The novel entails multiple dichotomies that contribute to the flesh of the story and the characterization. The narrative juxtaposes the wealthy and the poor, urban and rural living, modern and traditional medicine, and also religion. At the core, it is the haves and have-nots as the twelve-year-old protagonist and her family experience a sudden change in their lives. Blessing and her mother Timi and brother Ezikiel have moved to a rural area in Niger Delta after their father’s infidelity breaks their family. She has a hard time adjusting to the new life as the comfort and luxury of an urban area and the bourgeoisie is all she was accustomed to. The lack of electric power, running water, and urban convenience showcases the huge wealth gap in this African nation setting.
Watson focuses on the plight of women through the female characters from all generations being marginalized in all spheres. Through Timi, she demonstrates the domestic abuse and disrespect that economically dependent wives sometimes face from their abusive husbands. The contrast between urban and rural setups further highlights how the female child and even mothers are vulnerable to the traditions and social dynamics. Blessing’s education is placed on a halt for her older brother Ezikiel to pursue his education. Rather she becomes her grandmother’s apprentice as she learns the trade of the family. Therefore, showcases the resilience of women amidst all the threats around them as they embrace the chaos and come out stronger.
Additionally focusing on the tradition of female genital mutilation that affirms the push and pull between outmoded traditions and modern science. It stresses the threat to the African girl child at a young age which also prompts the discourse on early marriage and gender inequality. However, as the novel offers a glimpse to the need of embracing modern mindsets it also shows the wickedness of corporate endeavors and capitalism. Watson delves into the politics and corporate greed of oil business in Africa, as the poor country residents become the victims of it. Thus, the story blends light subject matters of growing up and familial issues whilst tackling heavy topics that affect society at large.
