Literary Analysis Quiz

Which statement best describes a theme within the story?

• Beware of large old homes.

• Do not leave children with strangers.

• Things are not always what they seem.

• Always tell young children bedtime stories.

Answer explanation

The theme "Things are not always what they seem" highlights the story's exploration of hidden truths and deceptive appearances, suggesting that initial impressions can be misleading, which is central to the narrative.

How does the line "We walked out of the warm and cosy kitchen into the hallway of the big house, where it was chilly and draughty and dark" (Paragraph 21) help develop suspense in the story?

• It hints at how the author's tone changes.

• It marks a change in the narrator's mood.

• It confirms that danger is ahead of them.

• It describes a change in the atmosphere.

Answer explanation

The line illustrates a stark contrast between the warm kitchen and the chilly, dark hallway, creating an unsettling atmosphere. This shift heightens suspense, suggesting that the characters are moving into a more dangerous and foreboding environment.

What does the word unsettling mean, as used in Paragraph 24?

• annoying

• miserable

• confusing

• uncomfortable

Answer explanation

The word 'unsettling' refers to something that causes discomfort or unease. In this context, 'uncomfortable' is the best choice, as it captures the feeling of being disturbed or anxious, aligning with the meaning of 'unsettling'.

Which piece of evidence best supports the idea that the narrator was possibly near or around a Click-Clack?

• "We were climbing wooden steps now." (Paragraph 53)

• "There was that precocious amusement again." (Paragraph 58)

• "He pushed open the door to the attic room." (Paragraph 59)

• "I heard things rattle gently, like dry bones in thin bags"(Paragraph 59)

Answer explanation

The phrase "I heard things rattle gently, like dry bones in thin bags" suggests a presence of something eerie or unsettling, which aligns with the characteristics of a Click-Clack, making it the best supporting evidence.

Analyze how the author develops the characters' different points of view in order to build suspense throughout the story.

• By using flashbacks to reveal past events

• By focusing on a single character's perspective

• By alternating between characters' perspectives

• By providing an omniscient narrator's viewpoint

Answer explanation

The author builds suspense by alternating between characters' perspectives, allowing readers to see conflicting thoughts and emotions. This technique creates tension as different viewpoints reveal secrets and heighten the stakes throughout the story.

Reading a story from a narrator's point of view and perspective enhances the feeling of suspense because it allows the reader to:

• Experience the story through the main character's eyes.

• Know all the characters' thoughts and feelings.

• Predict the ending of the story easily.

• Focus only on the setting and background.

Answer explanation

Experiencing the story through the main character's eyes immerses the reader in their emotions and thoughts, heightening suspense as they face uncertainty and danger alongside the character.

Although not explicitly stated, we can assume the author begins to become suspicious of the boy throughout the story. What behavior indicates the narrator's suspicion?

• The narrator starts asking more questions.

• The narrator becomes more distant.

• The narrator begins to follow the boy.

• The narrator writes about the boy in a journal.

Answer explanation

The narrator's increasing suspicion is indicated by the behavior of asking more questions. This suggests a desire to understand the boy better and implies doubt about his intentions or actions.

What do you think happened to the narrator at the end of the story?

• The narrator found peace and closure.

• The narrator was left in confusion and despair.

• The narrator decided to start a new journey.

• The narrator reunited with a lost friend.

Answer explanation

At the end of the story, the narrator experiences confusion and despair, indicating unresolved issues and emotional turmoil rather than peace or a new beginning.

Why can't trust be a theme?

• There's nothing to learn about it.

• Trust is a theme

• It's only one word, which is a topic.

Answer explanation

Trust cannot be a theme because it is only one word, making it more of a topic rather than a theme that encompasses broader ideas and lessons. Themes typically involve deeper exploration beyond a single concept.

Which of the following is a possible theme for the text?

• Even is something is cruel, people have the tendency to follow the crowd and participate.

• Sometimes a few people must be sacrificed to ensure the group's survival.

• Important decisions should not be made by lotteries.

• Traditions help people understand the past.

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights the theme of conformity, suggesting that even in cruel situations, individuals often follow the crowd. This reflects a common human behavior, making it a relevant theme for the text.