Summary

In Chapter 13, Anvar accepts an invitation to speak at a local mosque. The Imam of the mosque is a man named Ahmed Sama. During the talk, Anvar makes a reference to the Greek mythological figure Sisyphus. His comment is misconstrued as an allegation that Ahmed has the disease syphilis. As a result, Anvar becomes virtually shunned by the mosque, and Bariah grows angry with him. After the talk, Azza approaches Anvar. They meet in private, and Azza begins talking about the destruction wrought by the U.S. in Iraq. Azza chooses not to reveal the full truth of her and Qais’ relationship. She reveals little more than that she is engaged to him. Anvar and Azza quickly develop a sexual relationship. On Eid, Imtiaz attempts to slaughter a goat in a garage using a chainsaw. Anvar goes to help them clean up the...