write a literary essay that is approximately 800 words in length. You will show your
understanding of Ernest J. Gaines’ novel, A Lesson Before Dying, by selecting one of the topics below.
How is Gaines effective as a storyteller? Explain using at least three stylistic elements from the novel to support your thesis.
How important is setting to the central theme of the story? Explain using at least three different examples from the novel to
support your thesis.
What is the most important lesson to learn before dying? Explain using at least three characters from the novel to support your
thesis.