View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Matsu tell Stephen about Sachi as a child?

2. What does Keiko do when Stephen asks her to meet him at the shrine?

3. What does the letter Stephen receives say about his mother's mood?

4. What is Tomoko's reaction when Matsu tells her about Yamaguchi?

5. What dampens Stephen's enjoyment on the walk to Yamaguchi?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain how the war is impacting Stephen.

2. How does Sachi change after Michiko's death?

3. Compare Matsu and Tomoko as teenagers.

4. Describe Stephen's visit with his father.

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

6. What activities surround Fumiko's arrival?

7. How does Keiko feel about her father's behavior?

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

9. How does Sachi incorporate flowers in her garden?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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

Essay Topic 2

Although Stephen has never met Tomoko, her presence is strongly felt. This is also true of Michiko. Compare and contrast the two characters and analyze their contribution to the story line.

Essay Topic 3

Prejudice is an underlying theme that accompanies the war and leprosy. While often subtle, the theme is constantly present in the story. Pick three characters that you feel exhibit prejudice and explain:

1) What is the cause of their prejudice?

2) How aware is this person of their prejudice and to what extent do they justify it?

3) Does this character evolve or alter his or her perceptions in the course of the story? Use specific examples to support all your assertions.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 732 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample