The Other Side of Truth

Consider the characters of Mariam and Sade. They are similar in many ways, but they react differently to Marcia and Donna’s threats. Whose method is more effective? Is one method morally superior to the other? Which factors drive each character’s decision?

Sade feels deep remorse and shame in the novel for some of the decisions she makes. Which decisions cause her the most shame, and why? How does she react to this increasing shame? Are her feelings of guilt and shame warranted? Are they in proportion to the infractions she committed?

Sade frequently wants to consult her father on how to act in certain situations. She is unable to do so because she is separated from him. What does this reveal about her character? How does not having her father around affect her development and maturation?

Consider how Femi reacts to the situation the children find themselves in. How is his reaction different from Sade’s? Why does Sade not react in a similar way? How might her experience have been different if her brother were more engaged in their relationship?

Someone from a university in America wants Folarin to come speak. They write, “We might not have assassination squads here but there are many other ways of making a journalist keep quiet” (235). Do you agree with this statement? What are some ways in which journalists might be persuaded to be quiet in America? Which entities might be responsible for exerting such pressure?

Consider the dreams that Sade has. What role do they play in the novel? How do they enhance it or detract from its main themes? What does Sade learn in the dreams, and how do they influence her waking behavior?

Folarin makes a decision that results in his wife’s death. He knew there was danger in speaking out. Why did he choose to do so, even though he was getting death threats? Were his actions noble because they helped his fellow citizens fight injustice, or should he have kept quiet to protect his family? Is there evidence in the novel that he continues to believe he made the right decision, or has his opinion changed?

Sade frequently thinks back to lessons she learned from her parents because she wants to please them and live according to the values they taught her. What are some of these values, and how does she order her life around them?