Chapter 2 Summary

Isabel begins revealing bits of her life's story. She met Isabel's famous brother, 'Omar, at a New York party and is attracted to him, despite the age difference and rumors he is involved with terrorists. Table conversation turns to the millennium, and Isabel announces she will go to Egypt, which already has 6,000 years of recorded history. 'Omar promises to think of people Amal should see while there. Amal looks 'Omar up in Who's Who and learns he is a musician and a writer. Isabel recalls how her father named her after the beautiful goddess Isis, and how her anxious mother, Jasmine, was forever mourning the loss of a son.

Chapter 2 Analysis

Isabel and 'Omar are introduced to each other and to the reader. Hints are given of mutual attraction and of 'Omar's fame and notoriety for his pro-Palestinian politics. Isabel has been to...