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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. Why do Stephen and Matsu initially go to Yamaguchi?

2. Why does Matsu say Sachi moved to her mountain home?

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

4. What explanation is given for the names of the children in Stephen's family?

5. What does Stephen expect to be his only solace in Tarumi?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the removal of Sachi's scarf indicate her growing closeness to Stephen?

2. What implications are given that Matsu is becoming fond of Stephen?

3. What is Stephen's physical condition when he first arrives at the beach house in Tarumi?

4. How does the storm impact Stephen's relationship with Sachi and Matsu?

5. Why is the painting of the garden of importance to Stephen?

6. How is Setsbun celebrated?

7. How does Stephen feel about making friends with people once he is settled in the beach house?

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

9. What does Stephen's father reveal about Matsu's history?

10. Describe the state of Stephen's relationship with Keiko when she gives him the yoken.

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

The act of suicide is an ongoing theme in this story. Tomoko, Kenzo, and many lepers chose to take their own lives. Sachi did not, although her own father wanted her to in order to restore family honor. Compare and contrast the suicides of Tomoko and Kenzo and other people's responses to them. What were the benefits and drawbacks of their decisions? What were the benefits and drawbacks of Sachi's decision not to take her own life to both her self and the people closest to her?

Essay Topic 3

Marriage and fidelity are on Stephen's mind after the revelation of his father's affair. However, both Stephen and his mother seem to accept the new arrangement even if they don't like it. How would the story be altered if Stephen's father had never admitted to the affair? How would it change if Yoshiko had been introduced to Stephen? Would a more detailed history of the marriage between Stephen's parents be pertinent to the storyline? Explain your answer.

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