Love

Amidst all of the chaos and tumult of the plot, there are many different loving relationships that provide the characters with some forms of stability, comfort, and even fulfillment. The first major instance of such a relationship is that of Anvar and his grandmother, Naani Jaan. From his youth, Anvar is often positioned as the outcast of the family, while his older brother Aamir is considered smarter, more devout, and more virtuous. Anvar says in narration, “Back then there was only one person in the world who I knew preferred me to Aamir…Naani Jaan” (10). Naani Jaan helps to build Anvar’s confidence by teaching him checkers and using the game as a metaphorical framework for life lessons. Naani Jaan’s love and attention contrasts the more strained relationship that Anvar has with his other family members. Through this contrast, the novel demonstrates the value of...