Yamanba of the Mountain

Cathy Spagnoli

No one spoke. Even the bravest men and women were silent. Everyone had helped to make the mochi, but no one wanted to face that frightful yamanba.

Finally, a small woman stepped up. "I'm the oldest here," she said. "I've lived a good life, and I'm ready to die if I must. I will go and try."

Voices suddenly wrapped round her, thanking her again and again. Two young men who knew the mountain were chosen to guide her, and they all set off the next day. Higher and higher and higher they climbed. Soon, the wind howled and pushed against them.

1 of 2
Question
Use the story excerpt to answer the question.

Based on the sensory imagery in the excerpt, what is most likely true about the woman in this scene?

(1 point)
Responses

She is frightened like the others, but she is also determined.
She is frightened like the others, but she is also determined.

She is surprised the others are struggling so much.
She is surprised the others are struggling so much.

She is thankful the young men agreed to guide her way.
She is thankful the young men agreed to guide her way.

She is struggling more than the others, but she is too stubborn to admit it.
She is struggling more than the others, but she is too stubborn to admit it.
Skip to navigation