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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. What does Omakayas realize at the same time that Andeg disappears?

2. What has Angeline learned in the missionary school which she teaches the family?

3. Who kills One Horn in order to feed the family?

4. Which animal spirit comes to Omakayas in a dream?

5. The ice breaking up on the lake means that the family ___________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. What skill does Ten Snow have and what item does she make for her husband Fishtail?

2. Why is Nokomis' story of a little muskrat especially pertinent for Omakayas?

3. What is Nokomis' advice to Omakayas regarding the bears?

4. What does Deydey do with the shop owner to earn a bit of money and some food for the family?

5. How does the author explore the themes of the relationship between humans and nature and Omakayas' journey of transformation?

6. What is Omakayas' experience with the bear cubs when she is off on her own?

7. What does Nokomis tell Omakayas about the voices they hear and about what Omakayas' path in life is going to be?

8. Which two characters die as a result of the smallpox outbreak?

9. What story does Nokomis tell Omakayas and the women which frightens Omakayas but moves the other women?

10. Describe Omakayas' preparation and attempts at her spiritual quest?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain Louise Erdrich's use of regionalism in the book. Cite examples of at least two different instances of regionalism and explain why the author used them where she did.

Essay Topic 2

THE BIRCHBARK HOUSE is a classic example of historical fiction. What does that classification entail? Why does this book fit into this category?

Essay Topic 3

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of responsibility. Identify at least two instances about responsibility in the book and then cite examples to support your answers.

(see the answer keys)

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