Tolan reflects the interaction between a Muslim and a Jew, two very polar ideologies, through anecdotes that exemplify the possibility for understanding between opposing groups. Throughout the book, Bashir and Dalia met with each other on numerous occasions to discuss the tension between their two cultures. Dalia tries to explain to Bashir how much more alike they are than he might think, “‘We can see ourselves in you, Bashir,’ Dalia said. ‘We can remember our own history of exile over thousands of years. I can understand your longing for a home because of our own experience of exile’” (159). Dalia’s acknowledgment of the similar pasts shared between Muslims and Jews show her empathy towards Bashir’s frustration and anger. Dalia and Bashir
