Research the last days of the war with Japan during the Second World War. What were the political questions? What were the strategic problems? What might have been done differently?

The story is based on the author's experience, yet contains elements of fiction. Describe how the author uses dialog, exposition, character development, plot, description and theme to create a story that is both true and entertaining.

What symbolic functions do various objects in the story serve, such as Mother's wrapping cloth, Yoko's flopping shoe, Mr. Naido's speech impediment, and the fruit crate table serve?

The scene where Ko and Yoko ask the Buddhist monk to pray for Mother has a strong affect on Yoko's spirituality. How might this impact her attitudes as an adult?

What did Yoko do to inspire Corporal Matsumura? Why did this have such a strong impact upon him?

Research Japanese culture...