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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. Who encouraged and aided Lakshmi in her move to Jaipur?

2. What does the builder do to Malik, when Malik tries to pay him the 200 rupees Lakshmi gave him, rather than the full amount owed?

3. What animal represents Lord Ganesh?

4. Which is NOT a reason that Lakshmi gives for wanting a home of her own?

5. According to the narrator, where did most families live during British rule?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do Indian parents hurry to marry off their children?

2. Why does Lakshmi feel pressure regarding Kanta, as a client?

3. How had notebooks become important to Lakshmi?

4. What does Radha do to try to remove the curse on her family?

5. Why is the match between Sheela and Ravi so important to Lakshmi?

6. Why is wealth and gaining wealth so important to Lakshmi?

7. Why does Lakshmi ask Radha to make the henna paste?

8. How did the end of the Singh’s party end in trouble for Lakshmi?

9. What did English tea sets such as Parvati’s signify, both before and after independence?

10. Describe the Old Pink City.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Perception is a universal theme found in this book. How does perception play a role in the acceptance and inclusion of the characters? How does perception also lead to exclusion and denial? How does this seem to affect the characters in this book? What might the author want you to take away from this book regarding this theme?

Essay Topic 2

The Epigraph sets the tone and a taste of the culture found in this book. Describe the overall tone of this book. Is it happy or somber? Is it serious or light-hearted? How does this relate to Lakshmi’s personality? What subtle, and not so subtle, changes in tone take place? How does this emphasize events that take place? How does this affect you, emotionally, as the reader?

Essay Topic 3

Throughout the book the location and date are mentioned. Why do you believe the author does this? Do you find this useful? Why or why not? What other subtle details are included by the author to aid you in understanding the time period, location, and culture?

(see the answer keys)

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