Unsentimental and unselfpitying, this short but powerful novel vivifies an account by Rudo, a fourteen-year-old school girl who observes the terrifying events that take place in her village. It is based on a true story, a period in Zimbabwe's history (Gukurahundi) when thousands of Ndebele were killed on on instruction by the notorious Fifth Brigade. Mlalazi's novel is written with insight, humour and provides a salutory reminder that even in the worst of times, we can find humanity.