Examine Takeo's character. What is his greatest weakness, and what is his greatest strength?

Was Takeo right in keeping so many secrets from his wife Kaede in this novel? Why did he do it? Why did he feel like he must?

Why does Maya do what she does when she finally comes home to warn her mother? What does this tell us about her character?

Contrast the two eldest children of Takeo and Kaede — Shigeko and Hisao. In what ways are they similar and in what ways are they different? Cite examples from the text to support your answer.

Using examples from the text, what historical culture do you think this book is attempting to recreate? How is the author's vision different?

What do you think is the author's message at the heart of the book? Cite examples and page numbers that highlight...