Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key plot points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Chapters 1-3

Reading Check

1. What item does Mariam own that is “the envy of all her friends?”

2. Why does Habib decide the family must leave Afghanistan?

3. Which banned item do Fadi and his family hide in shopping bags under vegetables?

4. Who is the Northern Alliance?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. Describe Fadi’s family members. What are their names and how old are they in relation to Fadi?

2. Where did Habib and his family live before Afghanistan? Why did they previously make the decision to return to Afghanistan?

3. What position does the Taliban offer Habib? Explain the context for this decision, as well as why they have decided to ask him.

Paired Resource

Soviet and Taliban Rule in Afghanistan

• An overview from NPR regarding 40 years of political crisis in Afghanistan
• Connects to the theme of The Taliban’s Transition From Afghanistan’s Savior to Its Oppressor
• Briefly summarize the different political regimes that controlled Afghanistan. How have these regime shaped the country? In this section of the novel, which regime controls Afghanistan? How does this shape the lives of the characters?