We chose this book hoping that it would give us some insight into Saudi culture. It did do this, but we were surpised at how disappointed we were with what we read. What we read was a tabloid-like narration with no depth or character development. But, between the lines, a number of issues were brought up that were not developed further. One group member suggested that it probably was never meant to be a novel. For the author, it was a brave step to dissect this part of Saudi culture. The group criticized the poor writing, but at the same time we realized that this may have been because of the translation in which we think a lot of the humor and style was lost. We were disappointed by the shallowness of the characters. Their lack of maturity is a direct result of being coddled by society and having no responsibilities. It is also due to the fact that they have no opportunity for normal, casual interaction with the opposite sex. This leads them to draw their conclusions on relationships from outside sources, especially Western movies to which they do have easy access, giving them a highly romanticized view of love and marriage. From our collective experience living in different countries in the Middle East (our group is based in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates), this is a fairly true depiction of young privileged women's lives in the oil-rich Gulf countries today. The Arab readers (mostly Emirati) we spoke to loved the book and found the style and language (the Arabic version) refreshing. Perhaps it was really the Bridget Jones book for the Gulf.

Extremely eye opening to the vast difference between the Saudi culture and the American culture. The way woman are treated and seen (or rather not seen) in the Saudi culture is alarming and sad. I am given a new appreciation of the liberties and freedoms that are my birthright as a woman born in America. It reminded me of an Indian Gossip Girl. So strange how matters of love and marriage are kept well out of the hands of those who these unions involve.