In South Sudan in 1985, an eleven-year-old boy named Salva sits in class, while his teacher drones on about "the Arabic language.' Salva speaks the language of the Dinka tribe, but in school he learns Arabic, the official language of Sudan. Salva is lucky to be able to go to school. His father is successful and works as a village judge. Salva's three brother go to school, but his two sisters don't-instead, they stay home and learn "how to keep house."

When and where does the passage take place?

What is the main character's name?

What language did Salva learn at school?

Why doesn't Salva's sister attend school?