Omar has big hopes and dreams, but like everyone else at school, his self-confidence has strong days and weak ones. However, despite his fluctuating sense of well-being, he continues to persevere, reaching for the stars despite his many social setbacks and academic disappointments. Whether he is faced with class-related challenges or systemic prejudice and injustice, he always finds a way to move forward in positive and proactive fashion. It is therefore highly appropriate that Saeed dedicates the novel thus: “For every Omar out there—never stop believing in yourself” (np). Omar’s journey illustrates the importance of having self-assurance and holding onto one’s deepest dreams and ambitions.

Omar’s own ambitions manifest in his firm view of what he wants from life—an education, a career as an astronomer, and a home for his mother. However, his view of the road to success is a bit narrow at first, for he believes that the only key to his success is graduating from Ghalib. Omar clutches these dreams close, and they often fuel his resolve through times of self-doubt. Even before going to Ghalib, Omar worries that the classes will be too difficult, but he overcomes these initial fears though hard work, seizing on Mr. Adeel’s advice to “fake it till you make it” (33).