Vocab 1
This word describes something so large and hollow that it feels echoing and overwhelming — often creating a mood of isolation.
Cavernous
Wrapped tightly in cloth or blankets.
Swaddled
What is the baby’s name?
Lubna
Where did Amal go at the beginning of Chapter 16?
Amal went to Jawad Sahib’s estate.
Why was Amal nervous the morning Jawad Sahib was coming?
She was afraid of what Jawad Sahib would do after she spoke back to him.
When you describe someone as gangly, you can imagine they look:
tall, thin, and awkward-looking, especially because of long arms and legs.
A tall, slender tower attached to a mosque, from which the call to prayer is traditionally announced.
Minaret
Who showed Amal around Jawad Sahib’s estate?
Nabila
How many times per year would Amal be allowed to visit her family?
Twice a year.
Why was Abu furious with Amal after the accident?
Because she disrespected Jawad Sahib publicly, which could bring severe consequences to the whole family.
This word suggests something appeared suddenly and almost magically, shifting the tone of a scene.
Materialized
Chai
A brewed tea drink, often made with milk, sugar, and spices.
Why does Abu believe Amal will only stay “a few weeks… a month at most”?
Abu believes Amal will only stay a short time because he thinks he can quickly repay the debt and that Jawad Sahib will honor his word.
What detail about the estate gate emphasizes Amal’s loss of freedom?
The steel lock “clicked loudly” when the wrought-iron gate shut behind her, emphasizing imprisonment and loss of freedom.
Why was Amal confused about being blamed even though she was the one hit by the car?
Because she felt it was unfair — she was the one hit by the car, yet she was being punished.
To give out in small amounts.
Dole
Punishment or revenge for a wrong done.
Vengeance
Who was calm after hearing what Amal had done to Jawad Sahib?
Amal's mother remained most calm
Why did Jawad Sahib refuse the tea offered by Amal’s father?
He refused the tea to show dominance and to make it clear he was there on business, not as an equal guest.
Why did Abu owe Jawad Sahib money in the first place?
Because rains and drought destroyed crops, and Abu borrowed money to protect the family and farm.
This word refers to a cultural tradition involving property or money exchanged during marriage.
Dowry
Neatly trimmed, cleaned, or carefully maintained.
Manicured
Who is Mumtaz, and how is her situation similar to Amal’s?
Mumtaz is another servant on Jawad Sahib’s estate. Like Amal, she is working there to pay off a debt and does not have freedom.
What details show that the Khan family holds social and political power in the town?
The Khan family controls land, loans money to villagers, destroys fields when crossed, spreads fear through reputation, and no one openly challenges them.
What does Jawad Sahib mean when he says, “Then she will do”?
He means that Amal herself will be taken as payment for the family’s debt. Instead of accepting money, he decides that Amal will work on his estate to repay what her father owes.
This word refers to a mythical spirit in Islamic tradition.
Jinn
Hard to see or not distinct.
Obscured
How do the reactions of Amal’s parents reveal two different responses to power and fear?
Abu responds with fear and submission, believing survival depends on obedience. Amma responds with resistance and moral outrage, showing emotional strength and refusal to accept injustice easily.
How does the physical setting of Jawad Sahib’s estate reinforce themes of control and hierarchy?
The massive walls, armed guard, locked gate, manicured lawns, and separation between the luxurious main house and servant quarters highlight hierarchy, wealth inequality, and control.
How does Jawad Sahib’s reputation alone create fear in Amal’s family before he takes any action?
Jawad Sahib’s reputation creates fear because the family already knows the stories about him burning fields, destroying villages, and punishing people harshly. Even before he does anything, Amal’s parents panic because they believe he is capable of serious harm. His past actions and the rumors about his cruelty make them feel powerless and afraid, showing that his influence comes not only from what he does, but from what people believe he might do.