Curated set · answers marked
Which of the following best describes how the story is framed in How Many Miles to Babylon?
AThe narrative is presented in the third person by an all-knowing narrator who knows both Alec and Jerry equally well.
BThe narrative is presented in the first person by Alec Moore, who recounts his thoughts from a prison cell while waiting for execution.✓
CThe narrative is presented in alternating first-person chapters, shifting between Alec's and Jerry's viewpoints.
DThe narrative is presented in third person limited, concentrating solely on Jerry Crowe's experiences in the trenches.
Rationale
Jennifer Johnston's novel begins with Alec Moore writing from a military prison cell, facing execution by firing squad. The entire story is his reflective first-person account, looking back on his friendship with Jerry Crowe and the circumstances that led to his imprisonment.
In Jennifer Johnston's novel How Many Miles to Babylon?, how are the two main characters, Alec Moore and Jerry Crowe, related before they enlist to fight in World War I?
AThey are cousins raised in the same household
BThey are childhood friends from different social classes✓
CThey are brothers who were separated at birth
DThey are former schoolmates who meet again at the front