasoning using support from the book.

Essay Topic 2

Olympia values family above anything. How does she show her love of her family throughout the book, even when times are rough or she is frustrated with her family?

Essay Topic 3

Olympia has high expectations for her children, but also shows each of them unconditional love. What makes Olympia a good parent? What makes her a good wife?

(see the answer keys)

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