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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. In Chapter 20, what does Nannie say that Mary Edna has?

2. What exciting news does Nannie give Garnett, in Chapter 20?

3. In Chapter 28, what Garnett thinks is a stranger by Nannie's garden, turns out to be what?

4. According to Hannie-Mavis, why is the family afraid of Lusa owning the farm?

5. How does Garnett refer to Lusa?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Chapter 30, Lusa is finally beginning to feel like what?

2. In Chapter 23, what are Garnett and Nannie's differing views on old age?

3. In Chapter 30, Lusa starts to think of Cole in a different manner. What is this?

4. In Chapter 24, what reason does Lusa give Jewel for using every bit of produce from her garden?

5. In Chapter 27, what does Lusa find out about the father of Jewel's children?

6. How does Garnett embarrass himself in Chapter 28?

7. What reasons does Lusa give Jewel for wanting to adopt her children?

8. Nannie is upset because the church fumigated for bees and now honey is oozing out of the walls. What does she think they should have done instead?

9. Garnett has previously ignored his doctor's suggestion to have cataract surgery but is now reconsidering. Why?

10. Why does Garnett not like the pickers that come each fall to help with the harvest?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "Prodigal Summer", Deanna finally ends her self-imposed exile, Lusa comes into her own, and Garnett learns the fine art of compromise. Choose one of these characters that you feel has the most character development throughout the novel and describe their development. Give specific examples from the book to support your choice.

Essay Topic 2

Garnett appears to have a strong faith, in "Prodigal Summer", and likes to quote scripture. However, some of his opinions seem to contradict, not only the Bible, but also what some might view as a "Christian" attitude. Cite three examples from the book that would support this view. Be sure to address stereotypes, judging others, and views on animals' place on earth. Are Garnett's interpretations of the Bible solely to support his own views or do you think that he honestly believes them?

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

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