a very interesting semi-autobiographical novel that explores themes such as race and gender in 1960s zimbabwe, then rhodesia. the focus on how colonisation affects an individual down to the level of interpersonal relationships and relationships with the self in this specific context was also explored through the fascinating characters of this story. tambu as a character was very likeable but ultimately also very frustrating, as she would often give into regressive norms (although from her perspective it made sense, to an extent). 

overall this book is a great start to the trilogy

; however, i do wish nyasha's issues were explored better rather than wrapping up in a rush at the end. the mental debates and dilemmas from both nyasha and tambu were worth looking into in this regard.