Exploring Themes in 'Two Kinds' by Amy Tan

The story revolves around a young girl whose mother believes in the limitless opportunities in America. She pushes her daughter to become a prodigy, inspired by figures like Shirley Temple. Despite various attempts, including piano lessons, the girl struggles with her mother's expectations, leading to a rebellion. Over time, she learns to accept her identity, realizing that her mother's dreams were rooted in love and hope.

What did the narrator's mother believe about America?

• It was a place where only the rich could succeed.

• It was a place with limited opportunities.

• It was a place where you had to work hard to survive.

• It was a place where you could be anything you wanted.

What was the first prodigy idea the narrator's mother had for her?

• A famous singer

• A Chinese Shirley Temple

• A piano prodigy

• A chess champion

How did the narrator feel about the tests her mother gave her?

• She felt indifferent and uninterested.

• She found them easy and fun.

• She enjoyed them and looked forward to them.

• She hated them and felt her mother's disappointment.

Who was Mr. Chong?

• The narrator's school teacher

• A famous pianist

• The narrator's piano teacher

• A neighbor who played the violin

What was the narrator's attitude towards her piano lessons?

• She was eager to learn and practiced diligently.

• She was determined not to try and made many mistakes.

• She was indifferent and played perfectly.

• She was scared of her piano teacher.

What piece did the narrator play at the talent show?

• Moonlight Sonata

• Pleading Child

• Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

• Fur Elise

How did the narrator's performance at the talent show go?

• She played perfectly and received a standing ovation.

• She made many mistakes and felt ashamed.

• She refused to play and walked off the stage.

• She played well but was not satisfied.

What was the narrator's reaction when her mother asked her to practice piano after the talent show?

• She ignored her mother and continued watching TV.

• She eagerly agreed to practice more.

• She refused and rebelled against her mother.

• She cried and begged not to play again.

What did the narrator's mother offer her for her 30th birthday?

• A trip to China

• The old piano she used to practice on

• A new piano

• A set of jewelry

What did the narrator realize about the two pieces 'Pleading Child' and 'Perfectly Contented'?

• They were two separate songs with no connection.

• They were both difficult to play.

• They were both written by different composers.

• They were two halves of the same song.