Sophie’s dreams and disappointments are all in her mind.

Franz thinks, “Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?” What could this mean?
(There could be more than one answer.)

The people in this story suddenly realise how precious their language is to them. What shows you this? Why does this happen?

Is Saheb happy working at the tea-stall? Explain.

Would you agree that promises made to poor children are rarely kept? Why do you think this happens in the incidents narrated in the text?

How is Mukesh’s attitude to his situation different from that of his family?

What was Franz expected to be prepared with for school that day?

How do we know that ordinary people too contributed to the freedom movement?

Mention the hazards of working in the glass bangles industry.

How was Gandhi able to influence lawyers? Give instances.

How did the episode change the plight of the peasants?

Franz thinks, “Will they make them sing in German, even the pigeons?” What could this mean?
(There could be more than one answer.)

Subbu is described as a many-sided genius. List four of his special abilities.

How is Mukesh’s attitude to his situation different from that of his family?

Why didn’t Sophie want Jansie to know about her story with Danny?

Is Saheb happy working at the tea-stall? Explain.

What did Franz notice that was unusual about the school that day?

The people in this story suddenly realise how precious their language is to them. What shows you this? Why does this happen?

Do you think Umberto Eco likes being interviewed? Give reasons for your opinion.

What was Franz expected to be prepared with for school that day?

The author has used gentle humour to point out human foibles. Pick out instances of this to show how this serves to make the piece interesting.