We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.

Cutting for Stone Chapter 23: The Afterbird and Other Animals Summary

How It All Goes Down

  • One day, Hema announces that the boys will stay home from school because of trouble in the city.
  • It turns out that Ghosh's friend Mebratu (now a general) has engineered a coup, arresting ministers loyal to the emperor. (This is loosely based on reality.)
  • Rosina leaves Genet and goes to find Zemui, whom she hasn't seen in a week.
  • Since the boys can't go to school, Hema says they can go with her to the Version Clinic, which is something she's never allowed them to do before.
  • The pregnant women at the clinic spoil Shiva and Marion rotten while they wait for Hema to come and flip their unborn babies into proper birthing position.
  • Shiva is very interested in the whole sex-and-pregnancy situation, but Hema shoos him away without answering his questions.