Operating Instructions by Anne Lamott
  • 1. In 'Operating Instructions: A Journal of My Son's First Year', Anne Lamott offers an intimate and humorous look into the chaotic, transformative experience of new motherhood. Through a series of candid reflections and journal entries, Lamott explores the myriad challenges and joys that accompany the arrival of her son, Sam. With her characteristic wit and vulnerability, she delves into her thoughts on parenting, self-doubt, and the unexpected beauty of life’s messy moments. The narrative is filled with poignant anecdotes and raw vulnerability, as Lamott grapples with her fears of inadequacy and her profound love for her child. She touches on the complexities of single motherhood, spirituality, and the often overwhelming pressure to be a perfect parent, yet she finds solace in community, faith, and the small victories of daily life. The book is a testament to resilience and the personal growth that comes from the sometimes overwhelming experience of raising a child. Lamott's engaging prose and relatable insights resonate deeply, making 'Operating Instructions' both a heartfelt memoir and a source of encouragement for any parent navigating the ups and downs of early childhood.

    How does Lamott describe her political views in the book?
A) Apolitical
B) Liberal
C) Libertarian
D) Conservative
  • 2. What religious perspective does Lamott maintain?
A) Buddhism
B) Jewish faith
C) Christian faith
D) Atheism
  • 3. Who is Lamott's main support system during her early motherhood?
A) Her siblings
B) Professional nannies
C) Her friends and church community
D) Her parents
  • 4. What writing style is 'Operating Instructions' known for?
A) Formal and academic
B) Honest and humorous
C) Technical and precise
D) Poetic and abstract
  • 5. What does Lamott worry about most regarding Sam?
A) His future career
B) His academic success
C) His social status
D) His health and safety
  • 6. How does Lamott's faith help her through motherhood?
A) Creates more guilt
B) Is irrelevant
C) Provides comfort and perspective
D) Causes conflict
  • 7. What tone does Lamott use when describing difficult moments?
A) Clinical detachment
B) Self-deprecating humor
C) Bitter sarcasm
D) Dramatic exaggeration
  • 8. What overall message does the book convey about motherhood?
A) Imperfect but transformative love
B) Scientific precision required
C) Social obligation
D) Effortless natural instinct
  • 9. What is the primary genre of Anne Lamott's 'Operating Instructions'?
A) Memoir
B) Historical Fiction
C) Mystery
D) Science Fiction
  • 10. The book chronicles the first year of Lamott's life with her son...
A) John
B) David
C) Michael
D) Sam
  • 11. Lamott is very open about her history of overcoming...
A) Addiction
B) Amnesia
C) A professional sports injury
D) A kidnapping
  • 12. The 'operating instructions' in the title refer to the...
A) Guide for assembling baby furniture
B) Manual for her new job
C) Lack of a manual for motherhood
D) Rules of her recovery program
  • 13. Lamott's spiritual beliefs are rooted in...
A) Paganism
B) Atheism
C) Christianity
D) Buddhism
  • 14. How does Lamott document this period of her life?
A) Through home videos
B) Through a journal
C) Through a series of paintings
D) Through song lyrics
  • 15. The book was first published in what decade?
A) 1990s
B) 2000s
C) 1970s
D) 1980s
Created with That Quiz — a math test site for students of all grade levels.