Mogadishu

This is the capital of Somalia where Ayaan was born. The beginning of the story takes place here as she lived her until she was 5 years old. She returns to the capital when she is 20 years old.

Mecca, Saudi Arabia

This is the city in which Ayaan's family lived during the beginning of their time in Saudi Arabia. The home of the Grand Mosque, of Islam.

Grand Mosque

This is the holiest site on earth in Islam, located in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. A pilgrimage is completed by Muslims there annually. Ayaan visits the holy site with her mother on numerous occasions during their time in Mecca.

Ethiopia

This is a neighboring country to Somalia, where Ayaan lived with her family for a year. Her father returned there on many occassions as her fought against the regime in Somalia. His 3rd wife and child were from Ethiopia. Ethiopia...