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

Short Answer Questions

1. In fourth grade, what does Shizuko say about the picture of the emperor?

2. What does Takeo dream about in Chapter 14?

3. How does Mr. Wada react when Yuki tells him she does not want to dissect a frog?

4. Why is Hideki going to allow Yuki to attend her Aunt Aya's wedding?

5. As Yuki lies down to bed, what is she trying to imagine?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Who is the protagonist and who is the antagonist of the novel?

Part 1) Examine the novel, taking into account the multiple points of view and lasting actions of each character, and determine an answer.

Part 2) What evidence supports each choice?

Part 3) What actions do the characters take that make them suitable for these roles?

Essay Topic 2

Unlike many of her contemporaries, Yuki does not reject the past but rather attempts to bridge well-loved portions of the past with her present and future. How Yuki accomplishes this changes throughout the duration of the novel as she learns how to best respect and preserve memories. Describe Yuki's progression, from Shizuko's suicide to the epilogue of the book, in regards to preserving the past.

• What kind of behavior does Yuki exhibit that may be considered unhealthy? Why is it unhealthy?

• What is the difference between physical and mental reminders? How is it important?

• Relate Yuki's efforts to others in the novel. How are other characters' methods or beliefs different from her own?

Essay Topic 3

Each character in the novel displays a different attitude toward death and the nature of loved ones passing. Compare and contrast the main characters of the novel: Yuki, Masa, Takeo, and Hideki. How do their approaches to grief vary? How have they grown and progressed by the end of the book? What understandings do they come to about death and those that have departed?

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This section contains 493 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample