In the absence of a mother, Nisha relies on other people to give her what she thinks her mother would provide. Who does she rely on, and what roles do they play in Nisha’s life?

Describe Papa’s relationship with Amil. How does it change over time, and what prompts the changes in Papa’s behavior toward Amil? Consider Nisha’s description of their younger years and trace their relationship through to the end of the story.

How does the birth of Pakistan parallel the family’s character development throughout the novel?