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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," where does Jordy think he and Jordan should visit?

2. Who does Naomi look like in her old age?

3. In "We've Only Just Begun," Marielle is compared to who while naked in the hot tub?

4. Why did Marielle leave her life in D.C.?

5. What food is served after the funeral in "Talking to Myself and Feeling Old"?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is the restaurant named Nepenthe?

2. Why does Marielle propose the pact - what wrong is she trying to remedy?

3. What does Jordan think about the paint choice in the hospital?

4. In "Talking to Myself and Feeling Old" why is Craig feeling pretty good about himself?

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

6. How would you describe Max and Marielle's relationship?

7. How does Naomi react when Marielle discovers her ring and why did her fiancé choose it?

8. How does Marielle look and dress in "Yesterday Once More"?

9. What were Alec's post-grad plans?

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

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?

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay discussing what you believe the symbolic meaning behind Naomi's cabin/Big Sur is. Why does the group choose Big Sur to return to? What larger thematic elements does Big Sur represent? Make sure to include an explanation and sufficient textual evidence to support your claim.

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

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