Destiny
What sparked Shalini's obsession with Wonder Woman?
The cartoon version and the television series sparked her obsession.
What is Tanveer's (or Tanny's) nickname for Daryl?
Lynchy
What was Vanessa Woods' score on her maths exam?
96%
How did the narrator (Amy Choi) feel about her grandfather at first?
She was not particularly kind and often felt indifferent (or uncaring) towards him.
What time does the Chan family's Chinese take away officially open?
How did Shalini's grandmother feel about Wonder Woman's costume?
The grandmother thought it looked like Wonder Woman had forgotten to put on her skirt and didn't approve of it.
How does Tanveer feel about his father's haircuts?
He feels embarrassed and wishes for a different style, as he is not interested in the outdated fashion.
Who is David and what makes him significant to Vanessa's mother?
David is the narrator's cousin who received a high score on his HSC (senior certificate) and is seen as a source of pride for the mother.
How does language play a role in Amy Choi's relationship with her grandfather?
Language serves as a barrier initially, but later becomes a bridge for reconnection and understanding.
What is Lily Chan's main responsibility at the take away shop?
Managing the cash float and helping with front-of-house tasks.
What practical clothing suggestion did the grandmother make for Indian Wonder Woman?
The grandmother suggested that Indian Wonder Woman could wear a lungi over her sparkly pants.
Describe the friendship between the narrator (Tanveer) and Lynchy.
They are close friends who spend time together after school, riding bikes and playing games. The narrator admires Lynchy and feels a mix of envy and admiration for his lifestyle.
How does Vanessa feel about her mixed heritage?
Vanessa feels ashamed and struggles with her identity, as she and her sister don’t look traditionally Chinese and feel pressure to succeed like their relatives.
What event marked a turning point in the grandfather's ability to care for himself?
The grandfather falling and hitting his head marked a significant decline in his ability to care for himself.
What popular dish combines three items into one meal?
The shandy special.
How did the grandmother contribute to Shalini's understanding of cultural identity?
The grandmother reminded Shalini that she was Indian and discussed how her identity impacted her aspirations (or dreams).
What does Lynchy's mother serve to the narrator during his visit?
She serves him rissoles in sandwiches and green cordial.
What is Yee Mah known for?
Yee Mah is known for her strictness and harsh discipline, often threatening her grandchildren with physical punishment.
What does Amy Choi's journey to relearn Chinese symbolize?
The journey symbolizes her desire for connection and understanding, in her relationships with her Chinese relatives.
What is the significance of the Laus family?
They are the only other Chinese family in town and are both competitors and friends of Lily Chan's family.
How does the concept of "destiny" evolve (or change) for Shalini by the end of the story?
By the end of the story, she decides to change her destiny and embrace her identity by aspiring to be Indian Wonder Woman, combining her cultural heritage with her superhero aspirations.
Discuss the significance of the rissole in the story.
The rissole represents cultural differences and the bond between the boys. It also signifies the narrator's longing for acceptance and the connection he feels to Lynchy's family compared to his own.
What cultural expectations does Vanessa's mother have for her children?
The mother expects her children to do well academically, achieve high scores, and ultimately bring honour and success to the family.
How does the Amy's perception of her grandfather change by the end of the story?
She gains a deeper appreciation for their grandfather and feels regret for not being more kind and attentive.
How does Lily Chan feel about her current situation?
Lily feels a strong desire to get out of the town and she doesn't look forward to the routine of working in the take-away shop.