This section presents terms and phrases that are central to understanding the text and may present a challenge to the reader. Use this list to create a vocabulary quiz or worksheet, to prepare flashcards for a standardized test, or to inspire classroom word games and other group activities.

1. dismal (adjective):

hopeless, dreary, displaying or causing gloom

“That way, when I graduated, I could work at an artisanal tea store, instead of one that added the latest superfood extract to whatever dismal fannings the corporate tea blenders could find at the steepest discount.” (Chapter 1, Page 3)

2. vacant (adjective):

empty, deserted

“The air smelled dry and vacant after weeks of rain.” (Chapter 2, Page 10)

3. indiscretions (plural noun):

acts characterized by poor judgment and/or loose morals

“There was no point arguing with Stephen Kellner about dietary indiscretions” (Chapter 3, Page 17)

4. leviathan (noun):

a sea monster or large sea creature

“The largest fish, a leviathan nearly the size of Laleh’s hand, only had its right eye.” (Chapter 4, Page 26)

5.  derelict (adjective):

falling apart or in poor condition, usually due to neglect and/or abandonment

“I knotted the two loose straps together so I could sling the derelict hulk of my backpack over my shoulder like a satchel, gathered my stuff up, and hurried to gym.