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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. Why does Evie so enjoy their afternoons in the department store?

2. What childhood memory is painful for Evie during their show in the department store?

3. Why is Brandy so inspired by Miss Rona?

4. Who finds Shannon's secret postcard?

5. What sound does Shannon hear from downstairs?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Evie live in a mansion in the suburbs?

2. Before her accident, what does Shannon do for a living?

3. What does the narrator warn the reader about the novel's structure?

4. What causes Shannon's disfigurement?

5. What secret does Shannon write on her postcard at the Space Needle?

6. Why is Shannon angry when we sees herself, Manus, and Evie in the infomercial?

7. What is Brandy's final request to Shannon before she dies?

8. Describe briefly the opening scene of the novel.

9. What is Shannon's father's strategy for selling his pigs at market?

10. Why do Evie and Shannon continually visit the department store?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast Shannon and Brandy. How are they alike? How are they different? What paths have they taken in the quest for true originality? How could their shared childhood have sent them in such different directions? Do they come to peace with one another in the end of the novel? Why or why not? Why did Brandy choose to deceive Shannon for so long? Be sure to use examples from the text in your arguments.

Essay Topic 2

Is P.F.L.A.G a real organization? Do some research on the organization. If not, find a comparable rights group and research into their structure. How does the organization work? What are their outreach programs? Are there testimonials from parents, like Shannon and Shane's parents about dealing with prejudice or loss? Be sure to cite your information.

Essay Topic 3

The idea of an invisible monster is present throughout the novel. How does this idea apply to each of the main characters? What kind of invisible monsters are affecting their lives? In Shannon's case, how does feeling like an invisible monster hinder her? Does it help her? Why or why not? Be sure to use citations from the text to strengthen your argument.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 650 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample