The narrator, Iman, describes her childhood and her complicated relationship with her brother Adam and her parents. Adam was constantly spoiled and favored by their mother, while Iman was belittled and ignored. However, when their father announces that he will leave his wealth to Iman, their mother suddenly starts treating her with kindness and respect. Iman is skeptical of her mother's motives, but she is relieved to be treated fairly for once.
As the story unfolds, Adam's behavior becomes increasingly erratic and violent. He throws a tantrum at Iman's graduation party, destroys her belongings, and eventually sets her car on fire. In a dramatic confrontation, Adam's anger and jealousy boil over, and he is taken away by the police.
In the aftermath, Iman's mother breaks down and acknowledges that she made mistakes in raising Adam and favoring him over Iman. Iman forgives her mother and encourages her to be better, and they begin to heal their relationship.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The narrator, Iman, is from Iran.
2. Iman's dad threw a big party for her on her fifth birthday.
3. Adam, Iman's brother, wrecked Iman's birthday gift.
4. Adam is three years older than Iman.
5. Iman's mom made Iman do Adam's homework and allowed him to copy from her tests.
6. Adam failed the second grade twice.
7. In the eighth grade, Adam was caught cheating off Iman and got suspended for a month.
8. Iman's dad announced that he would give all his wealth to Iman and she would take over the family business.
9. Adam was furious about the announcement and started behaving erratically.
10. Iman's mom started treating her differently after the announcement, giving her more attention and privileges.
11. Adam's behavior became more aggressive and erratic, causing tension in the household.
12. Iman's mom was diagnosed with tiredness, and Iman took care of her.
13. Adam threw a party every month, but after the announcement, Iman's mom canceled his party plans.
14. Iman passed her high school exams with flying colors, while Adam failed and had to repeat the 11th grade.
15. Iman's dad gave her a brand new car as a graduation present.
16. Adam set Iman's car on fire and started pouring petrol all over the house.
17. Iman's uncle, a cop, arrived and took Adam away.
18. Iman's mom broke down and acknowledged that she had made mistakes with Adam and Iman.