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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through The Great Indoors, Death Watch, In Praise of Diners, Shopping Madness, The Fat of the Land, Your New Computer, How to Rent a Car, The Wasteland, The Flying Nightmare and Enough Already.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why did Bill decide to write "Friendly People?"
(a) Because he thought it would be funny.
(b) Because he had to make good on a bet.
(c) Because his wife told him all he did was complain in his columns.
(d) Because his editor wanted him to.

2. How does Bill explain the popularity of motel chains in America?
(a) People want the same thing wherever they go.
(b) Privately owned ones are expensive.
(c) The chains are clean and efficient.
(d) Good marketing.

3. According to Bryson, what does the Travel Industry Association of America say about shopping?
(a) Americans should shop more, not less.
(b) It is the number one holiday activity of Americans.
(c) Without it, the American economy would crash.
(d) The Grand Canyon needs a mall.

4. How did Bryson describe his first run on a snowmobile?
(a) As awesome.
(b) As a jolly good time.
(c) As a waking nightmare.
(d) As too slow for him.

5. Which American business name mystifies Bryson?
(a) Dunkin' Donuts.
(b) Burger King.
(c) IHOP.
(d) Toys R Us.

Short Answer Questions

1. What animal got trapped in the Bryson house soon after the family moved in?

2. In "The Numbers Game," what does Bill say is beyond the comprehension of everyone?

3. What word associated with Christmas does Bryson wonder about at the beginning of "The Mysteries of Christmas"?

4. What is Bryson astonished to find on his plane on a flight from Boston to Denver?

5. What does Mrs. Bryson tell her husband about Maggie that cheers him up?

(see the answer key)

This section contains 315 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample