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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. Jerome needs a walk, but he sits, instead, because...

2. For Christmas presents, Jerome...

3. It worries Jerome that Donald might...

4. For the first time in many years, Jerome...

5. As a team effort, Donald and Emma Lou share the task of...

Short Essay Questions

1. Why has Donald come to visit Jerome?

2. Briefly summarize up the happy-ending pieces to this story.

3. How does Monarch respond to his new freedom? Is he typical of a deer?

4. Poor Jerome is discouraged. How do we know this?

5. Jerome is more comfortable with Emma Lou and Donald now. Why?

6. Why does Jerome decide to give Emma money for Christmas, rather than a gift?

7. Why are Jerome Kildee's nerves frayed at this time? There is more than one reason.

8. What can the reader deduce about Jerome's cooking skills? Why?

9. Discuss the pipe smoking among the Eppy men. Would this seem unusual today?

10. How does Jerome generate the spirit of Christmas in preparation for the party? Again, compare this to a Christmas party you might have at home.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does Montgomery deal with the authoritative nature of Jim Hinkle? Is Hinkle an aggressive or over-zealous enforcer of the law? How does Emma Lou's attitude change toward game wardens after spending a day with Jim Hinkle? Why would HInkle come from Santa Cruz all the way up to the redwoods to check on this complaint?

Essay Topic 2

There are many clues throughout the story that suggest that Donald Cabot comes from a wealthy family, including his dog who is of the "bluest blood." Do a careful reading and determine what kind of people the Cabots are, and what kind of kid Donald is. Is he spoiled and indulged? Does he take for granted his resources and his family's position? Prove your point with text.

Essay Topic 3

Explore the first real turning point in the story that bonds Kildee and Emma Lou, and drives an even more severe wedge between Emma Lou and Donald Cabot. What is the real source of Emma's and Jerome's grief? Why do they become so upset to lose one of the raccoons, when they have so many to enjoy? What qualities have they assigned to Charmine? Why do they not grieve, for example, the death of the pack rats who are killed by skunks?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,101 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample