Events
What event causes Marys death?
Complications during childbirth
How does the novel explore the theme of abandonment?
Through Dr. Stone leaving his sons and the emotional toll it takes on Marion and Shiva
Who is Hema?
A doctor and maternal figure for Marion and Shiva.
What does Dr. Stone do when he realizes Mary has died?
He panics, blames himself, and leaves missing
Character who avoids responsibility and emotional connection.
Dr. Stone
What does Ghosh fear about Hema when she is to return from Missing?
That she will be married
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Who is Zemui? (BONUS!) What is his backstory?
Zemui is a soldier, driver for the Emperor and Genets father. He recently returned from a UN mission in the Congo.
What does Hema do about Shiva not talking? What does Marion say to Hema?
Hema makes them read and do homework all the time. Marion yells that Shiva will speak when he wants to.
How does the setting of Missing Hospital shape the characters’ lives?
Missing Hospital becomes a central hub where characters like Hema, Ghosh, and Marion find their purpose, face challenges, and develop relationships
Why does Ghosh step up to perform surgeries after Stone leaves?
Because no one else is available and he believes in the Hippocratic Oath
Describe the relationship between Hema and Dr. Stone
They share mutual respect for each other medical expertise however, this changes when Mary dies and Hema disapproves of Stones response to the her death/the birth of the twins.
Oversees the hospital and acts as a moral compass for the characters
Who is Matron?
Who is Eli Harris? (BONUS!) and what does Matron say to him?
A member of Houston Baptist Congregation, he donates money to Missing. Matron confesses she lied about how the money was being spent.
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What does Hema feel towards Stone after his children are born?
How does Marion and Shivas relationship evolve after childhood?
their bond becomes strained as their differences grow. Shiva is closer to Hema, Marion grows closer to Ghosh
Genets Mother
Who is Rosina?
Why does the Emperor call the hospital?
To advise Missing that if a soldier comes by, not to treat him and to call him personally.
Characters that exemplify the theme of sacrifice (with examples)
Mary - Sacrifices her life to have the twins. Sacrifices her health to treat patients on the boat
Ghosh and Hema - Sacrifice their careers and goals to take on the responsibility of raising the kids
Stone - Sacrifices his finger to prevent infection and continue to treat patients
What does Gebrew to with Koochooloos pups? What significant event occurs because of this?
He disposes of them which prompts Shiva to start talking again
How does Ghosh initially feel about the twins? How does that change?
He was jealous and uninterested in Shiva and Marion, but eventually he feels more paternal and beings to love them.
How does Shivas personaity differ from Marion?
Shiva is more introverted and emotionally detached, while Marion is more empathetic and analytical?
What does Hema agree to do with Ghosh? (BONUS!) Why does she do this?
Marry him but only for a year. She fears that he is only marrying her out of obligation to the twins as well as is unsure if she will want to "renew" their marriage.
Why is Col Mebratu a significant character in the novel?
He challenges Ghosh's moral compass. He shows the readers that Ghosh is a competent surgeon. He provokes the dispute between Ghosh and Hema.