Themes/Motifs
Family
Who is narrating the story from the first person POV of their 10 year old self
Lilia
Which two countries were at war?
India and Pakistan
What does the candy Mr. Pirzada gives Lilia a symbol of?
Human connection
What theme is represented through Mr. Pirzada and Lilia's parent's friendship?
Cross cultural connections (nationality)
Which two characters are from Kolkata?
Lilia's parents
What country is fighting for independence?
East Pakistan or Bangladesh
What does Lilia's prayer represent?
An act of Love
What theme is represented through the nightly news that Lilia and her family watch with Mr. Pirzada?
War
What is Lilia's best friends name?
Dora
Which two religions are feuding during war times?
Hindu and Muslim
What is Mr. Pirzada's clothing an allusion to?
A funeral (sudden death of his family)
What is halloween or the Jack O’ Lantern a motif for?
America in the eyes of foreigners and India in the eyes of America.
What letter do all of Mr. Pirzada's daughter's names start with?
What is the most war torn area of East Pakistan. This is where Mr. Pirzada's daughters and wife are.
Dacca
What does the TV/News symbolize?
The safety of Lilia's home but the reality of violence and war outside
What is Mr. Pirzada's pocket watch a motif for?
Connection with his family even across continents
Which character came to dine?
Mr. Pirzada
What nationality and religion does Mr. Pirzada identify with?
East Pakistani and Muslim
How are historical figures from the American Revolution an allusion to Indian history?