IO&BA: Part II Discussion

Open Ended

On page 85, why do you think that different passengers have different perspectives on the flag

being lowered?

Open Ended

On page 92, what does this mean?
"a man whose hair grows on his face not on his head in the color of flames."

Open Ended

On page 99, why do the girls always surround Brother Vu, begging him to break another piece of wood?

Open Ended

On page 100, what is nuoc mam and what does it represent for the Vietnamese refugees? Why are they so happy to eat it?

Open Ended

When Mother decides to sell the ring in order to buy supplies for the family, Brother Quang

protests, “What’s the point of new shirts and sandals if you lose the last tangible remnant of love?” (pages 103-104).

What does the symbol of the ring represent in the story?

Open Ended

When Mother decides to sell the ring in order to buy supplies for the family, Brother Quang

protests, “What’s the point of new shirts and sandals if you lose the last tangible remnant of love?” (pages 103-104).

What is Brother Quang trying to say?

Open Ended

When Mother decides to sell the ring in order to buy supplies for the family, Ha says she can't fall asleep unless she twists the ring and counts circles. (page 103)

What is she talkiing about and how do you think she feels about selling the ring?

Open Ended

On page 105-106, why does Mother end up choosing to go to America and start their new life there?

Open Ended

If you had to flee America as a refugee, where would you choose to start a new life? Give three reasons why you would choose that place.

Open Ended

Look up I John 2:1-6.

Using those verses, was it right for Mother to put their belief as Christian on their paperwork? Why or why not?

Draw

Draw a picture of Ha's family as they wait for a sponsor (page 107-109).