Summary

The book’s first chapter is entitled “Allegiance.” The author, Laila Lalami, begins the book by recalling her experience of becoming an American citizen. Lalami is originally from Morocco, and she came to the United States for graduate school and work. Eventually, she fell in love with an American man, and they married. She officially became a U.S. citizen in the year 2000, and the ceremony took place at the Pomona Fairplex in Los Angeles, California. Lalami recalls how joyous and hopeful she felt during the ceremony. The judge who oversaw the ceremony gave an impassioned speech about the ideals of America. However, in the 20 years that have passed since that day, Lalami has become disillusioned in many ways about the country’s supposed ideals. She has also become aware of many ways in which the United States does not give equal rights to...