The clash between two cultures led a young Maryam through an identity crisis that was resolved only as she rediscovered her religious and cultural roots, became increasingly active in the Afghan and Muslim communities, and resolved to bridge the gap between her two dueling cultures. The resolution she has achieved in her own life serves as a paradigm to the larger issue of East-West relations and our future together.

Includes index.

Dark summer in Afghanistan -- Afghans in America -- Coming together, falling apart -- Growing up Muslim Afghan-American -- Revisiting Afghanistan -- Womanhood -- Real Islam -- Between old friends -- As the smoke clears.