Questions about the Novel

What is the gift Amal delivers to Mrs. Vaselli for her birthday? (from Chapters 15-20)

• A shawl.

• A set of tea cups.

• A package of scones.

• A shadow box for trinkets.

What does Gulchin want for Leila's future? (from Chapters 7-9)

• To drop out of school and become a wife and mother.

• To complete her education and marry.

• To be a teacher.

• To study the Koran and become a missionary.

Who is Allen? (from Chapters 21-24)

• Joe's boss.

• Mohamed's neighbor.

• Samantha's boyfriend.

• Mandy's brother.

What does Amal tell Adam about the reason she observes prayer time in the middle of the day? (from Chapters 15-20)

• No one knows that she is going to pray each day.

• Her parents would be disappointed if she skipped a prayer time.

• She sometimes does not pray, but always takes the time to be alone.

• It is a chance for her to regroup to face the rest of the day.

Who is Hakan? (from Chapters 10-14)

• Leila's brother.

• Amal's cousin.

• Eileen's boyfriend.

• Yasmeen's father.

What is the main reason Amal hesitates to sign up for the debate team? (from Chapters 7-9)

• She cannot imagine working so closely with Adam.

• She does not believe she is a good debater.

• She is trying to avoid conflict with Tia.

• She fears standing in front of a crowd while wearing the hijab.

What is Amal doing when she comes to the decision to wear the hijab all the time? (from Chapters 1-3)

• Watching television.

• Visiting with a neighbor.

• Reading the Koran.

• Praying.

Why did Joe and Mandy change their names? (from Chapters 7-9)

• They are hiding from debt collectors.

• They wanted names that were easier to spell.

• They did not want to embarrass their children with foreign-sounding names.

• They are trying to assimilate into Australian culture.

What does Adam reveal about his parents? (from Chapters 10-14)

• His father has moved to America and his mother is a model.

• His parents are happily married.

• His mother is a successful designer and his father is often away on business.

• His mother is gone and his father is busy.

What does the woman on the bus do that restores Amal's hope in the basic kindness of people? (from Chapters 15-20)

• Holds Amal's hands to keep her from shaking with fear and anger.

• Tells some boys to stop taunting Amal.

• Tells the bus driver to turn down the news.

• Helps Amal straighten her hijab.