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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In Book Two: Chapter 11, "I Am So Happy Cause Today...," why does Natsu sneak out of the reading early?
(a) She wants to avoid the confrontation that occurred later at the party.
(b) She is disappointed with the quality of the readings.
(c) She has another appointment to attend.
(d) She feels too hot and uncomfortable in the crowded space.

2. In Book Two: Chapter 9, "All The Little Flowers," what do Natsu and Naruse talk about during their phone call after the earthquake?
(a) Natsu's novel and its success.
(b) The government and the energy industry's incompetence.
(c) Fukushima and the nuclear disaster.
(d) Protests and petitions in response to the disaster.

3. In Book Two: Chapter 13, "A Tall Order," what organization is Aizawa a member of in the chapter?
(a) Children of Artists.
(b) Children of Immigrants.
(c) Children of Donors.
(d) Children of Writers.

4. In Book Two: Chapter 8, "Where Is Your Ambition?", what did the protagonist's male editor criticize about her writing?
(a) Her inability to create likable characters.
(b) Her frequent use of Osaka accent in the dialogue.
(c) Her choice of words and expressions.
(d) Her lack of genuine ambition.

5. In Book Two: Chapter 12, "Merry Christmas," what is the main topic of the conversation between Natsuko and Rie?
(a) Cooking recipes.
(b) Social media and online communities.
(c) Sake and alcoholic beverages.
(d) The earthquake in Sendai.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Book Two: Chapter 8, "Where Is Your Ambition?", why does Natsu move to Tokyo?

2. In Book Two: Chapter 13, "A Tall Order," why does Aizawa's life become complicated after finding out about his conception?

3. In Book One: Chapter 7, "All That You Hold Dear," what does Natsu offer to Midoriko and Makiko?

4. In Book Two: Chapter 8, "Where Is Your Ambition?", what makes Natsu feel depressed and disheartened after her first book?

5. In Book Two: Chapter 9, "All The Little Flowers," why does Natsu feel a strange feeling when she sees photos of Naruse's newborn baby?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Book Two: Chapter 8, "Where Is Your Ambition," explore the significance of Natsu's name, Natsuko Natsume, in the context of her identity and artistic journey. Analyze how her name reflects her connection to her mother's family and its impact on her writing and sense of self.

2. Book Two: Chapter 11, "I Am So Happy Cause Today...," how does Sengawa respond to Natsu's remarks about feeling overheated during the event? How do they end up at the afterparty?

3. In Book Two: Chapter 8, "Where Is Your Ambition," examine Ryoko Sengawa's role in the protagonist's life and writing career. How does Sengawa's advice and encouragement impact Natsu's creative process and perspective on literature?

4. In Book Two: Chapter 9, "All The Little Flowers," analyze Natsu's emotional response upon reconnecting with Naruse after a long period of no contact.

5. In Book Two: Chapter 8, "Where Is Your Ambition," discuss Natsu's initial struggle with writing and how the success of her book marks a turning point in her career.

6. In Book Two: Chapter 10, "Choose From The Following Options," discuss the impact of Natsu's research on sperm donation and fertility treatment on her thoughts and emotions.

7. In Book Two: Chapter 9, "All The Little Flowers," explore Natsu's internal struggle with her sexuality and the societal expectations of fulfilling her partner's desires.

8. In Book Two: Chapter 8, "Where Is Your Ambition," how does Natsu's perception of luck change as her career progresses?

9. In Book One: Chapter 7, "All That You Hold Dear," how does Natsu's increasing worry and anxiety over Makiko's absence contribute to the tension and mood in the story?

10. Book Two: Chapter 11, "I Am So Happy Cause Today...," how does Rika Yusa challenge the novelist's claims and behavior? What does this confrontation reveal about the dynamics among writers in the literary community?

(see the answer keys)

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