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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Book One: Chapter 6, "The Safest Place in the World," what ride does Natsu find scary?

2. In Book One: Chapter 4, "Out For Chinese," what distinguishes Kewpie's appearances at different bars?

3. In Book One: Chapter 6, "The Safest Place in the World," what do the lights in the distance remind Natsu of?

4. In Book One: Chapter 6, "The Safest Place in the World," why does Natsu feel a pressure in their chest while watching the ferris wheel?

5. In Book One: Chapter 1, "Are You Poor?," how old is Makiko at the time of the story?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Book One: Chapter 1, "Are You Poor?," how does Natsu describe her current life in Tokyo? What aspects of her life and career contribute to her feelings of stagnation and isolation?

2. In Book One: Chapter 1, "Are You Poor?," what unusual communication method has emerged between Makiko and her daughter, Midoriko? How long has this been going on, and what are Makiko's thoughts and feelings about it?

3. In Book One: Chapter 4, "Out For Chinese," how does Natsu's memory of the Chinese restaurant and Kewpie reflect their personal experiences and the changing dynamics of the community?

4. In Book One: Chapter 5, "Up All Night Talking," how does Natsu's encounter with Yamagu, now known as Chika Yamaguchi, at the Chinese restaurant evoke memories from her past? How does this encounter reflect the theme of unexpected reunions in the story?

5. In Book One: Chapter 2, "To Be More Beautiful," how does Natsu feel about Makiko's decision to undergo breast augmentation surgery?

6. In Book One: Chapter 4, "Out For Chinese," describe the atmosphere and setting of the Chinese restaurant where the characters are dining. How does the environment reflect the restaurant's reputation?

7. In Book One: Chapter 5, "Up All Night Talking," how does the conversation between Makiko and Natsu about the man whose ex-wife returns after 20 years reflect the theme of societal expectations?

8. In Book One: Chapter 5, "Up All Night Talking," how does the conversation between Makiko and Natsu about Kewpie, the local legend in Shobashi, highlight the complexities of human behavior and the ambiguous moral dilemmas faced by individuals in difficult situations?

9. In Book One: Chapter 3, "Whose Boobs Are They?" how does Natsu's perception of her own body differ from her sister Makiko's preoccupation with physical appearance and beauty enhancements?

10. In Book One: Chapter 2, "To Be More Beautiful," how has Makiko's behavior changed regarding her decision to undergo breast augmentation, and what does Natsu notice about their late-night conversations?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Book Two: Chapter 9, "All The Little Flowers," analyze the portrayal of human emotions and the intricacies of human connection in this narrative excerpt, and discuss the broader theme of self-discovery presented in Natsu's reflections.

Essay Topic 2

In Book One: Chapter 7, "All That You Hold Dear," Natsu and Midoriko have an intriguing encounter with a dictionary that leads to unexpected discussions and later, an unsettling event with Makiko. Analyze the role of the dictionary in this scene and its impact on Natsu and Midoriko's conversation.

Essay Topic 3

In Book Two: Chapter 11, "I'm So Happy Cause Today...," explore the impact of author readings on audience perception and the overall literary experience. Analyze the provided excerpt where Natsu attends a reading event featuring two authors, a poet and a novelist.

(see the answer keys)

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