Out of the Dust

Multiple Choice

1. C (Various parts)

2. A (Various parts)

3. C (Part 3)

4. D (Part 6)

5. D (Part 7)

6. B (Part 7)

7. B (Various parts)

8. A (Part 8)

9. D (Various parts)

10. A (Various parts)

Long Answer

1. The pond symbolizes change and hope. Billie Jo’s mother suggests digging the pond early in the novel, but Daddy refuses to change his farming. That interaction helps build the theme of The Impact of Ignorance on Environment and Society; continuing to farm the same way in the middle of the drought contributes to the continuation of the Dust Bowl. When Daddy digs the pond, he has admitted that change is necessary. As the pond fills, it offers water for crops as well as opportunities for swimming and the growth of flowers. The pond provides the chance to escape having to survive and embrace living. (Various parts)

2. At first, Billie Jo knows Mad Dog as an acquaintance. She grows to develop feelings for him, fueled by their performing music together, which reveals her passion for her music as well as her maturation and readiness for romantic relationships.