The Other Side of Truth
Author Beverley Naidoo
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Story
What would you do if you were lost on the streets of London, alone and friendless? When twelve-year-old Sade’s mother is murdered by the corrupt government regime in Nigeria, she and her brother Femi are forced to flee the country. Their father pays a woman to take them to England. Their uncle is supposed to meet them at the airport, but when they arrive, he is missing. Sade and Femi find themselves abandoned and alone in the British foster system.
Meanwhile, their father has come to England to find them, but as an illegal immigrant, he faces being sent back to Nigeria, where he could be arrested and put to death. Sade must navigate prejudice and bullies on all sides to find her father before it’s too late.
Beverly Naidoo writes about political and social issues and injustices, showing the reality of what happens in brutal and hostile regimes and creating children who are survivors hoping and fighting for a better future
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Why we chose it
Seen through the eyes of two children, The Other Side of Truth explores what it means to be an illegal refugee, the complexity of emotions and experiences, as the children leave the life and the country they know and love for a hostile and alien place that is nonetheless a safer place for them to be.
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What a young reviewer said
The Other Side of Truth is a really moving and memorable book. Beverley Naidoo tells the story with so much emotion that it’s easy to connect with the characters and care about what happens to them. (Elizabeth)
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First published
2000, Puffin
Story Reviews
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The Other Side of Truth is a really moving and memorable book. Beverley Naidoo tells the story with so much emotion that it’s easy to connect with the characters and care about what happens to them. The journey of the siblings is heart breaking at times but also inspiring, showing their courage and strength in the face of fear and uncertainty. It’s a powerful story that makes you think about family, justice, and what it means to be safe, and it stays with you long after you finish reading. I would recommend this book for those who are feeling lost or alone. This book shows the power of the truth and to never let bullies shut you out. I especially loved Sade as she tries to make everything right and look after her brother Femi even if he doesn't want it.