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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 do the children say when they rub their palms against one another's foreheads?

2. For what does Samad trade masturbation on New Year's Day 1980?

3. Which of these did Archie not use to barter for food?

4. On what does Samad blame all of his problems?

5. What does Samad win in a poker game?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Shiva's reaction to Samad's admission that he has fallen for an English woman?

2. Describe the difference between Millat and Magid Iqbal.

3. What is the response to the hanging of Mangal Pande's portrait?

4. How does Alsana retaliate against Samad for sending Magid away?

5. Describe the conditions in which Archie Jones and Samad Iqbal met.

6. How does Archie know Horst Ibelgaufts?

7. What does Alsana feel is the biggest difference that divides people?

8. What argument does Neena have with Alsana?

9. What is the main source of tension between Archie and Clara as they move into their new house?

10. In Clara's perspective, what does "dealing with" Ryan consist of?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Samad Iqbal is a man who wants to be a good Muslim but does not always succeed. In an essay, explore at least two forces pulling on Samad that affect his faith and how these forces shape his identity.

Essay Topic 2

How would the story have been different if Millat had gone to Pakistan and Magid had stayed in England?

Essay Topic 3

What is the importance of O'Connell's in this story? Why does it have such a strong pull for Samad and Archie? What happens when Samad tries to introduce his son Magid there?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 800 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample