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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who encouraged and aided Lakshmi in her move to Jaipur?

2. At the henna party for the girls, how does Sheela make fun of Neeta?

3. When Lakshmi first sees Samir Singh, how does she feel?

4. Who was Parvati Singh’s longest-serving help and nanny to her sons?

5. Who is Mr. Pandey?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is the match between Sheela and Ravi so important to Lakshmi?

2. What happy news is received at the Singh’s party?

3. What are some etiquette lessons that Lakshmi is trying to teach Radha?

4. What does Radha do, when Mrs. Iyengar enters the room, to cover up Mrs. Harris’ groans?

5. How had notebooks become important to Lakshmi?

6. Why is wealth and gaining wealth so important to Lakshmi?

7. Why has shame befallen Lakshmi’s and Radha’s family, based on information given in the Prologue?

8. What did English tea sets such as Parvati’s signify, both before and after independence?

9. Why do Indian parents hurry to marry off their children?

10. Describe the relationship between Lakshmi and her mother-in-law.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are several relationships, both romantic and plutonic, between men and women in this story. Choose one on which to focus. Describe the relationship. How do they meet? How does their relationship develop or disintegrate over the course of the story? What leads to this strengthening or destruction of the relationship? What’s your overall view of this relationship? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

There is a focus on relationships between the young and the old in this book. Choose one on which to focus. Describe the relationship. How do they meet? How does their relationship develop or disintegrate over the course of the story? What leads to this strengthening or destruction of the relationship? What’s your overall view of this relationship? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Choose one of the main characters from this book and describe his or her character development throughout the story. What leads to this development? How do other characters and the events surrounding him or her influence him or her? Overall, what are your thoughts about this character? Did your opinion regarding this character stay the same or change? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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