- At the beginning of the book, Mariam's mother says that "a man's accusing finger always finds a woman" (1.1.26). Does this statement hold true through the events of the novel?
- We see Afghanistan under the rule of several different governments. How do their differing ideologies affect the lives of Laila and Mariam?
- When Mariam cleans Rasheed's bedroom, she finds several troubling items in his dresser. How do these items represent the different aspects of Rasheed's character?
- Compare and contrast the various male characters and their views of women.
- How does the deep friendship between Mariam and Laila change the way that Mariam views the world?
- How would the novel be different if Aziza had been a boy and Zalmai had been a girl?
- If you were in Laila's shoes, would you stay in Murree or return to Kabul? Why?
- The book shifts from past tense to present tense after Laila leaves Afghanistan for Murree. What is the effect of that stylistic choice?
- The book ends in 2002. What do you think happens to Laila and her family in the decade that follows?