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Sandra Wagner-Wright
a book bubble about
Two Coins: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)
Literature & Fiction
Author Insight
Behind the Lattice Screen
Mary and her protege Miss Bartlett arrive at a zenana, the area of the house where women are secluded. Offering lessons in zenanas is an important part of the Female Mission. Mary needs permission from the male head of household and the senior wife. She also needs to encourage the women and girls to learn. Mary brings prizes for those who complete their lessons. Scottish women who support missions send the dolls. I wonder what the girls think about the exotic toys that look so different from themselves. I wonder if Mary would prefer it if the dolls at least had dark hair? But the blonde haired doll achieves Mary's goal; she's admitted to the zenana.
Book Excerpt
Two Coins: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)
The durwan leads us through the public areas to the back of the house and then up a curved staircase. There’s a lattice screen on the landing. The ladies probably like to watch from here. Especially, the children.
The durwan knocks at the door, then stands respectfully to the side. It opens slightly. A brown eye looks me up and down.
“If eyes are the mirror of the mind, then your eyes tell me you are both beautiful and clever,” I say in Bengali. “Admit us, and you can look all you wish.”
A chorus of giggles breaks out behind the door.
I ask the girl to bring Mata.
“She doesn’t like to be disturbed when she’s resting,” the girl replies.
“If you don’t let us in, you won’t receive the dolls we brought,” I say.
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