Content Warning: This guide section contains discussions of the loss of a child.

The motif of the Sinner, the Believer, and the Confused is an important recurring one in the book. Peri first uses this phrase in a private reflection about herself, Mona, and Shirin; however, Shirin is the one who terms the triad when they first move into the house together. The motif underlines the theme of Navigating Conflict About Belief and Faith. In the context of faith, Shirin is the “Sinner,” as she rejects all aspects of religion and belief, including the attendant morality. She is a free spirit, indulging in alcohol and embracing her sexuality in ways that are considered taboo for Muslim women. Mona stands in contrast as the “Believer.” She is devout in her faith in Allah and willingly chooses to wear the headscarf. Peri stands in between the two as the “Confused,” perpetually existing in a limbo between belief and disbelief. She is not as comfortable with her sexuality as Shirin is, for instance, and does not entirely eschew God; instead, she has a contentious relationship with the higher powers. However, she does not follow the edicts of Islam strictly, leaving her hair uncovered and even engaging in sexual relationships outside of marriage.