Point of View

The novel is written in the past tense and the limited third person. Although the book conveys the perspectives of multiple characters, the narration adheres to only one character’s perspective at any given time. Point-of-view characters in the novel include Mo, Claire, Asma, Paul, Sean, and Alyssa. The inclusion and juxtaposition of these perspectives serve not only to give the reader insights into important narrative events, but also to demonstrate how conflicting viewpoints shape larger sociopolitical sagas. For example, Claire and Sean have staunchly opposing viewpoints regarding Mo, the memorial, and Muslim Americans in general. However, as the novel progresses, they begin to influence and change each other’s positions. Meanwhile, Alyssa represents an unethical disregard for larger sociopolitical dynamics, as she simply pursues her own professional advancement with no thought for other people.

The novel juxtaposes these character perspectives in order to emphasize...