A Place for Us
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Fatima Farheen Mirza’s debut novel traces an Indian-American Muslim family over two decades, centering on parents Rafiq and Layla and their three children—Hadia, Huda, and Amar. Opening on Hadia’s California wedding day, the story moves back and forth in time to reveal moments that bind and fracture the family: immigration, faith, first love, academic pressure, and the struggle to belong in two cultures. As misunderstandings accumulate, each character must decide what forgiveness and home truly mean, culminating in an intimate reckoning between father and son.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Character compass
Amar Mirza
Huda Mirza
Hadia Mirza
Layla Mirza
Rafiq Mirza
Discussion points
Why does Amar feel he cannot stay at home?
How do faith and culture shape each sibling differently?
What does forgiveness look like for Rafiq and Amar?
Which moment changed the family’s path most clearly?
Tip: Role play these questions
Share personal stories of misunderstanding and reconciliation.
Compare cultural expectations in the book to your own family values.
Ask teens to write an extra chapter from Huda’s perspective.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Listening builds bridges
Explanation: Characters’ conflicts stem from assumptions and unheard feelings.
Real-World Application: Practice reflective listening during family disagreements.
Example Lesson: Identity is multi-layered
Explanation: Each sibling balances American upbringing with Muslim heritage differently.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to celebrate all parts of their background.
Example Lesson: Forgiveness is an ongoing process
Explanation: Rafiq’s late apology shows healing can start anytime.
Real-World Application: Model admitting mistakes and seeking amends at home.
Example Lesson: Empathy for silent struggles
Explanation: Huda’s quieter journey reminds readers unseen battles exist.
Real-World Application: Ask about friends’ feelings, not just actions.