Where are Michael and Kensuke when Kensuke begins to tell his story?
They are in the boat, out at sea.
What promise does Kensuke make to Michael before he starts speaking?
He promises to tell him his whole story.
In which country and city was Kensuke born?
He was born in Japan, in Nagasaki.
What job did Kensuke train for before the war?
He trained to be a doctor.
Who were the members of Kensuke’s family before the war?
His wife and young son.
What happened in Nagasaki during the war?
An atomic bomb was dropped on the city.
How did Kensuke find out about the atomic bomb?
He heard about it after the war, when Japan had been destroyed.
What did Kensuke believe had happened to his wife and son?
He believed they were killed by the atomic bomb.
What happened to the ship Kensuke was travelling on after the war?
The ship was destroyed, and he was thrown into the sea.
How did Kensuke survive after the ship was destroyed?
He survived by holding onto floating wreckage until he reached land.
Why do you think Kensuke says he feels “dead” even though he is alive?
Because he has lost his family and his country, so he feels he has no life left.
Why does Kensuke decide not to return to Japan after the shipwreck?
Because he believes everything he loved is gone and the world brings only pain.
What does the island represent for Kensuke after the war?
It represents peace, safety, and escape from violence.
Why is it difficult for Kensuke to talk about his past?
Because remembering it brings pain, grief, and trauma.
Why is telling his story to Michael an important moment for Kensuke?
Because it shows trust and begins to break his isolation.
Which theme do you think is most important in this chapter? Give one reason from the text.
Loss is the most important theme because Kensuke loses his family and this explains all his choices.
