Mumbai

Mumbai is a real city in India that serves as the overall setting for this novel. The city is large with major differences between Minni's neighborhood and the apartment building where Rohini works. From her house, Minni can see the ocean. The Mithi River is also nearby.

Minni's House

Minni 's house is small. Minni shares it with her parents and older brother Sanjay. The house has none of the basics of a typical American home, including running water and electricity. A curtain separates the main eating area from the place Ma and Baba sleep. Minni and Sanjay sleep in the loft. The heat is often oppressive, prompting Minni to sit by the door to study in the hope of catching a breeze. In spite of being tiny and having no luxuries, the house is where Minni feels far happier than at the apartment where Ma works.

Anita's Apartment