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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. What does Reta discover behind the furnace that belonged to the previous owners?

2. What are the two main characters' names in the sequel to Reta's first novel?

3. What does Norah accidentally find in the pocket of Christine's winter parka?

4. Why does Natalie thank Reta on Christine's birthday in October?

5. What does Reta do in lieu of attending the funeral for the person at Scribano & Lawrence?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Reta's feelings about the formation of her inner dialogue, the "longest conversation" that goes on in a lifetime in a person's mind.

2. What are some concerns Reta has in creating her fictional character Alicia, and how are they significant?

3. Why does Reta realize that she cannot create a perfect woman as a hero in her novel?

4. How does Reta respond to the death of Mr. Scribano and how is it significant?

5. Describe Norah's thoughts about the two main characters in her novel, and why they are significant.

6. Why does Danielle believe that Norah has embraced her powerlessness in society by living as a homeless person?

7. How do Natalie and Christine attempt to give the impression that Norah's absence is part of a normal routine?

8. Describe life in the Winters' household.

9. Why does Norah make the sarcastic observation in her letter to Alexander Valkner that he must have suffered from extreme fatigue when he thought of his list of "literary big cats"?

10. What does Reta do each month that indicates her attempt to live up to an idea of "goodness?"

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast Reta and Danielle's views on women, responding to the following questions:

1. What observations do Reta and Danielle make about society's perception of women?

2. How do Reta and Danielle feel about the roles women have in society?

Essay Topic 2

Another major theme in the novel is the issue of homelessness and its consequences for the people affected by it.

1. Identify some preconceptions about homelessness that are disproved by the characters' actions.

2. What is Shields' overall message about people who are homeless?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the plot and subplot of the novel, including the rising action, climax, and resolution for both.

(see the answer keys)

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