Red, White, and Whole

Reha undergoes important character development as the story progresses. How is she different at the beginning and end of the story? What has she learned and how has she changed? Provide examples from the text.

As the daughter of immigrants, Reha feels caught between two worlds. If you are an immigrant or the child of immigrants, Reha’s story may sound familiar to you. Write a personal essay comparing your own experiences to Reha’s. How are they the same, and how are they different?

Reha wants to be a doctor, but she is afraid of blood. Are there ways that Reha could pursue her dream of studying medicine while also honoring her own needs? Imagine some potential futures for Reha that would make sense given her interests and strengths.

Reha’s religion is an important way in which she relates to her culture; the same is true of Rachel. If you practice a religion, how do your religious beliefs connect you to your heritage and family? If you are not religious, what other cultural touchstones, like holidays or foods, are important for you? Why?

At the end of the book, Reha gets an aerogramme from her mother that helps her process her grief. Write your own aerogramme imagining what Reha would say to her mother if Amma were still alive. Alternatively, write your own aerogramme to someone you know who has passed away.

Reha comes from a Hindu family with origins in Bangalore, India. Do your own research to learn more about the culture of Reha’s family. Write an essay detailing what you have learned about Hinduism, the history of Bangalore, or what Bangalore is like in the present day.

Reha and Pete have very different relationships to their parents that inform how they behave and how they relate to others. Compare and contrast these parental relationships and explore how each character is affected by them.

At several points in the story, Reha and her family members experience other people’s racism and ignorance, such as when a girl in Reha’s school asks her if she speaks “Indian.” Using examples from the text, explore how these experiences have shaped Reha’s experience of the world. Consider the book’s themes when formulating your answer.