Before the Coffee Gets Cold - Study Guide , Comprehension Test

Before the Coffee Gets Cold
by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
About_
Before the Coffee Gets Cold takes place in a small basement cafe in Tokyo where, according to legend, customers
can travel back in time — but only under strict rules that prevent them from changing the present. Through four
interconnected stories of love, loss, and family, author Toshikazu Kawaguchi explores how confronting the past can
transform a person’s heart, even when it cannot change their circumstances. This study guide covers all five
sections of the novel, from Fumiko’s heartbreak to Kei’s ultimate sacrifice for her daughter. This study guide
contains 65 questions across 5 chapter sections (50 Factual + 15 Critical), 1 Crossword Puzzle (12 clues), and 1
Character Focus Activity.
What’s Included_
This study guide features 5 sets of 10 Factual Questions with an answer key (50 total), 5 sets of 3 Critical Analysis
Questions (15 total), 1 Crossword Puzzle (12 clues), and 1 Character Focus Activity (8 traits + evidence prompt +
critical thinking question).
Target Grades_
Grades 8-10
Teacher Note_
This guide makes a gentle, emotionally rich novel easy to teach, walking students through its interlocking stories
while inviting real reflection on grief, regret, and love. The factual questions anchor comprehension, and the
critical questions open the door to meaningful class discussion about what truly can — and can’t — be changed. It’s
ready to hand out, saving you valuable planning time.