Recently, I read the book A Very Large Expanse of Sea, written by Tahereh Mafi. The story is set in the time just after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, when fear of Muslims was widespread around the world. As the main character, sixteen-year-old Shirin is unfortunately a victim of the Islamophobia prevalent in her school, tormented by racist microaggression no matter where she goes. However, a turn in her life occurs when she encounters a blond boy named Ocean in biology class, and their story develops into a romantic tale.

As she has done before, Shirin has moved to a new high school, and once again experiences the derision and uncomfortable looks cast at her when she walks in the hallway. As the students make fun of her hijab and traditions, all Shirin can do is build up her wall even higher, blocking the criticism, offensive remarks and even kindness from the outside world. Her seemingly indifferent attitude is actually a shield for the inner self that has been hurt by the cruelty of other people. When Ocean comes along, he expresses interest in and consideration for Shirin. Curious about her ethnicity and the Persian traditions of her family, and concerned and angry when she is ridiculed in front of the whole class by a teacher, he shows genuine interest in her. Although Shirin is moved by his kindness, she is skeptical about him because of her past experiences with her classmates. She tends to be unapologetic and headstrong, while Ocean is quiet and apologetic about his actions. Gradually the similarities they do share, as well as Ocean’s sincerity, move Shirin to accept their progressing relationship, but it becomes a spectacle for the entire student body.

Their path cannot be considered smooth; in fact, it is a road full of hindrances and obstacles. The hatred of the masses toward Muslims transforms into outrageous and relentless acts after Ocean and Shirin decide to come out as a couple. Finally, these torments peak when someone anonymously sends an email to the whole student body, town members – and worst of all, the parents of these children. Their romance eventually leads to Ocean’s suspension, and his once-bright future as a renowned basketball player starts to slip away. However, Ocean’s persistence and Shirin’s love for him destines them to be bound forever, no matter how vicious the storm around them may be.

A Very Large Expanse of Sea has not only raised awareness about the harmful effects of microaggression, marginalization, and perpetuation of biases, but has also inspired me to reject the deleterious stereotypes all around us. From this book, I learned that what is important is first learning to accept each other for who we are, and then learning to move on and leave the past behind—just as Shirin and Ocean did.