This book is very complex on many levels. The development of the characters is fascinating is that they change throughout the book and the reader's opinion of the characters changes. I would say that my favorite aspect of the book is the character development, they were alive to me and I found myself caring about them.
The description of Egyptian culture and society gives a depth to the story that would not be possible by a non-native. The fact that the author was educated and lived in both Western and Middle Eastern cultures helps her to paint a picture that westerners can understand, that is however very accurate of the Egyptian condition.
One small warning when reading this author : do not ever expect to be comfortable, prepare to have your own perception questioned. If you are Egyptian, like me, prepare to learn something about yourself.