books hold so many memories of the times and places in which I’ve read them. - Laila Lalami

Somehow I had also convinced myself that my redemption could only come from some force outside of me-that if I were useful to others, they would save me. What a terrible thing to believe. I had to stop playing a part in my own misery. I had to save my own life. (p129)

She did not notice the fading afternoon light that lengthened the shadows behind her, framing her body like the arches of a shrine.

She had to do something for her future—today.