Same Sun Here

River and Meena have grandmothers who are similar in many ways. What are the similarities between Mawmaw and Dadi, and how do these women influence their grandchildren in similar ways?

Compare and contrast Meena and River. How are they similar, and how are they different? How do their similarities and differences contribute to their friendship and personal growth?

What challenges does Meena’s family face as immigrants? What does the Joshi’s experience teach readers about the process of immigrating to the United States?

How are character names significant in the novel? How do they reinforce major themes, plot events, and characterization?

The authors choose two very different states as settings for the book: New York and Kentucky. What are the main differences between the states? What are the stereotypes associated with each state, and what do Meena and River find out about those stereotypes?

House and Vaswani use imagery to highlight Meena and River’s appreciation for nature. How is nature portrayed in the novel? What do House and Vaswani suggest about the importance of nature? 

Just like the Joshi’s, Mrs. Lau is also an immigrant. How do House and Vaswani highlight her immigration experience, and how does her character further the theme that immigrants to the US face many challenges?

Rather than writing a traditional narrative, House and Vaswani use letters as a means of constructing a story. How does the use of letters contribute to the tone, plot, and overall message of the book?