Family

Family is arguably the overarching theme across the novel and forms the basis for allowing the characters to express themselves, change, and grow. The entire novel is centered around one family, and spans five generations (including Manar's baby, June) giving the reader an immediate glance into how extensive and significant family ties can be. The family members are all connected through different characteristics, interests, and struggles, and although they do not always get along with each other, the value of family overrides any differences between them and unity wins out in the end.

Riham and Atef are described as being very close, having similar personalities and sharing some of the same interests. Likewise, Souad and Alia are said to be so alike they are almost the same person. These connections, although similar in nature, yield very different outcomes as can be seen in the characters' interactions...