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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 Astrid do with her expensive clothes when she moves in with Rena?

2. What beverage does Rena often drink?

3. In what month do Claire and Astrid go to visit Ingrid?

4. What does Claire begin asking questions about in Chapter 19?

5. What is the name of Rena's boyfriend?

Short Essay Questions

1. What significance does the art museum have in Astrid's life?

2. Why doesn't Astrid want to stay with Ron after Claire's death?

3. Compare and contrast Susan and Ingrid.

4. How does Astrid interpret the scene at the maternity ward when all the woman shout out for their mothers?

5. What is Astrid's general response to Claire's death?

6. How does Astrid feel about the possibility of Ingrid being released from prison?

7. After meeting her biological father, how does Astrid feel about him?

8. What does Paul represent to Astrid?

9. What is symbolic of Astrid rearranging her mother's letters into a poem?

10. Why doesn't Astrid encourage Ron romantically?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe Ingrid. What do other characters say about her? Are these things true? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Olivia tells Astrid not to fight the world, whereas Ingrid tells her just the opposite. Which advice does Astrid take? How is this shown? Why do you think she made this choice?

Essay Topic 3

Consider symbolism in the novel, like the symbolism behind the white oleanders. Find three specific instances of symbolism in the novel and explain how it pushes the novel forward or creates a plot point.

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