Holling describes his house as the "Perfect House". What does he mean by this? How does this characterize his family's outward portrayal of their lives? What, in reality, are some not-so-perfect aspects of Holling's mother and father? About their family in general?

Explain the circumstances surrounding the initial relationship between Mrs. Bigio and Mai Thi. What causes Mrs. Bigio to mistreat Mai Thi? how does Mai Thi react? How does she continue to show her disdain for the young woman? What causes Mrs. Bigio to change her behavior? How does she then show her new side to Mai Thi? What is their relationship at the end of the novel?

Explain how Mrs. Baker uses Shakespeare to help Holling understand more about the world. What does Shakespeare teach Holling? What is tragedy? What is a comedy? What does Mrs. Baker mean when she says "There...