Chapters 1-4

Reading Check

1. The United Nations (Chapter 1)

2. Kirundi and Swahili (Chapter 1)

3. Hauts Plateaux (Chapter 2)

Short Answer

1. Sandra’s mother did not have a “love marriage,” but rather an arranged one. Sandra’s mother also had several miscarriages, but then went on to have six children. Sandra describes how having children is seen as an indicator of health and wealth, unless the children are all girls since girls are deemed “useless.” (Chapter 2)

2. Sandra’s father differs from other fathers of girls in Sandra’s tribe because he had ambitions for his daughter. He also wanted them to be educated. Most other fathers in Banyamulenge culture deemed their daughters to not be of value. (Chapter 4)

Chapters 5-8

Reading Check

1. A café (Chapter 5)

2. Rain/flooding (Chapter 6)

3. Her pale-blue dress (Chapter 7)

Short Answer

1. Because Sandra’s favorite uncle, Rumenge, had been killed during a regional conflict. His death plunges Sandra’s mother Rachel into depression. (Chapter 5)

2. They rely heavily on their faith to try and stay positive. They and other refugees awaken at 6:00am every morning to pray with a pastor.