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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 12, "Merry Christmas," what topic is the woman in the wrinkly gray jacket opposed to?
(a) Donor conception.
(b) Infertility treatment.
(c) Artificial insemination.
(d) Surrogacy.

2. In Book Two: Chapter 8, "Where Is Your Ambition?", how do Ryoko Sengawa help Natsu with her writing career?
(a) She provides feedback and encourages Natsu to find her unique voice.
(b) She introduces Natsu to TV personalities and celebrities.
(c) She promotes Natsu's book on her social media.
(d) She edits the book.

3. In Book Two: Chapter 10, "Choose From The Following Options," why does the woman hesitate to tell Sengawa about the idea of getting pregnant from donated sperm?
(a) She does not want Sengawa's opinion on the matter.
(b) She wants to keep the idea to herself for now.
(c) She fears that Sengawa will think it is crazy.
(d) She is embarrassed to discuss such a personal topic.

4. In Book Two: Chapter 12, "Merry Christmas," why does Rie feel detached from her daughter?
(a) She experienced postpartum depression.
(b) She has a strained relationship with her husband.
(c) She believes her daughter will eventually hate her.
(d) She dislikes being a mother.

5. In Book Two: Chapter 8, "Where Is Your Ambition?", why does Natsu's second book become a success?
(a) It is promoted by celebrities on TV.
(b) It has a catchy elevator pitch.
(c) It finds its way to real readers who appreciate its unique voice.
(d) The book is about a recent earthquake, which resonates with readers.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Book Two: Chapter 10, "Choose From The Following Options," what concern does the woman express about using a sperm donor from the internet?

2. In Book Two: Chapter 13, "A Tall Order," how does Natsu feel about approaching Jun Aizawa?

3. In Book One: Chapter 7, "All That You Hold Dear," what does Natsu find in Midoriko's backpack?

4. In Book One: Chapter 7, "All That You Hold Dear," what does Midoriko do with the eggs at the beginning of the passage?

5. In Book Two: Chapter 11, "I Am So Happy Cause Today...," what is Natsu's impression of the first poet who read his work at the event?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Book Two: Chapter 10, "Choose From The Following Options," how does Natsu's focus on writing and research influence her ability to maintain a connection with Sengawa?

2. In Book One: Chapter 7, "All That You Hold Dear," how does the setting of Tokyo contribute to the sense of isolation and disconnection Natsu feels?

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. In Book Two: Chapter 9, "All The Little Flowers," analyze the changes in Natsu's relationship with Naruse over time, from their deep connection as friends to their eventual breakup.

6. In Book Two: Chapter 11, "I Am So Happy Cause Today...," describe Natsu's experience at the reading event. How does she react to the monotonous reading and the sweltering environment?

7. In Book Two: Chapter 12, "Merry Christmas," what internal conflict does Natsu face regarding the idea of donor conception?

8. 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?

9. In Book One: Chapter 7, "All That You Hold Dear," what significance does the late-night trip to the store with Midoriko hold in the story, and how does it affect their mother-daughter relationship?

10. In Book Two: Chapter 12, "Merry Christmas," describe Natsu's recollections of past Christmases while working at the bar. How do these memories contrast with her current feelings and experiences during the Christmas season?

(see the answer keys)

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