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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. What sort of climate did the children grow up in?

2. While they are still children, what childish claim to fame does Raja have?

3. At what age was Aunt Mira widowed?

4. What is one of the most memorable actions she takes against Tara?

5. Alone in her room that afternoon, what does Bim realize?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why did Tara think her father was trying to kill her mother?

2. How did Tara remember the incident when Bim was stung by bees?

3. Describe Aunt Mira as she is in this chapter

4. Why does Tara want Bim and Baba to go to the wedding of Raja's daughter?

5. Why does Bim take out her rage on Baba?

6. Why does the author use the episodes of the mad dog, the young teacher, and the bees to describe Tara's character?

7. How was Baba different?

8. What is the symbolism of Tara's words to Bim pouring out of her quickly on the day of her departure?

9. Why is Bakul so shocked when Bim says she has made a decision?

10. In your opinion, has Bim always been this way and Tara never saw it, or has Bim changed over the years?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Several minor characters in this novel are highlighted during the novel: Mulk, Dr. Biswas, and Sharma. What role do these characters play in the progress of the plot? What role do they play in accentuating the character development of the main characters?

Essay Topic 2

Tara is a very sensitive soul. Incidents that seem trivial to others become major events and obstacles for Tara. Why do you think this is? What steps could she take to become stronger and more accepting about life?

Essay Topic 3

How does Tara's relationship with Aunt Mira differ with those of Bim and Raja and Aunt Mira?

(see the answer keys)

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