Mama and Sara were there. Buying my football boots.
-- Narrator (chapter 1)

Importance: When Sami first hears about the bombing in Damascus, he tries to convince himself that his home, family, and community are still safe. However, after learning that the bombing took place at the mall where he urged his mother and sister to pick up his football shoes for him, Sami is overcome by guilt. He realizes that his desires were not only selfish, but that they forced Mama and Sara into a dangerous situation. This moment marks the inciting event of the novel, and introduces the author's thematic explorations concerning safety and security.

I didn't understand it all properly . . .
-- Narrator (chapter 3)

Importance: Although Sami is only 13 years old, he is aware that his country has been at war for some time. At the same time, Sami still does not possess a comprehensive understanding of Syria's political conflict. This moment is therefore important to understanding...