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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 "We've Only Just Begun," what do Naomi and Marielle mock Craig for?

2. What do the Jordans carry when they arrive in "Talking to Myself and Feeling Old"?

3. Who found Alec's dead body first?

4. Who are in charge of flowers in "Talking to Myself and Feeling Old"?

5. Why does Marielle offer help with the menus?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Jordan think about the painting in Big Sur?

2. How does Jordy react to the gift that Jordan gives him in "We've Only Just Begun"?

3. What are Naomi and Marielle's taste in music like?

4. What prompts the friend group to believe Alec is communicating with them; what does he spell?

5. Who was the first classmate that Jordan lost and what happened to him?

6. What is Jordan's job and current opinions on his field in "Yesterday Once More"?

7. In "We've Only Just Begun," why does Jordan not want to go to Big Sur?

8. Why does Naomi say "nerd alert" (146) when she sees Jordan in in "Talking to Myself and Feeling Old" - what is the purpose behind his decision?

9. Why is Jordan's group chat called NANA's HUNGRY LITTLE PIE EATERS and who is Nana?

10. When Jordy sneaks into Jordan's room at Big Sur, what do they discuss and how does their discussion end?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about how Rowley’s use of non-literary elements affects his novel. What larger thematic connections is Rowley making by quoting Harris’ Chocolat? How do these elements provide context to how Rowley wants his novel to be read? Reference the epigraph, cover art, dedication, acknowledgments, or obituary at the end of the novel.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss how Craig's relationship with Mia and acceptance of his fatherhood at the Cloister works to redeem his character. Craig has spent most of his life without a family, he was raised by his aunt and uncle. How does the notion of being a part of something larger than himself propel his character growth? Make sure to cite direct evidence from before his interaction with Mia and after.

Essay Topic 3

Selecting any of the sections titled "The Jordans," write an essay discussing why Rowley uses a different tone and mood when discussing Jordan's diagnosis. What is the literary effect of this? What is Rowley trying to suggest with this juxtaposition?

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