How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Title.Paragraph)
Quote #10
I reach under my bed and pull out the American storybook, the one Harish gave me. I hold it out to the American. He cocks his head to one side, puzzled.
I point to a picture. "Elmo," I say.
He nods slowly. (168.Digital Magic.24-26)
Throughout the novel, language and learning have become tied to friendship and comfort. Language allowed Lakshmi to connect to Harish and others in the brothel, and here she takes the American storybook and uses it as a bridge between herself and the American.
Quote #11
He bows and says, "Namaste," the word in my language that means hello and good-bye.
The American's last word to Lakshmi after their planning is one in her own language. This is pretty important stuff—not only will Lakshmi be saying hello to freedom, but she'll be saying to good-bye to everything about her life at Happiness House. What else might she be saying hello or goodbye to?