Shirin

Shirin is a high school sophomore when this novel takes place. Shirin's parents are from Persia. The family lived in Iran for a year when Shirin was younger, but she was born in America and considers herself American. She is often defined by her choice to wear a hajib. The novel takes place soon after the 2001 attacks on America when many were afraid of anyone who showed signs of being Muslim or Middle Eastern. She is highly intelligent but struggles socially, mostly because she has encountered so much prejudicial treatment. These encounters have caused Shirin to become jaded. She distrusts most overtures of friendship. She fully expects prejudice and anger. Shirin makes a point of avoiding any situation that requires her to be social. To complicate this situation, her parents move the family at least once a year, always toward a better job, house, or opportunities. Shirin lives...