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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. Who had purchased a cemetery plot for Sabine?

2. Who is Salvio?

3. Where does Sabine take the Fetters when they arrive?

4. What food does the family order out for supper?

5. What is the homeland of Sabine's parents?

Short Essay Questions

1. What conclusion does Sabine come to regarding Parsifal's denial of any living family?

2. What shocking information does Sabine receive from Parsifal's attorney, Roger?

3. What does Phan tell Sabine in a dream after Parsifal dies?

4. Why does Sabine feel that she cannot stay in the big house any longer?

5. How does Sabine meet Parsifal's sister, Kitty?

6. Why did Sabine marry Parsifal, a gay man?

7. Where does Sabine take Parsifal's mother and sister on their second day in Los Angeles?

8. Why does Sabine make the decision to visit the Fetters family?

9. Why does Sabine give Roger permission to call Parsifal's family and why does she not think they will contact her?

10. What thought comforts Sabine when her small plane experiences turbulence and she thinks she may die?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the role of the women in the novel, specifically, how did Dot's life differ from that of Sabine's in the next generation? In what ways is Dot's life mirrored in Kitty's life? What roles do family, culture and experiences play in forming a woman's character and life story?

Essay Topic 3

THE MAGICIAN'S ASSISTANT is a classic story of loss and renewal. What does that classification entail? Why does this novel fit into this category? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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