Cindy (Zomorod's Nickname)

Cindy is the name Zomorod decides she will use because Zomorod is so difficult for Americans to say, and it symbolizes her desire to fit in. Mohsen has the same struggle because people cannot pronounce his name, and he often tells people to call him Mo.

The Hostage Crisis

This is symbolic of the attitude of violence being condoned by the new leaders of Iran, even though many of the country's people did not participate. The crisis sparks a level of hatred for Iran that spills over to the individual Iranians, and results in prejudice and persecution of Iranians living in America.

The Gas Crisis

The gas crisis takes place after the hostage crisis, and it symbolizes the severed relations between America and Iran. Young readers will have no point of reference for this situation, but older readers will likely remember these events and...