Zomorod, aka Cindy, is what made this book for me. Her narration is both hilarious and heartfelt, and it illuminated what it must feel like for many immigrants struggling to fit in in America. It's also a great overview for younger readers (myself included!) of the Iran hostage crisis and the general tumult in the country that began in the late 70s. The xenophobia that was born out of that situation can be compared to what is going on today surrounding Syria and other Middle Eastern countries, and Dumas does a great job of showing how hateful actions and rhetoric can hurt people - a great lesson for anyone who reads this book, but particularly younger readers who may not yet realize the power of their words. 
 It Ain't So Awful, Falafel wasn't a perfect book - the info drops about Iran were a little clunky, and as much as I loved that Cindy found some awesome friends, Carolyn seemed just a little too perfect to me - but this is one of those books were the flaws are vastly overshadowed by all the things I loved so dearly. Mainly, Zomorod (I can only hope later in life she reclaims her Iranian name. In fact, I'm shocked Carolyn didn't make her do it). Looking forward to checking out Dumas' other works.