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

Short Answer Questions

1. What is Rough Lock's real name?

2. How does Naomi spend her time at Grandmother Nakane's funeral?

3. What religion are the Nakane Grandparents?

4. What type of bird do the children see when they climb the bluff in spring?

5. Who from Slocan is actively trying to keep their community together?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the novel, Naomi struggles with the question of whether she should remember the past or simply forget it. Compare and contrast the benefits and disadvantages in both of these strategies. Then, explain what Naomi's process was moving from a forgetful past to a future full of memories.

Essay Topic 2

While the children are growing up, Stephen says to Naomi that being Japanese made them "both the enemy and not the enemy." What did this quote mean to Naomi at the time of her childhood, and what does it mean to her now as an adult? How does a double-identity play into Naomi's character throughout her life?

Essay Topic 3

All throughout the novel, Naomi struggles with authority in her life.

Part 1.) Explain the ways that Naomi struggles with authority in her personal adult life.

Part 2.) Describe the ways that Naomi's struggle with authority begins to penetrate her dreams.

Part 3.) Theorize why Naomi has such trouble with authority based on her childhood.

(see the answer keys)

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