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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 is Zack Minty?

2. What does Janine end up writing on the napkin?

3. Why is Miles a little late in arriving?

4. Who is Tick's art teacher?

5. What type of childhood did Jimmy Minty have?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is Miles trying to improve the economy of Empire Falls?

2. What is the setting for the story?

3. How does David want Miles to expand his business opportunities?

4. Why does Janine call Miles The Human Rut?

5. Describe how Zack Minty exhibits unsportsmanlike behavior and then manipulates the crowd at the football game.

6. Why does David keep pressuring Miles about a liquor license?

7. How is Tick different from most of the residents of Empire Falls?

8. What are the three elements consuming Janine's life at this point in time?

9. How do you know that Janine is having second thoughts about marrying Walt?

10. Explain why the poison ivy is a metaphor in Part 1, Chapter 8.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 2

Russo liberally uses humor in the story to both entertain and convey character. Cite at least two examples which you find especially humorous.

Essay Topic 3

Why does Miles have a love-hate relationship with Max? Does Miles blame Max for his mother's indiscretions? Does Max hold any silent hostility toward Miles? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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