This story is for Aaminah. She knows why.
A huge thank you to my beta readers from Hayah International Academy in Cairo, who lived and breathed these characters: Laila, Nour, Malak, Nada, Salma, Kenzie and Omar. And to Sarah el Meshad for making it happen.
I am grateful for the support of my family, particularly my husband and my father, my wonderful agent and my demanding new editor!
Last, but not least, jazakallah khayran to all the young people who have let me into their lives in some way or another, and have helped shape the characters and concerns of this narrative. Auntie loves you all.