52 pages • 1 hour read
Beverley NaidooThe Other Side of Truth
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2000A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Beverley Naidoo's The Other Side of Truth, after the assassination of Sade's mother in Nigeria due to her father's political activism against the corrupt military regime, Sade and her brother flee to London for safety. Abandoned by their escort, they navigate the foster system, face school bullying, and ultimately reunite with their detained father, using media exposure and legal help to fight for asylum. The novel features violence and the distress of forced displacement.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Other Side of Truth by Beverley Naidoo poignantly explores themes of political turmoil and exile through the eyes of young siblings. Critics praise its emotional depth and Naidoo’s empathetic storytelling. However, some note its pacing can be slow. Overall, it's an impactful, thought-provoking read suitable for both young and adult audiences.
Who Should Read The Other Side of Truth?
A reader who would enjoy The Other Side of Truth by Beverley Naidoo is likely someone interested in themes of political unrest, resilience, and the immigrant experience. Comparable to Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner and Deborah Ellis's The Breadwinner, this book captures the trials of young protagonists facing societal and personal upheaval.
RecommendedReading Age
11-14yearsLexile Level
780LBook Details
Historical Fiction
African Literature
Colonialism / Postcolonialism
Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice
Relationships: Family
Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies