Boots

Sami's football boots are symbolic of desire. At the start of the novel, Sami is overcome by guilt because he sent his mother and sister to the mall to get his boots on the day of the bombing. He realizes that his desires and needs were selfish, and that they ultimately endangered his family.

Damascus

Damascus is symbolic of safety. This is not only the city in Syria where Sami has spent the entirety of his life. Rather, it is the only portion of the country that has been untouched by the war until the bombing. Therefore, Sami has convinced himself that Damascus is safe and secure, and thus a place in which he will always be at peace.

Syria

Syria is symbolic of belonging. Sami is devastated when his parents decide to flee Syria for England. He does not want to leave his home country...