Location
In the parallel story, what challenge do Rawiya and al-Idrisi’s group face while crossing the desert?
They encounter a sandstorm
What is nours father's profession?
Cartographer
What is the context behind this quote, "I THINK ABOUT OUR BOOKSHELF IN THE CITY, THE QUR'AN AND THE BIBLE NEXT TO EACH OTHER" (19).
Context: Nour reflects on life before moving to Syria, recalling the bookshelf
Commentary: this quote shows her longing for her old life, and introduces the conflict of sharing two identities, being Arab/American, Muslim and Christian, creating cultural harmony
What does Rawiya learn on her journey?
Cartography
What does the map symbolize in both Noor and Rawiya’s stories?
Guidance, memory, and identity
Where is the next stop after traveling with the Ittos family?
-Ouargla
Who is the first to tell nour about the dangers of crossing the sea?
Yusuf
Explain this quote, "STONES DON'T HAVE TO BE WHOLE TO BE LOVELY" (82).
Context: Nour finds comfort in stones, dealing with displacement and she says this
commentary: The idea that something doesn't have to be whole" to be "lovely" mirrors Nours emotional state in sticking with herself through tough times and is a metaphor for resilience
Why was the planisphere important to King Roger?
-Only memory of king Roger since his passing. It was his greatest masterpiece.
How do the stars function symbolically in the novel?
Hope, direction
Who does Nour and Zahra travel with and end up taking refuge in their tents?
travel with the Amazigh nomads
Who is Uncle M’mun’s
-Resides in Ceuta where Nour, Zahra , Mama, and Hudda are trying to get to.
What is the context behind this quote, "WHAT SORCERY IS THIS? MY MOTHER'S VOICE IS WITH GOD" (150).
Context: Nour says this when she thinks her mother is dead
Commentary: This shows that reality is almost supernatural and that she accepts her mothers death and that that the past continues to influence the present, in the way her two religions combine
What was the significance of Mama's map at the end of the story?
-represents the connection between past and present, and between loss and hope. It is a physical reminder of her love, creativity, and the stories she passed down to her daughters—especially Nour.
What symbolic item is lost during the sea crossing, and what does it represent?
Nour’s compass; it symbolizes guidance, direction, and hope
What country does Nour and her family pass through in Part IV that marks a turning point?
Libya
How does Nour find strength in storytelling during their time in the refugee camp?
She recounts Rawiya’s journey to herself and others
Explain this quote, "ABU MEANS 'FATHER' IN ARABIC...DO YOU UNDERSTAND?" (95).
Context: This quote is said during Nour’s family’s journey through the middle east. Nours Arabic isn't the best.
Commentary: Nour is caught between two cultures. This quote emphasizes how foreign her "homeland" is to her. She has a desire to understand Arabic more
How is nour experience of the world different from others?
She sees colors when she hears sounds (synesthesia)
What is the significance of the final map Nour creates?
It symbolizes reclaiming agency, understanding her identity, and remembering where she comes from
What country does Nour run into Smugglers
Morocco
How does the bond between Nour and Zahra evolve during the end of the book?
They grow closer, with Zahra taking on a protective role
Context behind this quote, "WOULD YOU TRADE THAT FOR A BRACELET?" (218).
Context: Nour reflects on the value of memories and stories in contrast to material possessions.
Commentary: this quote reflects the thought of materialism in the face of suffering especially during immigration and makes us question what is valuable
In what way do Nour and Rawiya’s stories come full circle in the end?
Both characters complete journeys of self-discovery, courage, and finding belonging despite being displaced
What message does the novel ultimately convey about home and identity?
That home is not just a place but also memory, language, and the stories we carry