New York City

New York City is the place where Moth and her family lived before the car accident. The city was full of life and energy. Moth says that its sounds and smells enlivened her. While living here, she discovered her love for dance. Her mother would take her from one dance studio to the next. Although New York was more diverse than Virginia, Moth still met adversity as a young Black girl in the city.

Virginia

Virginia is the state where Aunt Jack lives. She and her family were driving here when they got into the car accident. After the accident, Moth ends up in Virginia with her Aunt Jack. Because she is one of the only Black students at her new school, she feels alone and alienated. Her aunt drinks heavily and neglects her, thus amplifying Moth's sadness.

Sani moves to Virginia two years after Moth's...