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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. From what state do the Markhams come?

2. Even though Joe likes the house, Phyllis is negative about it because of ________________________.

3. To the Markhams, the idea of having so much in common with the rest of society is ____________.

4. What does the old woman ask Frank as he is leaving?

5. What had a group of kids thrown at Frank a few weeks ago?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why are Joe and Phyllis conflicted on the Houlihan house?

2. What did Frank do in the period after his divorce?

3. What does Ann tell Frank about Paul's latest infraction?

4. Who are the Markhams?

5. What does Frank believe is the only way Joe and Phyllis will now be happy with their lives?

6. What advice does Frank try to give Joe?

7. What physical problems has Paul been experiencing during this troubled time?

8. Why did the Markhams choose to relocate to Haddam?

9. Describe the setting for the book.

10. How does Ann inadvertently reveal her remaining feelings for Frank?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Richard Ford is a writer from Mississippi. Can you discern any Southern attributes in his style? In his content? In his characters? Explain why or why not.

Essay Topic 2

Frank realizes that he made big mistakes by letting his marriage dissolve and he now tries to do good in his life to make up for it. What good does Frank do for his family now? What good does he do for other people? Cite some examples.

Essay Topic 3

Describe the Markhams. What are their physical characteristics? What are their personality traits? What is the state of their relationship?

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