1. November 26 T he island's name is Cranberry, one of a group of five, and well earned, since even my own meadow provides me with delicious Highland cranberries. With a garden, studio and woodstove, I shall lack neither pleasure nor occupation, and books and music will round out the day. A wood lot will provide firewood and muscle tone, and the garden flowers and vegetables for my table. What does the author's use of imagery reveal about the setting? It is an unfamiliar place. It is a busy and loud place. It is a secluded and peaceful place. It is a scary place.

2. November 27 Desmond is reading a book about Griffin, a young warrior, and he thinks that Griffin is on a hero's journey because he notices that Griffin must go through a series of tests and challenges to prove that he is brave and capable. Which step from the hero's journey archetype does this summary of events reflect? A. The Magic Flight B. Rescue from Without C. The Ultimate Boon D. The Road of Trials

3. November 28 What is the BEST description of the connection between the events of a plot and the stage of the hero's journey known as the ultimate Boon? A. The Ultimate Boon is similar to the exposition of a story because it describes the point at which the quest begins. B. The Ultimate Boon is similar to the resolution of the story because this is the stage when the hero must learn how to use the wisdom he has gained during his adventures. C. The Ultimate Boon is similar to the climax of a story because it describes the point in the hero's journey in which the quest is achieved. D. The Ultimate Boon is similar to the rising action of a story because it is the stage in which the hero suffers challenges and setbacks on his quest.

4. November 29 What does the expression “Par for the course” infer? A. That something is to be expected. B. That something cannot be undone. C. That something is sure to cause anger. D. That something was meant to be hurtful.

5. November 30 What can the reader conclude at the end of the story? A. Lily got an extravagant doll for a gift. B. Lily feels that getting another doll is monotonous. C. Lily’s parents love her brother more. D. Lily’s gift is the worst gift she has ever received.

6. Read the sentences from the passage. “What’s wrong, Lil?” Papa asked. “Did you see your pretty doll?” “I saw it,” she said sulkily. “What’s wrong?” asked Mama. Silence. What can the reader infer about Lily’s parents based upon their reply? A. They are being stingy. B. They do not love Lily as much as her brother. C. They do not realize they are being gender biased. D. They are being insensitive.

7. What word BEST describes the tone used in this passage? A. Anxious B. Excited C. Angry D. Sad

8. Read the sentence from the passage. “Lily’s anger could not have been more palpable.” What is the MOST accurate connotation of “palpable” as used in this sentence? A. It was misplaced. B. It was irrational. C. It was very difficult to understand. D. It was so intense it seemed like it could be touched.