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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. Sedaris fears his father is not up to the task of caring for his new dog, Sophie, because

2. Paul's relationship with his father might be described as

3. What adds to Sedaris' tension while he is in the bathroom?

4. Sedaris is dismayed when he visits The Plaza because

5. Sedaris recalls that his mother explained

Short Essay Questions

1. How has Sedaris' mother explained bodily functions?

2. Why does Sedaris believe his his parents are so lenient with Melina, the Great Dane?

3. When does Sedaris come to understand his parents' experience with dying pets?

4. Why does the young Sedaris miss the irony of the fisherman's inability to live by the seashore?

5. Why does Mr. Mancini constantly refer to women and his sexual exploits?

6. How does Sedaris' mother respond to the music lessons the kids are taking?

7. What features of the the typewriter does Sedaris praise?

8. What reasons does Sedaris list for hating computers?

9. How does the statement "You Can't Kill the Rooster" relate to Paul's personality?

10. Describe Amy Sedaris' appearance in the much-anticipated magazine article.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Sedaris' essays, he sometimes identifies himself as without strength or control. Considering the quote,"Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power," write an essay in which you argue whether or not Sedaris truly does possess strength. Use specific examples from the text to illustrate your point.

Essay Topic 2

Consider the motifs of trauma and tragedy in Sedaris' essays. Write an essay of your own in which you reflect on the effect of trauma and tragedy on Sedaris or other characters. Use examples from the text to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 3

Many of Sedaris' essays focus on childhood. Write an essay in which you determine a theme Sedaris creates on the subject of childhood, and use specific examples to support your argument.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 750 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample