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

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Obasan say strengthens humans?

2. What is Naomi concerned might have happened to her mother when she returned to Japan?

3. What does Naomi find as an adult which gave her insight into the family's motivations in relocating from Slocan?

4. What religious ceremony is conducted during the family's goodbye party?

5. Which word is the best translation of the Japanese word "wagamama" used in the novel?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are many epistolary, or written, elements to the novel. Create a list of three elements used throughout the novel as ways of recording history for the family, and describe the ways that these element affected Naomi's relationship with her family's truths.

Essay Topic 2

Naomi cares for many young animals throughout the course of the novel. Briefly describe two of the caretaking roles that Naomi took on growing up and explain how caretaking provided an outlet for Naomi's grief.

Essay Topic 3

Many of the men in Naomi's family had made their living on a boat and at sea. Explain the cultural and symbolic significance of water and boats throughout the text. What was taken away from the family when the government seized their boats?

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