Structure

The graphic memoir structure has a number of critical elements that enhance the main narrative plot of the work as well as the historical and political perspective of the region at that time in history. The most obvious structural element is the use of color. While Sattouf's illustrations are primarily black and while, the main accent color of each section is changed based on the location of each particular panel. Excepting the accent color, Sattouf uses color sparingly to highlight specific symbols and behaviors of characters.

Sattouf structures the chapters intentionally to further divide Riad's experiences by place. The chapters are clearly separated around Riad's travel; Chapters Two, Three, and Four all begin with Riad on a plane traveling somewhere different. Instead of dividing the chapters so that they are even lengths, Sattouf separates the experiences in each place the same way Riad would separate them in...