Themes
How does Laetitia’s move to the city symbolize her journey into adulthood?
Laetitia’s move to the city represents her first step toward independence. She has to adjust to a new environment, face challenges on her own, and make decisions without the constant presence of her grandmother, which helps her mature
Describe the rural setting where Laetitia lives at the beginning of the novel.
Laetitia grows up in a quiet, close-knit rural village with her Granny. This environment is simple and peaceful, which helps shape her into a thoughtful, grounded, and respectful young girl. The rural lifestyle also teaches her the value of hard work and community support.
What is the name of the literature Teacher?
Mr. Joseph
From what point of view is the story written?
First person
Why is Laetitia's Mother in the US?
To work to support her family
Family and Responsibility
What role does Granny play in shaping Laetitia’s values and sense of responsibility?
Granny is Laetitia’s main caregiver and role model. Through her discipline, wisdom, and high expectations, she instills strong values in Laetitia, such as hard work, honesty, and respect for others.
What are some of the main differences between the country and the city in the novel?
The city is noisy, crowded, and fast-paced compared to the calm and familiar countryside. Laetitia feels overwhelmed at first by the city’s busyness and the lack of personal connections. However, she gradually adapts, even though she misses the warmth and comfort of home.
Who is the protagonist in the story?
Laetitia
How does Merle Hodge use irony in the novel to comment on family dynamics?
Irony is evident in the portrayal of Michael, Laetitia’s half-brother, who, despite being in a traditional nuclear family, struggles academically.
Why did Ms. Velma not complete high school?
She was stopped so that her brother could go to high school
Education and Opportunity
Why is education so important to Laetitia, and how does it influence her future?
Education is Laetitia’s key to escaping poverty and achieving a better life. It gives her the tools and confidence to dream big and work toward a future where she can make her own choices.
How does the school setting in the city affect Anjanee’s view of herself and her goals?
The city school challenges Laetitia academically and socially. Being among students from wealthier backgrounds makes her aware of class differences, and her lack of basic necessities for school
What is the name of Ma Willie's friend who lives close to Latitia in la Puerta?
Ma Zelline
Provide an example of figurative language in the novel and discuss its effect.
flashback, foreshadowing
What role does Anjanee play in the novel, and how does her story impact Laetitia?
Anjanee's experiences reflect the struggles of young women, and her story serves as a cautionary tale that influences Laetitia's decisions.
Poverty and Social Class
In what ways does Anjanee’s background affect her experiences at school?
Anjanee often feels out of place among her peers and struggles to afford basic needs. Her background makes her more determined to succeed but also highlights the social inequalities she faces.
In what ways does the author use the setting to reflect Laetitia’s emotional journey throughout the novel?
The rural setting reflects comfort, love, and familiarity, while the city symbolizes struggle, growth, and independence.
Who was referred to as Circus Horse?
Mrs Lopez
Describe how the author uses contrast as a literary device in the novel.
Hodge contrasts settings, such as the rural village of Balatier and the urban environment of La Puerta, to highlight Laetitia’s internal conflicts and growth. The differing environments underscore themes of tradition versus modernity and the challenges of adapting to new social contexts.
Who discovered the girls in the mall in La Puerta?
Mr. Tewarie
Gender Roles
How does Anjanee challenge traditional gender expectations in the novel?
Anjanee challenges gender roles by being determined, and ambitious in a society where girls are often expected to be quiet or submissive. She insists on pursuing her education despite family pressure.
. How does the contrast between Laetitia’s home with Granny and her father’s house in the city highlight key differences in her relationships?
Granny’s home is warm, nurturing, and filled with love, which makes Laetitia feel secure and valued. In contrast, her father’s house is cold and restrictive, emphasizing control and obedience.
Which of the following was not a member of Letitia's family? Jamesie, Monica, Kenwyn, Kenneth, Leroy
Kenneth
In what way does the author use imagery to enhance the reader's understanding of Laetitia's experiences?
Hodge uses vivid imagery to depict the stark contrast between Laetitia's rural home and the urban environment of La Puerta. Descriptions of the bustling, impersonal city streets versus the warm, familiar countryside help readers grasp Laetitia's feelings of alienation and her longing for the comfort of her grandmother's home.
Identify three types of abuse portrayed in the novel.
Physical, verbal, financial, emotional/psychological