Describe Fatima's life in the harem. How does the life of Fatima's mother in her harem differ from that of Fatima's maternal grandmother's life? Why do those differences exist?

Fatima talks about "frontiers." What are these frontiers and are they always tangible? What are some of the frontiers in modern life? Are those frontiers always tangible? Describe the symbolism of a frontier in Fatima's life.

Describe Fatima's parents. Describe her maternal grandparents. Describe her paternal grandmother. How are these characters similar? Different? How does each impact Fatima's life?

Who is Samir? Who is Chama? Who is Aunt Habiba? Who is Mina? What is the role each of these play in Fatima's life? Why are each important to her life? How doe each aid in Fatima's coming of age?

What happens that allows Fatima to attend regular school rather than the Koran school she had...