Kallafo

Kallafo is the small Somali village in which Askar was born. His father died in combat, and his mother died giving birth to him. He is raised by Misra, a woman who lives in the village. Kallafo is also the home of Askar’s uncle Qorrax. Askar eventually leaves the village when Ethiopian military aggression reaches that part of the country.

Mogadiscio

Mogadiscio, also spelled Mogadishu, is the capital and most populous city of Somalia. It is also known locally as Xamar or Hamar. Askar moves to Mogadiscio when he is eight years old to live with his uncle Hilaal and his aunt Salaado. Misra eventually moved there as well.

Ogaden

Ogaden is the disputed territory that lies between Somalia and Ethiopia. Although no scenes of the novel actually take place there, the characters often speak of it regarding the conflict between the two countries. Ethiopia eventually wins...