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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. To what is Tomoko referring when she tells Matsu that she doesn't want "to live like this"?

2. What does the Summer: June through July 1938 chapter say that Stephen is doing that prevents him from journal writing?

3. Who sends Stephen a letter that says Penelope is working with the Red Cross?

4. What does Stephen have with him when Keiko finds him on the day she pays him a visit in March of 1938?

5. What does the letter Stephen receives indicate his mother thinks about his staying in Japan?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why aren't there any journal entries for a month after Kenzo's funeral?

2. How does Stephen feel when Matsu walks in and interrupts Sachi's story?

3. What do the readers know about the relationship between Fumiko and Matsu?

4. Discuss Hiro.

5. How does Matsu feel about his sister's decision to deal with her disease?

6. Where is the Kerria plant found and what does it mean?

7. Why does Penelope work for the Red Cross?

8. What is the significance of the conversation Stephen and Keiko have on the beach?

9. What does Stephen describe as his memories of Keiko?

10. How does Keiko let Stephen know she is interested in him despite her father?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

While Stephen is the main character in the story, there are also many supporting and minor characters that add to his tale. Choose one other main character, one supporting character, and one minor character. For each one, compare and contrast him or her with Stephen and give examples of how that person affected his life in positive or negative way.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

For each of the gifts listed below, explain who it was to and from, what the reason for the gift was and how it affected the giver or receiver.

1) Daruma doll

2) Yoken

3) Paint brushes

4) Lucky stones

5) Another of your choice

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 800 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample