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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Twelve years later, Hatsue, ironically, sees Ishmael with
(a) The strawberry fields behind him
(b) One arm outstretched
(c) His same coat on
(d) His glass box in hand

2. Why did Kabuo's father bury the swords and other belongings in the strawberry field?
(a) He wanted to claim the land for his own
(b) He knew they would be taken from him because of the war
(c) He thought he could preserve his personal history
(d) He wanted to bury everything from his past

3. San Piedro's hills are green with
(a) Pine and fir forest
(b) Mint farming
(c) Cedar trees
(d) Agriculture

4. Hatsue's mother is upset and decides to
(a) Write to Kabuo about Hatsue
(b) Write to Ishmael's parents
(c) Write to Hatsue's father
(d) Confiscate Sumiko's mail

5. When a new wave of amtracs came on the beach, Ishmael was
(a) Putting together a new squad
(b) Cleaning a carbine
(c) Treating the injured
(d) Trying to get a radio signal

Short Answer Questions

1. Ishmael's job as a marine was that of

2. The abusive sergeant from J Company who lectured the men at the seawall

3. The snowstorm on San Piedro

4. The islanders know that the outcome of this storm

5. When his arm was amputated, Ishmael's anger seems to be directed toward

Short Essay Questions

1. This chapter is full of symbolism. What is the most sensual event that Guterson describes between Hatsue and Ishmael?

2. Although serious, this trial still has the feel of a small town affair. What are some reasons for that?

3. Why do the Japanese sit at the back of the courtroom in Amity Harbor?

4. Why does Hatsue's mother tear up the letter she has written to Ishmael's parents?

5. Besides having to dissect dead bodies, why is Horace Whaley's job particularly difficult?

6. Why does Kabuo's attorney, Nels, challenge him to a game of chess before they discuss the case?

7. What kind of lawyer is Nels Gudmundsson?

8. Why is Ishmael forced to pretend he does not have feelings for Hatsue?

9. How does Kabuo enter into Hatsue's life?

10. We learn that Carl Heine is a precise, organized and capable man. Can you think of a reason that the author is giving us such a detailed description of a deceased person?

(see the answer keys)

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