This story mainly focuses on one family, although it spans a few generations and branches out to other lives that are involved. The ties that bind this family together are at times loose and disconnected or are wound so tightly, that it can, in extreme cases, be the bond that smothers. However, there are several other key players involved with the main family that are not “blood” related but adopt family member roles and, in some cases, become more “family” than blood relatives. Conversely, in the case of Nila, a family bond with her “acquired” daughter, Pari, is tenuous, suggesting that family connections cannot be forced, either.

It is the strength of Pari’s connection with her estranged brother that haunts her life, as she feels a strong void within her, although she never really understands why. It is only in their reuniting near the end of the book, where their family story feels accomplished.

Though the story involves many families, there are few families in the novel that have good relationships. First, Saboor’s family sacrifices Pari, ending her close relationship with her brother. Next, Parwana first envies her sister, then resents her after her accident; she ultimately leaves her sister behind for her own sake.