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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. According to Deanna, what do males sing for in the forest?

2. Whom do Eddie & Deanna find in a tree?

3. What weapon does Deanna have hidden for protection?

4. How does Deanna wear her hair in Chapter 7?

5. What did Deanna's father do to diffuse his grief about having to sell their farm?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Deanna equate her husband with the typical "male animal"?

2. Was Nannie right in moving her "No Spray Zone" sign onto the bank bordering Garnett's property?

3. Do you think it odd that Lusa dreams of a moth making love to her?

4. Why is Garnett disheartened by the farms in the area?

5. How does Lusa feel that the townspeople look at her, since Cole's death?

6. What is a "windfall" in the forest?

7. Describe Sam Hill as we meet him in Chapter 13.

8. What is Garnett's basic persona, when we first get to know him?

9. What is Deanna's main defense of coyotes, concerning the killing of farm livestock?

10. Why does Deanna physically attack Eddie, in Chapter 7?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Barbara Kingsolver is a biologist originally from Kentucky, with a home in southern Appalachia. Discuss what you believe to be her intention in writing this book. Did she mean for there to be a deeper meaning to the book other than ordinary fiction? Is it merely coincidence that she writes about a place and subjects that she is well versed in? Do you believe that she is trying to sway your opinion in areas such as eco-systems, hunting, or tobacco? Give precise reasons for your answer.

Essay Topic 2

After several conversations with Crys, Lusa concludes that Crys's aunts do not understand her and are doing her more harm than good. Cite three examples from the book that support this. What have they said and done that convinces her of this? What impact has their behavior had on Crys? Does Jewel agree with Lusa?

Essay Topic 3

Jewel has had to make the hardest decision of her life, deciding what is best for her children after her death. Describe, in depth, the situation and the people involved in this decision. What steps are taken to allow her to come to her decision? Whom does she choose? Whom does she not choose? Explain the reasoning for her decision.

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