The Sound of Waves
Chapter One:
1. The story takes place on Uta-jima Island. What are the two locations described and
provide 2-3 details about each location.
2. We are introduced to Shinji in this chapter as well. How does the narrator describe
him in this chapter?
3. 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:
1. 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?
2. 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:
1. How does Shinji compare to the other youth involved in the Young Men’s Association?
2. 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
Chapter Four:
1. How does this chapter serve as a turning point in the story?
2. Describe the meeting between Hatsue and Shinji.
3. 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?
Chapter Five:
1. In the beginning of the chapter, the narrator states that “city youths learn the ways of
love early from novels, movies, and the like…[thus] Shinji had not the slightest idea
what he should have done during those precious minutes” (34). What had Shinji
“failed to do,” and do you think he actually failed in his use of that time with Hatsue?
2. Shinji drops his paycheck on the beach while heading home. What happens as a
result of this “happy accident”? What long term effects might this produce?
Chapter Six:
1. This chapter opens with the Shinji feeling a connection with nature. Why? When
have you shared a similar feeling in your life?
2. Shinji opens up to Hatsue about his dreams and his beliefs about the ocean. What
insights does he provide the reader with?
3. Where does this clandestine meeting take place? How is that significant?
The Sound of Waves
Chapter Seven:
1. Shinji’s brother, Hiroshi, goes on an overnight school trip off of Song Island. First, what are
the details surrounding this expedition and second, why might this be important?
2. We also learn more about another character—Chiyoko, the lighthouse keeper’s daughter.
Who is she and what impact do you think her conversation with Yasuo will have later on in
the story?
Chapter Eight:
1. How does the setting of this chapter foreshadow future events that will take place?
2. Why does Shinji go to the lighthouse during the storm?
3. What takes place in the lighthouse? What does not take place at the lighthouse?
4. What does Chiyoko observe at the end of the chapter and how might this affect future
events in the story?
Chapter Nine:
1. How is Chiyoko a catalyst for conflict in this chapter?
2. Why does Yasuo want to know Hatsue’s shift to draw water for her family? What are his
intentions?
3. What takes place at the watering hole? What do you think will be the result of this series
of events?
4. We know that Shinji demonstrates a “connectedness” to nature and it to him. What does
this scene reveal about Yasuo and his relationship to Song Island?