Chapters 17-18

Chapter 17-18

"In those days they didn't enforce the laws. We were the people you don't always see, flashing our polite smiles, trimming hedges, parking your cars in lots, doing the night shift. You need us and we need you." Page 151

This is part of Aisha's valedictorian speech, which I think is very well written. I think it is interesting that she said "You need us and we need you." It is something that wouldn't have occurred to me at all, but it is very true. Most Americans choose to hire someone to do work they would prefer not to do, but since no one chooses to do those jobs, they fall to illegal workers. So it is very true, that we need them, because if we didn't have them, we would be doing every job Americans are too lazy to do theirselves.

Chapter 16

"I'm embarrassed, but I like being the special one." Page 138

I really like the quote because of the interesting mixed feelings about being the favorite. I think it is interesting how she was a little reluctant to her new position in the family, but that she is happy to take Aisha's place. I wonder how Aisha feels about not being the special one anymore...

Chapter 15

"'Mr. Hossein is being held in conjunction with an investigation of religious organizations that may be sponsoring illegal activities."' Page 132
WOW! Unfair, much? This is absolutely ridiculous, but thanks to 9/11, people are paranoid about every Muslim or Arab person. On the other hand, the government has reason to suspect this group of people, because the terrorists who attacked the twin towers were Muslim. I can't even imagine how hard it must be for all the innocent people trying to come to this country, and being denied asylum because of their religious background.

Chapter 13-14

"Strong lungs give him staying power. He's the one who always lasts." Page 114

This quote is... Well it should be true. We hope that this quote is true. Obviously, the author said this for a reason, which means it somehow connects to the storyline. I'm still wondering why this was said, it is not something that automatically comes to mind when I think of someone on trial.

Chapter 12

"I didn't even know you could do something like that. I sure didn't know a girl could do something like that." Page 106

WOW! The "funny" thing about this is a girl is talking. Welcome to the 21st century, Nadira. Girls can do anything boys can do, but we do it better. This quote honestly makes me sick. She grew up in a very traditional family, but in very nontraditional times. Most of this country is stuck in modern times where, like this girl, girls do any job they want to do. You'd think she picked up on this after maybe a week of living here.

Chapter 11

"Every evening that we speak to Ma and hear there's no news there, either, Aisha grows more frantic." Page 92

This quote really spoke to me, except I'm not sure why. It is very powerful and an important detail. I can't help but feel terrible for Aisha for feeling like she has to go through everything alone, and to Nadira for having to put up with Aisha and all the emotional baggage that goes with her.

Chapter 10

"Honey, your uncle don't even have his papers right. What kind of liberties you think he has?" Page 85

I am truly amazed that these words were said. This is exactly right, even though the meaning should be wrong. The way I interpret what this police officer said is that since Uncle is illegal, the famous words that America is built on do not apply to him, regardless. These words are, "All men [and women] are created equal." I strongly believe that this is unfair treatment to Uncle's rights even as an undocumented immigrant. Sure, like Kat said today in class, people should be punished for a crime they committed. But technically, not every illegal person is a criminal, and shouldn't be treated like one. My question to you is what do you think should be the punishment?