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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Stephen give Sachi in this second visit?

2. Where does Stephen's father spend most of his time?

3. Where does Stephen first see Keiko?

4. Where does Stephen see the "nicest Christmas tree I ever had"?

5. How does Stephen feel about his father leaving Tamuri in October of 1937?

Short Essay Questions

1. How did Tomoko's death bring Sachi and Matsu closer?

2. Describe Sachi's house during the New Year's celebration?

3. Describe a daruma doll.

4. Why does Stephen lie to his mother?

5. Describe the relationship between Stephen and his father in the beginning of the book.

6. Why does Stephen go to see Sachi after her argument with Kenzo?

7. How does Stephen describe Matsu's garden?

8. How is Setsbun celebrated?

9. What agreement do Stephen's parents seem to come to after his father's visit?

10. Describe the relationship between Kenzo, Matsu, and Sachi when Stephen first meets Kenzo.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Nature is an important setting throughout Stephen's journal and journeys. Choose three separate natural locations or events and:

1) Explain what purpose they serve

2) Relate them to Stephen's growth as a character

3) Describe how the story would change without them

Essay Topic 2

Celebrations play a role in the telling of this story.

1) Choose one celebration and explain why it made a difference to Stephen's growth, perceptions, or daily life.

2) Describe how a different celebration reminds you of a western celebration or one you have participated in. Explain how your or a character in the story found meaning in the celebration mentioned.

3) Write a narrative of a celebration from the point of view of a character who attended it.

Essay Topic 3

Stephen's budding relationship with Keiko is both exciting and frustrating for him. As their relationship progresses, and Stephen matures, his reaction to Keiko's responses also change. Document the progression of this relationship and explain how Stephen's personal growth and maturity is reflected in his actions and feelings.

(see the answer keys)

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