As they encounter racism and the harsh realities of macrocosm viewed as outsiders, Jassim and Salwa turn away from each other and begin to lead parallel lives. Jassim accidentally hits a teenage boy with his car and kills him. He keeps this secret from Salwa and finds a way to get away with his own grief; his suspicious actions lead to an unfounded FBI investigating that costs him his American dream. Salwa too keeps several secrets from Jassim: she captures pregnant against her husbands wishes and is therefore consumed by an eventual miscarriage. Her grief and despair causes her to succumb to the affections of a younger co-worker and causes her to question her purpose in America. By detailing their failing marriage amidst national turmoil, Laila Halaby deftly describes Jassim and Salwas isolation not only from American society but excessively from each other.
In addition, Halaby peppers the novel with slices-of-life from various characters that cross Jassim and Salwas path. These characters be woven throughout the story and affect the couples lives in startlingly profound ways. They work to propel the story forward as well as give us a glimpse of everyday peoples reactions to the aftermath of 9/11.
Though complex, Jassim and Salwas actions never become wholly believable despite the reality of their circumstances. There is a disconnect between their actions and emotions that makes the reader want to shake them by the shoulders and tell them to wake up. This is what will make readers both sympathize and criticize the protagonists --that is, we can identify with them, yet shake our heads at their choices....If you want to get a full essay, order it on our website: Orderessay
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