Discuss the theme of storytelling as a unifying thread in the collection. How do Edwidge Danticat’s characters use stories in order to cope with their experiences?

Explore the depiction of female sexuality in the collection. Is female desire presented as a natural part of life, or as a threat to society? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

How does the title of the collection—which is inspired by Haitian storytelling traditions—speak to individual stories? Discuss the role of the call-and-response structure within the collection.