1. When Yoko first sees her father at the train station, she does not recognize him. Why do you suppose that in a few short minutes she no longer sees him as the "a tired, worn old man," she saw when he arrived, but as "a strong, wise, kind father?"

2. Why do you suppose Junko Masuda accused the Kawashimas of arson, theft, and murder?

3. Why does Ko act angry when Yoko surprises her with touching kindnesses?

4. What do you think bothers Yoko more: the constant humiliation of her peers or the accusations of arson, theft, and murder?

5. When Kyoko accuses Yoko of stealing her watch, the teacher takes Kyoko's accusation seriously and strip searches Yoko. Do you think if Yoko accused Kyoko of stealing the teacher would have taken Yoko seriously? Why or why not?

6. What do the children's efforts to find their father say...