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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why is Ruth crying when Gary and the team leave Knik?
(a) She wants to run in the race, too.
(b) She is very tired.
(c) She heard that the trail was very dangerous.
(d) She wants to go home.

2. When does the Prelude take place?
(a) Before Gary's second Iditarod race.
(b) During Gary's second Iditarod race.
(c) During Gary's first Iditarod race.
(d) Before Gary's first Iditarod race.

3. In the Prelude, what does Gary notice that finally triggers his "survival code?"
(a) The tracks behind the sled were filling up quickly.
(b) Visibility was getting worse.
(c) The temperature was dropping.
(d) The dogs were slowing down.

4. Why does Gary attend the pre-race banquet?
(a) He has completed his last-minute preparations.
(b) He isn't tired.
(c) It is mandatory.
(d) He wants to meet other mushers.

5. How many dogs does Gary take to Alaska?
(a) Fifteen.
(b) Twelve.
(c) Twenty.
(d) Seven.

Short Answer Questions

1. What becomes strikingly clear when Gary gets to Alaska?

2. What is something Gary does NOT ask at the pre-race rookie meeting?

3. What becomes Gary's mantra?

4. About how long does Gary and his team stop at the Finger Lake checkpoint?

5. Where does Gary sleep after his skunk encounter?

Short Essay Questions

1. According to Gary, what are "problem" dogs?

2. Describe how Gary and his team descend into Dalzell Gorge.

3. How does the snow accumulate in northern Minnesota?

4. In the Prelude, what warning signs of the coming storm does Gary miss?

5. What "absolute fundamental knowledge" scares Gary at the end of the Prelude?

6. What is Gary's appearance when he enters the cafe at Nikolai?

7. Why does the race start in downtown Anchorage?

8. When Gary hears his diagnosis at the end of the book, what does he think about? Be specific.

9. Why is Gary elated when he reaches the checkpoint at Rainy Pass Lodge?

10. Why is Gary horrified when he first views Dalzell Gorge?

(see the answer keys)

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