Madar-jan would busy herself with housework, feeling the weight of disappointment on her shoulders.
-- Rahima as narrator (chapter 1 paragraph 4)

Importance: "The Pearl That Broke Its Shell" is a novel about women in Afghanistan and the lives in which they live. This statement, being so early in the novel, sets a tone for the reader. Madar-jan is one of the predominant figures in the first three sections of the novel, so the fact that she is under the weight of disappointment lets the reader know that if one of the strongest women in the novel feels burdened, the girls and women under her are likely to feel similar.

Remember, 'Shekiba' means 'a gift.' You are our gift, my daughter. No need to let others gawk at you.
-- Shafiqa (chapter 2 paragraph 3)

Importance: As one of the main characters in the novel, Shekiba's story is one of the most important for the reader to understand. Her story is one of loneliness and...