The Sound of Waves

1. Chapter One: The story takes place on Uta-jima Island. What are the two locations described and provide 2-3 details about each location. We are introduced to Shinji in this chapter as well. How does the narrator describe him in this chapter? Why does Shinji bring the fish to the lighthouse? Are there people you share a special connection with who helped you along the way? Chapter Two: This chapter serves to introduce the reader to more characters in the story. Who are these characters and what role do they play on Uti-jima Island? At the end of the chapter, Shinji feels a “hugeness he had never before apprehended” (19). What does this mean taken in context of what else we learn in this chapter? When has life seemed “huge” or overwhelming to you? Chapter Three: How does Shinji compare to the other youth involved in the Young Men’s Association? Who is Yasuo and what sort of person does he appear to be? 3. What sort of people in your school or home life have you met who are like Yasuo? The Sound of Waves

2. Chapter Four: How does this chapter serve as a turning point in the story? Describe the meeting between Hatsue and Shinji. The narrator states that “their well-founded fear of the village’s love of gossip changed what but an innocent meeting into a thing of secrecy” (32). What would the villagers have to gossip about? Can you think of any examples of this in your life? The Sound of Waves