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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. Which of the following is the traditional dish eaten as a staple at most meals by the villagers?

2. Why does Tambu believe she was passed over for education by Babamukuru?

3. Which of the following purchases brings confused tears to Tambu's eyes?

4. Which of the following beverages does Tambu regularly drink with Maiguru?

5. How does Nyasha feel about her family's maid?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Tambu's mother provide financial help for her household?

2. How does Tambu handle washing the hands of her relatives?

3. How does Tambu describe the swimming holes near her home?

4. How did Nhamo react to Babamukuru's home and how did his reaction affect Tambu when she arrives at the home?

5. How do the girls at Sacred Heart treat Nyasha?

6. How does Tambu react to her sleeping arrangements at Babamukuru's house?

7. What strategies does Tambu employ to keep her mind on her studies?

8. How does Nyasha react to the fact that she cannot find her D.H. Lawrence book?

9. What education does Maiguru have, and how has her education changed her role within the family?

10. How does Tambu feel about Maiguru and her relationship to education?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The male characters in the novel all have similar reactions to the role of women in their homes. First, create a list of male characters in the novel and briefly explain each of their attitudes toward women in the home. Then explain some of the special, sometimes burdensome, responsibilities of successful men in the family.

Essay Topic 2

When the story opens, Tambu admits that she was not sorry when her brother died. First, explain the relationship Tambu had with her older brother, Nhamo. Then explain how Nhamo's death affected Tambu's life and why she might have been pleased to see him die.

Essay Topic 3

Although many of the characters in the novel are black Africans, there are a few scenes in which the black characters interact with white characters. First, give examples of two scenes in which blacks and whites interact. Then describe the speech patterns of the white characters and compare/contrast that speech to the black characters. Based on their verbal interactions, how do the white characters regard the black characters?

(see the answer keys)

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