Summary

Chapter ten is a welcome break from the hardships and struggles Rukmani and her family continues to endure throughout the book. During this chapter the Festival of Lights, Deepavalli occurs. Due to the extra money being earned by their eldest sons, it is the first time the family can afford to buy fireworks to set off during the festival. Traditionally a holiday and celebration for children, this particular year finds everyone in a great mood, most of all Rukmani’s husband who jokingly lifts her high above the village crowd to better view the spectacle. That night, exhausted and happy from the fun of the evening, Rukmani’s seventh child is conceived.

Analysis

This short chapter occurs as a brief break from the heartache and struggles of Rukmani’s ever-changing world for both the characters and the readers. Not only is this chapter indicative of the...