All My Rage

As Tahir jumps to different characters’ points of view in each chapter, how does she create a unique voice for each character? What are the elements that set Salahudin’s voice, for example, apart from Noor’s voice? How does the plot twist that Salahudin is writing Misbah’s chapters impact your impression of Misbah’s voice in hindsight?

Different characters have different ways of dealing with struggles and emotions. For example, Noor turns to music, Salahudin uses journaling, and Misbah has her faith in God. Do some research on Sabaa Tahir’s life and identify possible personal connections Tahir may have with these interests. Based on your research, are there any other elements from Tahir’s life that you see reflected in some way in the novel?

Consider the novel’s antagonists. Who or what are they? Analyze each one and build a case for which one is the central opposition in the novel.

Identify ways Tahir weaves Pakistani culture into the narrative. Consider cultural components such as religion, food, and language. Then, compare and contrast various characters’ relationships with Pakistani culture, such as how they embody (or avoid) their cultural roots. 

Think about the novel’s title. What message does the novel impart about rage and its function? As you form your answer, consider several characters and how they deal with their rage. 

How do instances of foreshadowing function in the novel?

Analyze Noor and Salahudin’s friendship. What makes their friendship strong, and what weakens it? Place your analysis in the context of the novel’s theme of Friendship and Honesty as a Means of Growth.

Evaluate the novel’s various settings: Juniper, California; Lahore, Pakistan; Veil Meadows; and any other places you feel are significant, such as Juniper High School, the Clouds’ Rest Motel, etc. What details does Tahir include about the settings to give the novel a solid sense of place? How do the settings interact with story elements such as mood, plot events, and character relationships?