1. Discuss the relationships between parents and children in India. What value is placed on interpersonal relationships?

2. What techniques does Sommerfelt employ to elicit an emotional response to the plight of Lalu and Maya? Is the author playing on the reader's emotions, or is there justification for the action of the novel?

3. Many critics argue that Sommerfelt displays a condescending attitude toward India, implying that India's only hope is in the help it receives from other countries. Do you think the author is condescending? If so, why? If not, discuss some ways in which she shows respect and admiration for India and its citizens.

4. In the journey motif, the young hero is usually assisted by older, wiser characters. Who are Lalu's mentor figures, and how do they aid him? Who are the villains? What are the conflicts that Lalu faces, and how do they affect...