While The Other Side of Truth is a work of fiction, there are references to historical events. Research Ken Saro-Wiwa and what happened to him. Explain his story, and then consider why Beverley Naidoo includes portions of it in her novel. How do these historical references enhance or detract from the story?

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?