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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who subs at Rusty-James ' school?

2. Who does Steve say is "just like someone out of a book?"

3. What does Rusty-James like about the ocean?

4. To whose house does Rusty-James go after leaving the drugstore?

5. About what does Rusty-James think when someone steps out of the darkness in the ally?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the symbolism of Motorcycle Boy's color blindness? Explain how the author uses this handicap to reveal aspects of his character. Find descriptions from the text to support your answer and to provide evidence for your opinion.

Essay Topic 2

Underage drinking, gambling, and smoking are a part of Rusty-James' everyday life. Analyze how these events alter Rusty-James' life and impact his interaction with those around him. How do these indulgences derail his life? Find descriptions from the text to support your answer and to provide evidence for your opinion.

Essay Topic 3

How does the author's methods at the beginning of the novel set the tone?

Part 1) How does Steve's arrival promote the tone of the novel at the beginning?

Part 2) How does Steve's mentioning Rusty-James' resemblance to someone enhance the tone set forth at the onset of the novel?

Part 3) How does Rusty-James' forgetfulness set up the suspense?

Find descriptions from the text to support your answer and to provide evidence for your opinion.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 260 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample