Discuss the significance and symbolism of olives and olive trees throughout "House of Stone". Be sure to use examples from the text to support your answer.

Shadid is nostalgic for his great-grandfather's time before the end of the Ottoman Empire, yet by rebuilding Isber's house he will not resurrect the Ottomans, and Lebanon will continue to be mired in political tension. Do you think his goal of "home" is truly achieved by the end of the memoir? Why or why not? Be sure to use examples from the text to support your answer.

What are the biggest obstacles Shadid faces in getting his house rebuilt? How do these obstacles reflect the theme of culture class in the memoir? Be sure to use examples from the text to support your answer.

Shadid titled his memoir "House of Stone". "Stone" is a word with many connotations...