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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. On what type of bed does Tambu's mother sleep?

2. Why is Nyasha favored within the school system?

3. When Babamukuru is beating Nyasha, what does he demand of her?

4. Who makes the final decision to kick Lucia off the homestead?

5. Which of the following characters is the only one allowed in the family meeting regarding Lucia's presence on the homestead?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Babamukuru propose to deal with the evil that has been following his family?

2. What part about studying makes Nyasha most nervous, and how does she combat those nerves?

3. How does Tambu feel about her parents' impending wedding ceremony?

4. How does Ma'Shingayi feel about Tambu winning the scholarship?

5. What is the reaction from Babamukuru's family when Tambu wins a scholarship to the Sacred Heart?

6. Who is Nyaradzo?

7. What causes Lucia to burst out of the kitchen during the family meeting and attack Takesure?

8. What does Nyaradzo believe to be special about her brothers?

9. What happens to Nyasha when she is late to the dinner table on the evening before Tambu leaves for the Sacred Heart?

10. What is the process of being "screened out" at school and why does Nyasha fear it?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

At the opening of the novel, Tambu has a long discussion with her mother about womanhood, as Tambu's mother believes that being a woman is a burden. First, explain why Tambu's mother believes womanhood to be a burden. Then explain the advice she gives to her daughter about how to be a success in life. Do you see Tambu utilizing or ignoring this advise throughout the novel?

Essay Topic 2

Maiguru spends the entire novel babying her husband, Babamukuru. First, give two examples of times when Maiguru treats Babamukuru as a child rather than a man. Then explain the motivations Maiguru has for treating her husband in this way. How does it affect their marital relationship? Finally, explain whether or not you think Maiguru is a good wife to Babamukuru and why.

Essay Topic 3

At the end of the novel, Nyasha is struggling with an eating disorder. First, explain how this disorder affects life within her household. Then explain why Dangarembga might have chosen this particular disease for Nyasha to struggle with. What might this disease symbolize in Nyasha's life?

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