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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 loud noise awakens Archie and Samad one morning during their stay in the small village?

2. What are the names of the two poker tables at O'Connell's?

3. Who is Zinat Mahal?

4. Which of these things is not burned in the Iqbals' yard?

5. What is Archie's job?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is the place named "O'Connell's"?

2. Describe O'Connell's Poolroom.

3. Why does Hortense Bowden consider both herself and her daughter to be miracles?

4. What is the "End of the World Party 1975"?

5. What changes does Clara begin to notice in Ryan after he meets her mother?

6. Why does Samad arrive in Harlesden fifteen minutes early?

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

8. What is it that Samad says that brings Katie Miniver, chairwoman of the school governors, to the brink of tears?

9. How does Kelvin Hero treat Archie?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There is a variety of conflicts in this novel. Please choose one character and discuss the conflicts s/he is involved with and how they are resolved.

Essay Topic 2

What is the story of Mangal Pande and why is it so crucial to understanding the characters of Samad, Millat, and Magid Iqbal?

Essay Topic 3

Religion plays a large part in this novel. Please choose two characters and discuss how their religion--or lack of same--affects their life and story, and how it corresponds with their identity.

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