I wish someone told me not to get off the car when stopped by a cop as a sign of respect for them.
I wish someone told me not to pick up random kids in the park and kiss them on the cheeks like we do on Morocco without being considered psychos.
In this stunning work of historical fiction, Laila Lalami brings us the imagined memoirs of the first black explorer of Americaa Moroccan slave whose testimony was left out of the official record.
Almost 25 years ago I started my new life in California. At the time it wasn't easy for a guy with only 200 dollars in his pocket and lots of dreams.I told myself that I would work hard and be smart about it. I started school at night and worked during the day. I did all kinds of jobs to survive. Now after all those years, I'm trying to give back. I do that by helping different communities in any way I can: By giving kids computers for schooling; helping Haiti rebound; working with Oakland Sister cities project; sending medicine, shoes and
I have been in the US for almost 26 years. This is the best thing that could have happened to us Moroccans. Thank you who ever you are the brother or sister that came up with the idea. Ali Lahiani
I have been in the US for almost 26 years. This is the best thing that could have happened to us Moroccans. Thank you who ever you are the brother or sister that came up with the idea. 
Ali Lahiani