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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. Who does Mattie's father blame for her pregnancy?

2. Why is Mattie's father not speaking to her?

3. What season is it when Mattie Michael moves into Brewster Place?

4. Who invites Mattie and Basil to live in her home?

5. Where does Mattie find comfort in her life?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the possibilities for a dream deferred as asked in Langston Hughes' poem?

2. Explain Kiswana's situation and how it contrasts with her family background.

3. Explain Mattie's perspective on Basil's life and her responsibility for him.

4. Compare and contrast Mattie and Basil.

5. What is Cora Lee's background?

6. What is Mattie's legacy to generations of women who will come after her?

7. How does the author use Ciel's life to show the theme of babies as hope for a new generation?

8. Cite instances that support the theme of mentoring women in the book.

9. Who is the first black man to move into Brewster Place?

10. What is Miss Eva's role in Mattie's life?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the significance of the Langston Hughes poem used at the beginning of the book. Why did the author choose Hughes' work?

Essay Topic 2

One recurring theme in the story is that of babies and the next generation. Cite at least three examples that support this theme and explain why they do.

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast Mattie and Etta. How are they different? How are they similar? What does each bring to the relationship that allows it to continue for so many years?

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