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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 say he did at the celebration in Yamaguchi?

2. What does Keiko tell Stephen when they meet at the beach in September of 1938?

3. How do Matsu and Stephen arrive at Sachi's when they go to visit in September of 1938?

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

5. What happens when Stephen walks Keiko home after her visit in March of 1938?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. Does Stephen feel that he is at danger from the war?

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

4. What is the tone of Keiko's meeting with Stephen at the shrine?

5. What information does Stephen get from Penelope's letter?

6. Describe Stephen's visit with his father.

7. Who is Sumiko?

8. What activities surround Fumiko's arrival?

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

10. How does Sachi incorporate flowers in her garden?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 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

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.

(see the answer keys)

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