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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. Academically, how does Richard Allen Mesington perform?

2. Why does Harv Kline have candles on display for Christmas?

3. How old is Richard Allen Mesington when his family buys their first television?

4. What does Harv Kline say after the "sweet" rifle accidentally discharges?

5. How does Richard Allen Mesinger die?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens when the rifle accidentally discharges above Harv Kline's fireplace?

2. Describe the early life of Richard Allen Mesinger .

3. Was the "sweet" rifle fundamentally different from other rifles of the period?

4. What happens to the adults that survive the accidental death of Richard Allen Mesinger?

5. Why don't the Mesinger and the Kline children play together?

6. Throughout the 217 year history of the "sweet" rifle, what is it functionally used for?

7. Describe Richard Allen Mesinger's academic performance.

8. Describe the chain of events that leads to the rifle being accidentally discharged.

9. What experiences does Mesinger have with firearms in his life?

10. Sarah steals the rifle from John Byam as he dies; does Tilson steal the rifle from Harv Kline?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Cornish McManus is described as an excellent gunsmith but an indifferent shot. Discuss how it is possible to be very good at one thing but not very good at something else that is closely associated.

Essay Topic 2

Describe the early life and the family life of Richard Allen Mesinger. Why is it important within the narrative that Mesinger is a likable and typical teenager?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the role of the characterization of Tim Harrow in the novel. Why is Tim even characterized? Why is he characterized as a fringe "crazy"? What role does the character play in the novel?

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This section contains 606 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample