Synopsis

he Other Side of Truth follows the flight to London of two children whose father is an outspoken journalist in Nigeria at the time of the dictator General Abacha. Sade (Year 8) and her younger brother Femi (Year 5) are sent to England as refugees after their mother is shot by extremists. Terrified and alone, they wander the inhospitable City streets before being taken in by Social Services. Determined to be reunited with their father, Sade leads them on a courageous journey involving school bullies, a kind foster family, the immigration service and National Television.

From the Foreword by Jon Snow of Channel 4:
"Beverley Naidoo has struck home again, bringing together the critical themes of political oppression, exile, Africa and childhood. The Other Side of Truth has resonances of the execution of the Nigerian writer Ken Saro-Wiwa.... Not only a marvellous read but one that refuels the desire for justice and freedom within and beyond our shores."

"Totally gripping, somewhat shaming and entirely believable, this is an engrossing and thought-provoking read for 10-years-olds plus."
Sunday Telegraph

"Narrated with exceptional skill in a bracing, unadorned style…"
The Scotsman

"…an unforgettable novel"
The Times

Themes

Truth, justice.

Issues

Asylum.

Structure

Linear.

Memories

Italics, mother’s words, culture.

Characters

Sade.
Femi.
Father.
Uncle Roy and Aunt Gracie: foster parents.
Mama Appiah: Social Services.

Links

www.beverleynaidoo.com