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This test consists of 15 multiple choice questions and 5 short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. On page 71, how does Nagare react to Yukio's sudden appearance in the past?
(a) He is "unfazed."
(b) He is "troubled."
(c) He is "gratified."
(d) He is "astonished."

2. What kind of dancer does the narrator compare Kazu to as she pours the coffee?
(a) A Shinto shrine dancer.
(b) A kabuki dancer.
(c) A flamenco dancer.
(d) A ballerina.

3. What qualities of Kiyoshi's personality does the narrator's description of him emphasize?
(a) Kiyoshi is curious and observant.
(b) Kiyoshi is warm and friendly.
(c) Kiyoshi is shy and quiet.
(d) Kiyoshi is analytical and detached.

4. Whom does Yukio call when he goes outside?
(a) His bank.
(b) Yamagishi.
(c) His landlord.
(d) Kyoko.

5. What is Kinuyo's interpretation of Kazu's intentions in adding the stirrer to Yukio's cup and asking him to pass on her regards to his mother?
(a) Kazu was hoping that Kinuyo might find a solution to Kazu's mother's situation.
(b) Kazu was apologizing to Kinuyo for allowing Yukio to attempt suicide.
(c) Kazu was trying to warn Kinuyo that she must get to a doctor soon,
(d) Kazu was asking Kinuyo to accomplish a final task that only Kinuyo could accomplish.

6. What lie about the future does Kiyoshi tell Kimiko toward the end of their conversation?
(a) That the two of them are never separated.
(b) That he remains a detective.
(c) That his trip to the past is future-Kimiko's idea.
(d) That they go on to have several children.

7. How long has Yukio been deep in debt?
(a) Five years.
(b) Three years.
(c) Seven years.
(d) Nine years.

8. What physical details are frequently used to identify Nagare to the reader?
(a) His almond-shaped eyes and large size.
(b) His booming voice and crooked smile.
(c) His jet-black, shaggy hair and calloused hands.
(d) His peaceful expression and slight stoop.

9. How does Kurata react when he learns of Fumiko's marriage?
(a) He is bewildered.
(b) He is delighted.
(c) He is amused.
(d) He is worried.

10. What order is Kyoko waiting for at the beginning of the story?
(a) Her usual coffee.
(b) A to-go breakfast.
(c) Daifuku for her husband.
(d) A Christmas cake.

11. What causes Kiyoshi to reveal his identity to Kimiko?
(a) He needs her to do him a favor.
(b) She is too suspicious to listen to a stranger.
(c) He wants to relieve her suffering.
(d) She has already guessed who he really is.

12. What did Kinuyo sometimes send Yukio in her care packages?
(a) Letters from his father and sister.
(b) Instant foods.
(c) Photos from family events.
(d) Homemade sweets.

13. What does Goro tell Fumiko is likely the reason that Kurata chose her to help him with his plan?
(a) Her age.
(b) Her reputation for helpfulness.
(c) Her relationship with Asami.
(d) Her job.

14. Who is the source of most of Kiyoshi's information about the people who have traveled back in time in the café?
(a) Kyoko.
(b) Kazu.
(c) Kinuyo.
(d) Miki.

15. What does Kimiko's response to Kiyoshi before she recognizes him demonstrate about her character?
(a) She is a snob.
(b) She is flirtatious.
(c) She is kind.
(d) She is determined.

Short Answer Questions

1. What illness did Yukio contract when he was two years old?

2. What is Kurata's attitude after he speaks with Asami and finally drinks the last of his coffee?

3. Near the end of the story, what causes Nagare to drop the tray?

4. Which of the story's motifs is introduced by the Christmas tree and the extra item that Nagare adds to Kyoko's order?

5. Whose is Kiyoshi referencing when he talks about the dying man who travels into the future?

(see the answer keys)

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