Cultural Integration

The author frequently juxtapositions American culture and Pakistani culture throughout the novel in order to show the duality of their existence in the protagonist's life, showing what a delicate and challenging balance culture integration can be for people who want to feel like they belong where they live, but also do not want to forget where they came from.

For example, Thaya Jaan’s arrival in America encapsulates the notion of cultural integration. Thaya Jaan represents traditional Pakistani culture. Therefore, when he first steps foot in America, he already combines two cultures together. This sentiment is compounded when Amina compares Thaya Jaan to Santa Claus in Chapter 9. Santa Claus is a staple of Christian culture, so merging Christian and Muslim cultures through Thaya Jaan emphasizes the notion of Cultural integration.

Another character that captures the theme of cultural integration is Amina’s father. A seemingly...