Characters & Relationships
What are the names of Kensuke's wife and son?
Kimi and Michiya.
What does Michael keep in his pocket?
A piece of fireglass.
What does Kensuke want to learn from Michael?
How to speak English.
What is the meaning of gut-wrenching, the word Michael uses to describe missing home?
Extremely upsetting or painful.
What is one of the most important lessons Michael learns during his time on the island?
To be independent, patient, brave, resourceful, or to appreciate friendship and kindness. Friendship can help people overcome challenges...
Who is always in Kensuke's head?
Kimi and Michiya.
How did Kensuke make his paintbrushes?
With long pieces of Tomodachi's hair.
Why does Kensuke feel lucky?
Because he is alive while so many other people have died.
What is fireglass?
A piece of glass used to focus sunlight to make fire.
How does Michael change from the beginning to the end of the story?
He becomes more mature, independent, responsible, resourceful, determined, and understanding of others.
How does Michael know that Kensuke trusts him?
Kensuke lets Michael row the boat back to shore while he sleeps.
How did Kensuke teach Michael how to paint?
By letting him observe him.
Why does Kensuke finally consider returning home one day?
He becomes curious and interested in Michael's stories about the world beyond the island.
Find an example of personification on page 140.
"The waves lapped listlessly [...] the moon rode the clouds [...] the world felt still as if holding its breath."
How does Kensuke change throughout the novel?
Kensuke changes from a lonely, guarded man who has isolated himself from the outside world to someone who becomes more open, trusting, and willing to reconnect with others. He begins to consider reconnecting with the wider world...
Why was it difficult for Michael to say goodbye to Kensuke?
Kensuke had become like a family member and close friend. He had cared for Michael, taught him survival skills, and shared his home with him. Michael knew he might never see Kensuke again.
How do Michael and Kensuke protect the orangutans?
They lead them to Kensuke's cave to hide.
Why does Kensuke make Michael promise to keep him a secret?
He does not want anyone to come looking for him.
What literary device is used when the author describes the world as if it were holding its breath?
Personification.
What does the island come to represent for both Michael and Kensuke?
The island becomes a place of growth and friendship for Michael, but a place of both comfort and loneliness for Kensuke. A place where they can learn, grow, and form a meaningful friendship...
How are animals a comfort in this story? Give examples from the novel.
Animals help the characters feel less lonely, provide companionship, and remind them of the importance of love and connection.
Stella: Michael's dog is his loyal companion and reminds him of home and his family. Thinking about her helps him feel less lonely.
The orangutans: Michael develops a bond with the orangutans, who provide him with companionship and help him feel less alone on the island.
The turtles: Caring for and protecting the baby turtles gives Michael and Kensuke a shared purpose and brings them closer together.
How do Michael and Kensuke help the baby turtles?
They watch over them all night, carry the weak ones to the shoreline, and scare away the birds.
What does Kensuke's growing interest in Michael's stories reveal about his character?
He is curious and interested in the world, and he may be beginning to feel ready to reconnect with life beyond the island.
Invent either a simile, metaphor or alliteration about Kensuke's character.
Ex: Kensuke was as protective as a father, always watching over Michael and keeping him safe. (What is this an example of?)
Ex: Kensuke was a mysterious man with a mighty heart. (What is this an example of?)
Which statement best expresses a central message of Kensuke’s Kingdom?
The central message of Kensuke's Kingdom is that friendship, kindness, and understanding can bring people together despite their differences. The novel also teaches us about the importance of respecting nature, appreciating what we have, and finding courage to face challenges. Understanding others can change the way we see the world...