World of Wonders: In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments

Nezhukumatathil recounts a folktale from the Philippines in “Whale Shark” and pieces of Indian folklore in “Monsoon.” What do these folktales achieve in the essays and in the book as a whole, and how do they help Nezhukumatathil understand her heritage?

“Monsoon” is the only chapter in World of Wonders not titled after a living organism. Seasons also come up several times throughout the book, particularly summer. What purpose do seasons serve in Nezhukumatathil’s narrative, and how do they augment her other themes?

As a child, Nezhukumatathil is insecure and shy. Her sons, on the other hand, “unabashedly love to dance” (137). What lessons has Nezhukumatathil learned about parenting, and how does she apply them?