You Bring the Distant Near

From the novel’s opening pages, Ranee and Sonia’s relationship provides much of the story’s conflict and plays a key role in the theme of family dynamics. What factors play into this fraught mother-daughter relationship? How do they eventually find reconciliation and resolution?

How do the Das women find empowerment by channeling their creativity and following their passions? Consider characters from multiple generations in your response.

In what ways is Ranee shaped by the theme of Love and Understanding Across Differences? At first, what holds her back from appreciating cultural and racial differences, and what are the results of her intolerance? Which events and characters help her to become more understanding and loving? By the end of the novel, how does Ranee demonstrate her growth?

Compare Ranee, Sonia, and Anna’s personality traits. In what ways do these similarities lead to conflict? In what ways do they contribute to positive bonds? How do these relationships develop the theme of Family Dynamics and Cultural Identity?

How does Perkins utilize color symbolism to give insight into her characters’ grieving processes? Consider Ranee and Tara in your response.

How does Sonia’s diary function as a motif for the theme of Womanhood and Empowerment? How does the diary contribute to the plot and Ranee’s character development?

The events of the novel unfold across four continents. How does Perkins use setting to develop the theme of Family Dynamics and Cultural Identity?

Saris symbolize Bengali womanhood. How does Tara’s first experience wearing a sari give insight into her connection to her culture and her evolving understanding of what it means to be a Bengali woman?