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1. What characters are present in the opening scene of the novel? What is their significance in the plot of the story?

The characters seen in the opening scene of the novel are Amalia and Norm. Amalia in this scene is 13 years old and homeless when she encounters Norm. In the main timeline of the novel, these characters are revealed to be Penny's mother and father.

2. Where is the opening scene of the novel set? What is the significance of this setting?

The opening scene is set in Cartagena, Columbia. This setting is significant because it illustrates the poverty in which Amalia lived as a child and why she would have left with Norm, who was much older than her and an American.

3. What is the main event that takes place in the scene from 2005? Why is this event significant?

The main event or conflict in this scene is a dispute between 12-year-old Penny and her older stepbrother Matt. Penny interrupts Matt when he is having sex with his girlfriend and he chases Penny to her room. Penny accuses him of trying to rape her, but her father puts her at ease. It is important because it establishes Matt as an antagonist.

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