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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 creature do they see?

2. What does Albert believe about Chris and Ann?

3. How do the inhabitants attack Chris?

4. What does Albert say about communicating with those on Earth?

5. Through whom is Ann's punishment meted?

Short Essay Questions

1. What crosses in front of Chris on the driveway of Ann's home in Hell and what might be the symbolism of the scene?

2. Briefly describe Ann's home in Hell.

3. Where is Chris at the opening to Chapter 36 and what has he accomplished?

4. Describe the first meeting between Chris and Ann.

5. What do you think it means when Chris says he is realizing there is so much more than what the limited human mind can conceive?

6. Describe Albert and Chris' initial entry into the Lower Realms.

7. How does Chris have a third vision of Ann and what is the significance of the vision?

8. What happens as Chris and Albert continue walking deeper into the Lower Realms?

9. What happens to Chris when he is tricked by a gang of men in the Lower Realm?

10. Once Chris decides he will reincarnate soon, what does he have to learn first?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Many people believe that dogs and other animals can sense things beyond the five senses better than humans. Discuss the following:

1. How does Ginger behave towards Chris while she is still in the physical and Chris has died? Does her change in attitude from the first time Chris sees her and is welcomed to later seem logical?

2. How does Ginger behave towards Chris when she is in Summerland? Does this seem logical?

3. Katie, a dog that Chris and Ann had for many years, greets Chris in Summerland. Do you believe animals are in the spirit world? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

In the Introduction, a clairvoyant has gone to the home of the protagonist's brother, Robert, to deliver a manuscript she claims Robert's deceased brother, Chris, dictated to her from the spirit realm. Discuss the following:

Why do you think Matheson chooses to frame his novel with the story about the clairvoyant and the manuscript?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of framing the story this way?

Do you think the frame device is the most effective way to tell Chris's story? Why or why not?

What is another way Matheson could have structured the story? What would be the advantages and disadvantages of that way?

Essay Topic 3

When Chris finally lets go, he finds a feeling of peace. Discuss the following:

1. Why do you think letting go resulted in peace for Chris?

2. Do you think letting go and finding peace is a metaphor for some aspects of life?

3. How does Ann finally "let go"?

(see the answer keys)

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