Themes of Family and Survival
Discuss how the theme of family influences the actions and decisions of the main characters in the first fifteen chapters. How do the characters’ family dynamics affect their journey as refugees? Provide examples from the novel where family relationships directly impact the choices made by Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud.

Suggestion: Identify a key moment for each character that illustrates the importance of family in their decision-making or survival strategies. Explain how these moments reveal the role of family ties and responsibilities in their journeys, and consider how these instances are similar or different across the narratives.