Other Words for Home

On a computer call, Baba sees Jude’s headscarf. He tells her that she looks grown up and that he is proud. Jude asks if Baba knows anything about Issa, and Baba says he has not heard anything, but that Issa would be proud too.

Jude’s headscarf catches the attention of passersby who did not seem to notice her before. Layla’s mother embraces and kisses her. Aunt Michelle takes Jude aside and says she wants Jude to know it is her choice. Jude understands that Aunt Michelle cares about her; she also sees that Aunt Michelle does not really understand that the headscarf can mean different things to different countries and cultures, and that her concerns are unfounded. Jude thinks,

I cover my head like other

strong

respected

women have done before me

like Malala Yousafzai

like Kariman Abuljadayed

like my mama (236).

Mrs. Ravenswood notices Jude’s headscarf and tells her simply that she looks nice. Jude is reminded of the Arabic proverb “She makes you feel like a loaf of freshly baked bread,” which refers to those who are kind and “help you rise” (238).

Everyone who auditioned for Beauty and the Beast rushes to see the cast list when it is posted.