Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- Why is Lakshmi's story in first-person? And why is it a series of poetic vignettes instead of traditional prose?
- What purpose might McCormick have in both writing about this topic and ending the novel where she ends it?
- Why does McCormick leave the stories of the other girls in Happiness House so uncertain? That is, why doesn't she follow what happens to Pushpa and her children, Shahanna, and Monica?
- As Lakshmi settles into her new reality, McCormick inserts friendships, hopes, and even humor into Lakshmi's story. Why?
- This book is marketed as a young adult book. Do you agree with this classification? Why?
- Does it matter the McCormick—despite her extensive research—is still an outsider writing about cultures and experiences entirely not her own?