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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 Old Tallow do with the nasty yellow dog that attacks Omakayas?

2. Omakayas and _________________ are the only ones in the home who do not get ill.

3. What does Omakayas hear on the way back to her family's camp?

4. What present does Ten Snow give to Omakayas?

5. Where does the family spend the winter?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is in Nokomis' bundle that she says speaks to her?

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

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

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

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

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

7. How does Omakayas justify Andeg's leaving?

8. Explain how Deydey acts on a dream that Nokomis has about One Horn.

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

10. How are things looking up for the family as winter ends?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Create a brief character study of Mama. What did she look like? What were her positive personality traits? What were her dreams and fears? What was most valuable to her in her world?

Essay Topic 2

Louise Erdrich is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphor, and irony. Briefly describe each, identifying the technique used.

Essay Topic 3

Explain the close connection between the Ojibwa family and the nature surrounding it. Why were elements of nature particularly important for the Ojibwa family? How does the author show the strong connection between the Ojibwa family and nature? Provide two examples to support your ideas.

(see the answer keys)

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