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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 1, "Are You Poor?," what communication method does Midoriko use to talk to her mother after they stop speaking?

2. In Book One: Chapter 4, "Out For Chinese," where is Natsu's favorite Chinese restaurant located?

3. In Book One: Chapter 6, "The Safest Place in the World," why does Natsu cry when they cannot go grape picking as a child?

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 3, "Whose Boobs Are They?", what motivates Natsu's desire to be pretty?

Short Essay Questions

1. 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?

2. In Book One: Chapter 4, "Out For Chinese," who is Kewpie, and what role does he play in the community of Shobashi? Describe his appearance, personality, and the unusual way he makes a living.

3. In Book One: Chapter 6, "The Safest Place In The World," how does the act of cleaning the blood-stained sheets and the exchange with Midoriko in the bathroom underscore the mother-daughter dynamic in the story?

4. In Book One: Chapter 6, "The Safest Place In The World," how does the amusement park setting serve as a contrast to Natsu's inner turmoil and emotional state?

5. In Book One: Chapter 6, "The Safest Place In The World," what is the significance of Natsu's irregular menstrual cycle, and how does it reflect her changing perspective on life and time passing by?

6. 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?

7. In Book One: Chapter 3, "Whose Boobs Are They?" how does Natsu's relationship with her sister Makiko and her niece Midoriko influence her perspective on life and her own dreams?

8. 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?

9. 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?

10. In Book One: Chapter 2, "To Be More Beautiful," how does Natsu feel about Makiko's decision to consider welfare as a potential financial support option, and why does Makiko hesitate to consider it?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Book One: Chapter 5, "Up All Night Talking," analyze the interactions between Natsu and her sister, Makiko, and their conversation about the rent situation. Discuss how the portrayal of the landlord's visit and Natsu's reflections on past financial difficulties shed light on the challenges faced by individuals living in expensive urban areas like Tokyo.

Essay Topic 2

In Book Two: Chapter 17, "Not Letting Go," discuss how the setting of the neighborhood contributes to the overall mood of the story.

Essay Topic 3

In Book Two: Chapter 10, "Choose From The Following Options," explore the ethical implications of assisted reproduction, specifically focusing on the secrecy and anonymity surrounding sperm donation in Japan. Address the challenges faced by children born through donor sperm who later discover the truth about their biological parentage.

(see the answer keys)

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