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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. How do Richard and Penelope register when they go away for a week together?

2. Where will Danus be going when he leaves Porthkerris today?

3. Why has Danus never told his parents about his disease?

4. What does Olivia find in her mother's room?

5. What do Richard and Lawrence do after dinner?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the circumstances of Sophie's death?

2. Why does Penelope have such a fitful night after her appointment in London?

3. Why does Penelope's dream of marrying Richard not come true?

4. Describe Penelope's dismal existence during the Summer of 1943.

5. Describe Penelope's last few moments in her beloved garden.

6. What does Penelope decide to do with the unfinished Lawrence Stern paintings?

7. What is revealed about the mysterious appointment Penelope had in London on the day before her death?

8. Why does Penelope feel compelled to contact Boothby's without notifying her children?

9. How do Nancy and Noel react to news of Penelope's death?

10. What does Penelope do on her last day in Porthkerris?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the role of women in England in the mid- to late-20th century when the women in the novel are living their lives. What precedents do they feel compelled to follow? What restrictions do they have? What freedoms did they have that 21st century women do not have?

Essay Topic 2

What are the primary settings for the novel? Be sure to include geography, time period and any pertinent popular culture events. Why did Pilcher choose to use these places in the novel?

Essay Topic 3

THE SHELL SEEKERS is a classic story of loss and renewal. What does that classification entail? Why does this novel fit into this category? Explain.

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This section contains 1,101 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample