Explain the significance of the novel's title.

Discuss the inter-generational conflict between immigrants and their European-born children. What are the root causes of the trouble between them?

Why do you think Amma was so opposed to fighting Fate? What gave Nazneen and Hasina the courage to go against their mother's teaching?

What does Chanu mean when he says, "You can't step into the same river twice"?

What are the major turning points in Nazneen's struggle for self-empowerment?

Discuss the parallels between Chanu and Karim. How are they similar? What are the major differences between them?

Compare and Contrast the love marriages of Hasina and Dr. Azad. How does gender play a role in how they survive the failures of their love marriages?

Explain Nazneen's reaction to Chanu's announcement that Hasina has run off with the cook. What does it reveal about her growth as...