What metaphors are used in Luna: A Novel by Julie Anne Peters?

The mall is a symbol and a metaphor of society's rigid roles on gender and sexuality. Luna's first public appearance is at the mall across town where no one will recognize her as Liam. She and Regan go shopping together, but Luna is distraught by the look of disgust she receives from a saleslady at the Gap and when she is harassed by a group of boys. Regan is furious and believes that her brother does not deserve such treatment simply for trying to be who he is on the inside.