Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward
- 1. Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward is a powerful and haunting novel that intricately weaves the story of a poor African American family living in the hurricane-prone town of Bois Sauvage, Mississippi. The narrative unfolds over the course of twelve tumultuous days leading up to the arrival of Hurricane Katrina, exploring themes of resilience, survival, and the complexity of familial bonds. Central to the story is the protagonist, Esch, a 15-year-old girl who grapples with her coming-of-age experiences while also dealing with the harsh realities of her life, including poverty, grief, and teenage love. The novel is rich in vivid imagery and deeply felt emotion, capturing the struggles and strength of a loving but fractured family, particularly as they navigate their relationships with each other and the challenges posed by their environment. Throughout the narrative, there is a poignant interplay between the joys and sorrows of life, underscored by the constant threat of the hurricane, which acts as both a literal and metaphorical force, testing the characters' resilience and ultimately revealing the depth of their human experience. Ward’s lyrical prose and stunning character development make Salvage the Bones a quintessential exploration of the intersection of race, class, and the indomitable spirit of survival in the face of overwhelming odds.
What is the primary setting of 'Salvage the Bones'?
A) Florida
B) Louisiana
C) Mississippi
D) Alabama
- 2. Who is the protagonist of the novel?
A) Randall
B) Mam
C) Skeetah
D) Esch
- 3. What event is central to the plot of the novel?
A) A school festival
B) A family reunion
C) The Gulf War
D) Hurricane Katrina
- 4. Who is Esch's brother known for caring for the pit bull puppies?
A) Daddy
B) Joshua
C) Robo
D) Skeetah
- 5. What does Esch experience as she struggles with her identity?
A) Moving away
B) Health issues
C) Job loss
D) Coming of age
- 6. What is the significance of the title 'Salvage the Bones'?
A) Adventure
B) Loss and grief
C) Romance
D) Survival and resilience
- 7. What type of dog does Skeetah train?
A) Pit bull
B) Rottweiler
C) Beagle
D) Labrador
- 8. How does the community respond to the hurricane?
A) With solidarity and help.
B) By celebrating.
C) By arguing.
D) By fleeing.
- 9. What literary device is prominent in 'Salvage the Bones'?
A) Imagery
B) Metaphor
C) Irony
D) Allegory
- 10. What emotional experience does Esch have regarding motherhood?
A) Desire
B) Hatred
C) Disinterest
D) Fear of commitment
- 11. What natural event serves as a backdrop to the story?
A) Hurricane
B) Flood
C) Earthquake
D) Drought
- 12. What aspect of life is frequently challenged in the novel?
A) Romance
B) Leisure
C) Education
D) Survival
- 13. What does Esch struggle with throughout the novel?
A) Her job
B) Her friendships
C) Her pregnancy
D) Her education
- 14. What sport does Randall aspire to excel in?
A) Football
B) Running
C) Baseball
D) Basketball
- 15. What genre does 'Salvage the Bones' belong to?
A) Non-fiction
B) Poetry
C) Fiction
D) Drama
- 16. Which element is often highlighted in Esch's observations?
A) Education
B) Nature
C) City life
D) Technology
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