In the chapter “Allegiance,” how do Lalami’s personal anecdotes contribute to the books’ themes and rhetoric? What intersections of personal and political dynamics do these anecdotes highlight?

At several points in the book, Lalami uses personal anecdotes to demonstrate some of the personal costs of injustice. She also humanizes and individuates herself as a member of an oppressed group. Readers should discuss the ways in which her anecdotes in this chapter relate to harmful dynamics such as xenophobia.

In the chapter “Faith,” what ideas and arguments does Lalami develop in response to her anecdote about the literary event? How does this chapter explore ideas of cultural stereotyping?

In this chapter, Lalami recalls a time when she was at a literary event to promote a book of hers. A woman asked her a question about ISIS, which was not relevant to the book. Lalami states that this...