Relationships
How does Nana view Mariam?
She is shame to Nana. Mariam is constantly called a harami to show her unworthiness.
What is Laila's life like before the explosion?
Babi is very loving, while her mother is distracted by her brothers (first - being at war, second - their deaths). Laila believes you shouldn't have more children when all your love has already been given away.
What theme can the burqa represent?
Oppression and concealment
At first, how does Rasheed treat Mariam and Laila differently?
He is initially kinder to Laila (Mercedes) and harsh to Mariam (Volga). However, in the end is equally abusive to both.
What description below accurately describes Laila as she grows through the novel?
She is a survivor of war, abuse, and loss; however, she remains loyal to her children.
Why did Mariam go to Herat to see Jalil?
He had missed a promised visit, and it was her birthday wish.
Describe life under Taliban rule.
It is very traumatic, poverty, and oppression. The rules affect women more than men. They are at the mercy of the hands of their husbands and male chaperones.
What point of view is this written in? Why do you think it was effective?
3rd person limited
Answers will vary for second part.
What is a key sign that Tariq is still alive?
Mariam recognizes the bellman at the door, but cannot immediately place him. In the end, this shows that Rasheed has lied about Tariq's death.
The political instability of Afghanistan does not affect the story. It is only meant to give context.
What was the purpose of Rasheed marrying Mariam and Laila?
He wanted a son. Once he figured out that Mariam could not have children, he knew he wanted to add a second wife.
How do the Soviets impact the story?
They are responsible for deaths, especially blamed for Laila's brothers' death.
Why does alternating perspectives enhance the story?
It allows the reader to build empathy for both women while showing different sides of the same events.
Why does Laila return to Kabul in the end?
To help rebuild and to honor Mariam.
Which phrase best shows the theme of resilience of Afghan women in ATSS?
Rebellious of all rules and men
Adaptive to all change
Endure and rebuild
Isolation from the world
ANSWER IS C
What happens to the relationship between Mariam and Laila in the novel?
It goes from distrust and enemies to deep friendship and love. Laila was able to show Mariam unconditional love.
Do you think that Mariam was justified in her actions?
Answers will vary.
My version: Yes, she saved the lives of Laila and her children and finally stood up for herself even though she knew the consequences.
How does Jalil's character affect Mariam's life?
His rejection caused her trauma and shapes her self-worth.
Why is Mariam at peace with her decision to kill Rasheed?
It was the first time in life that she had made her own decision.
What effect does Afghanistan's political instability have, not just in the novel, but in society?
It causes trauma and oppression.
How do we see motherhood in the novel?
We see both Laila and Mariam become mothers in very different ways. Motherhood shows both suffering and empowerment.
Why do they want to send Mariam so far away to Kabul with her marriage to Rasheed?
They send her away as she is a social disgrace. The farther away she is, the better it will be.
What role do Laila's children play in her decisions?
They motivate her to endure hardships and seek a better life. She does this by marrying Rasheed, so Aziza has a father. She does this by attempting to run away with Mariam. She does this by allowing Mariam to turn herself in as Mariam wishes to do.
What leads Mariam to killing Rasheed?
He is strangling Laila, and she knows that if she doesn't kill him, he will kill them both.
What did Hasina tell Laila at one point?
"Giti and I, we'll have pushed out four or five kids each. But you, Laila, you'll make us two dummies proud. You're going to be somebody. I know one day I'll pick up a newspaper and find your picture on the front."